By:Maryanne Salvat 

#TedLovesMiami

Gino Campodonico, Netty Del, Juanjose Rangel,Rachael Russell, Jhon Jairo Santos and Jasmine Stewart are welcoming high end luxury brand Ted Baker London to Miami Beach on Thursday, January 15 at 7:00 p.m. Expect vintage cocktails by the master mixologists at Zacapa accompanied by a special performance by The French Horn. Illustrator Mia Mandela will be on-hand to customizing Ted Baker totes! This is a private event, RSVP required.

The public is free to join in on the celebration this weekend for the #TedLovesMiami grand opening on Friday and Saturday, January 16 and 17!

Art of the Party Presented by PAMM and Louis Vuitton

This year Pérez Art Museum Miami will put a contemporary spin on a classic tradition with a ‘modern gala’ on Thursday, January 17. Art of the Party Presented by Louis Vuitton will debut a contemporary spin on a classic tradition with help from event mastermind Lee Brian Schrager. Taking the place of the annual Ball, this unforgettable celebration will allow guests to choose from a Chef’s Table seated dinner or the lively Supper Club dinner lounge; attendees will then reconvene for a live outdoor concert. The proceeds from the evening’s ticket sales fund the museum’s robust education program, which is the largest behind the Miami-Dade County school system and has garnered participation from more than 80,000 adults and children since December 2013. For more information visit: www.pamm.org.

Debris Free Oceans 

Debris Free Oceans is thrilled to announce the launch of their presence in Miami by hosting a cocktail soiree on Friday, January 16, at Treehouse. The Miami-based non-profit organization to inspires local communities to responsibly manage the lifecycle of plastics and waste as part of a global initiative to eradicate marine debris from beaches, reefs and oceans. Suggested donations of $25 will be received at the door which includes an open bar from 9:00 to 11:00 p.m.   Guests will enjoy a live art installation by Dave L – a local Miami artist whose work reflects the ocean and nature and music by Lance-O from Kulcha Shok Muzik.  The event will also feature a silent auction with items including: paddle board lessons courtesy of First Paddle Co., art work by Dave L, gift certificates from First Surf Shop, and much more. All guests must be 21+ to attend the event.

MISO Presents Ocean Drive in Vienna 

The Miami Symphony Orchestra (MISO), under the baton of Music Director and Conductor Eduardo Marturet, presents the popular returning concert series “Ocean Drive in Vienna,” introducing the world premiere of “Concertino for Toy Piano” written by MISO Principal Trumpet and Composer-in-Residence, Sam Hyken. This new work highlights the musical talent of pianist Julia Bueno, a spirited young ten-year-old musician who started taking group piano classes at the SharpMinds Academy in Miami at age five. An avid composer, Bueno has already won First Prize of her age group in the Composition Contest at the MMTA Honors Recital, crediting her inspiration to history, creative writing and robotics.   Included on this year’s program is another world premiere by MISO Composer-in-Residence Paul Desenne entitled “Blues’n Danube,” a clever twist on the well-known waltz by Johann Strauss, Jr., as well as a South Florida premiere of “Sobre las Olas,” written by Justino Rosas. Salsa legend Oscar D’ León and Cuban-born journalist Ismael Cala from CNN Español will also make an appearance, combining elements of Viennese classical music with the nuances of Latin rhythms.   Sponsored by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation’s Knight Arts Challenge, recognizing the importance of MISO’s Composers-in-Residence program, MISO’s role as Miami’s hometown orchestra is to continually celebrate the cultural vibrancy of South Florida by being Miami’s distinctive musical voice. For more information, call 305 275.5666 or visit www.themiso.org.

“Be A Voice, Feel The Passion”

Voices For Children Foundation, a Miami not-for-profit organization advocating for children in foster care, and Presenting Sponsor Harry Winston, Inc., the  international fine jeweler and watchmaker, will serve as hosts to approximately 500 of Miami’s most influential and philanthropic individuals for the organization’s 30^th anniversary “Be A Voice, Feel The Passion” gala. The event will kick off with a cocktail hour at 7:00 p.m. Saturday, January 17, at host sponsor Mandarin Oriental. At this premier annual fundraising event, film and television actor Christian Slater and his wife Brittany Slater will serve as honorary co-chairs, while radio personality Paul Castronovo of local radio station BIG 105.9’s “Paul and Young Ron Show” will serve as emcee. Guests may participate in live and silent auctions for luxury goods and travel experiences, providing desirable and unique items for guests and supporters. Up for auction are tickets to Stella McCartney’s Spring 2016 Presentation in New York, exclusive membership to The Edition Beach Club, the opportunity to drive a Tesla Model S for a day, and a private shopping spree at Ralph Lauren Bal Harbour. This year, the gala will partner with RedCap to provide guests safe rides to and from the events in the guests’ own cars. To learn more about underwriting opportunities and sponsorships, or to purchase a table or tickets to the event, call 786.469.3857 or emailRAmador@BeAVoice.org.

Carb-Up at Scarpetta 

In preparation for the upcoming 2015 Miami Marathon on Sunday, January 25, Scarpetta, Fontainebleau Miami Beach’s AAA four diamondaward-winning Italian eatery, will once again offer marathon runners a special $39 “Carb-Up” prix-fixe menu. This year, the menu is available early and late night on Friday, January 23 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. and again from 10:00 p.m. until midnight,as well as on Saturday, January 24 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. The three–course menu is a delicious way to power up before the big run, specially crafted to ensure runners’ muscles are fueled and energy levels are up for optimal performance. Reservations are required; for more information visit: fontainebleau.com/miamimarathon.

By: Maryanne Salvat

National YoungArts Foundation Backyard Ball

On Saturday, January 10, the National YoungArts Foundation will be celebrating the 2015 YoungArts winners from across the nation at their annual Backyard Ball. This year the esteemed Arison Award Honoree is renowned visual artist Jeff Koons and the 2015 Arison Alumni Honorees are Grammy Award-nominated recording artist, singer, songwriter, actor, YoungArts Master Teacher and 1999 YoungArts Winner in Theater, Josh Groban, and Grammy and Country Music Association Award-nominated singer-songwriter and 2003 YoungArts Winner and U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts, Chris Young. The Gala is YoungArts’ largest annual fundraiser and the culmination of YoungArts’ signature program, National YoungArts Week, which provides a select group of YoungArts Winners with life-changing experiences, including master classes, workshops, interdisciplinary activities, performances and exhibitions. The distinguished event will include an alumni performance directed by renowned dancer, choreographer and YoungArts Artistic Adviser Bill T. Jones and will be emceed by YoungArts alumna and actress Zuzanna Szadkowski. Tickets to the attend the Backyard Ball can be purchased at www.youngarts.org/purchase-tickets.

St. Jude Red Carpet for Hope

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital^® is proud to announce its special partnership with the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for the national viewing party of the 72^nd Annual Golden Globe^® Awards. The party, St. Jude Red Carpet for Hope, will take place on Sunday, January 11 at the Trump National Doral Miami. This exclusive event will be hosted in Miami for the first time, and will help raise money for the lifesaving work of St. Jude, where no family ever receives a bill for treatment, travel, housing or food.Guests will enjoy a red carpet reception, live auction, a dinner featuring stories from local St. Jude patient families and the live telecast of the Golden Globe^® Awards. Individual tickets are $250 for general admission. Table sales and sponsorships are available. To register, call 305.265.1371 or visit stjude.org/redcarpetforhope.

4^th Annual Splendor in the Garden

Lush, tropical landscapes become the perfect setting for Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s trendiest event of the year – the 4^th Annual Splendor in the Garden luncheon and fashion show fundraiser. The event benefits Fairchild’s education, conservation science, and horticulture programs and is held on Wednesday, January 14 from 10:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Co-hosted with Neiman Marcus Coral Gables, the event features Spring 2015’s hottest styles in a runway show presented by Ken Downing, Neiman Marcus Senior VP and Fashion Director. The event is co-chaired by Swanee DiMare and Frances Sevilla-Sacasa and is sponsored by Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables and Cutler Bay, Marquis Bank, and Perry Ellis International. Stephanie Sayfie Aagaard, Miami Herald columnist and fundraiser for The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis and The Buoniconti Fund,serves as this year’s emcee. Upon arrival, guests are treated to a champagne reception on the sunny mosaic patio of the Visitor Center. The party then moves to the tented marquee overlooking the tropical foliage and sparkling Pandanus Lake. A refreshing lunch by Le Basque Catering starts the fashion show off on the right note. Models walk down the runway spotlighting the most coveted looks and colors for Spring 2015 with ensembles put together by Ken Downing. Guests who like the outfits they see on the runway can purchase them after the show at the Backstage Boutique. The day closes with recognizing the 2015 Fairchild Philanthropy Honorees – those who have demonstrated dedication to supporting the growth of the Garden and the community at large. Tickets start at $300 and are available online, by emailing sshubin@fairchildgarden.org, or by calling 305.667.1651, ext. 3375.

Pérez Art Museum Miami Hosts Art of the Party Presented by Louis Vuitton

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) will host its most important annual fundraising affair on Saturday, January 17.  The proceeds from the evening’s ticket sales fund the museum’s robust education program, which is the largest behind the Miami-Dade County school system and has garnered participation from more than 80,000 adults and children since December 2013.  Art of the Party Presented by Louis Vuitton will debut a contemporary spin on a classic tradition, on a new date and with a modern format conceptualized by event mastermind Lee Brian Schrager. Louis Vuitton has a longstanding affiliation with the world of art and is proud to present Art of the Party. The event will showcase the architectural gem’s distinct, interconnected spaces with three forms of expression in a single evening: Chef’s Table, Supper Club, and Remix.The three adaptations of Art of the Party will be infused with the essence of Brazil with famed Rio de Janeiro-based Chef Thomas Troisgos of the internationally regarded Olympe Restaurant and a live waterfront concert by popular Brazilian band Batuke Samba Funk featuring Pee Wee Ellis, the legendary sax player and bandleader for James Brown.  Chef Troisgos, the fourth generation of a clan of chefs that has made history in modern gastronomy, will arrive to Miami specifically to present custom dinner menus for Art of The Party Chef’s Table and Supper Club. For more information visit: www.pamm.org.

By: Maryanne Salvat

Pitbull’s New Year’s Revolution Live from the Thompson Miami Beach

The shiny-new, stylish Thompson Miami Beach will be the official location for FOX’s New Year’s special entitled: PITBULL’S NEW YEAR’S REVOLUTION. Staged throughout various indoor and outdoor venues at the upscale oceanfront Thompson Miami Beach, including its two spacious pool decks and the lush Raymond Jungles-designed Garden, the New Year’s Eve show will feature performances by an all-star lineup of entertainers, including Mr. 305 himself, Enrique Iglesias, The Band Perry, Fall Out Boy, Becky G. and Fifth Harmony and a few surprises. Miami native and the evening’s host, Pitbull, will lead the party from Thompson Miami Beach in front of legions of on-site fans. PITBULL’S NEW YEAR’S REVOLUTION will air live on FOX Wednesday, December 31, from 8:00-10:00 p.m. Then, following the local news, Mr. 305 returns from 11:00 p.m. –12:30 a.m. eastern standard time. Check listings for other time zones.

Those interested in gaining access to this New Year’s Eve broadcast at Thompson Miami Beach on December 31, can submit a request to join in on the fun here: http://1iota.com/Show/424/Pitbull’s-New-Years-Revolution.

Rockin New Year’s Eve at Ball & Chain

Ball & Chain, the historic and world famous live music bar in the center of Little Havana is thrilled to announce their “Rockin New Year’s Eve” event on December 31. The recently reopened bar on Calle Ocho presents a live musical performance by After School Special, an all-star classic rock cover band. After School Special will feature the Foo Fighters and Wallflowers keyboardist Rami Jaffee, Dave Krusen original and former drummer of Pearl Jam, Lazy Stars lead vocalist and guitarist Jonny Kaplan and Jessy Greene violinist from Foo Fighters, Pink, Fistful of Mercy and Sound City Players. The rock legends collectively have sold over 40 million records worldwide. The doors open at 8:00 p.m. where the rock legends will take the Pineapple Stage performing covers of classic rock songs such as Rolling Stones, David Bowie, Neil Young, Tom Petty and Rod Stewart as they count down to 2015. Immediately following the live show will be a special DJ set by Foo Fighters and Wallflowers keyboardist Rami Jaffee. Ball & Chain is offering exclusive table and bottle service reservations only, followed by general admission depending on availability. The general admission will be free RSVP and confirmation code is mandatory as it is a limited guest list. All guests must be 21+ to attend the event. For Table Reservations: NewYears@BallandChainMiami.com.

Love is Blind in the New Year!

Ring in the New Year like a true local at Miami favorite spot in Coral Gables Love is Blind! Enjoy tunes and bubbles with friends, family or that special someone you plan to give a New Year’s Eve kiss to because in the end it’s all about LOVE! Love is Blind has prepped a delicious pre-fixed menu for all to indulge. Start off with their infamous Serrano Ham Croquettas before moving on to a Burrata Caprese Salad. After the appetizers it’s time to have the best of both worlds with a Surf and Turf main course consisting of Filet Mignon with a Mushroom Demi-glaze (6oz) and Jumbo Garlic Shrimp paired with Grilled Asparagus and White Truffle Infused Mashed Potatoes. Finish off with a mouthwatering Creole Bread Pudding with Kentucky Bourbon Sauce and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream; for reservations, call 305.748.6118.

Tamarina

On the heels of a successful opening, Tamarina owners Yona and Tunu Puri are excited to announce their New Year’s Eve plans for an Italian inspired prosperity feast. The dinner will feature an abundance of luxury and decadence designed to promote well-being and good fortune in the coming year. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted with a welcome cocktail titled “Calends Fizz”. Custom created for the occasion by Tamarina’s lead mixologist Nathan Rogers, the cocktail is inspired by the ancient Roman tradition of exchanging gifts of honey-soaked figs and dates in glass jars as a symbol of abundance and promise of plentiful things to come in the New Year. Attendees will be welcomed to stay after dinner and dance the night away to the fun sounds of our Guest DJ with special open bar cocktails and drinks;for more information and reservations, please contact Jessica Marrero 305-579-1888/ Events@tamarinarestaurants.com.

The Royal White Affair at the Ritz-Carlton South Beach

The Ritz- Carlton, South Beach will once again host a luxurious New Year’s white party. After much success, the revelry will return Wednesday December 31, 2014 as a “Royal White Affair”. This year, the New Year’s Eve event will feature over-the-top specialty entertainment, renowned DJ’s, and opulent décor poolside at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach. Dancing to the beats of DJs Tony G, Chris Valencia, and Malone, attendees will enjoy a night filled with mystique, live entertainment, aerialists, and performances. Eye catching visuals will enhance the guest experience, bringing storybook and iconic royal figures to life. Presented in part by Perrier Jouet Champagne, “Royal White Affair”- will feature a theme based exclusively around the color white which is synonymous with the clean slate that a new year represents. Required dress for the event is evening wear and white is encouraged. Tickets can be purchased online at www.BlancNYE.com. Presale tickets are priced at $99 and include a premium open bar from 9:00PM until midnight. Table reservations are available. The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach is located at One Lincoln Road, Miami Beach, FL. For additional information visit ritzcarlton.com/southbeach or call (786) 276-4006.

The Wonderwalls

The Wonderwalls, an avant-garde design and home décor brand, will host an event at CABLE Design on Saturday, December 13, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. during Wynwood Art Walk to celebrate its U.S. inauguration. The Wonderwalls is currently composed of 10 renowned artists from Barcelona, Spain— Alex Trochut, Ariana Perez, Josep Basora, Flavita Banana, Inocuo, Laia Munnà, Laura Meseguer, Losiento, Maria Diamantes and Philippe Fernandez—who use rich typography, minimal art and inspirational narratives to create unique, powerful wall décor perfect for the home. The event, sponsored by Estrella Damm, will showcase the artists’ designs, including famed artist Trochut’s exclusive vinyl designs for The Wonderwalls—featuring “Lipstick-Bullet,” “Cat-Girl,” “Feather-Knife” and “Razor Blade-Queen.” Complimentary beer, bites from local food trucks, and live music will keep the vibe festive throughout the day. To request an interview or RSVP to the event, e-mail Rebecca Astorga at Rebecca@taraink.com.

Serena Williams Ultimate RUN South Beach

On the heels of making history after winning the 2014 U.S. Open – her 18th Grand Slam title – Serena Williams will join thousands of avid running enthusiasts from South Florida and around the country for the first annual Serena Williams Ultimate RUN South Beach, taking place on Sunday, December 14th. The Quarter Marathon (6.55 miles), 5K Run/Walk and Ultimate KIDS Dash will bring together runners of all ages and abilities to support the Serena Williams Fund, which provides assistance to families affected by violent crimes and providing underprivileged youth around the world with the highest quality of education available to them. Registration for each event is still open at www.TheUltimateRun.com.

Breakfast with Santa at Hard Rock Café Philadelphia for Toys for Tots

The Christmas season is just around the corner! Instead of waiting in line for hours at the mall for a picture with Santa, join Hard Rock Cafe for their annual Breakfast with Santa. On December 13-14 and 20-21, 8:30am – 10am, Hard Rock will offer a delicious breakfast buffet, complete with story time with Santa, goodie bags, and digital photos with Kris Kringle himself. Tickets are $18, and children 2 and younger are free with a paid adult. In keeping with the Christmas spirit, Breakfast with Santa will benefit Toys for Tots. This is the perfect excuse to skip the holiday madness without skipping the photo op, so make your reservations today. Tickets available here: http://www.hrcphillymusic.com/event/695631-breakfast-santa-philadelphia/

Délice by Chandon

Chandon, known as California’s sparkling wine pioneers, have introduced Délice their newest addition. In keeping with the style established when the winery was founded, Délice draws on French heritage and the innovative spirit of California. Like all Chandon wines, Délice is a sophisticated and vibrant sparkling wine that enlivens all occasions; Available in Florida and Texas in 2014 and nationwide in spring 2015.With a generous creamy, luscious mouthfeel, Délice is semi-sweet and refreshing. It tantalizes the palate with nectarine, pear, golden apple and ruby grapefruit flavors. Délice is the perfect match for all kinds of spicy dishes, such as Thai curry, Cajun jambalaya and Mexican salsa. It is also delicious with creamy cheeses of all kinds and rich, decadent desserts such as lemon meringue pie or crème brûlée.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

Art Basel, the Mecca for art collectors and enthusiasts will take over Miami this week. The most prestigious art show in the Americas will feature hundreds of leading galleries from North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia and Africa, among the most respected in the world that will showcase works by more than 2,000 artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. Special exhibition sections feature young galleries, performance art, public art projects and video art and musical experiences. Art Basel will provide a vital platform for art lovers, allowing them to both discover new developments in contemporary art and experience rare museum-caliber artworks. In addition to the actual show at the Miami Beach Convention Center, art museums throughout South Florida, satellite art fairs, and events for and by curators provide the perfect forum for encountering and experiencing art and design. Every year, a greater number of art collectors, artists, dealers, curators, critics and art enthusiasts from around the world participate in Art Basel – and the requisite parties keep the locals and the visitors in an art-induced state of bliss. Without a doubt, sunny Miami is the favorite winter meeting place for the international art world. Below, we have highlighted just a few of the major events that are scheduled this year, and are sure to make Art Basel 2014 the best to date. Read the rest of this entry »