Mural Arts Love Letter Love Train

Mural Arts celebrates the five-year anniversary of its landmark Love Letter project and marriage equality in Pennsylvania with the final iteration of Love Train on Sunday, February 8, 2015 from noon to 3 p.m. Jump on for a privately chartered, slow-speed, guided tour of the 50 rooftop murals along the Market-Frankford SEPTA line in West Philadelphia, painted by artist Stephen Powers and ICY Signs. The Honorable Daniel J. Anders, Philadelphia’s first openly gay male judge, will wed one same-sex couple aboard the train during the Love Letter tour. A sparkling catered dessert reception will follow at Loews Philadelphia Hotel. Love Train 2015 is a one-of-a-kind, can’t-miss ride. Book your tickets now to witness a landmark moment in Philadelphia’s LGBTQ history! Visit: muralarts.org or call 215.925.3633, ext. 16. Tickets: $35 per person, $60 per couple Space is limited and tickets are nontransferable.  Check in at 11:30 a.m. Tour leaves promptly at noon.

Simon’s Soiree – An Event for the Heart

On Saturday, February 7, Simon’s Fund will host over 450 attendees for the sixth annual Simon’s Soiree. The premiere sold out event will raise over $200,000 to bring awareness about the warning signs and conditions that can lead to sudden cardiac arrest and death in children. Guests will be treated to cocktails, dinner and auction items benefiting Simon’s Fund. Award winning sportscaster Michael Barkann will serve as Master of Ceremonies. The Protect This Heart Award will be presented to Dr. Frank Marchlinski and to NCAA basketball star Allan Chaney; for more information or to donate visit: www.simonsfund.org.

Shop for CHOP

The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia announces Shop for CHOP, a regional program to benefit the Friends of CHOP. Shop for CHOP will occur on February 5 through 7 at 19 independent retailers throughout the greater Philadelphia region who will donate up to 20 percent of proceeds to the Friends of CHOP. Shop for CHOP is a preview for Cheers for CHOP, the 1,000-person fundraiser for the Friends of CHOP that will be held on February 28 at The Valley Forge Casino Resort with a special performance by Salt-N-Pepa. Shop for CHOP is intended to raise funds for the hospital while directing Cheers attendees and the public, towards an edited collection of the region’s best independent retailers for cocktail attire and accessories.

Participating retailers include:

Atelier, 1921 Walnut Street, Philadelphia

Barbara Ellick, 705 Montgomery Avenue, Narberth

Bedazzled, 218 South Newtown Street Road, Newtown Square

Ella’s Grove, 876 West Lancaster Avenue, Bryn Mawr

First Impressions, 470 Germantown Pike, Lafayette Hill

Gabrielle, 200 Monument Road, Bala Cynwyd

Henry A. Davidsen, 1701 Spruce Street, Second floor, Philadelphia

Hope Chest, 1937 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia

Joan Shepp, 1811 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia

Julie’s Bottega, 156 Montgomery Avenue, Bala Cynwyd

Knit Wit, 905 West Lancaster Avenue, Bryn Mawr

Knit Wit, 1729 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia

Puttin’ On The Ritz, 470 Germantown Pike, Lafayette Hill

Rowen, 105 North Narberth Avenue, Narberth

Sheridan Square, 360 Montgomery Avenue, Merion Station

Skirt, 931 West Lancaster Avenue, Bryn Mawr

Sophy Curson, 122 South 19th Street, Philadelphia

Third Street Habit, 153 North Third Street, Philadelphia

Wayne Edwards Workshop, 1710 Sansom Street, Second floor, Philadelphia (Feb 10-17)

Annual Nest Tweetheart Social

On Friday, February 13, join the annual Nest Tweetheart Social benefiting PAWS, a pre-Valentine’s party for families from 4:00 to 6:30p.m. The guests will be treated to hors d’oeuvres from Private Chef Chris Gouty, a candy bar and photo booth. Children will make “love potion” jars to take home, snack on heart shaped Rice Krispy treats, dance in the upstairs party room and meet loveable animals available for adoption through PAWS (who will be held in a private room). A silent auction will benefit PAWS.  Wine and beer will be served for adults. Guests are requested to bring any of the following items to donate to PAWS: bleach, laundry detergent, paper towels, heavy duty trash bags, clay cat litter, Kong brand dog toys, canned dog, cat and kitten food (no dry food please), cat and kitten toys, fleece blankets, new or used dog crates and carriers of all sizes. TICKETS: $35 per family; $30 for basic and green Nest members. Nest purple members can attend at no charge, but a donation for PAWS is requested. Tickets are available at www.nestphilly.com. Discounted parking is available at the EZ Park lots at 1309 Locust Street and 1213-1219 Walnut Street.

On Friday, January 23, Hip-Hop and R&B icons T.I. and Ne-Yo, who have collaborated on a new single “One More,” off of Ne-Yo’s forthcoming LP, Non-Fiction, were spotted dining at The Forge’s coveted private dining room, Board Room.  The artists enjoyed an evening of laughter, good food and the sounds of resident DJ, Maxwell Blandford with a group of close friends. Eva Longoria was spotted having lunch at Makoto, Bal Harbour, with a group of friends.

photo courtesy of World Red Eye

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), which is as beautiful as the art it holds, held its annual fundraiser on January 17.  The gala, dubbed “Art of the Party” was presented by Louis Vuitton and showcased the architectural gem’s distinct, interconnected spaces with three unique celebrations in a single evening. Guests including supermodel Karolina Kurkova and Pitbull attended the sensational bash at the waterfront museum that pulled out all the stops for one of the most unique gala experiences to date.

South Beach Wine and Food Festival Founder, Lee Brian Schrager conceptualized the three-party-in-one-night concept, the navigation of which was, in itself an art form. For the occasion, Schrager flew in famed, fourth-generation Chef Thomas Troisgros, from Rio de Janeiro, to orchestrate the evening’s two distinct dinner parties, which were followed by a night of dancing under the stars on PAMM’s gorgeous terrace.  Read the rest of this entry »

On Wednesday, January 21, #chloeGIRLS were invited to celebrate the re-designed Chloé boutique at the Shops at Bal Harbour through a treasure chest journey that highlighted iconic Chloé moments.

Upon arrival, guests received a gold key and a treasure map to help unlock the Chloé universe. Champagne and specialty cucumber cocktails were served, accompanied with a sound performance by Va$tie. The new SS15 advertising campaign starring Chloé Hit Bags Drew and Faye was also revealed. Read the rest of this entry »

Chef Aniece Meinhold

By: Maryanne Salvat

Bravo’s Best New Restaurant Viewing Party at the Federal Food Drinks and Provisions

Excited to celebrate their debut on Bravo’s Best New Restaurant, hosted by celebrity Chef Tom Colicchio, Chef/Owner/Contestant Cesar Zapata and GM/Owner/Contestant Aniece Meinhold, along with the rest of the crew at The Federal, Food, Drinks and Provisions, is hosting a special dinner and viewing party at the restaurant on Wednesday, January 28. Offered all night long – and throughout the week as the show repeats on Bravo – guests will have the option to enjoy the four-course menu specially prepared by Zapata and team on the Best New Restaurant’s second episode for $39.00 per person. For those who prefer to snack as they cheer for The Fed’s to defeat Austin, Texas heavy hitter Swift’s Attic, the restaurant will offer a special late night Happy Hour from 9:30pm – close, including $15 bottomless house wines and bubbly, $5 cocktails, $4 beers and a limited snacks menu. Telephone: 305.758.9559; www.thefederalmiami.com. 

Ball and Chain Introduces Ladies Night and Super Bowl Festivities

Tonight, January 28, ladies will receive complimentary mojitos from 8:00 to 11:00 p.m.  Ball and Chain will be hosting Miami local favorite SUENALO on January 30^th. Ball and Chain will also be hosting a Super Bowl viewing party with specialty cocktails and menus available. Anyone who reserves or purchases a table will automatically be entered into a drawing for a free pitcher of either Gronk Juice or Lynchburg Lemonade at the end of each quarter (a $100 value). Tables available for $150 package to include a specialty drink pitcher (either Gronk Juice or Lynchburg Lemonade), a bucket of beer and food platter with hot dogs, sliders and chicken wings.

The Jon Jay FMSbonds Celebrity Bowling Challenge

Jon Jay, St. Louis Cardinals outfielder, Miami native and Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade alumnus, will host The Jon Jay FMSbonds Celebrity Bowling Challenge. Proceeds will benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade to support its many positive programs for thousands of area youth. Along with other Major League Baseball stars, Jay will bowl with attendees during the fun-filled fundraising event. The evening will include red carpet arrivals, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, exciting bowling matches and more. Sponsorships are available. For sponsorship or additional event information, call Jennifer Brasile at CAA Sports at 212.277.9000 or jennifer.brasile@caa.com. To purchase individual tickets and more information, visit www.jonjaychallenge.com.

Christian McCulloch

Dolce&Gabbana Make Up Hosts Spring Looks Events with Christian McCulloch in Bal Harbour

Christian McCulloch is known for his keen eye in designing chic and sophisticated beauty looks for top celebrities and major publications. He has recently worked with: Scarlett Johansson, Kate Bosworth, Kate Hudson, Emma Stone, Michelle Williams, Katie Holmes, Christina Hendricks, Olivia Wilde and major publications such as: Vogue, Vanity Fair, and Marie Claire; On Saturday, January 31 from 12:00p.m. – 8:00p.m., McCulloch will be on-hand to introduce the Lifting Foundation & Primer and Skincare Collections creating custom makeup applications inspired by Spring Dolce&Gabbana beauty trends.Customers are invited to make an appointment with Christian and the team as he reveals his insider makeup tips and demonstrates the newest Dolce&Gabbana trends and application techniques.For appointments please call: 1 (305) 865 1100 ext. 5368

BLT Prime’s Rival Burgers Photo Contest

Football fans and foodies, rejoice! Throughout this week until Sunday, February 1, sports enthusiasts and burger lovers will get a chance to predict the winner of this year’s big game via BLT Prime’s Rival Burgers Photo Contest.  Super Bowl XLIX will take place between defending champion Seattle Seahawks and AFC champion New England Patriots in Glendale, Arizona. Guests can bring their A-game by ordering their choice between two rival burgers, representing Seattle and New England, to predict this year’s football champion for a prize.  Priced at $18 each, and available during lunch service only, the #BLTRivalBurgers include:

·the Seahawk – Angus Beef Patty, Hot Dog Links, Grilled Onion-Cream Cheese, Tomato, Lettuce, and Smoked Pepper Ketchup

·the Patriot – Crab Cake Sliders with Lump Crab Meat, Spicy Remoulade and Frisée

To enter, guests must order a Rival Burger and post their most creative snapshot onto Twitter, Instagram or on our Facebook page tagging @BLTPrimeMiami with the official hashtag #BLTRivalBurgers. Five winning photos will be announced the week following the big game and each winner will receive a $50 gift card, to use at ESquared Hospitality Restaurants. BLT Prime is located at the Trump National Doral Miami and is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  For more information and reservations, call 305.591.6066.

Super Bowl Sunday Fun day at The Rum Line

Miami Beach’s favorite new watering hole, The Rum Line,will celebrate the big game on Sunday, February 1.  The Caribbean-inspired al fresco bar will offer an array of specialty libations from award-winning bar director Robert Ferarra, along with sumptuous small plates, seafood and snacks. Featuring a 60-inch screen and multiple viewing areas, The Rum Line is the perfect perch to watch the New England Patriots take on the Seattle Seahawks, and of course the Katy Perry halftime show.  Discounted libations will include $4 beer and $8 daiquiris, mojitos, Cuba libres and rum Old Fashioneds.  Guests can also indulge in Ferrara’s signature cocktails including including The Donkey Kong with Monkey Shoulder Scotch, Banane du Brasil, Orgeat and lime; the Green Eyed Bandit with Avuá Cachaça, fresh kale, cucumber juice and lime; and the Cargo Ship with Ron Zacapa 23, Batavia Arrack, Panther Coffee reduction and mole bitters, served in a Talisker Storm rinsed glass. A menu of tropical small plates and fresh seafood will also be on offer including Tuna & Salmon Tacos; Grilled Shrimp Skewers with mango salsa; Crispy Oysters; Baby Back Ribs with guava BBQ sauce and more.For private event inquiries or table reservations for large groups, call 305.695.0110.

4^th Annual Wine, Women & Shoes Presented by Sergio Rossi

On Wednesday, February 4 join the 4^th Annual Wine, Women & Shoes (WW&S) presented by Sergio Rossi, benefiting the children and families at Miami Children’s Hospital. Created for women who enjoy fine wine, great style, and supporting a noble cause, the fabulous event will be held at the JW Marriott Marquis in Downtown Miami on Wednesday, February 4. WW&S is one of the fastest-growing charity event series in the country and has become a big hit in South Florida. Last year, WW&S helped Miami Children’s Hospital raise nearly half a million dollars in a single afternoon with nearly 500 fashionable women of South Florida in attendance.  Sergio Rossi, renowned for its craftsmanship and feminine designs, presents the 2015 WW&S event. Guests will be treated to a sophisticated day of wine tasting, a silent auction featuring one-of-a-kind items, a delicious lunch, as well as a fashion show with featured items from Neiman Marcus Coral Gables. The “Shoe Guys” will also be in attendance, showcasing the latest women’s fashions on silver platters. Media sponsors include iHeart Radio and Ocean Drive Magazine. For more information about WW&S 2015 or MCH Foundation, contact Lisbet Fernandez-Vina at 786.268.1845 or visit  mchf.org/winewomenandshoes.

Matisyahu: Barefoot Concert Series on Sole on the Ocean

Reggae sensation Matisyahu headlines the latest installment of Sole on the Ocean’s Barefoot Concert Series on Sunday, February 15. In addition to Matisyahu, the Barefoot Concert Series will feature Bushwood, a six-piece reggae rock band, whose high energy and signature style have been igniting stages all across South Florida. Known for their ability to perfectly blend funk and reggae, this band loves to perform, and knows how to put on a great show. The event will take place beachside complete with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Monsieur Zonzon will provide additional musical entertainment in form of a DJ set. Guest are invited to enjoy refreshing cocktails and culinary treats from a specialty menu curated by the executive chef Phillipe Ruiz, who helms Sole on the Ocean Resort and Spa’s new restaurant Fresh American Bistro.

Link to purchase tickets: http://www.wantickets.com/events/ShowEvent.aspx?eventId=175191

John Colabelli, Jeff Benjamin, Garrett Snider, Marc Vetri

On Wednesday, January 21, the Garrett Getlin Snider Foundation, the Vetri Foundation for Children and Philadelphia’s top VIPs, philanthropists and chefs gathered at the Rittenhouse Hotel for a very special evening hosted by Garrett Snider, to benefit Vetri Foundation for Children. Guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, while learning about the Vetri Foundation’s “Eatiquette” program. “Eatiquette” helps schools provide healthy, scratch made meals while working within the federal guidelines for the National School Lunch Program. Students eat family style, allowing them to practice life skills such as teamwork, communication, manners and portion control while receiving fresh, nutritious lunches; For more information, visit www.vetrifoundation.org. Read the rest of this entry »