As a fragrance lover, I couldn’t wait to visit Olfactory NYC’s newly opened Wynwood, Miami location. Known for their customizable, high-quality perfumes, Olfactory NYC offers a unique experience—blending luxury scents at an affordable price.

Personalizing My Signature Scent

Upon arrival, I was welcomed into a sleek, modern space that reflected Wynwood’s creative energy. The real magic began when I explored their core scents, crafted by world-class perfumers like Frank Voelkl (the nose behind Le Labo’s Santal 33) and Honorine Blanc (responsible for YSL’s Mon Paris).

After sampling the collection, I chose Hunter as my base, a warm, musky blend of cedarwood, vanilla, and tonka bean, created by master perfumer Ilias Ermenidis (known for scents from Gucci and Givenchy). With expert guidance, I customized it further, adding hints of bergamot and sandalwood to create a scent that felt uniquely mine.

A Personalized Touch

One of the coolest parts? Olfactory NYC labels your custom scent with your name and keeps it on file, making it easy to reorder when you run out. No need to remember your formula—they’ve got it saved for you!

More Than Just a Store—A Perfect Experience

Olfactory NYC isn’t just about buying perfume—it’s an experience. Whether you’re looking for a unique date night idea, a thoughtful gift, or even a creative team-building activity, customizing a fragrance is a fun and interactive way to connect. It’s hands-on, personal, and something you’ll remember every time you wear your scent.

Why Wynwood?

From the vibrant murals outside to the curated music inside, this location is more than just a store—it’s an immersive experience. Olfactory NYC seamlessly merges fragrance with art, making it the perfect fit for Wynwood’s creative heartbeat.

Final Thoughts

Leaving with my custom Hunter-based perfume in hand, I felt a new appreciation for the artistry behind scent. If you’re in Miami, don’t miss the chance to create your own fragrance at Olfactory NYC—you may just discover your perfect signature scent.

The Playing For Change Foundation (PFCF) is proud to announce the 2025 Impact Awards, a celebration of music, philanthropy, and the transformative power of positive change. Held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the Rubell Museum in Miami, the event will honor the Marley Family, international stars JUANES and Anitta, and their profound contributions to global causes. The evening will culminate with an exhilarating after-party at Superblue Miami. The Marley Family, led by Cedella and Rohan Marley, will be celebrated for their continued dedication to Bob Marley’s “One Love” vision, empowering communities through the Bob and Rita Marley Foundation’s work in education, healthcare, and community development. Music legend Chris Blackwell will present their award, recognizing their enduring impact. JUANES will also be honored for his peacebuilding efforts through Fundación Mi Sangre, which has impacted over 2 million lives in Colombia, while Anitta will receive recognition for her philanthropic support of youth education through initiatives like Instituto Playing For Change in Brazil.

The evening promises unforgettable performances, including Skip Marley, Young Musicians Unite, Hip Hop Kidz, and Grammy-nominated Cimafunk, who will electrify the after-party with his Afro-Cuban fusion. PFCF’s partners, including Capital One Entertainment, Tiffany & Co., and Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, stand united in their commitment to the foundation’s mission of using music to inspire change. With global programs across 90+ locations in 26 countries, PFCF continues to harness the power of music to create a better world. For more information on the 2025 Impact Awards and to purchase tickets, visit playingforchange.org/impact-awards-2025/.

Get ready for an unforgettable evening as The Little Lighthouse Foundation (LLF) hosts its 15th annual Hearts & Stars Gala on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the Miami Design District’s Jungle Plaza. This year’s “Carnaval do Brasil” theme brings a vibrant fusion of music, culture, and philanthropy, headlined by award-winning rapper and actor Ja Rule. The highly anticipated event will raise funds for LLF’s mission to support children and families in South Florida facing educational, financial, and medical challenges. Guests will be transported to Brazil with immersive décor, high-energy beats, and a lively atmosphere.

The night promises an electric experience with a giant “Feira” tent, replicating Brazil’s iconic street markets, handcrafted cocktails at the Nossa Caipirinha Lounge, and top-tier spirits like Ja Rule’s Amber & Opal whiskey, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Casamigos. Guests will indulge in gourmet bites from acclaimed South Florida restaurants such as Pubbelly Sushi, Paperfish, RED Steakhouse, Dukanoo, STK Steakhouse, and more. The evening will also honor Udonis Haslem with the prestigious Shining Light Award for his community impact. Secure your spot for this unforgettable night of entertainment, luxury, and giving at HeartsAndStarsGala.com, with VIP experiences available for an elevated celebration.

Recently we were invited to experience the new ghd (good hair day) Chronos Max Styler at House of Mane Salon in Wynwood. I am not one to go crazy styling my hair, especially living in South Florida where the humidity is 110%, but this hair tool felt like it was designed personally for me. The ghd Chronos Max is like having a magic wand for your hair. It takes the best features from ghd’s top models and amps them up to a whole new level of awesomeness.

With its 85% larger plates, you can say goodbye to spending ages styling your hair. Whether you’re rocking long, thick, or curly locks, this straightener gets the job done in a fraction of the time. It smooths and straightens with just one stroke, and the results last all day and night. We can personally attest to this, because our hair was frizz free throughout most of SOBEWFF2025.

If you’re curious to see it in action or ready to make it yours, you can check out more details on the ghd website: ghd Chronos® Max – Best Wide Plate Straightener in Black | ghd® Official Website.

KORK Goods believes in offering more than just fashionable accessories; they provide products that align with combining durability and eco-friendly statement pieces.  Water-resistance materials make KORK Goods your go to pieces all year long.

Recently I was received the Ponte Verde bag, with its spacious interior, stylish shoulder straps, and secure zipper closure, it’s perfect for your weekend getaways, especially in Miami when an impromptu “go bag” is a must.

Crafted from natural cork material harvested from Cork Oak trees, KORK Goods products are eco-friendly, lightweight, and incredibly strong; but honestly my favorite thing about KORK Goods is how the company was founded.

Sisters Kelly and Katrina, (the capital Ks in KORKS) turned their childhood dream into a reality during the challenging times of the Covid pandemic in 2020. Their shared passion for interior design, style, and fashion inspired them to create a brand that combines sustainability with high-quality design. Today, KORK Goods offers a unique way to make a positive environmental impact without sacrificing quality or style.

For more information or to score one of these amazing products go to: Kork Goods // Inspired by Kork // Sustainable Cork Bags & Goods

Live music, art and Latino culture will be on display this weekend as the 26^th annual Carnaval on the Mile will take over Miracle Mile in Coral Gables on March 2-3.

The free weekend-long festival will feature Latin GRAMMY-nominated Cuban singer Leoni Torres, Cuban folk ensemble Cortadito featuring Latin GRAMMY-winning flutist Nestor Torres, Latin GRAMMY-nominated percussionist Pedrito Martinez, and popular Dancemenco act Paco Versailles. Other notable acts include Leslie Cartaya, Orlando Mendez, and Marti, among other talented musical performers scheduled to appear.

Acclaimed contemporary artist Anthony “Mojo” Reed II will be on-site displaying his original piece entitled ‘Our Heartbeat’ which serves as this year’s Carnaval Miami poster art. A graduate of the Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) with a degree in Fine Art specializing in Sequential Art, Mojo uses visual storytelling to create impactful, culturally rich works that uplift and inspire. A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Mojo moved to Miami in 2018 and has seen his career flourish. In 2021, he founded Healing with Hues, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to community-based art initiatives, art therapy, and youth development. Through his art and advocacy, Mojo strives to elevate collective consciousness and serve communities with creativity and purpose.

Carnaval Miami 2025 is organized by the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana. An annual pillar of the community, Carnaval Miami’s marquee events begin with the annual Carnaval on the Milethis coming weekend on March 1-2 followed by the legendary Calle Ocho Music Festival on March 9^th.