The legendary Hampton House, once a haven for icons like Martin Luther King and Muhammad Ali (whose original rooms are still intact!), kicked-off Miami Art Week with a party that was nothing short of fabulous. In lieu of its historic after-hours jazz sessions, it was all about the art this time- at the grand unveiling of “Invisible Luggage.” With over 50 visionary artists exploring the themes of migration, memory, and what we carry (and what we leave behind), the exhibit dives deep into the intersection of freedom, displacement, and identity. Inspired by Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man, the exhibit reflects on the often unseen struggles and triumphs of the Black community.

The opening was a star-studded celebration, with a dazzling array of special guests from the worlds of art, music, and philanthropy. Among the VIPs in attendance were collector and philanthropist Beth Rudin DeWoody, Major Lazer’s Walshy Fire, and Pucci’s artistic director Camille Miceli, alongside gallerists Lauren Kelly and Danny Baez. Musician Mingus Murray, son of iconic photographer Ming Smith, was also on hand, as were prominent artists like Shinique Smith, Jeffrey Meris, and Tomm El-Saieh, who showcased their work in the exhibit. The guest list read like a who’s who of Miami’s cultural scene, with Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Cava-Levine, Commissioner Oliver Gilbert, and former Dunkin’ Donuts CEO Bob Rosenberg mingling with art collectors like Gary Wasserman, Gwen Butler, and the N’Namdi Collection’s Jumanne and Lauren N’Namdi. Curators and art dealers such as Stefano Tonchi, David Maupin, and Monique Meloche rubbed elbows with the likes of Jason and Michelle Rubell of the Rubell Museum, while philanthropists like Kathryn and Dan Mikesell from the Fountainhead Residency added to the evening’s glamour.

After a scrumptious dinner curated by Chef Martin Rodrigue, the eclectic crowd gathered under sparking chandeliers in the open-air terrace to dance, muse, and mingle, enjoying an all-night dance party with the one and only DJ Mos spinning tracks that kept everyone moving. The historic venue, transformed into a dazzling art gallery, was buzzing with excitement.

The evening was a perfect blend of culture, creativity, and celebration. It was clear: the Hampton House is once again a beacon of creativity and celebration, bridging the past with a vibrant, future-forward vibe. Plan your visit here: https://www.historichamptonhouse.org

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The 11th annual Fashion Gives Back fundraiser took place at the Bass Museum of Art, bringing style, heart, and impact to the runway, raising an unprecedented $107,025 for Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, thanks to the efforts of the Nicklaus Children’s Young Ambassadors (NCYA)—a powerhouse group of young professionals championing pediatric healthcare.

Guests enjoyed a glamorous evening of luxury bites, sips and shopping, where top brands showcased fashion to support Nicklaus Children’s Forward for Generations campaign, a transformative effort to advance children’s healthcare for years to come.

The evening’s highlight came courtesy of Juniper, aka “June-bug,” a brave 4-year-old who proved she’s tougher than a cancerous brain tumor. With her parents by her side, Juniper shared her incredible journey. “Nicklaus Children’s Hospital is legit, and we are living proof of that,” her father said, expressing gratitude for the life-saving care she received.

Juniper’s story is a testament to Nicklaus Children’s unparalleled dedication. After being diagnosed with Medulloblastoma—a brain tumor—Juniper underwent emergency surgery and a tailored treatment plan created by the hospital’s expert teams. In October, she rang the celebration bell, marking the end of her chemotherapy journey.

“Juniper’s experience exemplifies the commitment of everyone at Nicklaus Children’s,” said Allison W. Baker, President of Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Foundation. “Events like Fashion Gives Back allow us to continue delivering the care children deserve, ensuring their health for generations to come.”

The evening was made possible by generous support from sponsors, including Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood as the title sponsor, alongside Coconut Cartel, Moët & Chandon, and many others.

Since its inception, Fashion Gives Back has raised over 1 million dollars: funding vital programs such as child life services, dental health, physical therapy, and even summer camps for patients. Post-event, NCYA leaders channel their inner sharks during a Shark Tank-inspired session to allocate the funds to areas with the greatest impact.

To join the movement or learn more about NCYA visit: www.nicklauschildrens.org/NCYA. For details on the Forward for Generations campaign, head to www.nicklauschildrens.org/campaign.

The 2024 American Cancer Society Evening of Hope Miami Gala took place on Saturday, November 16 at the J.W. Marriott Marquis. Miami’s most compassionate and glamorous gathered in a shared mission: to end cancer for everyone, everywhere.

Event Chair Karen Ford, Vice Chair Nikki F. Upshaw, and Honorary Chair Gabriela B. Ibarra turned the Grand Ballroom into a jet-setting paradise where guests “traveled” to global destinations while sipping Bacardi and Southern Glazer’s finest. Guests dined on filet mignon and sipped top-shelf cocktails. The energy in the gorgeous ballroom was off the charts.

Veteran journalist Laurie Jennings kicked things off with charm, handing the mic to the event’s powerhouse leadership team to thank the sponsors and partners who made it all possible. Then came ACS Southeast Florida Executive Director Joan Gonzalez, who presented the inaugural Hope Awards to  Remedios Diaz-Oliver and Lilliam Machado for over 30 years of fundraising brilliance.

The live auction, hosted by a spirited Megan McRoberts, had guests vying for everything from all-inclusive cruises to once-in-a-lifetime experiences like a ride on the Goodyear Blimp or VIP suites for the Usher concert.

But the heart of the evening came when Casey Liening, a cancer thriver battling metastatic breast cancer, took the stage. Her story moved the room to tears and action, as hundreds raised their paddles during the Mission Moment to fund ACS’s life-changing work.

As if the night couldn’t soar higher, ACS Executive VP Kimberly Jackson honored NBA legend Alonzo Mourning with the 2024 ACS Courage Award, recognizing his battle with prostate cancer and advocacy for health awareness. His words left the room inspired.

And then—cue the confetti cannons. The final total raised was revealed, a whopping $750,626, sending guests into celebration mode as the dance floor ignited. Partygoers danced until the early hours of the morning.

It was an unforgettable evening of elegance, impact and undeniable hope. For more information contact or to make a donation visit miami.acsgala.org.

Miami’s well-heeled art set converged under one roof on Saturday, November 9, as Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) hosted its 11th annual Art of the Party gala on its stunning waterfront terrace. Honored at the soirée was Kenneth C. Griffin, billionaire philanthropist, founder of Citadel, and now, PAMM’s latest arts angel. The big news of the night: Griffin dropped a casual $10 million gift to enhance PAMM’s collection and fortify its role as Miami’s artistic crown jewel. Cue the applause.

Throughout the magical evening Miami’s finest artists, patrons, and tastemakers sipped, savored and celebrated all things PAMM. Among the highlights? The reveal of the newly minted Kenneth C. Griffin Gallery, PAMM’s largest and most central space, now forever tied to a man whose generosity knows no bounds.

But let’s not forget the other star of the evening: Colombian artist Delcy Morelos, recipient of the prestigious Pérez Prize and its hefty $50,000 award, thanks to Jorge and Darlene Pérez. Known for her deeply rooted explorations of humanity and nature, Morelos proves that minimal aesthetics can still pack a powerful, earthy punch.

As PAMM Director Franklin Sirmans put it, the night was a celebration of art, community, and transformative giving. “We’re thrilled to honor Delcy Morelos, whose work unearths the profound connections between people and the planet. And we’re deeply grateful to Ken Griffin—his philanthropic vision continues to inspire and uplift.”

Ken Griffin, for his part, kept it gracious. “Pérez Art Museum Miami is a world-class arts and cultural hub that enriches our great city,” he said. “I’m proud to support this outstanding institution alongside the Miami community.”

Nikki Kidd brought the soul, with her fabulous performance and Constellation Culinary Group delivered an artful menu. The after-party was a remix to remember, with artist José Parlá spinning vibes on the North Terrace Platform. (Pro tip: his exhibition Homecoming opens at PAMM on November 14. You heard it here first.)

As if all this weren’t enough, the event raised a staggering $1.7 million for PAMM’s arts education programs. This isn’t just philanthropy; it’s legacy-building. And for Griffin—already a benefactor to MoMA, the Art Institute of Chicago, and more—it’s just another masterpiece in his ongoing support for the arts.

Photos by World Red Eye

On Saturday, November 2, Amigos For Kids turned up the Miami magic with their blockbuster annual fundraiser, Amigos Night, at The Hangar in Regatta Harbor. The soirée exceeded its fundraising goals, drawing Miami’s glitterati, including celebs, media darlings, politicos, and power players, all rallying behind a critical cause: preventing child abuse and neglect.

Karina Pavone, Amigos For Kids’ President and CEO, summed up the night’s vibe perfectly: “We are overwhelmed by the support shown at Amigos Night. Thanks to our generous community, we can continue empowering families and strengthening our communities through transformative programs.”

The evening was a feast of Miami’s culinary A-listers who served up mouthwatering bites alongside an open bar stocked with Bacardi’s finest concoctions. Add a black carpet packed with star power—Gabriel Coronel, Gloria Ordaz, and Pamela Silva, to name a few—and you’ve got a recipe for a night to remember.

The Clique had the crowd on their feet all night, capped off by a buzzing Hora Loca. Meanwhile, “Domino Park” brought a touch of Miami’s soul, with enthusiasts battling it out for bragging rights.

But Amigos Night was more than a party with a purpose. As Maggie Fresen Zulueta, Chair of Amigos For Kids’ Board, put it: “This event is a testament to our community’s dedication to making a difference.” And make a difference they did. The night raised crucial funds to sustain programs that provide after-school enrichment and family support services.

Big props to the MVPs of the evening—presenting sponsor Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, and heavy hitters like Bacardi, Academica, and Prestige Clinical Research. Shoutouts also go to Greenberg Traurig, Ford, Goya, and Ryder for stepping up in a big way.

To learn more and to make a donation, visit:  amigosforkids.org and check out  @AmigosForKids on social media.

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The Harbour Club’s grand opening wasn’t just an event; it was the event, a feast that put “decadent” to shame. Miami’s swankiest and sparkliest slipped into Sunset Harbour to christen this posh new playground for global glitterati, where caviar flowed, truffle grated, and sushi pirouetted its way across marble platters. From two cheese wheels brimming with risotto and pasta (hello, truffle blizzard!) to sliders and tartare that’d make any gourmand weak at the knees, it was a culinary carnival with more bites than a foodie’s fever dream. Everything circulated at a perfect pace, a dance of flavors and textures, each bite more irresistible than the last.

Live music was the evening’s heartbeat: a violinist, saxophonist and a crew of vocalists dazzled the crowd, setting a scene straight out of a Bond movie. Meanwhile, over in the Speakeasy, a DJ spun everyone’s favorites, and suddenly, “one more drink” turned into “just one more dance.” The cocktails weren’t just poured-they were conjured. Four signature creations incorporated top-shelf elixirs (think 1942), had guests raising their glasses; each drink an invitation to linger a little longer and savor the magic of the night.

Now, let’s talk spaces. The Harbour Club, brainchild of hospitality luminary James Julius, blends old-school London charm with Miami’s sultry edge. At the forefront, a’Riva, the Italian Mediterranean restaurant, which is open to the public by reservation only, offers seasonal Italian favorites such as  Meatballs Angelina, passed down from Julius’ family, parmesan, and Eggplant Milanese with feta and a Caesar salad so good it should be illegal. It’s refined yet unpretentious, with al fresco seating, lush greenery, and a sleek bar, a’Riva evokes effortless glamour and coastal charm.

Beyond a’Riva, members slip into the Palm Room, a sultry lounge hidden behind walls adorned with bespoke palm prints, a space that’s mysterious, dimly-lit and energetic, complete with a secret entrance. This sultry, intimate oasis combines the charm of a tropical hideaway with the sophistication of a private club. The cocktail menu offers a curated selection of drinks and light bites.

Upstairs, Nikai at Harbour Club is where things get exclusive, a Japanese haven where wagyu, toro toasts, and fresh fish flown in from Japan elevate each bite. Signature dishes include Wagyu and truffle crispy rice, wasabi Caesar salad with house-made nori chips, toro toasts, and an extensive selection of wine, sake, and Japanese whiskey.

Design-wise, every corner is a scene-stealer. YODEZEEN transformed the Harbour Club into a feast for the eyes, weaving British opulence with Miami cool. Soft whites and sandy tones ground a’Riva’s beachy vibe, while the Palm Room goes bold with dark walnut, deep green velvet, and touches of gold. Upstairs at Nikai, vibrant reds and blues dance under custom lighting, making the whole room feel like a high-energy gallery. Even the bathrooms are dressed to impress, featuring custom wallpaper and rare marble- making a bathroom selfie irresistible.

Harbour Club’s membership is as exclusive as they come, with Classic, Under 30, and Lifetime options that grant access to not only the clubs but also to a full calendar of ultra-luxe events. Think intimate chef dinners, wellness workshops, and pop-up dining experiences—all perfectly tailored for those who like their social scenes with a side of exclusivity.

So, here’s the scoop: Harbour Club isn’t just another hotspot. It’s a private paradise where the scene-makers and tastemakers come to revel, network, and indulge. And if the grand opening is any hint, Miami’s got a new star, and it’s a showstopper. 

For more information or to inquire about membership visit www.harbourclubmia.com. 

Photo Credit: World Red Eye