Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On December - 15 - 2025
Say hello to your best sleep yet. The iSense FlexiCool Adjustable Pillow is redefining nighttime comfort with a luxe, personalized approach that feels as good as it looks. Designed for sleepers who want it their way, this pillow lets you fine-tune both height and firmness by adding or removing foam until it perfectly matches your sleep style—plush, firm, or somewhere in between.
The first thing you’ll notice is the cool-to-the-touch, silky-soft outer cover. Powered by FlexiCool Technology and lined with moisture-wicking Dacron aqua fiberfill, it helps regulate temperature around your head, neck, and shoulders—so you fall asleep faster and stay comfortable all night long. No overheating. No tossing and turning.
Inside, premium cross-cut memory foam cubes infused with temperature-regulating gel beads provide breathable, pressure-relieving support in any sleeping position. Each cube is spun with anti-bunching polyester fiber for consistent comfort, night after night. And with CertiPUR-US certified foam, you can rest easy knowing the materials are safe, high-quality, and thoughtfully designed.
Unlike one-size-fits-all pillows, the FlexiCool adapts to you—supporting proper spinal alignment and delivering that elusive, truly restorative sleep.
For more information and to order: http://www.myisense.com/
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On September - 18 - 2025
If you’ve ever wished you could take your art beyond stick figures, Lauren Horn has created something just for you. Her new book, This is Not a Sketchbook, It’s an Art Class, is more than a place to doodle—it’s a guided, hands-on experience designed to help anyone unlock their inner artist.
Here’s how it works: instead of diving into intimidating projects, you’ll start with the basics—simple lines and shapes—and gradually build toward realistic, detailed drawings. Each lesson comes with a QR code linking to a video tutorial, so it feels like Lauren is right there with you, guiding you every step of the way.
Supportive, approachable, and fun, this workbook is part sketchbook, part self-expression journal. Whether you’re sketching solo, creating with friends, or using it in the classroom, it’s designed to make art accessible and confidence-boosting for artists at any skill level.
Every once in a while, a beauty collection comes along that makes you stop, breathe in, and savor the moment. That’s exactly what happened when I experienced Natura’s new Ekos Cacau Collection—it’s like a little slice of the Amazon, right here in Miami.
Founded in 1969, Natura has always been more than a beauty brand—it’s a mission-driven pioneer. This Brazilian hygiene and cosmetics icon leads the direct selling sector in Latin America, with over two million consultants sharing its gorgeous, good-for-you products. As part of Natura & Co—the family that also includes Avon and The Body Shop—Natura has built its name on ethics, innovation, and care for people and the planet.
In 2014, Natura became the first publicly traded company in the world to earn B Corp certification—proving its dedication to social, environmental, and economic sustainability. In 2018, it became the first Brazilian brand to receive the Leaping Bunny seal from Cruelty Free International, which means no animal testing—ever. Add to that a global presence from Argentina to France to the U.S., and you’ve got a company that’s as far-reaching as it is responsible.
The Ekos Cacau Collection. Imagine rich, pure cacao butter—unrefined and sourced straight from the Amazon—melting into your skin, wrapping you in softness and a fragrance that’s equal parts decadent and refreshing. The 100% natural cacao aromatic extract smells like creamy chocolate with a subtle, uplifting citrus note. It’s indulgence, but without the guilt—because every ingredient has a purpose, and every formula is kind to your skin and the planet.
Here’s what’s making my beauty routine feel like a spa escape:
Ekos Cacau Body Lotion ($32) – A silky, rich formula that doubles collagen production and locks in moisture for 72 hours. My skin has never felt this velvety.
Ekos Cacau Frescor ($38) – The fragrance I didn’t know I needed: a blend of creamy cacao and a whisper of citrus. Fresh, yet deliciously comforting.
Ekos Cacau Soap Set ($25) – Lathers like a dream, cleanses without drying, and leaves behind a soft, chocolatey scent.
Ekos Cacau Hand Cream ($20) – Smooth, firm, hydrated hands and stronger nails? Yes, please.
Ekos Cacau Moisturizing Lip Balm ($12) – Cushiony, protective, and hydrating for a full two days. My lips are obsessed.
The results? Clinically proven 2X boost in collagen production, stronger elasticity, and hydration that lasts—whether it’s 48 hours for lips or 72 hours for skin. And the scent… well, let’s just say you’ll be stopped and asked what scent you are wearing several times a day.
With Natura, it’s about feeling good and doing good, all at once. The Ekos Cacau Collection delivers Amazonian luxury you can feel proud to indulge in.
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On July - 11 - 2025
Feel comfortable in your skin while feeling comfortable in your underwear with Woxer. Explore the varied, colorful styles and inclusive sizing for every body. Super soft, high-quality, and made to move with you, the comfortable soft waistband never pinches into the stomach. These underwear are breathable, moisture-wicking, and chafe-free, while featuring sustainable luxury fabric (Modal) made from beechwood trees. Pair them with Woxer bralettes (Boss, Icon) for a style all your own.
Woxer recently launched its first-ever swim collection. It features sustainable swimwear designed for ultimate comfort and style, perfect for fun and adventure by the water. The swimsuits are made from recycled plastic bottles and Xtra Life Lycra®, ensuring superior chlorine and saltwater resistance, shape retention, and vibrant colors. Meticulous design and wear-testing trials guarantee that the swimsuits are as comfortable as they are stylish, with no bulky or uncomfortable seams and stitches.
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On May - 23 - 2025
Saks and INITIO Parfums Privés came together for an unforgettable night in Miami to unveil POWER SELF, the brand’s boldest creation yet. Hosted at the iconic Temple House, the launch was an immersive, full-sensory experience—where scent wasn’t just smelled, it was felt.
Guests engaged in a 360-degree journey of smell, taste, touch, sound, and sight—each element unlocking the fragrance’s full emotional power. It was more than a party; it was a portal to your most empowered self.
POWER SELF isn’t just a fragrance. It’s a neuroscent—a scientifically formulated blend of woody florals designed to activate the brain’s sensory receptors and measurably boost confidence, clarity, and emotional strength.
This unisex scent is magnetic yet comforting, leaving a trail that resonates with your truest self. It’s mood-enhancing. Mind-shifting.
POWER SELF is a scientifically crafted woody floral neuroscent designed to elevate confidence and emotional strength. By activating the brain’s sensory receptors, it does what no ordinary fragrance can: enhance your mindset and well-being.
Unisex, magnetic, and soul-stirring, POWER SELF leaves behind a trail of empowered energy. This is scent with purpose. Fragrance, redefined.
As someone who’s always on the lookout for standout wellness experiences—especially those that deliver both results and relaxation—I was recently invited to experience a true hidden gem right here in Coral Gables: Plénitude Medical and Wellness Spa. And let me just say, it completely exceeded my expectations.
I had the pleasure of visiting with my P.I.C. (partner in crime and on Miami Socialholic) Mary Jo Shore, and we were both completely enchanted by the spa’s peaceful ambiance, personalized care, and expert treatments. The entire experience felt like a luxurious escape from the everyday grind—something we both desperately needed.
Our Treatments: Total Bliss Meets Instant Glow
While I indulged in a truly spectacular massage with the incredible Natalia (more on that in a moment), Mary Jo experienced a customized facial that left her absolutely glowing. Her treatment was a blend of their signature Skin Sculpt facial—an anti-aging powerhouse designed to rejuvenate and tighten the skin—with the added benefits of microcurrent and red light therapy.
This 60-minute facial delivered serious results. Think: lifted contours, firmer texture, and an all-over radiant glow. The treatment included a lifting massage to stimulate circulation, microcurrent to tone and firm the skin, and red light therapy to promote collagen production and elasticity. It was everything the popular “Skin Glow” facial offers, but supercharged for even more visible anti-aging effects. Mary Jo looked refreshed, revitalized, and ready for the red carpet (or at least the next fabulous Miami soirée!).
As for me—let’s just say I melted into the massage table. Natalia has hands like magic. Her touch was equal parts soothing and therapeutic, targeting deep-seated tension while calming my nervous system. It wasn’t just a massage—it was a full-body reset. I floated out of that room feeling grounded, light, and utterly renewed.
Where Holistic Healing Meets High-Tech Beauty
Unlike traditional med spas, Plénitude blends cutting-edge technology with holistic wellness. Their philosophy is all about enhancing your natural beauty and supporting your overall health. It’s truly a 360-degree approach to self-care.
Some of the standout treatments include:
Morpheus8 – for collagen-boosting, skin-tightening magic
Evolve X – non-invasive body sculpting that actually works
Salt Room Therapy – a tranquil space that supports respiratory health, detox, and stress relief
Whether you’re addressing skin concerns, hormone balance, or simply in need of a serious glow-up, Plénitude has something transformative to offer.
The Dream Team Behind the Experience
Plénitude is led by Dr. Brad Herman, a retired plastic surgeon with over 25 years of experience, and Spa Director Mirella Besteiro, a powerhouse medical aesthetician and wellness expert. Together, they’ve cultivated a space that feels luxurious, grounded, and totally accessible. Their elite team is focused on one thing: helping you feel your most confident, vibrant self—without going overboard or compromising your natural beauty.
VIP Perks & Seasonal Specials
For those looking to elevate their routine, Plénitude offers an exclusive membership program, giving clients VIP access to treatments and ongoing care. Right now, they’re also featuring Spring Detox Packages and indulgent Mother’s Day specials—perfect for gifting or treating yourself (because you deserve it).
Why You Need to Go—Now
If you’re anything like Mary Jo and me—constantly on the go, trying to stay grounded while managing everything life throws your way—then you owe it to yourself to experience what Plénitude has to offer. Whether you’re in need of a full-body refresh, glowing skin, or a moment of peace, this is the place.
