Essie Summer 2012 Collection

The hottest new summer collection from Essie is sure to brighten up your mood as well as your outfit. With titles including: Off the Shoulder, Mojito Madness, All Tied Up, Bikini So Teeny, Fear or Desire, and Cascade Cool they are sure to bring some heat to the season and add a splash of color to your tips and toes. Essie is currently available at GBS The Beauty Store or www.GBSbeauty.com.

Miami’s Health-Conscious Influencers

On Tuesday, June 26 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Miami Beach Plastic Surgery Center and MedSpa is joining forces with Sean Donaldson Hair, Sobe Tan by Fabiola and Ted Ryce Fitness to produce the first installment of a unique ongoing South Beach networking event for Miami’s’ health-conscious influencers. Dr. Leonard Tachmes, among other industry leaders, will be on-hand to meet and mingle with guests, complimentary healthy, light bites by DeliverLean and Three Olives cocktails will be provided. The evening will also include raffle items and gift bags full of beauty essentials. To RSVP, contact beautyblockparty@taraink.com.

Mercadito Midtown Presents Don Julio June Tequila Dinner

In presenting Miami’s hottest monthly series, Mercadito Midtown is pleased to present Don Julio for its June tequila dinner along with a culinary theme perfect for the summer months: Grilling and Barbeque! On Wednesday, June 27 beginning at 8:30 p.m., Chef/Partner Patricio Sandoval together with Executive Chef Aldo Ayala will present four gourmet sharing courses featuring seasonal ingredients – all grilled utilizing Don Julio tequila. The evening’s special cocktails will also showcase the spirit and will be paired with each course. The cost to attend is $45 per person exclusive of tax and gratuity. Reservations are highly recommended, call 786. 369.0430.

Modern Luxury Brides South Florida & The Caribbean Official Launch Party

Modern Luxury, the largest publisher of luxury city magazines in the United States, proudly announces and celebrates the release of the first ever Modern Luxury Brides South Florida & The Caribbean with a launch party on Thursday, June 28 at Turnberry Isle from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. The title joins MIAMI magazine as the company’s second local publication dedicated to the affluent market. Featuring everything bridal from: couture gowns to luxurious wedding hot spots, coverage of the region’s most extravagant weddings, and a photo gallery of South Florida’s favorite betrothed couple, Modern Luxury Brides South Florida & The Caribbean will be the quintessential wedding resource for the stylish, affluent bride. Guests will arrive to a welcoming train of male models expertly outfitted in trim tuxedoes by Black Tie Miami and will dance the night away to a variety of musical acts across three stages, including an acoustic set by Academy-Award performing singer-songwriter Jon McLaughlin, as well as a jazz ensemble featuring sultry vocalist Jessi Campo and beats by DJ Maximus 3000, both from Javi Productions.

COSMO’S Fab @ 40 Smirnoff Beach Bash 

On Saturday, June 30, celebrate 40 years at Nikki Beach with Sexy Cocktails, Hors d’oeuvres, Entertainment & Friends. Cosmopolitan en español, the leading Spanish-language fashion and beauty magazine for the fun, fearless Hispanic female, is celebrating its 40^th anniversary with a Fab @ 40 Smirnoff Beach Bash along with presenting sponsor Smirnoff Ice. The first 250 guests will receive an exclusive VIP gift bag at this summer’s hottest “after beach” party. Smirnoff Ice will provide a welcome drink and $9 cocktail specials. The event will also feature models wearing L*Space swimwear, entertainment, a Polaroid photo booth and passed hors d’oeuvres from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. The festivities run from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m.; to RSVP contact RSVP@televisapublishing.com.

8th Annual Irie Foundation Weekend 2012

Miami’s own DJ IRIE will be his hosting his 8th Annual three-day action – packed charity weekend June 28 through June 30. The 2012 IRIE Weekend will commence Thursday night with an exclusive Chambord Vodka kick-off event at a private residence on Star Island. On Friday, the celebrity golf tournament will take place at the Melreese Country Club, followed by a welcome concert at Mansion nightclub. Saturday evening IRIE Weekend & Verizon will take over Lucky Strike bowling alley with the South Florida After – School All – Stars then close the night at Arkadia Lounge. Proceeds raised throughout the weekend will benefit the IRIE Foundation; for more information visit http://www.iriefoundation.org.

Dov Davidoff at The Improv Coconut Grove

Todd Weldon, Gray Corder, and Brian S. Long host a night at the Improv featuring Dov Davidoff from the Comedians of Chelsea Lately benefitting The Place of Dreams and The School of Dreams in Antigua, Guatemala (www.giveforward.com/theschoolofdreams) on Thursday, June 14, at 8:30 p.m. at the Improv, Coconut Grove. Tickets are on sale priced at $17 per person, 100% of proceeds go to The Place of Dreams/The School of Dreams). To purchase tickets, email Brian at MrLong@bl-pr.com. Each ticket will grant admission to this evening’s event as well as a VIP ticket to a future Improv event of your choice as well as free admission to the after-party at Mansion Nightclub South Beach. For more information or to purchase tickets contact Brian Long at 917.294.7370 or MrLong@BL-PR.com.

Keeping Cool with Bubbly

To keep cool this summer, HIGHBAR and Tudor House at the Dream Hotel will be offering a free flowing champagne happy hour for the ladies from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The ONE Group and STK Miami also present the launch of “Magnum Mondays,” a weekly dinner party series featuring upgrades on Veuve Clicquot Champagne, available on Mondays throughout the month of June. Dinner reservations are encouraged and available via open table. For more information, call 305.604.6988 or online www.stkmiami.com.

Amigos for Kids Presents Celebrity Domino Night

It’s DOMINO time!  Amigos For Kids, the nonprofit organization that aims to prevent child abuse and neglect by valuing children, strengthening families and educating communities, is ready to host its signature annual fundraiser, ING Miami Celebrity Domino Night. The popular event will take place on Saturday, June 16 at 8:00 p.m. at Jungle Island. The evening will feature celebrities, an open bar courtesy of presenting sponsor, Bacardi USA, and a luxurious silent auction display. ING Miami Celebrity Domino Night will also entertain guests with a live performance by one of Miami’s hottest bands, the Celia Cruz All-Stars. To become an Amigo by donating your time or other resources to children in need, call 305.279.1155 or visit http://amigosforkids.org/ .

TRUE WEST at the Miami Theater Center

Miami Theater Center, formerly known as The PlayGround Theatre, proudly presents a staged reading of Pulitzer Prize winner Sam Shepard’s TRUE WEST, a tale of two estranged brothers who unexpectedly reconnect after five years, Saturday, June 16at 8:00 p.m. in The SandBox, the theater’s 50-seat venue. Directed by Stephanie Ansin, and starring Miami’s own Louis Aguirre and Aaron Glickman, TRUE WEST will transport audiences into a world of sibling rivalry, transformation, and an intense battle of ideals. Proceeds will benefit Miami Theater Center, the new home of The PlayGround Theatre. Louis Aguirre and Aaron Glickman will perform key roles, Austin and Lee, respectively. The production will also feature Howard Elfman in the role of film producer Saul Kimmer and Linda Bernhard as the brothers’ mother. Tickets are $50 per person and may be purchased at the door or for reservations contact jackie@theplaygroundtheatre.com or call 305-751-9550 ext. 234. Food, refreshments, and a DJ will be offered. Proceeds will be donated to Miami Theater Center. Visit www.theplaygroundtheatre.com for up-to-date information.

Dinner and a Show at Frenchies American Diner

On Thursday, June 21 at 7:00 p.m., join Frenchies American Diner in Coral Gables as they present 12 Footstool Comedies that are sure to knock your socks off. Prior to the performances, Frenchies will be offering a $38 per person prix fixe dinner menu with a choice of appetizers, entrees and desserts. Seating is limited, reservations strongly suggested, for more information call 305.442.4554. 

Vernissage at Villa Azur

On Thursday, June 21 at 7:00 p.m., Villa Azur together with Avant Gallery will be hosting a cocktail reception with passed hors’ d’oeuvres, wine and champagne to celebrate the installation of “The Photography of Guy Le Baube,” which will be on display for a month at Villa Azur. To RSVP and attend the event call 305.763.8688 or by email: info@VillaAzurMiami.com.

Gerry Kelly’s ROYAL Birthday X-TRAVAGANZA

Join Gerry Kelly for his “ROYAL Birthday X-TRAVAGANZA” on Saturday, June 23 at Trio on the Bay. In the spirit of Kelly’s legendary Studio 54 Birthday celebrations — always the summer’s most anticipated spectacle — the cast of the ’70s disco-inspired smash hit, The Donkey Show will make a very special appearance before the show officially opens at the Adrienne Arsht Center this summer. The venue will be transformed by the acclaimed set decorators 3DX Design in majestic red and magnificent gold colors. Kelly has also teamed up with choreographer and producer, Pamela Canellas to present a bevy of breathtaking shows with the royal touch of “pomp and circumstance.”;Musical orchestration for the evening by DJ Smiley spinning open format on the patio and DJ Nyx spinning Studio 54 classics in the main room. For guests that would like to dine before the celebration, Trio on the Bay has created a special 3-course menu, for $39 per person. The official celebration begins with Red Carpet arrivals at 10:00 p.m. followed by an open SX Cocktail Reception until 11:00 p.m. For table service, Trio on the Bay will provide SX bottle specials throughout the evening (2 bottles for $250). For dining or table reservations, call 305.866.1234.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

“Bring Me Food” Wednesdays at Cecconi’s 

Cecconi’s Miami Beach is proud to introduce Bring Me Food (BMF) Wednesdays, a new family-style dinner series featuring a four-course prix fixe ($35*) menu by Executive Chef Sergio Sigala and Pastry Chef Oscar Bonelli. Designed as an indulgent spread reminiscent of old-school Italian suppers, guests will enjoy a different menu each week that showcases staple dishes and fresh, seasonal produce and fare.

The feast will commence with a glass of Italian sparkling wine, served upon arrival with an assortment of appetizers. The second course will consist of two hearty pastas, presented in oversized rustic bowls. Three entrees, to be shared by the table, will include a selection of Cecconi’s signature pizzas and a variety of meat and seafood dishes. The feast concludes with three tantalizing desserts. Reservations are encouraged at 786.507.7902 or miami@cecconisrestaurant.com.

The District Factory 

On Saturday, June 9 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Gallery Walk’s most anticipated evening shopping event and mash-up, The District Factory, will feature a growing list of local designers and artists who continue to keep Miami on the forefront of fashion. Leading the charge, as special guest host, popular Miami Blogger, Annie Vazquez, The Fashion Poet, will help usher in June’s installment of talented artists showcasing their inspirations including art, jewelry, apparel, reconstructed vintage, and so much more. Welcomed by presenting sponsor Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables, shoppers can also expect to be entertained by the sounds of Scratch DJ Academy’s DJ I.A.N., Société Perrier infused cocktails, snacks by Pop Chips, a Midtown Nail Bar & Beauty Lounge, and an indie “Factory Flick” courtesy of O Cinema. To add, the Factory will feature artwork by post-pop artist Carol Adrianza and art installations by Taylor Kienholz of Pencils and Saw blades. Phuc Yea!, Miami’s first “pop-up” restaurant, best known for their modern interpretation of traditional Vietnamese cuisine, makes a comeback cameo. The District Factory will once more donate a portion of the proceeds to Dress for Success Miami to support their mission of providing training and clothing to individuals struggling to secure and retain employment; for more detailed information visit www.districtfactory.com.

France vs. Italy Cook-Off

Culinary maestro Angelo Elia, chef/owner of South Florida’s acclaimed Casa D’Angelo restaurants, D’Angelo Pizza ∙ Tapas ∙ Wine Bar and D’Angelo Trattoria, will go head to head with culinary educator and dear friend, Chef Jean Pierre of Jean Pierre’s Cooking School, when the two face-off for a France vs. Italy cook-off on Monday, June 11, at Casa D’Angelo in Fort Lauderdale. The fourth annual fun-filled competition promises an evening of sumptuous cuisine, wines, education and lots of laughter. The four-course cooking demo and dinner features a taste of both Italy and France – two appetizers, two fish, two meats and two desserts. Each course will be paired with corresponding French and Italian wines. The chefs will guide guests through their preparations and the evening will culminate with a vote to determine which cuisine reigns best. The cook-off is priced at $145 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. Seating is limited. To reserve your seat, call Casa D’Angelo at 954. 564.1234.

By: Maryanne Salvat

Touch and Culture Productions at Chalk Ping Pong & Billiards Lounge

On Thursday, May 31, Chalk Ping Pong & Billiards Lounge presents Tony Touch and Culture Productions, launching their first monthly old-school hip hop collaboration.  The festivities will begin at 10:00 p.m., during The Breaks, Chalk’s weekly hip hop event.  For more information on this event, contact www.chalkmiami.com. 

Sounds of Wynwood Walls 

On Friday, June 1 at 8:00 p.m., in honor of local visionary Tony Goldman’s “Lifetime Achievement Award” from the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, Wynwood Walls’ musical curator Nestor Torres will kick off the first “Sounds of the Walls” – an all-star musical showcase featuring an array of local talent.  The evening promises an all-star jam session honoring the man who was responsible for the revitalization of areas such as SoHo, Miami Beach, and the new thriving arts district of Wynwood.  Local musical acts slated to perform are Big Brooklyn Red; Monica DaSilva; Andrian Gonzalez; DJ Zoel and Max Farber.  In addition, newcomers to the Walls include young piano sensation Tony Madruga, Sax player Taylor Vega and violin virtuoso Paddy King.  Special guest artists will include percussionist Edwin Bonilla and master pianists Silvano Monasterious and Javier Concepcion.  Of course, Nestor Torres will host the evening, as well as perform with the other acts. .  The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact www.wynwoodkitchenandbar.com.

Kick Off Party for Hell’s Kitchen with Robyn Almodovar 

As one of 18 contestants, local chef Robyn Almodovar will be turning up the heat on Season 10 of “Hell’s Kitchen” (FOX) which premieres Monday, June 4 at 8 p.m. (EST). To kick off the spicy, new season of kitchen mayhem, Almodovar will host a preview party from her food truck “Palate Party” during Monday’s Food Truck Invasion in Arts Park at Young Circle in Hollywood from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Guests will enjoy live entertainment and a champagne toast with an opportunity to mix and mingle with the chef herself. Almodovar’s popular food truck Palate Party, which promises to be a “party in your mouth every time”, was recently voted the #3 food truck in South Florida. The first food truck equipped with an actual stage, Palate Party has been custom outfitted with LED lights, a flat screen television and a culinary arsenal worthy of Gordon Ramsay himself. 

Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach Presents RLife LIVE 

Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach presents an exclusive RLife LIVE performance by Ghost of Gloria at the ELLE Spa Terrace on Thursday, June 7.  The performance will take place simultaneously with 19 other RLife LIVE performances around the world as part of Renaissance Hotels’ “GET OUT & Discover” project that brings to life Renaissance Hotels’ first-ever global advertising campaign: “Live Life to Discover.”  The RLife LIVE event will feature a trunk show showcasing items from Saks Bal Harbour, Eberjey Intimates, Citrine By the Stone, Steven Rehage Anton, Pamela B and Bugatchi Uomo as well as raffle prizes from Red Flower, Dr. Dennis Gross Skin Care, and Decleor to name a few.  Guests will indulge in savory cocktails by VeeV Vodka.  Additional participants include Ahava, ELLE, Swank Audio Visual, and Paradise Light and Sound. In honor of this special occasion, ELLE Spa will be offering a 15% discount on the entire spa menu during the month of June.  from influences such as Foo Fighters, Incubus, Sevendust, Tool and more, Ghost of Gloria fuses the unique talents and influences of each member into an unforgettable modern melodic-rock sound.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

Exhale Mind Body Spa Launches Tata Harper Pure Facial 

Tata Harper the eco-friendly skin care line and Exhale Mind Body Spa are thrilled to announce the launch of the all natural Pure Facial with Tata Harper’s newly formulated back-bar products, available for aesthetician use only. The luxurious and may I say quite relaxing, facial consists of cleansing, exfoliation, beta hydroxyl, hyaluronic acid, collagen reinforcement, moisture retention, lipids, omegas and an infusion of antioxidants, all enjoyed with signature aromatherapy. (It will make you feel and look many years younger). Tata Harper products are also available for purchase at exhale locations. Founder Tata Harper redefined natural skincare with her eponymous line, which offers innovative products that are 100% natural and 100% effective. “Our mission to support overall well being with our nontoxic products that are results oriented, is very much in line with exhale’s mission,” says Harper. “We strive to encourage a healthier lifestyle for consumers everywhere through our business, and Exhale’s transformational programs and therapies work toward that as well.”; for more information on the skincare line, visit www.tataharperskincare.com or to schedule an appointment with Exhale Mind Body Spa, www.exhalespa.com. 

Nicky’s Week at RA Sushi

RA Sushi will host its eighth annual “Nicky’s Week” fundraiser Sunday, May 27, through Saturday, June 2, to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, one of the world’s premier centers for research and treatment of pediatric cancer and other deadly diseases since it opened 50 years ago. The Scottsdale-based restaurant and bar will donate 100 percent of the proceeds from the sale of a variety of menu items and beverages to St. Jude to help support the hospital’s lifesaving mission. Since its inception, Nicky’s Week has raised more than $943,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and RA Sushi hopes to surpass the $1 million mark this year.The special Nicky’s Week menu, available at RA Sushi in South Miami includes: Edamame, Tootsy Maki, Shrimp Nigiri, Pork Gyoza, Chicken Yakitori, Garlic Citrus Yellowtail Tapas, plus a variety of select beverages. All 25 RA Sushi locations in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Maryland, Nevada and Texas will participate in the fundraiser.

City Theatre’s 17^th Annual SUMMER SHORTS FESTIVAL

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County proudly presents City Theatre’s 17^th annual SUMMER SHORTS FESTIVAL, South Florida’s fast and furiously fun program of the nation’s hottest short plays, staged in the intimate Carnival Studio Theater (Ziff Ballet Opera House) from June 1 through17. Under the new direction of Producing Artistic Director John Manzelli, the sizzling 17^th season of the company’s acclaimed SUMMER SHORTS FESTIVAL features fifteen performances of eight original short plays – some raucous, others innovative and poignant, but with the ultimate goal to make audiences laugh. Tickets are $35, and may be purchased through the Adrienne Arsht Center box office by calling 305.949.6722, or online at www.arshtcenter.org.

Brilliance New York Boutique + Salon

Brilliance New York Boutique + Salon is celebrating the grand opening of its Lincoln Road boutique and salon on Wednesday, May 16 from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. Brilliance New York’s two-story facility is the ultimate destination for all things beauty. Guests will get a sneak peek at the boutique’s latest expansion of its full-service salon, while indulging in mini-makeovers, a Q&A with celebrity hair stylists, raffles, light bites provided by West Avenue Café, cocktails and more.  RSVP to BrillianceNY@taraink.com.

Haven Gastro-Lounge One Year Anniversary

Join Haven Gastro-Lounge for its one year anniversary bash this Thursday, May 17 at 10:00 p.m. The high-tech hotspot on Lincoln Road will celebrate the milestone with a public party featuring complimentary cocktails by Grey Goose Vodka until midnight, in addition to music by DJs Al B Rotten and Johnny Strokes. Guests will also enjoy small bites as a limited complimentary preview of Chef Todd Erickson’s new menu, which will be available for purchase beginning Friday, May 18; RSVP to RSVP@havenlounge.com is encouraged.

10^th Annual FedEx/St. Jude Angels & Stars Gala 

On Saturday, May 19, the 10^th Annual FedEx/St. Jude Angels & Stars Gala celebrates the 50^th anniversary of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital led by Latin power couple and event chairs Juanes and Karen Martinez. This year’s event will also include live performances by Latin sensation David Bisbal, Vicente Garcia and others. This year’s honoree is Latin Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter Juan Luis Guerra who will receive the 2012 “Al-Rashid Hope Award” for his unwavering commitment to providing resources to needy children in the Dominican Republic and Latin America, particularly in the areas of health, sports and education.

The star-studded event also will include a special recognition to television personality and entrepreneur Daisy Fuentes, who was one of the first celebrities to support the gala. Award presenters will include Latin personalities Giselle Blondet, Julian Gil, Blanca Soto, Pamela Silva Conde, and Raul Gonzalez of Univision, among others. To purchase tickets, get information on sponsorship opportunities or donate items for the silent auction, call (800) 278-3383, email paola.cassana@stjude.org or visit www.stjude.org/miamigala.   

 Soyka Unveils New Menu 

Soyka, a staple on Biscayne Boulevard’s food scene since 1999, will unveil its newly updated menu boasting classic and new dishes on Tuesday, May 22, with fashion and music live performances and video presentations by Chef Christian Martin. 
Menu prices apply but guests who attend on Tuesday between 6:00 and 9:30p.m. receive a $20 gift certificate that can be used during future visits. Appetizers range from $7 to $14, entrees from $8 to $32 with burgers and pizzas averaging $13. RSVP to soykaevents@graspagroup.com or call 305.759.3117.