Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On September - 3 - 2024ADD COMMENTS
Mootts isn’t just a bag brand; it’s a movement. Rooted in empowerment, sustainability, and community, Mootts partners with Salvadorian artisans who craft bags from recycled materials, blending tradition with purpose. Founded by a mother-daughter duo and inspired by the Nahuatl word for “roots,” Mootts is all about love, heritage, and giving back. The versatile, colorful bags come in a variety of shapes, sizes, styles and colors- perfect for every season.
As a woman-owned business, Mootts empowers women in El Salvador, offering fair wages and meaningful work. Each bag tells a story—one of sustainability and solidarity. According to founder, Kathya Bendek, who designs the bags alongside her daughter, Stephania, “We’re planting deep roots in El Salvador, spreading messages of empowerment, unity, and community. Plus, a portion of our proceeds goes to organizations that vulnerable populations in El Salvador.” Kathya recalls her “Aha moment” that inspired her to create Mootts. “I was visiting my family when the idea came to me. During this visit, I reconnected with the rich, vibrant, culture of my homeland. Seeing all of this made me realize how much I wanted to capture the beauty of my childhood experiences. That’s how the idea for the brand, and its mission, were born. Stephania and I began brainstorming ideas together and the rest is history.”
In a nutshell, Mootts is about more than just bags. It’s about weaving love, beauty, and resilience into every stitch, building a brighter future for all. For more information and to place orders, visit @mootts_style on Instagram
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On September - 3 - 2024ADD COMMENTS
Miami’s culinary scene just got even more vibrant with the arrival of Maíz y Agave, a lively tribute to Oaxaca, Mexico, where every dish and drink feels like a love letter to this rich and storied region.
Located in the heart of Coral Gables, Maíz y Agave invites you to dive deep into the essence of Mexico by artfully blending ancient Oaxacan traditions with a modern twist. The venue is a feast for the eyes, adorned with intricate Mexican artwork and craftsmanship that create an enchanting atmosphere, urging guests to immerse themselves in Oaxaca’s rich heritage.
A Culinary Expedition Across Three Floors
Imagine this: three distinct floors, each offering a unique culinary journey through Mexico. On the ground floor, El Patio’s vibrant décor and menu is filled with Oaxacan delights. From the tableside-prepared Guacamole Mexicano en Molcajete to the daring Tostada Vicosa pero Sabrosa with chapulines, each bite tells a story. But the stars of the show? The Mole Negro, Cochinita Pibil, and the traditional Tlayudas—each dish a testament to the richness of Oaxacan cuisine.
The Matsur Bar, also on the first floor, serves up cocktails that are as playful as they are potent. Sip on the Tacon De Madre or the cheekily named Pito Loco, and let the mezcal flavors elevate your night. The frozen mojitos—customizable with your liquor of choice—are a must-try. This isn’t just a bar; it’s the opening act to your culinary adventure.
Ascend to the second floor, and you’ll find Los Balcones, where the dining experience reaches new heights. Here, salsa is theatrically prepared table-side, and you might even be asked to lend a hand.
The menu is a symphony of traditional Oaxacan flavors, with Chef Christian Moreno, a proud Oaxacan native, presenting his top picks: Caldo de Piedra, Almond Mole with Duck, and the exquisite Lobster Tail in Oaxacan sauce. The steaks are exceptional, and you absolutely cannot miss the Aguachile de Ribeye Wagyu. It’s haute cuisine with heart, nestled in an elegant setting that promises an unforgettable evening.
La Azotea, the rooftop bar l, boasts an energy as high as the views. As the sun sets over Miami, unwind with a handcrafted cocktail or a premium mezcal, and let the stunning panoramas take your breath away. A DJ spins dance music and throwback hits from the ’90s (think Bash’s back patio circa 1998), perfect for singing along and dancing with friends, old and new. La Azotea is exactly the kind of place Coral Gables has been missing—offering a lively happy hour and an energetic late-night vibe (open until 1:00 am on weekends).
A Story in Every Corner
Every nook of Maíz y Agave tells a tale. From the handmade plates crafted by Oaxacan artisans to the traditional crafts that support over 100 families, this restaurant is a proud tribute to the culture of Oaxaca. Live Mariachi music three nights a week adds to the festive atmosphere, while signature cocktails and Oaxacan coffee selections tantalize the taste buds. For those with a sweet tooth, homemade Oaxacan chocolates and ice cream are the ultimate indulgence.
As I sipped my mezcal and watched the world from La Azotea, I felt a profound connection to the stories, flavors, and spirit of Oaxaca that Maíz y Agave brings to life so beautifully. Whether you choose El Patio, Los Balcones, or La Azotea, be prepared for an authentic Oaxacan experience that will linger long after the last bite.
Maíz y Agave is dedicated to celebrating Mexican cuisine while supporting community development. All proceeds fund its foundation’s initiatives, enhancing education, skills, and economic sustainability for indigenous communities. By dining there, you’re not just savoring Mexico’s culinary history—you’re supporting growth and opportunity for those preserving the culture. Every visit fosters a brighter future for the communities that inspire the ambiance and cuisine at Maiz y Agave.
Posted by Maryanne Salvat On August - 30 - 2024ADD COMMENTS
By: Maryanne Salvat
As Summer comes to an end, spoil your lips with some of our favorite lip treatments that will leave you puckered and plumped for Fall.
Karuna Tinted Lip Oil
Inspired by wellness, Karuna’s lightweight, ultra-nourishing Tinted Lip Oil is made with skin-loving ingredients including meadowfoam, jojoba and coconut oils to hydrate and calm chapped lips, camellia seed oil to improve uneven skin tone, and red ginseng root to revitalize lips.
Karuna Tinted Lip Oil is available in three lovely shades: Float, Grow and Pause; for more information or to purchase visit: Karuna
VIOLETTE_FRBisou Jelly
VIOLETTE_FR Bisou has put together a delectable lip-smacking combination with its latest addition to the beloved Bisou franchise, Bisou Jelly.
An incredible blend, balm-meets-lipstick hybrid, a hydrating jelly outer layer along with a tinted balm core. Bisou Jelly delivers an effortless, juicy “just-kissed” look. The unique design enhances the illusion of a fuller pout by adding color within your lip line and shine on the outer edges.Experience moisturized lips with a subtle bouche mordue, or bitten lip effect. Available in 4 shades inspired by delicious desserts:
Aïssa: A coveted berry shade borrowed from Bisou Blush, inspired by Violette’s longtime muse, French actress Aïssa Maïga.
Bonbon Caramel: A rich, caramel brown that gives lips a touch of natural warmth and luminosity.
Pomme D’amour: A bright candy apple red reminiscent of the glossy candied apples that fascinated Violette as a child.
Bonbon à la Rose: An easy-to-wear, soft nude pink inspired by traditional French rose pastilles.
For more information or to purchase visit: VIOLETTE_FR
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On August - 29 - 2024ADD COMMENTS
Get ready to treat your taste buds and mingle with Miami’s finest at the ultimate foodie celebration. MIAMI Magazine’s annual culinary extravaganza, “To Live & Dine,” is back and better than ever. This year’s event promises a night of indulgence, showcasing the city’s most delectable dishes.
Mark your calendar for Tuesday, September 10, from 6 PM to 9 PM at Paradise Plaza in the Miami Design District. As “To Live & Dine” celebrates its 14th year, expect nothing less than a gastronomic adventure featuring the best bites from Miami’s top restaurants and culinary stars. Picture yourself savoring creations from culinary hotspots like ABA, Amalia, Bellita Pasta, Boulud Sud Miami, Casadonna Miami, Cookin Genie, Delilah, Dirty French, Elastika, Kissaki, Kojin 2.0, La Natural, Sereia, Sushi Sake, Truluck’s, Uchi, Vitolo, and more. And let’s not forget the cocktails! Refreshing sips from Yave Tequila and Una Vodka will keep the good vibes flowing, while Chip City Cookies takes care of your dessert fix.
Here’s the inside scoop: Miami Socialholic subscribers can snag 25% off tickets with the code Miami25, dropping the price from $100 to just $75. With unlimited bites and an open bar, it’s a deal too tasty to pass up.
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On August - 28 - 2024ADD COMMENTS
“CÎROC Limonata Drops,” a series of flavorful escapes and exciting collaborations has dropped in major cities this summer, including Miami- bringing the Mediterranean summer vacation vibe and elevating the moment with a burst of flavor.
The drops include two exclusive CÎROC Limonata-infused ice cream flavors crafted in partnership with 21+ ice cream and sorbet brand Aubi & Ramsa, embracing the vibe of the Mediterranean—one ‘drop’ at a time.
The two new flavors celebrate the success of CÎROC Limonata, the newest flavor from CÎROC Ultra-Premium Vodka, offering an innovative way for fans to try the quality crafted vodka, infused with tangy citrus and Italian lemon flavors:
– Limon Drop: a bold and zesty lemon sorbet made with CÎROC Limonata & Orange Liqueur and garnished with strawberry bits.
– La Limonata: a fresh and flavorful lemon ice cream made with CÎROC Limonata.
CÎROC Limonata is available nationwide wherever spirits-based beverages are sold at a suggested retail price of $29.99.
CÎROC encourages people of legal drinking age to celebrate responsibly. Please visit www.CIROC.com for additional information on CÎROC. Stay up to date with the latest news, cocktails and exciting social content by following the conversation at @CIROC.
Posted by Maryanne Salvat On July - 22 - 2024ADD COMMENTS
By: Mary Jo Almeida-Shore and Maryanne Salvat
As we stepped onto the sandy shores of the stylish Joia Beach, we were delighted by all of the beautifully branded Viktor&Rolf umbrellas and decor in honor of the brand’s unveiling of its latest olfactory masterpiece: Flowerbomb Tiger Lily. The scene was set like a page out of a summer romance novel—an exclusive, private party under the setting Miami sun, where the air was filled with the scent of tiger lilies- which were ever present- on the displays, bars and cocktail tables.
The guest list included influencers: Batsheva Haart, Valerie Domínguez, Alejandra Divo, Lisa Opie, Paula Macher, Christie Ferrari, and Moira Tumas, who mingled, and toasted to the new takeover, while sampling the fragrances and taking plenty of insta-worthy photos.
As we marveled at the Miami skyline at dusk, while swinging on rope swings by the ocean, we could sense the buzz of the stylish crowd, as they sipped signature cocktails and sampled the Flowerbomb and Spicebomb collections; their senses alight with the rich, floral, and spicy notes.
Cocktails flowed freely, each one as beautifully crafted as the fragrances themselves. And then, as the sun dipped below the horizon, the music took over. Puerto Rican singer RaiNao serenaded us with her sultry voice, while Coco&Breezy spun beats that kept everyone dancing well into the night.
Fortunately, the Flowerbomb Tiger Lily Beach Club pop-up will continue through August 18th.
Guests will have a chance to lounge by the water, cocktail in hand, while enjoying the scents of tiger lily wafting through the air at this tropical oasis right in the heart of Miami. Be sure to visit to sample the full Flowerbomb collection, and shop to your heart’s content.
We are sure you’ll agree: Flowerbomb Tiger Lily isn’t just a perfume, it’s the scent of summer in a bottle.
