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Miami Beach

Fashion, Interviews, The Issue

Rachel Roy Launches Spring 2015 Collection

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By Katie Jackson Photography Courtesy of Rachel Roy Fashion designer Rachel Roy has been creating some of the most coveted women’s collections for the past decade. Roy’s Spring 2015 RACHEL Rachel Roy collection was inspired by the designer’s travels. “I try to look at places that I’ve been or places that I want to go, and then try to bring some of that into my customers’ lives,” said Roy. “I even try to put it in prints and hopefully inspire them to fi ll up their passports.” The spring collection embodies the look and feel of tropical destinations and incorporates bright and bold fl oral prints while also including classic closet staples. “I tried to put the prints into things like a maxi dress, where you can have fun,” said Roy. “And then keep the blazers a little more neutral so that they can mix and match.” But perhaps what is even more spectacular about Roy’s Spring 2015 collection is the additional launch of Self Rule, her women’s empowerment campaign that celebrates and promotes individuality and aims to continuously remind women that power comes from within. “Self Rule comes from the idea that when you have self-love and self-respect, you get to the point where you can really start to live your own life,” said Roy. The designer hopes that Self Rule will inspire women to take total control of their destinies. “When you have that self-love and self-respect, then you are aware of every decision you make. I tell my fi fteen year-old daughter to have fun, and I do want her to have fun at social events and parties, but I just want her to make smart choices,” said Roy. “It comes with life and living and when I have a journey that teaches me something I want to teach it to my customers.” Roy has been traveling to different Macy’s department stores in cities across the country to launch her latest collection and Self Rule, while also choosing to benefi t women’s philanthropic organizations at each destination. During her appearance at Macy’s in Dadeland Mall in Miami, Roy chose to benefit the Women’s Fund Miami-Dade, an organization that strives to create equal opportunities for women through raising and donating funds. “We advocate for women’s issues such as domestic violence, human trafficking, economic security, and health,” said Marilyn March, Executive Director of the Women’s Fund Miami-Dade. Grantees from the Women’s Fund Miami-Dade were able to join Roy for breakfast on Miami Beach before being personally styled by the designer in her latest collection. “We are overwhelmed with joy and feel very blessed for the opportunity to be part of this,” said March. Like all of Roy’s on-going Macy’s appearances, Miami was a complete success. Twenty percent of the event’s proceeds went to the Women’s Fund Miami-Dade, and the grantees that were styled were able to keep all of the clothing and accessories. “This is what truly gives me the most joy in life,” said Roy. For more information on Rachel Roy’s SS15 Collection or Self Rule, please visit www.RachelRoy.com Click here to view this post in the July/August digital issue. Click here to view the online issue.

Events, MSM Online

Celebrating the Fourth of July in Miami

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By Alyse Mier The Fourth of July has become symbiotic with backyard barbeques, pool parties and beach days. But in a city like Miami, where there is a party happening in what seems to be every corner, it can become quite the challenge to figure out which Fourth of July party to attend. Here we’ve broken down some of Miami’s top Independence Day events for you. 11th Annual IndepenDANCE Beach Party For those of you looking to spend the Fourth of July partying until the early hours of the morning, Nikki Beach’s day long beach bash is the event for you. With DJs Boris and Cocodrills headlining the event you’re sure to dance the day away, all while being beachside and getting a great tan. When: Saturday, July 4th from 12 noon -11pm Where: Nikki Beach Miami at One Ocean Drive South Beach, FL Price: $20-$1,600 Tickets: Can be purchased through http://www.wanttickets.com Additional Information: All those in attendance must be 21 and over Tiësto Presents Club Life Some of us won’t be able to take advantage of the day and go to the beach, but that’s no reason to not celebrate. What better way to celebrate than showing Netherlands native, Tiësto, how Miamians celebrate Independence Day? When: Saturday, July 4th – Begins at 11pm Where: LIV Fontainebleau – 4441 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL Price: $90 Tickets: Can be purchased at http://www.flavorus.com Additional Information: All those in attendance must be 21 and over Coca-Cola Presents Miami Beach Fire on the Fourth Festival Coca Cola Presents Miami Beach Fire on the Fourth Festival is an all day event that is sure to please just about everyone. Guests can enjoy yoga, food trucks, Copa America Finals, a free concert, and incredible fireworks – making this the perfect family event. When: Saturday, July 4th from 9am-9pm Where: The North Shore Park Bandshell – Collins Ave & 73rd Street, Miami Beach, FL Additional Information: This event is open to the public. A shuttle bus service will be provided. For more information and the shuttle bus route map, please visit http://www.miamibeachfl.gov/news/scroll.aspx?id=70816 Fourth of July Cruise All aboard the Biscayne Lady! This cruise will take guests through Downtown Miami, Port of Miami, Fisher Island, Miami Beach and “Millionaire’s Row.” Best of all, being in the open water guarantees guests the best fireworks view in the city. When: Saturday, July 4th at 7:30 pm Where: The cruise will depart from Bayside Marketplace 401 Biscayne Blvd Miami, FL Price: $125 for adults, $50 for children Tickets: Can be purchased from http://www.islandqueencruises.com

Culinary, MSM Online

We All Scream for Freddo’s 8 New Delicious Flavored Ice Creams!

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By Justina Coronel Freddo’s Argentine Premium Helado is debuting eight new desirable ice cream flavors at its Miami Beach location on Lincoln Road. These gelatos are quite unique because they have 0 grams of trans-fat per serving (3.5 oz.) and are lacking preservatives and added vegetable fats. Not only are you eating the best, but you are also putting those calorie gains to rest. Creating creamy helados, or ice creams, has been a well-known craft for Freddo since 1969. These ice creams are made from high-quality raw materials and each batch distributed matches that quality consistency. These refreshing ingredients include fresh milk, pure cane sugar, and flavorful fruits. But, let’s get to the good stuff. The new savory flavors are a sense of Europe’s signature gluten-free gelatos. These delectable tastes include Italian Mascarpone, which is a partially frozen dessert topped with raspberry purée; Italian Zabaione, a light Italian custard with nuts and rum-infused raisins; Irish Cream, a partial frozen Irish Velvet Liqueur; Brigadeiro, a milk chocolate truffle blended with rich dulce de leche; Dulce de Leche Choco Chip is the original dulce de leche ice cream sprinkled with chocolate flakes; Chocolate Chip the classic and delicious helado, and Mango and Raspberry are both refreshing scoops of sorbet flavors that are made with fresh fruit. Freddo has more than just your basic cup of ice cream and waffle cone. It has the Freddino, which is a delightful combination of creamy helado blended with coffee. Another feature is the TriFreddo, which is their version of the European triffle blended with three layers of artisanal ice cream smothered with three toppings or syrups. And if you want something a little bit lighter, they also offer refreshing smoothies that merge fruit sorbet with ice cream. It’s sunny summertime and there is no better time for you to scream for ice cream!

Culture, Digital Edition, Entertainment, Film, Music, The Issue

Miami Beach Celebrates 100th Birthday

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By Angela Betancourt Photography by Mitchell Zachs On March 26th, thousands of people gathered on the sands of South Beach to celebrate Miami Beach’s 100th birthday. The city, in partnership with the Hard Rock, joined forces to host the Hard Rock Rising – Miami Beach 2015 Global Music Festival. The star studded concert featured Andrea Bocelli, Gloria Estefan, Wyclef Jean, Barry Gibb of the Bee Gees, Flo Rida, and more. Though it was unusual to see such an unlikely collection of artists, the music line-up perfectly represented the melting pot that is Miami Beach. There was no denying it was a concert for the ages and a fantastic conclusion to several weeks of nonstop celebrations across the city. However, this anniversary was about more than just nonstop partying. The city, in partnership with local businesses and organizations, came together to celebrate the occasion in a variety of unique ways that reflects Miami Beach’s diverse cultural community. Several days leading up to the finale concert, Miami Beach Mayor Phillip Levine presided over a mass wedding of 100 people (50 couples) as a part of the 100 years celebration. Among the happily wed were same-sex couples who were finally able to get married legally in the state of Florida. Same-sex marriage became legal in the state at the start of the year, and this marked a historic milestone for Miami Beach’s LGBT community. The Art Deco Museum, founded by the Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL) in Miami Beach, opened its doors to host the Miami Centennial Photograph Exhibition. Renowned professional photographer Johnny Arraiz, whose been recognized by the Congress of the United States of America for giving his invaluable service to the community, showcased his latest exhibition “Miami Beach, 100 Years, 100 Photos,” which immortalized special moments in the city’s history. This exhibit was one of many hosted by the museum to educate and engage locals and tourists alike on Miami Beach’s rich history. The Miami Beach Centennial celebrations became an extra special event for 100 men and women who passed their citizenship requirements and officially became citizens of the United States. Leon Rodriguez, Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services officially welcomed these 100 new citizens after they swore allegiance to America. Representing more than 25 different countries, it was fitting to have this ceremony in a city that was built by immigrants from all over the world. Orchestra Miami and The Leroy Schecter Foundation celebrated the centennial with a free picnic concert that took attendees on a musical tour through the highlights of Miami Beach’s history. Orchestra Miami believes in the power of music to strengthen a community. Now in its 8th season, they provide high-quality classical symphonic music and programming that celebrates Miami’s diverse cultural heritage. In order to reach as many people as possible, Orchestra Miami events are almost always free. The Miami Beach Centennial was as much about celebrating its past and present, as it was about looking towards the future. As Miami continues to evolve as a global city and as its population continues to grow denser, its future becomes even more important. In a show of its dedication to protecting Miami Beach from the effects of climate change, the city announced during the celebrations, that it has begun developing a variety of initiatives to generate more awareness about global climate change. The city is also planning on creating an environmental summit hosted by the Mayor that will feature scientists, educators, and other influential leaders from different disciplines, coming together to discuss environmental advocacy. Miami Beach’s history helped define its foundation, but its present and all of the people, organizations, and businesses, who love the city today, will drive Miami Beach into the future and forward for another 100 years. Happy Birthday, Miami Beach.

Beauty, Body, Health & Fitness, LIFESTYLE, MSM Online, Skin Care

Perfect Mother’s Day Gift: New Spa Treatments at the Lapis Spa at Fontainebleau

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By Justina Coronel What better way to show your mom some Mother’s Day loving than a luxurious retreat at the two-level, 40,000-square-foot Lapis Spa at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach? Lapis has enhanced their fabulous spa menu with a new innovative set of treatments: the Ayurveda treatments. Ayurveda, meaning life and knowledge in Sanskrit, is one of the world’s oldest, natural sciences and whole healing systems practiced by millions in India. These treatments are all about restoring and enhancing the body’s well-being by reducing physical discomfort as they dispose body toxins and transport the body back into balance. The treatments use three oils and herbs that follow the body’s intuition and needs. They stimulate relaxation, rejuvenation, and detoxification; what a perfect combination! The Ayurvedic Rituals’ feature four treatments that compliment each other. The Abhyanga Massage is a massage with a continuous flow of warm herb-infused oils that bring balance back to the seven layers of the body. The Arundhati Five Star Treatment focuses on healing the most nerve endings of the body such as the hands, feet, and scalp. Sirodahra Zekhara Ritual is a hair and scalp treatment that increases blood circulation and encourages more sound sleep. And last but not least, the final service includes Avar Na Body Wraps, which stimulates exfoliation and produces rehydration to the skin. “We are dedicated to bringing guests thoughtfully innovative services that reflect the changing wellness industry, likewise, we seek opportunities to invigorate even the oldest traditions, like the Ayurvedic Rituals, so our guests are exposed to a selection of services appreciated around the world,” said Josie Feria, Director of Spa Operations. And after these refreshing and revitalizing treatments, your mom will definitely be thanking you and singing the tune, “Oh, oh oh, Sweet Child o’ Mine.” To reserve an appointment, please visit fontainebleau.com/lapis, call 866-750-4772 or email LapisSpa@fontainebleau.com.

Living, Luxury, Real Estate, The Issue

The Residences at Park Grove

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By Angela Betancourt For the past several years there has been a lot of excitement about new residential and mix-use developments being built across Miami-Dade County. Brickell and Miami Beach often steal the spotlight with their billion dollar projects, luxury new residences, and all the opulent amenities that come along with them. However, there are several other neighborhoods experiencing their own share of new development projects, among them is Coconut Grove. This historical area is one of Miami’s oldest and most charming neighborhoods. Dating back to 1925, Coconut Grove is known for its parks and gardens, hammock trees, art festivals, shopping, and historical landmarks. Coconut Grove is located approximately 10-15 minutes from Brickell, yet this proximity has not had an effect on this neighborhood’s unique identity. These characteristics were part of what caught the attention of the Terra Group and The Related Group. The two powerhouse developers have joined forces for the first time to create The Residences at Park Grove on a 5.2 acre property directly across from Biscayne Bay. The architecture is led by OMA and Rem Koolhaas in collaboration with kitchen and bath designer William Sofield, and Enea Landscape Architecture. The project masterminds recently came together for a design talk event to showcase building renderings and discuss the vision behind the design. A crowd of 250 top-tier brokers, buyers and tastemakers gathered to hear legendary architect Shohei Shigematsu from OMA and famed landscape designer Enzo Enea, dis- cuss the past and future of Coconut Grove as well as their take on new trends in residential architecture and how they perceive design and development in Miami. Both Shigematsu and Enea revealed how their designs look at urbanism and historical elements specific to the Grove’s existing climate and culture; and their in- tentions to “elevate” Coconut Grove while honoring its historical elements. The hour-long discussion was moderated by Ted Loos, a design expert and regular contributor of Architectural Digest and hosted by co-developers of the property: David Martin, President of Terra Group and Carlos Rosso, President of Condo Development The Related Group. The Residences at Park Grove is set for completion in late 2016. The units will range between 2,500 to 3,500 square feet. Glass walls will give residents end- less views of the marina and Biscayne Bay as well as an abundance of natural light. From the expansive balco- nies, spacious living areas, airy dining rooms, and fully equipped kitchens, the designers did not cut any cor- ners. In addition to amenities that rival those found at any world class luxury resort, Park Grove will also have a private rooftop pool deck with views of the city. The meticulous attention to detail extends beyond the individual residents and out into the buildings two- acre sculpture park where Enea set out to create a se- rene and lush garden for residents to enjoy. The Residences at Park Grove will increasingly draw more attention as it unfolds in one of Miami’s most established neighborhoods; bringing in new elements and establishing roots of its own. Photography Courtesy of THE RELATED GROUP AND TERRA GROUP Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue.

LIFESTYLE, The Issue

Lord Balfour with a Tropical Twist

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By Gisel Habibnejad  Miami residents and tourists can now experience a first-class British lifestyle in its own tropical backyard through the Lord Balfour South Beach Hotel. Upon entering the classy hotel, guests will be pleased to find colorful artwork surrounding them inspired by Art Deco, while reading witty quotes lined on the ceiling by Lord Balfour himself. The Lobby Bar offers a unique “afternoon tea” twist for its vacationers with spiked tea cocktails at the intimate and inviting bar setting. Inside the hotel suites, guests will be pleasantly surprised with beautiful and trendy portraits by Justice Howard. In addition, the living room comes equipped with a 40” HD television set and a correspondence desk for those who wish to temporarily step back into reality. Among the various amenities, the fitness studio invites guests to exercise with a television decked for entertainment. Stepping out onto the interior courtyard for a night stroll allows guests to sit back and enjoy their company or alone time with a cocktail and candlelit experience while embracing the ocean breeze on their skin – ideal for a quiet night out. With just a few more steps, guests will feel the sand between their toes as the beach is only a few feet away. Located on Ocean Drive, the hotel is surrounded with fashion boutiques and restaurants further adding to the overall enjoyment of hotel guests. Overall, guests cannot help but imagine this is what Lord Balfour would have pictured the ideal tropical lifestyle to be. Located at 350 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, Florida 33139 For reservations or more information, visit www.LordBalfourMiami.com or call (877) 505-3301 Photography Courtesy of LORD BALFOUR    Click here to view post on the November/December 2014 issue.

Culinary, The Issue

Michael Schwartz: The Most Prolific Man in Miami

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By Nycole Sariol  Not many people know that Michael Schwartz has a hidden talent. “I could fall asleep standing up,” quips the James Beard Award Winner, “don’t tell anyone.” Though, when the Miami-based chef revealed that he has time to sleep at all – even in the most arbitrary of stances – and still manage to be a quality family man, it somehow came as a bit of a shock. Nowadays, it seems you can’t find a restaurant in Miami without the toque’s name attached to it: Restaurant Michael Schwartz in the iconic Raleigh seizes the Miami Beach dining scene, while The Cypress Room, Harry’s Pizzeria, and Michael’s Genuine outrival bordering hubs as the Design District’s Big Three. The man even has his own label of 12-ounce brews with his name stamped all over, solidifying his top chef status. Surely, Schwartz must have yet another secret talent lurking up his sleeve to seamlessly balance helming a slew of triumphant restaurant concepts and juggling personal downtime. But for Michael, the trick is simple: “Great people. That’s just the bottom line. I couldn’t do it without my people,” he says of his team of restaurant employees, chefs, publicists, and partnerships that keep his hotspots “spinning in the air, and inspire and motivate” him to be the Renaissance man he is today. The success of his culinary ventures has rightfully garnered him an outpouring of attention throughout the years. But it’s Michael’s revamp of perhaps his most beloved restaurant, Michael’s Genuine, which has particularly riveted the attention of Miami diners as of late. “I guess it was a long time coming,” Schwartz says of inevitable renovation and the recent acquisition of the restaurant’s raw bar. Like many local restaurants, Michael’s Genuine typically closed after lunch at 3pm and re-opened for dinner at 5:30pm prior to the makeover, giving a generally large gap of downtime to prep for the dinner crowd. But Michael sought to scratch the downtime all together, and instead introduced an “Afternoon Service” for all the tardy lunchers wafting about in the neighborhood. “The extension of the [raw] bar was kind of a no- brainer for us. Introducing it capitalized on that in-between time when people are shopping in the neighborhood,” Schwartz says. And what with the influx of high-end designers flocking more and more to the Design District’s quarters these days, the raw bar and the restaurant’s newfound schedule couldn’t have arrived at a more opportune moment. Once measuring only fourteen feet in length, where customers would oftentimes sit squished arm-to-arm, the [raw] bar now seats twenty-five people comfortably, after knocking out what used to be the wall separating the private dining room. “Just opening it up really changes the way the restaurant feels and looks,” tells Michael. But prior to the newest offerings being served up at the raw bar – small plates like the East and West Coast oysters, shellfish platters, middleneck clams, and local crudo, tartar, and ceviche – Michael’s Genuine’s lunch menu underwent some changes of its own, a sort of precursor leading up to the restaurant’s recent alterations. “About two or three months ago, we revamped the whole lunch menu and really looked at it more like our dinner menu, in terms of changing it,” say Michael. Instead of the archetypal likes of a salad, sandwiches and small plates replaced the lunchtime iteration, keeping in tune with Michael’s affinity of minimally proportioned dishes. Nowadays, change is the name of the game for Michael. Imbued by his recent modifications at Michael’s Genuine, Schwartz plans to tackle a new foray come next year. Partnered with the award-winning Related Group, the duo is launching a restaurant concept and beach club at Edgewater’s Paraiso Bay, completely different from anything Michael has done in the past. “We’re not borrowing from Michael’s Genuine,” says the chef, “we’re creating a whole new experience that has a lot to do with wood-fire and very vibrant flavors, focusing on carefully sourced proteins, loads of vegetables, grains, and juices.” Being his first waterfront venture (sitting poolside at the Raleigh doesn’t count), Michael admits that he’s shocked how few restaurants teem Miami’s shorelines, in spite of coastal surroundings. “The options for waterfront dining are ridiculously limiting; we’re surrounded by water – it doesn’t make any sense. So, we jumped at the opportunity to bring something really fun, interesting, and different [to Edgewater]. It was too good to pass up.” The concept might come off a bit hoitytoity, but Michael argues that it’s actually the very antithesis of ostentation. “I wouldn’t classify it as fine dining; there won’t be table cloths, it’s not a hush restaurant,” assures Michael. “You’ll be able to sit outside, with your feet in the sand, near the water, while eating really good food.” Not only is Schwartz taking his culinary expertise to Miami’s seaside, but he’s also bringing a farm-to-table concept overseas via an ironclad partnership with Royal Caribbean called Michael’s Genuine Pub. Craft cocktails, craft beers, and a focused wine list compliment the menu of snacks, charcuterie, and artisan cheeses on the European cruise liners based out of Europe and Asia. “The ships will be time-released in six month periods. So, within the next eighteen months all three ships will be sailing,” the Chef adds. But while Michael’s namesake sets sail internationally, it’s Miami that keeps him anchored and inspired – whether he likes it or not. “I’m sort of stuck here for better or for worse,” admits Michael, “It took me awhile for me to embrace it, but I love Miami.” “I’ve always felt like there was enough of a challenge for me to be here and make a difference,” says Michael. “The Miami dining scene has come a long way. I still think that it will always evolve, but we do our part to elevate and gain some national and international exposure for Miami.” And, despite the flurry of recognition and countless restaurants that have given Michael impetus to potentially venture off elsewhere to further build his eponymous name, Michael

Fashion, MSM Online, Shows & Events, Swimwear

10th Anniversary of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim

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By Katie Jackson/Photo by Imani Ogden (Last years MBFWS 2014 Agua Bendita Collection.) July has notoriously been the hottest time in South Florida. No—not because of the scorching 90-degree weather—but because it is the time when bikini-clad models grace the runway in the hottest designs in swimwear for the annual Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim.  This year, things are about to heat up even more as the MBFWS 10th Anniversary kicks-off at The Raleigh Hotel this Thursday. This time, we not only get to celebrate a week of spectacularly fashionable swimwear, but a decade of incredibly talented designers and the show that brought it all to life. On July 17, the annual MBFWS kick-off party will give a special honorary presentation to the designers that have taken part over the years (including MSM’s July/August cover designer Red Carter—who participated in the very first MBFWS.) The lineup for the rest of the week will surely not disappoint the 10,000 plus expected guests—with designers such as Mara Hoffman, Mikoh, L*Space, Aquarella, Luli Fama, Caitlin-Kelly, Rip Curl, Poko Pano, Beach Bunny featuring The Blonds, Caffé Swimwear, Suboo, and so many more. And, of course, the stylish late night after-parties and glamorous poolside celebrations will be in full swing. MBFWS will come to a close on July 21, leaving us waiting for the hottest runway show to return next year.  Until then, MSM will be there to give you the exclusive on every last glamorous detail.

LIFESTYLE, Living, Luxury, MSM Online, The Issue

Miami Real Estyle – Sofia Joelsson – SoJo Design Miami Beach

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By Sherri Balefsky/Photography by Imani Ogden Stepping into the SoJo Design offices in the heart of South Beach is like stepping onto an oasis during a major MacArthur Causeway traffic jam. Sofia Joelsson, the firm’s founder and creative director, arrived in Miami late last night after her flight from New York was delayed four hours. You’d never know; she is blithe and cheerful and—with no makeup, nonetheless—looks incredibly well rested. From just a quick glance around her office, it is clear Joelsson has impeccable taste—so much so you’d think she spent years studying at an accredited design school. But Joelsson grew up in a small town in Sweden where she reveals, “People are very much do-it-yourself. A career in interior design is not something that is really even thought of.” Instead, the former Miss Sweden grew up thinking she wanted to be an actress. She spent time living in Germany and the Dominican Republic before making her way to Miami. “I was modeling and doing commercials,” she says. “But people kept asking me who my decorator was…So thirteen years ago—to this day, actually [June 9, 2014]—I started SoJo Design.”  With no formal training, Joelsson has managed to make a name for herself in the world of interior design, having worked on some of the most impressive luxury properties in Miami, New York City, and Dallas, Texas, among others. This includes penthouses at the Setai, Il Villagio, and 1500 Ocean Drive in South Beach; the Ritz-Carlton, Dallas; and Manhattan’s Walker Tower (where a penthouse recently sold for a reported $30 million). “I found a niche in penthouses,” she says. But her portfolio also includes luxury condominiums at Canyon Ranch, Miami Beach, One Bal Harbor, and the Four Seasons, Miami, and multimillion-dollar estates in affluent neighborhoods in places like Star Island and the Hamptons. She’s also designed interiors for hotels, office buildings, restaurants, and even private jets. The SoJo Design aesthetic is sleek, chic, and modern. Each room exudes an effortless balance of color, texture, shape, and open space. Joelsson has an affinity for natural materials like wood, stone, and leather, and for neutral tones such as white, black, and beige. While an estate she designed in Dallas has a much different vibe than, say, one of her South Beach penthouses, the signature SoJo je ne sais quoi permeates throughout each endeavor. In total, SoJo Design has worked on more than 150 projects, representing close to a billion dollars of real estate. The success has led Joelsson to expand her business into other areas of creativity, which includes the launch of a design-inspired magazine, Curated Living. “I did [the magazine] to challenge and inspire myself, and in turn, inspire others,” she says. “It was originally only supposed to be online [www.curated-living.com], but my clients and advertisers were all asking for copies.” For the first issue, aptly named “The White Issue,” Joelsson curated pieces from her favorite design and fashion houses to put together a series of white-themed vignettes. The next issue, slated for Summer 2014, will have both equestrian and nautical themes. Along with being editor-in-chief of a burgeoning magazine, Joelsson is working on a new textiles line, which she anticipates will be part of a larger Sofia Joelsson Home, Anywhere collection. She also launched an e-commerce site, Cudesso (www.cudesso.com), which offers a handpicked selection of her favorite furniture and home accessories from around the world. And, if that wasn’t enough, Joelsson is also in talks with producers about a potential TV show. With so many projects evolving simultaneously, it’s no wonder Joelsson says the one person she’d love to meet is Martha Stewart. “She is such an inspiring entrepreneur and businesswoman—and she’s had a very interesting life!” Much of Joelsson’s inspiration comes from travel. Her favorite places include Mykonos and Santorini, Greece; and Capri, Italy, where she says she visits every year. Aside from traveling, in her free time (though it would seem she has none!), Joelsson loves to entertain. She likes having friends over to watch movies on her terrace where she has a full-size chess set and a popcorn machine. “A lot of my friends have kids,” she confesses. “I have four-legged kids.”  She gushes about her shih-tzu mix, Caspar, whom she rescued five years ago. He is by her side at the office on most days. “I think it’s important to create a fun work environment,” she says. “We’re here very long hours some days, so you have to keep people loving what they do.” The SoJo Design team currently includes five designers, plus an extended staff that helps support her in her multiple endeavors.  And despite her laundry list of accomplishments in just 13 years, Joelsson remains down-to-earth and remarkably humble. “The United States is still, to me, the land of opportunity,” she says.“Miami is special because it’s only something like thirty percent developed—as opposed to New York, which is like ninety-nine percent developed. There’s so much opportunity and growth…What Craig Robins is doing with the Design District is pretty incredible. It’s cool to be a part of a growing design community.”  So what’s her best piece of advice for anyone who wants to follow in her footsteps? “Follow your passion. Everything else is just passing the time. [Your passion] can change—mine did. But if you love what you do, you will be successful.” Click here to view post on the July/August 2014 issue.

MSM Online, Real Estate

Miami Real Estyle – Patricia Delinois, Miami’s Luxury Real Estate Messiah

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With a long-standing list of accomplishments and her sultry, chocolate locks, real estate tycoon, Patricia Delinois, President & CEO of Century 21 Premier Elite Reality, makes sure to get what she wants – and visibly deserves. This Luxury Real Estate Messiah and NBCUniversal Style Network star, staked her claim to fame long before Andy Cohen and pernicious catfights. For the award winning broker, seamlessly globalizing the 305’s real-estate market, while helming 175 agents deemed a lucrative cakewalk to the philanthropic enthusiast. Although a fluent speaker in three languages – French, Spanish, and English – the property powerhouse fancies one language in particular – selling; she fills us in on her landholdings hypnosis that has foreign affairs and local buyers alike, buzzing. MSM: Did the credit crisis of 2008 have a significant impact on your business and ability to sell homes? In 2008 we had over 46,000 properties available for sale on the market. Clients were asking for rentals, rentals, rentals!! Prices kept dropping and real estate offices were closing. Banks were not lending, mortgage brokers were all closing their companies. It was a very sad, difficult time and a tough process to get anything sold! MSM: What makes Century 21 Premier Elite Realty successful? At the end of 2011 we noticed that sales were up 4 percent from 2005 which was the boom year. A shift was beginning. This shift we were experiencing was due to the foreign buyer. Miami was suddenly on everyone’s radar. The Wall Street Journal named us the “new global city” 62 percent of the buyers now buying in Miami are foreign buyers and 90 percent of those buyers are buying cash. What makes our company different is we are an international company. We focus on foreign clients from all over the world. 48 percent of the business done by Century 21 is outside of the US. We are the most recognized real estate brand in the world. We also are the only real estate company to have an inter-office MLS, providing access for all of our agents and clients to listings from all of our offices around the world through our global MLS website Century21global.com. MSM: Describe your average client profile in the Miami market. Are they in the market to invest or to live in the property? The average Miami buyer is either from one of the large northern cities like New York, Chicago, Boston and Washington DC or they come from other countries in Europe, Asia and South America. We currently have a lot of traffic from Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela, France, Columbia and a considerable number of buyers from Canada, Mexico, Russia and China. They want to invest in properties in Miami for security, safety, political, and financial reasons. Most foreign buyers feel more comfortable investing money in Miami than in their own country. They also see the incredible potential in appreciation as this city is transforming at an extremely rapid pace. Many buyers come to invest in America, but others purchase their properties as full or part time homes. MSM: How is the Miami luxury real estate market rebounding since the 2008 housing crash and where do you project pricing trends to move over the next 2 years? Wealthy buyers love the international feel that Miami provides along with sunny weather, gorgeous beaches, thriving nightlife, glamour, entertainment and global business opportunities. They find our per sq. ft. prices much lower than in their own cities and want to own a second or even third residence in Miami. The demand for luxury properties has been fueling the construction and price growth. Miami is a city that is being compared to cities like New York, LA or Paris but we really are still a very new young city with tremendous growth potential. We are quickly becoming a world class city, attracting global attention and boosting real estate price appreciation. We are looking forward to a very strong healthy real estate market in the next years to come. MSM: Are you showing more condos or houses? Both have a strong demand right now depending on the clients lifestyle. MSM: What do you see as the hottest growing part of Miami right now? We have had our third consecutive record sales year and two years of double digit price appreciation. Miami real estate is booming from affordable housing to luxury properties and this is just the beginning. Prices are still around our 2004 pre boom prices and with the combination of very low interest rates we are offering a perfect buying opportunity. Miami is not large. We have the Everglades on one side and the Atlantic on the other side combine that with the increasing population and strong buying demand is making most of Miami real estate attractive everywhere! Currently we are still seeing tremendous growth downtown, in the Brickell area, and all along the Biscayne corridor. The Wynwood area, Doral area and the Design District. In addition there is tremendous growth in Coral Gables, Coconut Grove and all over Miami Beach. Miami has that international appeal keeping our residential and commercial real estate market hot for years to come!   1643 Brickell Ave #3102 The hottest buy on Brickell. In one of the most prestigious buildings in Miami the Santa Maria This is a fabulous two story residence in the sky. Priced at $5,900,000 3467 N Moorings Way Coconut Grove Florida Stunning Moorings Estate. For the distinguished buyer who appreciates the arts, enjoys a waterfront lifestyle and requires the ultimate in privacy and security, this exquisite 1929 DeGarmo, is located in the most coveted, guard-gated Coconut Grove neighborhood, The Moorings. Designed by renowned architect Walter DeGarmo, this magical and romantic, walled and gated estate has been lovingly restored to its original splendor. Magnificent finishes and décor exemplify the grandeur and old world charm that you would expect of one of the most beautiful properties in all of South Florida. A masterpiece of Mediterranean inspired architecture, it is surrounded by the most enchanting courtyards, incredible landscape, beautiful gardens and loggia lined patios, all on the water’s edge.Priced at $8,950,000 Click here

Events, Fashion, Swimwear

FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Beach

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            10-12-2012: Guria Beachwear presented by Sensa Weight Loss System At a star studded event at Funkshion in Miami Beach, designer Camila Ckless mesmerized the audience with amazing designs from her Guria beachwear collection. Patti Stanger of Bravo’s Millionaire Matchmaker representing Sensa walks the runway. The American Heart Association presented it’s “Go Red For Women” National campaign to create awareness surrounding America’s #1 killer of women – Heart Disease. The event showcased red dresses on the runway created and donated by top fashion designers from around the world. The dresses were auctioned off with proceeds being donated to the AHA. Photo: MSM      

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