#ThankYouMiami for Themed Weeks - Miami Swim Week 2014

Happy Swim Week, Miami! We hope you find yourself well-rested because we are about to embark on a binge of fashion, fashion, and more fashion! Our goals for the next 5 days are:

1. To pick up on the newest trends on and off the runway;
2. To stock up on swimwear for the rest of the year; and,
3. To have as much fun as humanly possible.

If you are up for the challenge, we hope you join us at some of this week's most anticipated events. We will continue to update the list below of where we plan to be. Say hi if you see us - we would love to meet you!

#ThankYouMiami for Themed Weeks - Miami Spa Month

July is shaping up to be the best month to be a Miami resident. As we ramp up for Miami Swim Week, Miami Spa Month is keeping us calm, cool and collected. The brain child of the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, Miami Spa Month gives residents and visitors an excuse to indulge in treatments at Miami's renown spas without breaking the bank. Packages starting at $99 are available at participating spas from Aventura to Coral Gables and can include a variety of amenities, including use of the pool and gym at some of our favorite hotels.

This week, we are on perma-bliss thanks to Jurlique Spa at the Mayfair Hotel in Coconut Grove, where we joined fellow Miami bon vivant, Shayne Benowitz of Wanderlust Chameleon, on Tuesday for a post-work evening of massages and bubbles. Jurlique Spa treated us to one-hour Mayfair Signature Tangerine Mimosa massages that quickly made us forget the stress of Miami life. And, considering Miami Beach was named the most stressed suburb in America, that is quite a feat!

When we arrived, we were assigned personal changing suites outfitted with a shower, locker, and key necessities, then we were given a few moments to unwind with a cup of green tea in Jurlique Spa's lounge. Masseuse Elizabeth helped us further center ourselves by placing a heated herbal pack on our spine at the start of the massage. She then applied the perfect amount of pressure to deliver a relaxing and restorative massage using essential oils and a tangerine mimosa back scrub. We were drooling after only 60 minutes, but we've been riding our post-spa high straight into the weekend.

Whether you're looking to unwind on a weekday or live it up on the weekend, Jurlique Spa is the perfect option. During Miami Spa Month, they are offering two combo packages at $99 and two combo packages at $129. Both options include full use of the Mayfair Hotel's pool, fitness center, steam room, spa lounge, and changing suites or lockers depending on availability. Your treatment also includes a $5 discount toward valet parking.

A hard day at work, girl's day, the stress of Miami life - which excuse will you use to find your bliss this Miami Spa Month? Get inspired by photos from our visit to Jurlique Spa below!

What spas are you most looking forward to visiting this Miami Spa Month? Why? What is your favorite themed week to celebrate in Miami? Leave a comment below or send us a tweet @ThankYouMiami!

#ThankYouMiami for Fashion - Nicaragua Beach Style

We have already established that Miami is the queen of beach style but, like everything in Miami, that beach style is the product of a melting pot environment. So, during our recent trip to Nicaragua, we multi-tasked - that is, we relaxed, sipped on frozen cocktails, and shot some Nicaraguan beach style to further inspire Miami's beach looks. Read the excerpt from our latest #ThankYouMiami for Fashion column below and click on the photo to see the photos and read the full post.

Ya hemos establecido que Miami es la reina del estilo de playa pero, como todo en Miami, ese estilo es el producto de varias influencias. Durante nuestro viaje a Nicaragua, estuvimos muy ocupados - es decir, nos relajamos, disfrutamos bebidas congeladas, y tomamos fotos del estilo de playa en Nicaragua para inspirar los looks de playa de Miami. Lee el extracto de nuestro nuevo artículo para #ThankYouMiami for Fashion y dale click a la foto para ver nuestras fotos y leer nuestros comentarios.

What do you think of the surf and bohemian styles? Have you seen these styles during your travels? Which was your favorite beach look we snapped in Nicaragua? Did you see any elements of your style? Leave a comment below or send us a tweet @ThankYouMiami!

#ThankYouMiami for Fashion - You Say Street Style, We Say Beach Style

In the city where it's summer year-round, swimwear is like a second skin. And, regardless of where we find ourselves in the world, Miami-ans make sure our pool and beach looks are flawless. The #ThankYouMiami team's travels to Nicaragua are no exception. Check out the new #ThankYouMiami for Fashion post where we show you our favorite look from our time poolside at Nicaragua365's Fort Walker rental home. Read the excerpt below and click on the photo to read the full post.

What are your swimwear or resort-wear must-haves for this Summer season? How do you accessorize your pool and beach looks? Which designer are you most excited to see at this year's Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim? Leave a comment below or send me a tweet @ThankYouMiami!

#ThankYouMiami for Fashion - 24 Hours of Travel in Miami Style

This week the #ThankYouMiami team is in Nicaragua working on a special video project that will launch our YouTube channel. Check out the new #ThankYouMiami for Fashion post on SoulOfMiami.org for a sneak peek of how local brands like Razön and Cameri Bead Studio were critical to making our travel comfortable AND fashionable. Read the excerpt below and click on the photo below to read the full post.

What are your favorite travel must-haves? How do you travel in style? What is your go-to travel destination? Leave a comment below or send us a tweet @ThankYouMiami!

#ThankYouMiami for a Sense of Community - Local Genie Miami Beach Kick-Off Bash

The primary difference between a "home" and a "living space" is a sense of belonging. Miami's constant state of transition and its status as a temporary destination sometimes make it seem far from a suitable living space, much less a home. However, at some point since I moved to Miami, a sense of belonging subconsciously seeped into my being. I can't point to how it happened or when it happened, but I can tell you why.
 
Miami has an unconventional, but very real sense of community. Unlike a traditional community, it is most recognizable in seemingly small, insignificant moments - like realizing the guy you lounge next to at the beach every weekend is in your yoga class at Green Monkey or when you're lost in downtown and the person you stop to ask for directions turns out to be a friendly face. But it is built on powerful principles like the premise of local love and it is propagated every time you and I choose to support our fellow Miami-ans.

That is why I was psyched when I learned that two of my favorite local businesses, Local Genie Miami and Public House, joined forces to host an event that brings us together as a community and that supports local environmental non-profit, ECOMB. You have heard me talk about Local Genie Miami and the Local Genie Network before (see #ThankYouMiami for Distinctively Different Neighborhoods - Brickell). Their upcoming June 20th bash at Public House will kick-off Local Genie Miami's first Miami Beach addition to their growing network of local businesses. What better way to revel in Miami's seemingly elusive sense of community than by toasting it together with $4 draft beers and $7 drinks? RSVP now!

What are your thoughts on the Miami community? Have you felt a local sense of community? When? How do you support the sense of community? When did you recognize that you felt a sense of belonging? Leave a comment below or send me a tweet @ThankYouMiami!

#ThankYouMiami for Fashion - The Perfect Summer Look

Miami has welcomed summer with open arms and so have I. My new post on achieving the perfect summer look, including photos revealing my new hair transformation by Emilee Coyle of Studio Chroma, are now live on SoulOfMiami.org. Read the excerpt below and click on the photo to read the full post.

What are your summer essentials? How do you achieve the perfect summer look? Will you be changing your hair for summer? How do you achieve the perfect beach hair? Leave a comment below or send me a tweet @ThankYouMiami!

#ThankYouMiami for Local Insiders - Localeur Launch

Miami is an amazing city. But, with everything it offers, it can be an overwhelming city for visitors who are unfamiliar with the area. Enter Localeur, an Austin-based company, whose mission is to help travelers get the inside scoop of where to eat, drink, and play on their website and app. This summer Localeur will double their community to include local insiders from 13 travel destinations in the U.S. Miami was one of the first new cities to launch in that expansion and yours truly has already written her first recommendation. Click on the image below to check it out and make sure to keep an eye on the Thank You Miami Localeur page for future recommendations!

What are some of your favorite places to find bikini-friendly breakfasts in Miami? What are some of your go-to places in South Beach? What other recommendations would you like to see from the Miami Localeurs? Leave a comment below or send me a tweet @ThankYouMiami!

#ThankYouMiami for Fashion - The Scoop

Last week, I was honored to be announced as the new fashion contributor to Soul of Miami, one of the most popular sites in South Florida. In case you missed my first two posts, you can read the excerpts below and click each image to read the full posts. Moving forward, all posts for the #ThankYouMiami for Fashion column will also be posted on here for your viewing pleasure. I look forward to sharing with you more about Miami's fashion revolution!

What would you like to see in my new column? Personal style features? Fashion event recaps? Upcoming event information? Leave me a comment below or send me a tweet @ThankYouMiami!

3 Reasons Why Visitors Say #ThankYouMiami

#ThankYouMiami primarily presents the Miami lifestyle from a local's perspective. So I was intrigued when Ashley Vaccarino from travel fashion blog and e-commerce brand, Arrive Chic, asked me to view Miami from a visitor's perspective. Last week, I shared with her and her audience three reasons why visitors can't help but say #ThankYouMiami. Click on the excerpt below for the full feature.

Are you a visitor to our beautiful city? What are some of the reasons why you say #ThankYouMiami? Why do your visiting friends and family say #ThankYouMiami? Leave a comment below or send me a tweet @ThankYouMiami!

#ThankYouMiami for Amazing Locals - Haitian Creatives

Miami is amazing because our locals are amazing. This month, in honor of Haitian Heritage Month, Société Perrier gave a nod to some of these amazing locals. Check out the six Miami-based creatives of Haitian descent they are saluting this month by clicking on the images below. You will recognize their work from our museums, restaurants, and magazines. Way to go, Miami!

A huge thanks to Caroline from I Heart Miami 305 for the intel she provided on Miami's Haitian community. You are my favorite Miami Haitian!

Which of these Haitian creatives' work do you recognize? Who are your favorite Miami-based Haitian influencers? How are you celebrating Haitian Heritage Month? What other amazing locals would you like to salute? Leave a comment below or send me a tweet @ThankYouMiami!

#ThankYouMiami for Incredible Opportunities - Premios Billboard 2014

Have you ever had an experience that was so much fun you couldn't help but smile? For me, the Premios Billboard 2014 was it. I was over the moon when Telemundo Media invited me to join other bilingual Miami bloggers to the Blogger Cafecito for the Billboard Latin Music Awards. It turns out the promise of coffee, pastelitos, and a behind-the-scenes sneak peek were just the tip of the iceberg. Join me in reliving with photos this unique opportunity that is yet another reason to say #ThankYouMiami! Thank you to Telemundo Media, Samsung, Target, and all other sponsors that made this experience possible.

¿Alguna vez has disfrutado tanto de una experiencia que no podías dejar de sonreír? Para mi, los Permios Billboard 2014 fue esa experiencia. Estaba súper emocionada cuando Telemundo Media me invitó a convivir con otras bloggers bilingües en el Blogger Cafecito de los Premios Billboard. Pronto descubrí que la promesa de café, pastelitos, y un anticipo en exclusiva del evento eran solo el comienzo. ¡Acompañame a revivir esta oportunidad única a través de fotos para aprender porque los Premios Billboard 2014 son otra razón para decir #ThankYouMiami! Gracias a Telemundo Media, Samsung, Target, y todos los otros patrocinadores que hicieron esta experiencia posible.

#ThankYouMiami for Dinner in Paradise (A Photo Diary)

Miami life is hectic. It has its moments of peace and quiet, but they are few and far between. Peacefulness is like the 1% of the Miami state of being and, two weeks ago, I achieved this ephemeral dream.

When I was invited to spend an evening at Paradise Farms for the March 23rd Dinner in Paradise, I was excited because they have an impeccable reputation in the Miami dining scene. They cater local and fresh organic produce to some of my favorite restaurants, including Essensia at The Palms Hotel, The River Seafood and Oyster Bar, and The Federal. After my visit, I am also psyched about their ambiance. Owner Gabriele Mariewski and her staff have cultivated an incredibly peaceful sanctuary in Homestead, a true refuge for those of us who live in Miami's more common hustle and bustle.

The farm's tranquil setting has been strategically curated by Gabriele who, in collaboration with a local architect, a local artist, and a local chef, designed the layout in accordance with the principles of sacred geometry and the ancient art of feng sui. Gabriele ensures the continued integrity of Paradise Farms by kindly requesting that no meat or cigarettes be brought on-site. Escape the insanity of Miami life for a moment and join me in reliving a moment of serenity and decadence at this Miami sanctuary:

"Enjoy and Respect" are two sensible sacrifices you are asked to make before entering Paradise and part of the secret behind the property's great vibes.

The farm is only open to the public during special events like the Dinner In Paradise series, when guests are invited to socialize in the garden and to enjoy passed hors d'oeuvres prepared by the featured chefs.

Before dinner, I had the chance to enjoy a glass of Sparkling Tropical Fruit Wine from nearby Schnebly's Redland Winery while watching the sun set over the farm's signature baby greens. The baby greens, which grow around the center of the property, made an appearance in the dishes served later that evening.

Before dinner, owner Gabriele (in pink) treated us to a guided tour of the five-acre property. The highlight of the tour was hearing the story first-hand of how she successfully grew the farm from an abandoned avocado grove and has, through "decision-making by synchronicity", continued to expand the farm's operations.

One example of how she has capitalized on good fortune is the mushroom greenhouse or "lab" where she currently grows only oyster mushrooms. The greenhouse was constructed out of materials which were nearly disposed by the University of Florida, but were discovered by and ultimately donated to her during an impromptu visit to the area.

Throughout the tour, Gabriele encouraged us to pick and eat some of the 52 varieties of edible flowers that she grows around the property. We were all hesitant at first, but were much more comfortable doing so by the end. My personal favorite was the hibiscus we enjoyed early in the tour.

We were all anxious to see what dinner held for us by the time we finished the tour. I took but a few moments to enjoy the beautifully decorated gazebo before sitting down for dinner with some new friends.

The five-course dinner for the night featured Chef Julie Frans from Essensia at The Palms Hotel and Spa, Chef Michael Reidt from soon-to-open Pilgrim, and Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli from Eating House and recently opened Taperia Raca. Each course was paired with a wine from Strategic Importers at the direction of Shari Gherman, President of the American Fine Wine Competition and Gold Medal Wine Tour.

Prior to each course, we had the opportunity to observe each chef, like Chef Rapicavoli above, as they put the finishing touches on their dish. It was an absolute honor to witness renown local culinary talent work their magic first-hand.

The first dish of the night was an exquisite watermelon tartare, which was vacuum sealed with olive oil and citrus to create a texture I had never previously experienced from watermelon. This vibrant and satisfying dish from Chef Rapicavoli was finished off with a garnish of herbs and edible flowers from the farm.

The fourth and main course, which was prepared by Chef Michael Reidt, was perfectly cooked salmon with freekah, purple kohl rabi, carrots, and smoked avocado. Chef Reidt explained that the salmon, which was imported by Stavis Seafoods, is delicious because it dies swimming upstream where it is happy.

The final course was a flour-less chipotle and chocolate cake with a hint of clove prepared by the incredible women from The Palms: Chef Julie Frans and Pastry Chef Sam Frei. The cake was served with a tamarind creme anglaise, roasted strawberries with thyme, and edible flowers.

There are only two Dinner in Paradise dates left this season, which may be Gabriele's last (yes, Paradise Farms is up for sale). Do not miss your opportunity to enjoy this unique Miami experience that should be on everyone's to-do list. Claim your seat now.

Have you been lucky enough to visit Paradise Farms? What was your favorite part? Who were the chefs that prepared your Dinner In Paradise? What was your favorite moment from my visit? Leave a comment below or send me a tweet @ThankYouMiami!

#ThankYouMiami for Fostering Local Creativity - O, Miami Poetry Festival

Welcome to Part 2 of my series, “#ThankYouMiami for Fostering Local Creativity", where I highlight the programs, places, and people that attract creative talent to our area and that empower our local creatives. Access the rest of the series here: Part 1. If you would like to be featured in an upcoming part of this series, contact me.

Constant vigilance, Miami - poetry has infiltrated our neighborhoods and it is looking for you! For the third year in a row, the O, Miami Poetry Festival arrives in all its creative glory to share the gift of poetry with Miami-Dade County's 2.6+ million residents. Keep an eye on your lottery tickets and an ear tuned to your radios because every medium is fair game for poetry during the month of April.

The O, Miami itinerary also includes a number of events ranging from workshops, readings, and exhibitions to pool parties, yoga classes, and a literary pub crawl through South Beach. Below are 5 events I am most looking forward to attending. For the full calendar of events, please visit the O, Miami Poetry Festival website.

Credit: O, Miami Poetry Festival

Poetry in the Park ft. Robert Hass and Nikky Finney

Date: Saturday, April 5

Time: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Poetry reading begins at 8 p.m.

Location: New World Symphony Soundscape (500 17 Street, Miami Beach)

The evening will begin with the melodic sounds of Somewhat Hungover, Oscar Fuentes, and New Work Symphony Fellows. Then, at 8 p.m., former U.S. Poets Laureate Robert Hass and 2011 National Book Award-winner Nikky Finney will treat the audience to a reading of their works that will be live-projected on the wall of the New World Symphony building. Like with all wallcasts at Soundscape Park, arrive early to claim a good spot and bring a blanket or chair. Food will be available for sale from Lalatina, My Ceviche, Feverish Pops, and The House of V or you can bring your own.

Poetry at the Garden

Date: Saturday, April 12

Time: 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., Open mic begins at 5 p.m.

Location: R.Y.P.E. Buena Vista Community Garden (136 NE 46 Street, Miami)

Join the Reclaim Your Power Equality (R.Y.P.E.) Community Garden in Buena Vista as they explore the theme of nature in poetry and create poetry trees using poetry and art using recyclable materials. At 5 p.m., participants will have the opportunity to share poems on nature, sustainability, and empowerment during the open mic session.

Sittin' by the Don on the Bay

Date: Saturday, April 19

Time: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Location: Paraiso Bay Sales Center (NE 31 Street and Biscayne Bay, Miami)

Poetry magazine editor Don Share improves upon an iconic Miami moment, Biscayne Bay at sunset, with a reading of his work and of his award-winning translation of Spanish poet Miguel Hernandez's work. Participants will be able to enjoy food, cocktails, incomparable views, and music by Tiger's Milk.

LitCrawl Miami

Date: Friday, April 25

Time: 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Location: The Betsy Hotel B Bar (1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach)

Miami does pub crawls well so it was only a matter of time until this famous San Francisco-born literature and pub crawl series made it to our sunny shores. The night will begin with readings from novelist Russell Banks and poet Chase Twichell at The Betsy Hotel's elegant premises, after which, armed with a map and a schedule, you will be set loose in South Beach to create your own literary adventure. Godspeed.

O, Miami 2014 Closing Party

Date: Wednesday, April 30

Time: 9 p.m. to Close

Location: Gramps Bar (176 NW 24 Street, Miami)

The month-long itinerary comes to a close at Wynwood staple, Gramps Bar. Celebrate another successful year of the festival's role in fostering local creativity and participate in the first-ever O, Miami Dirty Limerick Competition for your chance at "literary fame and crappy prizes".

Which O, Miami Poetry Festival events are you most looking forward to? What were your favorite events in previous years? Leave a comment below or send me a tweet @ThankYouMiami.

#ThankYouMiami for Themed Weeks - Miami Music Week 2014

Miami loves celebrating. Our parties are themed, our weeks are themed, even our months are themed. And in the bevy of year-round celebrations, none is more anticipated internationally than Miami Music Week. Every March, thousands upon thousands of electronic music aficionados descend upon our beautiful city to witness world-class DJs make music history in our venues and to party like nobody's watching.

Then how is Miami Music Week different than every other Miami weekend? In South Beach, the Miami Beach Convention Center hosts Winter Music Conference (WMC) which, in addition to throwing amazing parties throughout the city, offers seminars, technical workshops, and networking opportunities for music industry professionals. In Downtown, the heart of our city is transformed for a weekend into a grid-locked mess to deliver a one-of-a-kind electronic music experience known worldwide as Ultra Music Festival or Ultra.

If you like Electronic Dance Music (EDM) and you haven't been to WMC or Ultra, your opportunity is here! WMC starts today and runs through Sunday, March 30. Ultra will take place from Friday, March 28 through Sunday, March 30.

Here are the events that I am most excited for this Miami Music Week:
 

RaMBunktious Records presents REWIND at Kill Your Idol

Date: Saturday, March 22
Time: 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.
RSVP: Not required, free admission

Kill Your Idol is one of my favorite places to visit on the rare nights I go all out (i.e., my wedding weekend). So, I am psyched that this party is during the early days of WMC when I won't be as sleep deficient. RaMBunktious Records artists Jay-j, DJ Mark Brickman, Dan.k, Frankie Shakes, and Alan Epps will set the stage for Miami Music Week with classic house from the 80's, 90's, and 2000's. After all, you can't appreciate the new, new until you immerse yourself in its roots.

RAZON Eyewear Launch Party
Date: Wednesday, March 26
RSVP: By Invitation Only

On Wednesday, March 26, Miami-based luxury lifestyle brand, RAZON, will unveil their signature collection of wooden sunglasses at a private party. The line's launch could not be more perfectly timed - not only is WMC Co-Founder Bill Kelly a local brand ambassador, but also sunnies are a must-have accessory during Miami Music Week. Make sure to stop by www.seetherazon.com next week to shop RAZON's sleek aviators in Bamboo, Ebony, and Rosewood and to read more about their "Eye for an Eye" philosophy.

Wakeup Star, S. Renee & All Like Minds Present #MiamiGotNext: Sound Check at Scratch DJ Academy
Date: Thursday, March 27
Time: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
RSVP: wakeupstar.com/soundcheck, free admission

The first event of the two-night #MiamiGotNext Artists Showcase offers an entrepreneurial forum for artists, producers, brands, and others interested in the music business. Arrive at 7 p.m. for your chance to check out Scratch DJ Academy's digs during the open house and stay from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. to learn from a highly-qualified panel of local music industry professionals: DJ Bre, Honey's Money, Jedi Nemesis, Vince Valholla, and Lee Castro.

Wakeup Star, S. Renee & All Like Minds Present #MiamiGotNext - Underground Report II at Majestical Lips
Date: Friday, March 28

Time: 8 p.m. to Close

RSVP: $10 tickets at door, $7 tickets available for 24 hours here.

The second night of WMC's #MiamiGotNext Artists Showcase brings us an extra dose of local love. South Floridian STEFisDOPE hosts this event that celebrates and highlights Miami's rising MCs featuring the killer sounds of Miami locals like The Pyrvmids, J. Nics and Flight School Preps. If you haven't had the chance to stop by Majestical Lips, then this indie hip hop showcase is the perfect excuse to stop by!

Essential South Beach at the Eden Roc

Date: Friday, March 28 and Saturday, March 29
Time: 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
RSVP: General Admission tickets are on pre-sale for $20 - $30 here and VIP tables can be reserved by e-mailing info [at] rambunktious [dot] com

RaMBunktious Records brings Miami Music Week full circle with more of the basics. For two days, iconic Miami Beach hotel, the Eden Roc, will be graced by the legendary sounds of Miguel Migs, Danny Krivit, Andy Caldwell and a long list of other incredible talent. I can't decide if I am more excited to dance, to witness the stacked line-up firsthand or to lounge poolside at the Eden Roc Miami-style.

Skinny Kings / Slap & Tickle / Freehand Miami present Don't Worry Baby
Date: Sunday, March 30
Time: 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.
RSVP: Required, info [at] skinnykings [dot] com

One of Miami's most beautiful venues (see, #ThankYouMiami for Photogenic Venues - Miami Beach) is at it again. On Sunday, March 30, local fashion guru Amanda Del Duca will be hosting another much-anticipated party at the Broken Shaker featuring Anna Lunoe and special guest Pirate Stereo. The event will also feature pop up shops of Miami-based businesses, including Amanda's new online retail store Slasher Girl and lifestyle boutique ISHINE 365. I am in it for the music, but also the shopping, the cocktails, the venue, and the vibe.

Which Miami Music Week events are you most looking forward to? Will you be attending any of these parties? If Miami Music Week is not for you, what do you plan to do instead? Leave a comment below or send me a tweet @ThankYouMiami.

#ThankYouMiami for Photogenic Venues - Miami Beach

Welcome to Part 1 of my series, “#ThankYouMiami for Photogenic Venues", where I feature some of Miami's most photogenic venues by neighborhood and I recommend equally photogenic outfits that are appropriate for each. If you think your venue is photogenic and you would like it to be featured in an upcoming part of this series, contact me.

Miami is not defined by its beauty, but beauty is definitely something Miami does well. Our people are beautiful, our food is beautiful, and our scenery is beautiful. If you disagree, I encourage you to visit the #ThankYouMiami Instagram Page for Exhibits A through Z.

Since I moved to Miami, I have been fortunate to visit some of our city's most photogenic venues. Here are some of my favorites in Miami Beach with recommendations for equally photogenic Miami-style attire:

 

South Pointe Park 

South Pointe Park is located on the southernmost point of Miami Beach in the South of Fifth (SoFi) neighborhood. It boasts views of the Atlantic Ocean on the east, Government Cut and Fisher Island to the South, and the Downtown Miami skyline to the west. The park is popular for exercising, strolling, lounging, and enjoying food and cocktails with a view.

You should be clear about which of these activities you plan to cover during your visit so you can select an appropriate outfit. For the majority who are looking to stroll and people watch, a comfortable but put-together look like the one I choose below is best.

The silk, printed jumpsuit from VAVA Showroom is comfortable for lounging on the grass, but elegant enough to fit into the more upscale feel of SoFi. The American Eagle jean jacket (similar here) and the LC by Lauren Conrad chunky heels (similar here) make the outfit casual enough for the day, but could carry me to dinner in case we decided stay for dinner at nearby Smith and Wollensky.

The Beaches in SoFi

Speaking of SoFi, this Miami Beach neighborhood also features some of the most photogenic sections of beach in Miami. Because what is more photogenic than a beach that is not crowded and is free of rowdy teenagers and Spring Break-ers?

The sunsets are killer, as are the bodies of fellow beach-goers in this area. The beaches here are perfect for surfing, beach sports (think Pro Kadima), swimming, tanning, and even free diving about 150 yards offshore at the Jose Cuervo reef.

Anything goes with bathing suits in Miami Beach. Your final choice is dependent on your anticipated activity level and your personal comfort level. But in Miami, swimwear fashion is "a thing", so feel free to express yourself. I have provided some basic guidelines below.

I generally prefer a standard-cut bikini like this nautical bandeau option from Victoria's Secret (similar here) because it provides me flexibility for any activity. I choose bikinis in bright colors or white because they are quintessential to the Miami style (see, #ThankYouMiami for a Unique and Enviable Style). Matching accessories are also a Miami must! Here I am wearing one of Taradise Miami's "mati" evil eye bracelet (similar here) and Frends Taylor headphones in rose gold (get them here).

 

The Broken Shaker at Freehand Miami

Freehand Miami is a go-to for Miami's coolest and most fashionable locals and visitors. They are drawn by the flurry of activities that are hosted by the Freehand around Miami Beach, in their hostel, and in the gorgeous outdoor venue behind their hostel, the Broken Shaker. The exquisite food and the hand-crafted cocktails are all the more enjoyable because the décor, the pool, and the ping pong tables make you feel like you're in the backyard of a friend's house.

When you visit, dress casually cool (with emphasis on the cool if you're visiting during the hot Miami day). Your outfit should stand out, but not look like you tried on fifty other options before leaving your house. Below are three outfit examples showing my style and those of two friends during last year's Swim Week.

I am in the middle and am wearing a Maaji Swimwear top from Orchid Boutique as a crop top (similar here) paired with a white maxi skirt from Tobi (similar here) and a jean jacket vest from Forever 21 (similar here). In retrospect, the jean jacket was too hot for relaxing outdoors during summer in Miami.

Have you visited any of these venues? What do you think are some of Miami's most photogenic venues? Leave a comment below or send me a tweet @ThankYouMiami.

#ThankYouMiami for Supporting Local Talent - Fashion Happy Hour Recap

Talent instinctively flocks to Miami like the salmon of Capistrano and, with so much talent at our disposal, it is sometimes easy to take it for granted. Last week's Fashion Happy Hour event, however, proved that Miami recognizes and knows how to properly celebrate its local talent.

Fashion Happy Hour as a concept is founded on the principle of "local love" because it gives local fashion industry entrepreneurs a vehicle for showcasing their businesses and directly connecting with their audience. In practice, the event also fosters support of our community by encouraging Miami-ans to shop local and network with each other.

As a supporter of all things "local love", I was humbled by the experience of hosting last month's event. Thank you to all of you who attended or expressed your support in your own way. Your enthusiasm for the event and my involvement is one of the reasons Miami is such a fantastic place to live. So, today, I say #ThankYouMiami for you.

For those of you who were unable to attend and for those who want to relive the good times, below are some of my highlights from February's Fashion Happy Hour event. A special shout out to DJ Juan Luv who was the lucky winner of my #ThankYouMiami mug giveaway. For those of you who expressed interest in purchasing a mug, send me an email at info@thankyoumiami.com. They will also be available for purchase soon under the Shop #ThankYouMiami tab above.

The Blogger's Block, from local special event planning, promotions, marketing, and nightlife company Access & Effect Group, hosted the social media bar and kept all those who could not be in attendance informed with live updates throughout the night.

My outfit for the event was all about mixing lace and leather to create a casual, but sexy look. I'm wearing a BCBG Max Azria Leather jacket (similar here), the Radiant Spark White Lace Dress c/o Alma Mei (get it here), and white Converse sneakers (similar here).

Among this month's vendors was Fashssories. The intricate detailing in their wide selection of accessories, including jewelry, handbags, and wallets, is perfect for the fashionista that is looking to make a bold statement. The clutch shown above was a personal favorite.

Also present was the mother-daughter superstar team of MariMaria Accessories and Avril Accesorios. Daughters Mari and Maria create youthful fashion jewelry using colorful and innovative materials, while mother Arliss creates more classic jewelry with metals like this stunning shark tooth necklace in Italian bronze. You will see examples of both distinctive designs worn by the Damaris Aguiar Modeling Academy (D.A.M.A School) models in later photos.

Me and my wallet are both surprised that we didn't buy out Miami artist Pamela Gallegos' entire Pom Graphic Design and Fine Art pop-up shop. She had her vibrant artwork for sale on everything from throw pillows to framed prints. I was already a fan of her work through her collaborations with Vividly and Wysiwatch, but I walked out an even bigger fan. I mean, come on, check out that killer elephant throw pillow!

Stay tuned for the video soon to come featuring interviews with the vendors, as well as some of the attendees. Here, Marta from Just Be Cosmetics, Inc. explains how she is helping to change the way women see themselves. Also shown are products from her all-natural talc, alcohol, and paraben-free cosmetics and soaps line.

The event was a great excuse to reunite old and new friends, because who doesn't like live music, shopping, 2x1 drinks, and socializing after a long week?

Thank you D.A.M.A School for letting me style the gorgeous Yvannie Soto for the night! I had a lot of fun picking out clothes for her from Norka's fantastic selection.

My favorite moment of the night was when I thought I would get stage-fright and proceeded to write some "cheat notes" on my wrist. I didn't use them, but it made for an entertaining five minutes.

True to my beloved "Miami chic" style, the look I chose for D.A.M.A School doll Yvannie Soto features white classics with pops of color (see, #ThankYouMiami for a Unique and Enviable Style). The Avril Accesorios shark tooth statement necklace in Italian bronze completed this look by channeling both Miami's glamour and marine ties. Yvannie is wearing a white racerback tank and electric blue pleated skirt from Norka Boutique (get the top here and the skirt here) and the Lady Bag in White from Ashlie Redmond (get it here).

When I addressed the crowd, not only did I get to highlight and explain the pieces I selected for Yvannie's outfit, but I also had the opportunity to share the #ThankYouMiami story (see, Why #ThankYouMiami?).

Because you cannot put a price on safety, Yvannie's accessories extended beyond jewelry. Here she shows the crowd how to operate R&D Self Defense's lipstick stun gun which she had hidden inside her Ashlie Redmond handbag.

A huge thanks to Valentina, my co-host Tala Delgado from Pineapple Me, our beautiful models from D.A.M.A School: Yvannie Soto and Nathalie Quinones, and to you, Miami, for supporting your local talent. I hope to see you at next month's event!

Did you attend this month or a previous month's Fashion Happy Hour? What were some of your favorite moments? Leave a comment below or send me a tweet @ThankYouMiami!