By:  Mary Jo Almeida-Shore 

Fashionably Conscious Fundraising Sale

Hundreds of shoppers, including:  VIPs, socialites, and philanthropists raided the donated designer goods of Miami’s most elite crowd last week at the annual Fashionably Conscious fundraiser, raising almost $85,000 for Coconut Grove Cares, The Barnyard, a locally beloved and cherished community center which provides after school and community care services to families of the West Grove Community.  From Valentino and Giorgio Armani suits to Chanel dresses and Prada and Jimmy Choo shoes, Fashionably Conscious brought the best of the best to the generously donated space provided by Village of Merrick Park. The weekend began with a VIP sale where more than a hundred devoted shoppers lined up outside the space waiting for doors to open. By Sunday the fully stocked space was nearly cleared and little to nothing remained to be purchased. The fashionably conscious crowd sipped on champagne, shopped for a cause and mingled with Miami’s biggest trendsetters. Read the rest here »

Heart Gallery Luncheon

On Friday, October 5, Truluck’s Seafood Steak and Crabhouse at The Galleria in Fort Lauderdale will open the entire restaurant for a unique sit-down pledge luncheon benefiting The Heart Gallery of Broward County, a traveling photography exhibit of foster children who are waiting to be permanently adopted. The public is invited to attend the special event, which will take place from 12-1:30 p.m. A pledge of $150 or more is suggested to attend the luncheon, benefitting The Heart Gallery. Truluck’s is also challenging donors to pledge $1000 or more – those who do will receive a $100 gift card for the restaurant. RSVPs are required for the event, and luncheon sponsorship opportunities are available. To RSVP and for more information, contact Jennifer Thomason, The Heart Gallery of Broward County Director of Development and Community Relations at 954.439.1916 or jennifer@heartgalleryofbroward.org.

Disney Cinderella Diamond Editon is a Girl’s Best Friend

For all those with fond childhood memories of the famous words “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo!” the newest edition of the Disney Classic Cinderella will add dazzle to your collection. The beautifully re-mastered Diamond Edition DVD/Blu-Ray set radiates the beloved story with amazing digital imagery and high-definition sound; it’s hard to believe that the original film was released over 60 years ago. Children of all ages, as well as adults, will truly enjoy the feature film over and over again. It is a timeless piece of Disney artistry that will touch your heart and leave you with that familiar joyful feeling as Cinderella and her prince live happily ever after.  The Cinderella Diamond Edition includes: a two disc set (DVD and Blu-ray), the animated short film Tangled Ever After, and a behind the scenes look at the highly anticipated Princess Fantasyland. Get your copy quickly, before the clock strikes and time runs out! (Couldn’t resist!)

Fairchild’s Premier Bridal Event 

David Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens will soon be in full bloom with brides-to-be this Fall when it hosts its premier Bridal Event and Fashion Show on Thursday, October 11 from 5 to 9 p.m. Unlike any other bridal event in South Florida, Fairchild’s event presents guests with a true “Garden Wedding Experience,” as well as providing them with local resources to help make their special day truly unique. The highlight of the “Garden Wedding Experience” will be a fabulous runway fashion show that takes place in the breathtaking Bailey Palm Glade, Fairchild’s most popular location for wedding ceremonies. The fashion show will feature original bridal gowns and bridesmaid’s dresses by Ella Bella Rozio the most elite Haute Couture house, dresses for the mother of the bride and children’s wear from Bloomingdales and menswear by Hugo Boss. Hair and makeup for the fashion show is generously provided by Brilliance New York, a salon and boutique that utilizes their own organic line of make-up, skin and hair care products. The Bridal Event will feature a cocktail lounge on the Garden House lawn where guests can enjoy complimentary drinks, sample a light dinner and indulge in sweet treats prepared by Fairchild’s preferred caterers including Chef David Schwadron, Fare to Remember Creative Catering, Lasso the Moon, Le Basque Catering, Macy’s Catering, Mena Catering, Theirry’s Catering and We’re Having A Party. Guests will also have the opportunity to peruse local vendors—ranging from full-service caterers and photographers to florists and linen rentals—that will be on site. Tickets will be sold in advance and at the door. Each ticket admits two guests. Tickets are $40 for general admission in advance, $60 for VIP admission in advance and $50 for general admission at the door. For tickets and more information, visit www.fairchildgarden.org/GardenWeddingExperience or Anna Brickner at 305.663.8058.  

 PLACE Kids Model Search

Calling all aspiring – and adorable – models, The Children’s Place is launching its second annual model search this fall to discover its next superstar. Does your little star shine for the camera? Submit a photo of your handsome little man or darling little girl, and he or she just might win a starring role in the upcoming photo shoot for The Children’s Place, as well as a $500 shopping spree. Simply visit http://childrensplace.promo.eprize.com/model2012/?affiliate_id=bloggerto upload your photo and vote on your favorite rising star. Each grand prize winner, along with two designated guardians, will receive round-trip air transportation to the glam set of The Children’s Place photo shoot, as well as a $500 gift card to spend on all the latest styles. Additionally, one entrant will be randomly selected each day to receive a $50 gift card to The Children’s Place, and one lucky bonus sweeps winner will receive a $500 gift card at the end of the contest. 

A Stone Crab Dinner Deal

Stone crabs lovers are invited to dip and dance every Friday, beginning October 19, at Kitchen 305 in the Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort with an all-you-can-eat stone crab dinner for only $55 per person accompanied by live DJ.  Just a “stones” throw-away from the ocean, Kitchen 305 will serve-up claws in batches of five, accompanied by a choice of steaming soup, a crisp Caesar or the signature house salad, freshly baked bread and savory sides including herb-roasted, red bliss potatoes and corn on the cob. Whether its butter, mustard or lemon that’s the sauce of choice, Kitchen 305 invites seafood lovers to come “get their dip on.” This seasonal supper club party books quickly and guests are encouraged to make reservations at least two weeks in advance. To reserve visit: http://www.kitchen305miami.com/.

Miami Seaquarium ‘Hopetober’

Miami Seaquarium will go pink this October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, as it welcomes its guests with the opportunity to make a $5 contribution to Susan G. Komen for the Cure® and receive half off regular general admission. The offer is valid from October 1 through October 31. To participate, guests may visit www.miamiseaquarium.com for a donation form. Miami Seaquarium is a sponsor of the 2012 Miami/Ft. Lauderdale Race For the Cure® that will be held on Saturday, Oct. 20, at Bayfront Park in Miami, for more information visit www.komenmiaftl.org. Also, during Totally Teachers Weekend, Saturday, October 13 and Sunday, October 14, Miami-Dade and Broward County teachers, in both private and public schools, will receive complimentary admission to Miami Seaquarium; plus a discount for up to four guests at half- off of regular admission. Teachers must show a valid school ID card or pay stub along with a picture ID to redeem discount. 

Breast Health Week at Canyon Ranch

The Power of PINK: To celebrate this month’s breast cancer awareness campaign, The Salon at Canyon Ranch is offering Complimentary polish changes using the INPINK collection infused with Bamboo for strong, beautiful, healthy nails. 20% of the proceeds of the In Pink collection sales will be donated to Cancer Schmancer. Every bottle of lacquer has a pink ribbon charm attached.  Healthy Makovers: Chemical free makeovers using Mineral makeup.  OMG My Legs Feel Great!: Your lower legs and feet will feel light as a feather with their 2-step treatment using Omega-Body Buff, their paraben-free scrub made with natural micro-ground pumice and omega-rich Sweet Almond Oil, followed by a mini massage with Lucky Legs cooling leg gel that glides on to instantly soothe weary limbs from knees to tip toes. Made with a blend of safe, essential plant oils, Lucky Legs will leave a super-subtle shimmer on your shins and a spring in your step. Clarisonic a Day Takes the Stress Away: See what a difference Clarisonic can make….healthy, radiant skin. Come in and enjoy a Skin treatment starting with a cleansing that leaves the skin six times better than manual cleansing alone, followed by a sonic infusion treatment that will help diminish fine lines and reduce puffiness. The sonic micro-massaging provides your first defense against anti-aging and can also help relax tension at the end of the day.

BLEAU GOES PINK RETURNS OCTOBER 2012 

Fontainebleau Miami Beach proudly announces the return of “Bleau Goes Pink” in support of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Throughout October, the legendary Miami Beach resort will once again partner with the Miami/Fort Lauderdale Chapter of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation to help raise funds for breast cancer research and increase awareness for the disease by offering “Dine for the Cure” menus at the resort’s AAA Four Diamond signature restaurants, Gotham Steak, Hakkasan and Scarpetta.  For the fourth year in a row, these restaurants will offer special $45 three-course prix fixe dinner menus in which a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.  Each participating restaurant will also offer the option of menu wine pairings for an additional $20 or $30. “Dine for the Cure” dinner menus are available Sunday-Thursday throughout the month of October and discounted valet parking ($12 with validation) will be available to diners.  For reservations, call (877) 326-7412.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

The Friends of St. Jude Present: It’s All About the Kids

On Saturday, September 29, join The Friends of St. Jude-Miami Chapter for a night   All About the Kids! The fifth annual celebration benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will be held on the 19^th floor, also known as the basketball court, of the JW Marriott Marquis. DJ Irie will be spinning sounds sure to make the cirque-chic event a night to remember. Guests can expect a fabulous evening filled with dancing and live entertainment all for an amazing cause. Friends of St. Jude – Miami members -$150; Non-members – $175 advanced purchase (includes membership for one year) $200 at the door. For more information visit:  paola.cassana@stjude.org.

Strawberries and Champagne Spa Package at Aveda Seven Seas Spa & Salon

The Aveda Seven Seas Spa & Salon is brining extra heat to the steam room by introducing its Couple’s Strawberries and Champagne Spa Package. Pairs can enjoy a full-service spa day including dual massage, hand dipped strawberries, private beach cabana and free flowing champagne made for two. Starting October 1, couples can enjoy a 90-minute Aveda Elemental Nature Massage in a luxurious, private suite including free flowing champagne, hand-dipped chocolate covered strawberries and access to steam room and showers. Following the sensual treatment, pampered pairs can escape to a secluded Tiki cabana on the beach with all day pool access. Valued at $500 the impressive package is available for $250. Complimentary valet parking is included. To book, visit www.sevenseasspasalon.com.

Monday Night Football Viewing Party at Haven Gastro-Lounge

HaVen Gastro-Lounge is proud to announce a Monday Night Football viewing party series, screening each game in high-definition on its wrap-around walls with its state-of-the-art surround sound system. After the massive popularity surrounding the NBA play-off viewing parties and Miami Heat victory, HaVen boasts its idyllic entertainment system, providing the best seats to any sporting event. The Lincoln Road hotspot will feature specially priced beers, select craft cocktails by mixologist Isaac Grillo and global small plates by executive Chef Todd Erickson, perfect for sharing in between high fives. Guests may expect $7 Double Cross Vodka, $4 Coronas and Heinekens to be accompanied by small plates including but not limited to: Buffalo-Style Tots, Mini Bratwursts, Mini Corndogs, and Popcorn. Good Mondays, the weekly Monday night installment, will to continue the nights festivities with DJ Damaged Goods, providing the best of old and new-school hip hop until 5 a.m.

Third Annual World Festival presented by Common Threads

On Tuesday, October 2, Executive Chef Michelle Bernstein will host the Third Annual World Festival presented by Common Threads, in support of the organization’s mission to prevent childhood obesity while celebrating our cultural differences. The evening will feature 20 local chefs from restaurants across Miami. Guests will be treated to delicious samples from some of Miami’s top chefs paired with students from the program as they come together to benefit Common Threads’ cooking and nutrition programs from Miami’s youth. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Common Threads programs in Miami.  For more information on the World Festival and ticket information, visit www.commonthreads.org.  Tickets can be purchased online for $150.

Toscana Divino Presents Wine & Fashion Florence Week

Toscana Divino is debuting Miami’s first-ever Tuscan infused celebration called “Wine & Fashion Florence Week.” Toscana Divino is hosting a week full of events with authentic dining, wine, fashion and art straight from the cultural epicenter of Europe from October 8 through October 12, at the peak of grape harvesting season in Chianti Rufina and on the heels of fashion industry’s most famous week in Milan. With the support of The Beacon Council, Toscana Divino’s Wine and Fashion Week highlights, Tuscany’s top sommeliers and winemakers, will be offering wine tastings of new labels, a menu designed by Michelin Star Marco Stabile. Tuscan designers will also be on hand creating unique bags showcasing their talents to guests. To view a complete schedule of upcoming events, visit www.toscanodivino.com.

By:  Mary Jo Almeida-Shore

Eight blissful days of runway shows and presentations showcased the trends for next spring and summer at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Spring 2013 in New York City.  It appears that brilliant orange, is next season’s “hot pink” a perfect complement to our year-round Miami tan. Just ask Carolina Herrera, Victoria Beckham, Nanette Lepore, Zac Posen, or Peter Som.  In addition to the typical pastel shades, floral prints, and free-flowing fabrics, geometric patterns and stream-lined styles appeared in several shows.  While it’s difficult to pinpoint pervasive trends, as the looks were as varied as their designers, many collections boasted bold colors, solids, cut-outs, black and earth tones, leather and lace, pleats and pantsuits.  Some designers gained inspiration from foreign lands, including Mexico, Spain, France and India.

Minimalist pieces in black, white and nude were present in a number of shows including Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, Alexander Wang, Narciso Rodriguez, Vera Wang, Herve Leger and Donna Karan- opting for solids over prints and color blocking.  Sexy cut-outs allowing for a peek of sun kissed skin were also prevalent. Geometric shapes and stripes were everywhere- dominating the Marc Jacobs, Tommy Hilfiger and Michael Kors shows.   Read the rest here »

By: Maryanne Salvat

Gourmet Breakfast for M-DCPS Students

The students of Miami-Dade County Public Schools are in for a treat! Local Celebrity Chefs and Miami-Dade County Public Schools Department of Food and Nutrition are joining forces creating special breakfast menus for students attending M-DCPS. Eating Breakfast at school is a slam dunk for kids.   Research links eating breakfast with better test scores, better attendance and better health.  M-DCPS Celebrity Chef Partners, Michelle Bernstein, Kris Wessel, Michael Schwartz, Julie Frans, Doug Rodriguez, Richard Ingraham and Lorena Garcia, will be out at schools supporting Florida School Breakfast Week and jump starting the District’s initiative to expand the FREE Breakfast program which is available to all M-DCPS students.

Decadence in Design

On Thursday, September 20 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., join MIAMI magazine, Artefacto Merrick Park and Ketel One Vodka for Decadence in Design, a joint anniversary soiree celebrating South Florida’s art and design scene. Delicious bites by CRAVE, specialty cocktails by Ketel One Vodka, whimsical desserts by Sigal Sweets Decor, an exclusive preview of HOUSE nightclub, and beats from DJ Mad Linx. To attend and RSVP to the event visit: rsvpmiami@modernluxury.com.

Her City Card “End of Summer Bash”

Shoppers are invited to Her City Card “End of Summer Bash” slated for Thursday, September 20, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. at the Penthouse of the Riviera Hotel on Miami Beach. A farewell to summer, the event will feature VIP goodie bags, discounted shopping and beauty treatments, raffles, giveaways, cocktails and more. For more information visit the event website: www.HerCityCard.com/september20.

New World Symphony’s 25th Anniversary

On Saturday, September 22, from 7:30 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., celebrate the New World Symphony’s 25th Anniversary. The beloved Friends of New World Symphony present a “Passport to Musical Journey for a New Generation,” kicking off another eclectic season with a “Hip Hop Symphony, featuring fames Miami HEAT DJ Irie. VIP members will start the evening at the Frank Gehry designed New World Center with renowned guitarist, Manuel Barrueco and conductor, Michael Francis as the orchestra debuts the world premier of “a dance into reflected daylight” by Jeffery Mumford and plays Concierto de Aranjuez.Guests are then invited to the Symphony After Hours Party where Miami’s favorite celebrity DJ Irie and Opus Love Quintet play in tandem poolside at Shore club as guests sip on cocktails courtesy of GREY GOOSE Vodka. MIAMI Magazine, celebrating their 5th Anniversary, will also be part of the festivities. Combining classical compositions with contemporary musical styles, Friends of NWS’ upcoming season will pair traditional and emerging musical genres with memorable performances to create a truly unforgettable series of events; Free admission to Friends of NWS members, non-members $40 single tickets. For individual event tickets contact the NWS box office at 305.673.3331. For membership information contact Nathalie Cadet- James at 305-428-6733 or Nathalie.Cadet-James@nws.com. 

Cointreau Ambassador of Libations

The Search for the Cointreau Ambassador of Libations event takes place on Monday, September 24, at W South Beach from 7:00 to 9:30 p.m. The following local Miami bartenders will go head to head for a chance to win the coveted role of Cointreau Ambassador of Libations at Cannes 2013:  Mark Kinzer from Zuma, Cameron Scholderer from Living Room @ W South Beach, Tiffany Soles from Irvin Mayfield’s Jazz Playhouse, Isaac Grillo from Haven, Philip Khandehrish from Setai, Nick Nistico from Soho Beach House, Julio Cabrera from Club 50 at Viceroy, and Rebecca Kenton from St. Regis Bar. The Grand Prize winner receives the honor of creating cocktails for a high-profile audience at the Cannes Film Festival.

Tacos For Strength at Mercadito Midtown

As Mercadito Midtown continues its yearlong Tacos for Strength program benefitting Share Our Strength, Chef/Partner Patricio Sandoval welcomes China Grill Brickell’s Chef Sean Mohammed as October’s featured chef. After dedicating himself to working his way through some of the of the country’s finest restaurants such as the four – star Le Cirque and Gramercy Tavern, Chef Mohammed joined China Grill Management in Miami managing Tuscan Steak and China Grill South Beach. Mohammed is now part of the developing team and executive chef of the soon-to-open China Grill on Brickell Avenue. Chef Mohammad’s taco, which will be featured throughout the month of October, includes lamb spare ribs with tzatziki sauce. The cost of the featured taco is $16.50 for an order of four tacos. Five percent of sales generated from Chef Mohammed’s taco will be donated to Share Our Strength, a non-profit organization dedicated to ending childhood hunger by 2015. Visit Mercadito Midtown’s website for more information. Reservations may be made by calling 786. 369.0430.

Hyundai Hope on Wheels 2^nd Annual Miami Children’s Hospital 5K

On Saturday, September 29, Run or walk for healthier, happier kids at the Hyundai Hope on Wheels 2^nd Annual Miami Children’s Hospital 5K (MCH5K) presented by TotalBank. Michael Baiamonte, Voice of the Miami Heat, NBA Champions, is scheduled to serve as Master of Ceremonies. The MCH5K is open to runners and walkers of all levels. Individuals and teams are invited to participate and fundraise to support the children and families at Miami Children’s Hospital. Prizes will be awarded to the top fundraising teams; Walkers/Runners, $30, Student Walkers/Runners (ages 10-18), $20, and Kids Fun Run (ages 2-9), $10. Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities available, register today at MCH5K.com.

Community Dog Wash Event Benefitting Women In Distress of Broward County

On Saturday, September 29 from noon to 4:00 p.m., celebrate the last “dog days of summer” by pampering your pooch at a community dog wash event sponsored by Dr. Patty’s Dental Boutique and retailers at the Victoria Park Shoppes to benefit Women In Distress of Broward County. Stop by the Victoria Park shopping plaza with proof of your dog’s rabies vaccination and your favorite store owners will bathe and beautify your pooch (with a suggested donation of $10). One hundred percent of the proceeds will be donated to the Women In Distress of Broward County in celebration of their 14^th Annual SAFEWALK-RUN 5K. This organization is the only nationally accredited, state-certified, full service domestic violence center serving Broward County.If you aren’t sure whether your favorite furry friend is up to date on his shots, Victoria Park Animal Hospital will also be offering discounted canine exams and rabies vaccines for $15.00. To cool you off, Jamba Juice will be on hand to offer patrons free smoothie samples. For more information, email Info@DrPattyDental.com or call 954.523.2400.

Taylor Owen Beautiful Supports Breast Cancer Awareness           

South Florida-based Taylor Owen Beautiful is supporting Breast Cancer Awareness.  Twenty percent of proceeds from each ‘The One Serum and Cream’ (retails for $325), which is the latest innovation for the natural reduction of wrinkles, purchased during the month of October will be donated to Breast Cancer Research. To support Breast Cancer Awareness and rejuvenate your skin visit: www.taylorowenandco.com.