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Alyse Mier

Fashion, MSM Online

7 Miami Bloggers You Should Be Following

By Alyse Mier From posts which make you want to buy a whole new wardrobe to photos of food that make you immediately hungry, meet the 7 Miami based bloggers you will definitely be following by the end of this article–if you don’t already. Emilie Sobel – Soul In Stilettos A 23-year-old SCAD alumna whose initiative for creating something that was her very own led to Soul in Stilettos. This fashion blogger and social media coordinator has made herself popular among the blogosphere by blogging about affordable style and sharing with her following that being an “outfit repeater” is not something to be ashamed of. While Sobel’s original intention was to move to New York and work for a magazine, she learned of the opportunities available to her in marketing and has used those tools to market her blog and herself. She attributes her blog to giving her the ultimate gift “a job I love, and a job I know I’m good at.” Cari Garcia – Fatgirl Hedonist Fatgirl Hedonist has garnered quite the following with her unique blogging strategy. Cari Garcia chooses to remain a mystery to her audience for the sake of being able to provide her readers with a thorough and honest review of Miami’s restaurants. Her goal is to create a commonplace for readers and guide them in the direction of a good dining experience. She strives to find places that offer “awesome food, unique menu items and great service.” Fatgirl Hedonist is an all in one food blog that offers readers with a list of events, awesome giveaways, and recipes to try for yourself. Annie Vazquez – The Fashion Poet Originally a journalist writing for various outlets such as The Miami Herald and AOL, Vazquez launched her blog during the recession when she noticed that local fashion coverage had minimized. This savvy blogger was one of the first to utilize Miami’s rich history by having some historical landmarks featured in her posts as backdrops. Her blog has since evolved to include other city’s landmarks as well. However, the core of Vazquez’s blog continues to be “embracing one self no matter your size or shape.” Geoffrey Anderson and Dianne Rubin – Miami Food Pug This blog is the result of a love of food and pugs. Friends of Anderson and Rubin were trying to convince them to create a food blog, but the duo believed the blog needed to have something different that would make it stand out among the crowd. A friend suggested adding Photoshopped pugs to each of their posts, and the rest is history. The quirky pug theme has been used to draw in Internet traffic, make people aware of the story behind the restaurants they visit and leave the blog with a greater appreciation of their dining experience. Ria Michelle A blogger who has seamlessly combined her love for the Internet and fashion, Ria Michelle has an impressive following on social media. Through her blog she documents her quest to pursue a life of style, and inspires her readers to go down their own unique path. For the fall season you can assure yourself that she’ll be blogging about the 70s comeback. You’re bound to see a lot of flares, suede and fringe. Sef Gonzalez – Burger Beast One of Miami’s most renowned food blogs, Burger Beast began in 2008 with the intention of being a creative outlet for Sef Gonzalez. Since its founding, the blog has grown from documenting Miami’s best burgers to educating readers on the wide selection of restaurants Miami has to offer. The Burger Beast himself also hosts’ events throughout the year such as Burger Beast Feast and Croquetapalooza in order to get his audience involved and create more personal connections with them. The blog even has an app available for iPhones and Androids. However, Gonzalez stays true to his roots and when we asked him what his favorite food was he told us, “Hmmm… Burgers. You had to see that one coming.” Miami Art Scene With the goal of expanding readers’ knowledge of the arts and spreading cultural awareness of the art Miami has to offer, Miami Art Scene has been a blogging pioneer. The blog has been in existence since the early days of WordPress. MAS has since grown exponentially and now has a large subscriber base worldwide and features local, national and international art shows as well as information on artists, art exhibits, trends and events. Needless to say this blog has become the go-to blog for artists, dealers, collectors, galleries, museum directors, curators, designers, art aficionados and art goers alike. MAS continues to grow as a renowned resource for visual art news and information, and generate the exposure necessary for artists and art businesses to succeed.

Fashion, MSM Online

ALDO: Inspiration Is Everywhere

By Alyse Mier “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” an old and wise saying that has served true for many years. Fortunately we live in a place that is rich with beauty and inspiration is everywhere. Inspiration even helps us form our personal style. The creative minds at ALDO have taken note of this and used this concept as a launching pad. For ALDO’s Fall/Winter campaign, it formed a group of diverse personalities that represented a wide range of tastes, experiences and lifestyles. The result was ‘Inspiration Is Everywhere,’ a campaign that showcases different people, such as TV personality and model Irene Kim and DJ Will Power, and how their inspirations reflect directly in their personal style. In order to accurately portray ALDO’s vision the campaign is presented as a diptych. Two photos are put side by side and they are meant to play off each other both visually and conceptually. On one side is a portrait taken by Matteo Montanari. The portrait is meant to showcase the individual and their personal style. On the other side is a still life photographed by Bela Borsodi. The still life is an abstract that brings the individual’s inspiration to life. Each portrait and accompanying still life is as distinct as the person they represent. Together both images work in unison to tell a story of what inspires that individual. “Inspiration Is Everywhere is an evolution of the work we’ve been doing over the past few seasons. ALDO is a facilitator, a co-conspirator, empowering our customers to express themselves and to wear their inspiration proudly,” said Douglas Bensadoun, Chief Creative Officer for ALDO.

Fashion, Fashion 101, MSM Online

Summer Style Trends for Men

By Alyse Mier Photographed by Christian Alexander, www.christianalexanderphoto.com Hair Styled by Evelyn Montes, www.evelynmontes.com Wardrobe Styled by Josh Vazquez, www.instagram.com/josh.styles Models: Daniel Jarret & Jonathan White, Front Management It’s safe to say that every guy has stumbled upon a fashion crisis at least once in his life. They begin to take interest in dressing better and want to keep up with trends. He learns how to layer and dares to even buy that chunky knit cardigan. That is until summer completely throws him off his game. Dressing for this Miami weather can be quite difficult. So men now face the question, “what can I wear to stay comfortable and cool when it seems like the only pieces I can wear are t-shirts, swim trunks and shoes?” The answer is in the following summer trend guide. The following trends can be mixed and matched in endless combinations and most importantly it promises to keep you cool in this summer weather and not throw you off your style game. Bright Colors and Patterns We know it seems daring and almost crazy to consider mixing a pattern with a colored pant, or even mixing two bright colors. However, you live in a city where bright colors and palm patterns are highly embraced. So we say take advantage. Stay classic and combine a white polo with a pair of color blocked swim trunks. Or try to be a little more daring and mix a palm printed button down with olive joggers. Whatever you choose do not be afraid of a little change and buy a color or print you would not normally wear. Classic Sunglasses Fun fact: just like your skin can get sunburned, your eyes can get sunburned and discolored too. Because we live in the sunshine state it is essential to have a good pair of sunglasses to shade you on the brightest of days. Although we are fans of the new brightly colored mirrored lenses, we highly believe in versatility and functionality. A trusted pair or classic aviators or wayfarers are sure to give you more use and perfectly compliment any outfit. A Non-traditional Blazer Often times we associate blazers with office wear and believe they can make someone look stiff. However, blazers have come a long way since, gracing almost every runway and coming in a variety of colors and cuts. One thing that has remained true about the blazer is the clean and polished look it continues to give any outfit. For the summer months a light weight linen blend, light denim or colored blazer is a must. The blazer will keep you shielded from the sun and transition almost any look from day to night instantly. Chinos If you plan on buying only one item from this list make it a pair of chinos. So many men are still stuck wearing baggy cargo shorts or jeans. A solid pair of flat front chino pants or shorts will give you a clean look and will be more comfortable to wear than oversized shorts. Try on multiple sizes, brands, cuts and fits until you find the right one. You do not want these to fit too tight. Once you find the perfect pair buy one in every color. Chinos are a staple that will take you through almost every season. Boat Shoes and Classic Oxfords A well fitting sneaker is good to have; it is functional and comfortable. However, it is not your only option. Boat shoes and oxfords have become two of the most important pieces in summer footwear. They can be worn in both casual settings and formal settings. The best part of these shoes is that after walking around in them for two weeks they mold to your foot and become insanely comfortable. Although this trend is very New England and preppy don’t be afraid to give it a try. You just might surprise yourself with how functional this trend is.

Events, LIFESTYLE, MSM Online

The Weekend Guide: 8/14-8/16

By Alyse Mier Here at MSM we know just how important it is to let go after a tiresome and what sometimes seems to be never ending workweek. And because we don’t want you to do any more work than you’ve already done this week, we’ve created a comprehensive guide to this weekend’s happenings just for you. So mark your calendars and start making plans. Summer Lovin’ Happy Hour! Nothing sets the tone for your weekend quite like a good happy hour. Start your weekend off at Blackbird Ordinary and unwind. Enjoy great company, sip on some cocktails and dance to tunes played by local DJs. Ladies drink free from 6-7pm. And don’t forget to order some delicious foods prepared by Chef Robert. When: Friday, August 14th Where: Blackbird Ordinary – 729 SW 1st Ave Miami, FL Time: 6:00pm Additional Information: This event is free and open to the public. All those in attendance must be 21 and over. Cirque Du Soleil: Varekai Enjoy a night on the town by witnessing a dazzling production put together by the incredibly talented performers at Cirque Du Soleil. Varekai is the story of a young man who is parachuted into the shadows of a magical forest. Marveled by this new world, populated by fantastical creatures, this young man sets off on an adventure both absurd and extraordinary. In this place of endless possibilities begins a journey to life rediscovered. When: Friday, August 14th Where: BB&T Center – 1 Panther Pkwy Sunrise, FL Time: 7:30pm Tickets: Can be purchased through www.ticketmaster.com Price: $45-$150 Wynwood Brewing Company Second Anniversary Block Party Make your way down to Wynwood this Saturday and help Wynwood Brewing Company celebrate two immensely successful years of producing craft beer. The brewery will once again take over the streets of Wynwood with a second anniversary block party. This year’s block party is just in time to promote the bottling of two of its most popular beers, La Rubia and Pop’s Porter. The celebration will be full of food, music, live art, pop up photo booths and of course beer! When: Saturday, August 15th Where: Wynwood Brewing Company – 565 NW 24th St Miami, FL Time: The block party begins at 12 noon and goes on until 11pm Additional Information: Admission is free Sunday Social Rooftop Pool Party Celebrate some of the last few weeks of summer with a pool party. The Congress Hotel will be hosting its monthly rooftop pool party this Sunday and things are bound to get pretty wild. Feel free to lounge poolside or showcase your inner Olympic swimmer at the hotel pool and find yourself dancing to the beats of Jeremy Ismael, Donnie Lowe, Dan Carraway, Xpans, John Viera and Brock Lambert until the sun sets. When: Sunday August 16th Where: Congress Hotel-1052 Ocean Drive Miami Beach, FL Time: The pool party begins at 12 noon and continues until 9pm Additional Information: This event is free and open to the public. All those in attendance must be 21 and over.

Fashion, MSM Online

Some of Fashion’s Leading Ladies Serve Up Fashion for Breakfast

By Alyse Mier Join some of the most notable names in fashion in this week’s installment of Fashion for Breakfast. Marina Larroudé, Fashion and Accessories Director at Teen Vogue, and Theresa Ebagua, founder and designer of renowned shoe wear brand Chelsea Paris, will be at Soho Beach House August 13th discussing style trends and inspirations in a conversation moderated by Jason Salstein, head buyer for Capretto Shoes of South Miami. Then follow these stylish ladies from the luxurious Soho Beach House to Capretto Shoes, where a Chelsea Paris trunk show will be held on August 14th. The trunk show will give guests a sneak peak in Ebagua’s vision for her latest and exclusive Pre Fall collection. Ebagua will live sketch some designs and sign any pair of shoes bought on this day. Chelsea Paris designs have been sold exclusively at Barneys New York. That is until the brand makes its debut in Capretto Shoes. This latest installment of Fashion for Breakfast promises to leave you feeling re-inspired and ready to embrace the latest style trends.

Fashion, MSM Online

Wedding Gowns with an Impact

By Alyse Mier One of the most important days of your life is the day you walk out of a fitting room wearing a wedding gown that is meant to be the one. However, what if along with purchasing the perfect gown you could impact the life of a woman suffering from breast cancer? The nonprofit organization Brides Against Breast Cancer has been helping women find their perfect wedding gown and spread breast cancer awareness with their annual Tour of Gowns. This bridal expo visits about 120 cities each year and sells discounted designer wedding gowns to future brides. 80 percent of proceeds go toward providing free services to the families of those women affected by breast cancer through Health Support Nework. Through the Health Support Network programs such as: exercise, nutrition, meditation, education and caregiver support are provided to cancer patients. These programs are meant to help the battle against breast cancer and ensure that women do not feel as if they are alone in this fight. Brides Against Breast Cancer had made it its goal to ensure that those affected by breast cancer have the resources and information they need to battle cancer. If you would like to get involved now is your chance. The Tour of Gowns will be making a stop in Miami August 22nd and 23rd. You can help by donating your gown or even purchasing a gown. Your wedding day can now be a day of pure bliss and joy knowing that you greatly influenced someone’s life. For more information, please visit www.bridesagainstbreastcancer.org

LIFESTYLE, MSM Online, Traveler

South Florida: Be a Tourist in Your Own City

Written & Photographed by Alyse Mier Day after day of living in a place that is absolute paradise you may forget just how beautiful the place is or even everything it has to offer. You begin to take for granted that a car ride to the beach is only 20 minutes away, or that you never get to experience a true winter. Well it’s time to stop and truly notice your surroundings. Rather than traveling out of town this summer take advantage of some of the best summer destinations being closer to home than you might think. Fort Lauderdale A city known for its miles of beaches, boating channels and for once being the overly popular spring break destination. However, now Fort Lauderdale is becoming quite the up and coming staycation destination for many locals. Some are even beginning to refer to this city as the “Venice of America.” You can experience the city by foot or consider taking a cycle tour of the city that will stop off at some of the best local breweries and bars. If you’re looking to witness some of Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife then definitely visit downtown and head over to Las Olas Boulevard. Las Olas has become home to some of South Florida’s best dining, shopping and entertaining experiences. Last, but most certainly not least, since you will be on vacation make sure to spend a few days relaxing and soaking up the sun on the beautiful beaches this city has to offer. Hollywood Beach A quiet little area nestled between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, which makes it perfect for a quiet and relaxing weekend getaway. Stay at one of the oceanfront hotels, and enjoy some of the beachfront restaurants, bars and shops that are located along the Hollywood Boardwalk. Downtown Hollywood offers a growing arts and cultural scene, which houses murals, galleries, art installations and Arts Park at Young Circle. Convenient trolley services are offered to make it easier for you to experience everything the city has to offer. For those of you interested in taking part in unique adventures you can play a game of life-sized chess or march to the beat of your own drum at the full moon festival, Drum Circle. The wide array of relaxing activities makes this little city the perfect match for a staycation. Miami Beach This insanely popular city has become best known for its weather, beaches and most importantly its party like atmosphere. Act like a tourist by visiting some of the widely popular beaches the city has to offer. Later, visit museums and soak in some of the city’s rich history by visiting the Art Deco Historic district or taking a stroll down Española Way. Take a food tour and indulge your taste buds in some of the best and most exotic flavors. And of course experience some of the best nightlife by dancing the night away at some of the best nightclubs or visiting some of the city’s award winning bars like the Broken Shaker. Miami Beach is a true picturesque vacation location. Key Largo The northernmost island of the Florida Keys offers an array of outdoor activities that are perfect for the whole family. Take in all the natural beauty Florida has to offer and learn about our coral reefs while snorkeling, kayaking or diving at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. You can even paddle board through the key or swim with the dolphins. For those of you looking to stay on land enjoy a beautiful garden tour at the Botanic Gardens at Kona Kai Resort. Enjoy the vast green land, which is perfect for golfing and go carting. Key Largo also offers an array of activities for the little ones too such as: fishing for fossils, jet pack adventures, aquariums and much more. This little island has proven to be the perfect place to disconnect while staying local. Key West This southernmost point of the United States is perfect for taking in a vast amount of history and having your bit of fun. Charter a boat or rent a jet ski and travel the key in style. Enjoy some snorkeling, diving and whale watching from the same boat you chartered. Be sure to take a drive down the historic 7 Mile bridge and visit the Southernmost Point. As soon as the sun begins to set make sure to visit Mallory Square to witness the absolute most stunning sunset. Then make your way over to Duval Street for a night filled with drinks, dancing, live performances and even a bit of shopping. Key West is perfect way to unwind in the presence of natural beauty and create some lasting memories.

Culinary, LIFESTYLE, MSM Online

A Not So Traditional Picnic at The Eden Roc Resort Miami Beach

By Alyse Mier As the summer months begin to come to an end it’s time to start completing your summer bucket list. On your bucket list you may have had activities such as traveling, tanning, sleeping, reading and taking in all the warm weather by enjoying a summer picnic. We imagine picnics take place in a park as we lie down on a checkered blanket and enjoy a spread of delicious foods. Recently, the Eden Roc Resort Miami Beach took that idea and gave it an unconventional twist. Now through the end of September the resort is offering a limited time picnic concierge. Yes, you read that right. The picnic concierge is an on-call service that allows guests to enjoy delicious cocktails and bites while lounging by the pool or beach. Guests can choose from any of the picnic basket offerings that are meant to match any party size or occasion: Couples Package is perfect for those couples that are looking to spend some quality time together. Couples can choose from two bottles of Mumm Cuvée, fresh fruit, a cheese plate and fresh chocolate chips cookies or chef’s choice dessert / $95 Family Package (for families of four) is a package tailored to suit everyone in the family. The package features 12 delicious mini sandwiches, fresh fruit, juices, chocolate chip cookies and caramel popcorn or chef’s choice dessert / $100 Groups and Friends Package (groups of 6) is meant for those of you wanting to celebrate the final days of summer. Choose from the group’s favorite choice of red wine or white wine, three 1.8 oz Grey Goose mini bottles, three Red Bull, cheese platter and 18 mini sandwiches and snacks. Those who order this package must be 21 and over / $150 All you have to do to enjoy this picnic is slip into your favorite swimsuit, throw on a pair of sunglasses and floppy sun hat and order one of these packages through In Room Dining or dial extension 3242 from your room phone. The Eden Roc Resort Miami Beach will take care of the rest.

Fashion, Luxury, MSM Online

Miranda Kerr: Jewelry with Meaning

By Alyse Mier Miranda Kerr is best known as the Australian beauty that strutted down the Victoria’s Secret runways. However, Kerr can now add jewelry designer to her resume. Since 2013 Kerr has been the face of Swarovski, but recently she has taken on quite a different role within the company. Kerr and Swarovski collaborated on a jewelry line, which is proof of an amazing partnership and an extension of Swarovski’s relationship with Kerr. The collection consists of two lines Diapason and Duo. The Duo pieces feature delicate symbols that can be perfectly paired with the statement pieces from the Diapason collection. Each piece within the collection was carefully designed and reflects Kerr’s point of view about jewelry. Kerr wishes that each piece truly reflect who she is and inspire and speak to everyone in some way. The collection features symbols that represent values such as brilliance, love, joy, spirit, strength and grace, which are important to Kerr to have in your everyday life. “Every symbol in the collection is very important and personal to me,” said Kerr.

Events, LIFESTYLE, MSM Online

Wedding Venues That Are Sure to Take Your Breathe Away

By Alyse Mier Photography by Liberty Group From cake and food tastings to wedding dress shopping, planning one of the most important days of your life can become quite a stressful experience. However, once everything seamlessly falls into place your wedding day quickly becomes the most magical day of your life. We’ve created a list of some of Miami’s most stunning wedding venues to help with your nuptials planning and narrow down your location scouting adventure. Ancient Spanish Monastery The gardens and chapel of the Ancient Spanish Monastery offer a truly marvelous setting for your big day. For those of you looking for a more traditional wedding setting this venue offers three beautiful chapels to choose from. The multiple chapel options make this venue the perfect fit for any budget, and it can be tailored to fit any size wedding party or number of guests. This venue also offers five luscious green outdoor spaces to choose from. The greenland is covered in 20 acres of rare palms, Spanish oak, cycads, banyans, and blossoming trees with the ancient and gothic like buildings serving as your background. The wedding reception will be held in the Cloisters, an open passageway that surrounds the courtyard, and will serve as the home to a truly unforgettable day. Coral Gables Country Club The Coral Gables Country Club is a true gemstone in the Coral Gables community. This venue is a luxurious combination of Mediterranean elegance and classic style. The Country Club Houses a grand ballroom and two satellite banquet rooms. Coral stone waterfalls, crystal chandeliers, black marble foyers, rich hardwood floors, and ornate Italian marble columns are among some of the elegant touches that are sure to add beautiful details to your wedding. You can also choose The Atrium Room as host to your wedding festivities. Floor to ceiling glass walls brighten up this room that overlooks lush greenland, bright colored flowers and a poolside patio. This magical location is sure to provide you with your much deserved fairytale ending. Biltmore Hotel This historic location sets the standard for elegance, romance and long lasting memories. The Biltmore is surrounded by over 150 acres of beautiful landscape that will help keep this special moment private for both you and your guests. Whether you are looking to get married under the stars, in a romantic garden, or in a luxurious ballroom the Biltmore promises to offer picturesque venues for any ceremony. The historic charm and Mediterranean inspired architecture is showcased throughout the ballrooms with grand ornaments such as: Cathedral arches, hand-painted ceilings and intricate chandeliers. The Biltmore Hotel is home to a wedding masterpiece. Miami Beach Botanical Gardens If you’re looking for an outdoor wedding surrounded by natural beauty, look no further. The Miami Beach Botanical Gardens offers some of the most colorful gardens that are sure to make for spectacular wedding pictures. Your ceremony can take place in the Japanese Garden, which has a small pond, bamboo, a bright red bridge, and stone lantern sculptures. This particular location is perfect for any small and intimate wedding. After your ceremony, head to the Banyan Room for your reception. This space includes an adjacent terrace, great lawn and courtyard. You and your guests will dine indoors amongst stunning décor and enjoy dancing outside under the star filled sky. The Miami Beach Botanical Garden is a romantic and cozy wedding venue.

Fashion, MSM Online, Swimwear

Miami Swim Week 2015: A Hot Debut

By Alyse Mier Photography by World Red Eye Miami Swim Week featured an array of parties and fashion shows that is bound to leave those in attendance talking for days. However, among some of the more extraordinary parties was Hot As Hell’s swimwear debut. The much-anticipated debut took place at Soho Beach House. The party brought out top models Natasha Oakley and, Devin Brugman, esteemed fashion bloggers and exceptionally talented fashion photographers. Guests were treated to electrifying tunes by model turned DJ Alexandra Richards while sipping on a refreshing Dobel Black Diamond Margarita. And if that wasn’t enough, guests were also gifted with Essie nail polish and HAH intimates that would serve as a reminder of this truly memorable night. The night continued on with a screening of the film Le Premiere, which was projected on the wall of a neighboring building for everyone to enjoy. The film features multi-talented model Cailin Russo who showcased her boxing skills, impressive dance moves and her incredible singing talent with her cover of Take A Walk On The Wild Side. The magical night came to a close on an exceptionally high note with a performance by New York based band Swimsuit Issue who wowed the crowd with a set that featured music from their upcoming album. If this bash is any indication of what to expect from Hot As Hell they are sure to raise the swimwear industry standard.

Fashion, MSM Online, Swimwear

Miami Swim Week 2015: Follow 6 Shore Road on a Journey through Panama

By Alyse Mier Inspired by lazy beach days and pieces that can easily transition from day to night 6 Shore Road perfectly captures the essence of being effortless and chic. Designer Pooja Kharbanda is known for taking you on a journey with each one of her collections, and last night’s stop was Panama. The show dazzled everyone in the crowd, from celebrities to fashion enthusiasts and press. The collection drew inspiration from the lush landscapes and rich history found in Panama, which is where Kharbanda spent her teenage years. Ornate patchwork embellished the front of some swimsuits and maxi dresses and represented the craftsmanship of some of Panama’s indigenous people. Other pieces incorporated 6 Shore Road’s signature floral print, which was reminiscent of the lush rainforests found in Panama. These pieces provided a beautiful color palette full of pinks, blues and purple tones. In addition to the swimwear and edgy resort wear, the 2016 collection debuted new bags and sandals, which stayed true to 6 Shore Road’s beachy vibe. The 2016 collection is intended for those days when your tanning on the beach and then dancing the night away as the sun goes down all while feeling effortlessly sexy.

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