On Thursday, April 24, The Bass Museum of Art opened its doors to an evening of dazzling creativity, where art, fashion, music, and spectacle intertwined under the stars for Night at the Museum: “Artist EXTRA-vaganza.” It was a night that transformed Miami’s contemporary art scene into a living, breathing masterpiece.

Museum members floated through the galleries, cocktail in hand, mingling with celebrated local artists while savoring a feast of the senses: fine wines, inventive bites, immersive activations, and live performances that unfolded around every corner.

The evening’s theme, “Artist EXTRA-vaganza,” took its vibrant cue from the museum’s current exhibitions: Rachel Feinstein: The Miami Years, assume vivid astro focus: XI, (LA)HORDE: Heureux sous son ombre, Ulla von Brandenburg: In Dialogue, and Performing Perspectives: A Collection in Dialogue. In true Miami style, guests donned their most imaginative “art-tire,” turning the museum itself into an exuberant runway of living art.

For a touch of modern magic, a violinist roamed the galleries, enchanting guests with contemporary pop hits spun into classical gold — a lyrical thread tying the exhibitions and experiences together with unexpected elegance and edge.

Ensuring that every look was one-of-a-kind, The Bass partnered with üüps, the ingenious “be aware of what to wear” app. Members previewed outfits and avoided fashion déjà vu, arriving in confident, creative style — ready to impress.

The much-anticipated Best ART-tire contest, judged by fashion stylist  Elyze Held and The Shop Curator, Angie Ferrer Pirán, crowned Luis Najera and Corey Valestra as the evening’s style champions. Avra Hart, Caitlin Collins, Julia Spillman-Gover, and Leemor Rhodes Carvalho claimed second and third place honors, proving that Miami’s art crowd knows how to dress the part. (View all the stunning looks on The Bass’s Facebook page.)

Throughout the evening, the museum pulsed with immersive installations. In the Lindemann Family Courtyard, Light Bridge Refraction—a breathtaking digital art and lighting experience by Michelle M. Collins and Christien Methot, powered by A Non-Agency® and Design One Lighting—reimagined space and architecture in waves of mesmerizing light.

Inside, multidisciplinary artist Mikihumo captivated visitors with a surreal, experiential video and light installation in the Trudy and Paul Cejas Gallery, while Spectacle Entertainment’s pop-up dancers wove through the galleries, delighting guests with unexpected bursts of performance art.

Silent auction artworks tempted collectors, while a monumental custom frame—crafted by Event Factor Production and presented with üüps—became a glamorous photo activation courtesy of After Hours Photoshoot. DJs Benton & Steve of Dale Zine Radio kept the energy soaring with a vibrant vinyl soundtrack, making it impossible to stay still.

Toasts flowed freely with fine wines from longtime partner Dry Farm Wines, craft cocktails by Van Gogh Vodka, refreshing Perrier, and a lavish spread of culinary delights and non-alcoholic libations from H&C Collective. Le Basque, masters of visual drama, created a sumptuous dessert station inspired by the legendary wrapped artworks of Christo and Jeanne-Claude. 

Miami’s art crowd didn’t just attend Night at the Museum — they became part of the masterpiece.

Night at the Museum remains The Bass’s signature members-only celebration, raising essential support for the museum’s dynamic exhibitions and educational initiatives. Beyond the festivities, museum membership offers an invitation to a year of inspiration: free admission, exclusive events, insider experiences, and more.

For more information on becoming a member and joining Miami’s most vibrant cultural community, visit www.thebass.org/natm or follow the museum @TheBassMoA.

Faena Art Announces Follow Your Rainbow Gala  

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On April - 23 - 2025ADD COMMENTS


International non-profit organization Faena Art is thrilled to announce its fifth annual Gala. Hosted by Alan and Grace Faena, the fundraiser will take place poolside at Faena Miami Beach (3201 Collins Avenue) on Tuesday, April 29 at 7:00pm.

Faena Art’s gala celebrates the arts by directly supporting its mission to break boundaries, commemorate innovation in artistic expression, and honor the creative spirit that propels our community of talented artists forward. 

Proceeds from the gathering go towards expanding and elevating the cultural footprint of Miami through the organization’s free and open-to-the-public programming. This includes amplifying emerging artists and curating experimental site-specific commissions at the Faena Art Project Room, which serves as a canvas for interdisciplinary artists to explore new facets of their practice while engaging with the local community. Donations also support the prestigious Faena Prize for the Arts, which is awarded biennially and recognizes artistic experimentation through the links between art, technology, and design.

By commissioning cross disciplinary artistic experiences, such as those being prepared for the gala, Faena Art emphasizes the cultivation of community and its support for artists locally and abroad. This year’s theme, Follow Your Rainbow, will inspire a radiant celebration of joy, color, and artistic expression highlighting the work of esteemed artist Joel Mesler. 

The spectacular gathering will display a site-specific installation from Mesler, who is known for his vibrant texture -based paintings that blend pop culture, personal nostalgia, and playful motifs. Often featuring bold phrases over lush, tropical backdrops, Mesler’s work will invite guests to join the artist in exploring themes of identity, self-reflection, and humor.

Through a rainbow archway, guests will be greeted and guided to Faena’s exclusive pool by colorful pathways that set the stage for an exhilarating and animated evening. In lieu of a traditional gala setting, the interactive immersion of the senses will begin with an elaborate culinary processional of delicacies from signature Chef Paul Qui. Drawing culinary inspiration from his Filipino roots coupled with Japanese, Spanish and French cooking styles, Qui will present a colossal whole tuna carved fresh among the crowd. To follow, guests can indulge in abundant towers of grilled meats and vegetables from world-renowned Argentine chef Francis Mallmann, known for his open-fire, Asado-style cooking. The unforgettable procession will also blend music, fashion, and art with performers styled in rainbow-couture influenced by the joyful expression of Mesler’s artwork. Under the starlit sky, attendees can anticipate a special live from Richie Hell, inviting guests to let the rhythm move them and to celebrate the transformative power of artistic expression. Guests are encouraged to wear a rainbow-inspired dress code for the evening. 

The gala will commence with Faena Art awarding its annual recipient for best dressed, keeping in mind this year’s theme. The winner will receive special recognition with a complimentary two-night stay at the luxurious Faena Penthouse.

Donations and ticket purchases to support the arts can be made at http://e.givesmart.com/events/Ho4. Individual tickets and VIP package offerings are available.

Funds raised will go directly to supporting the artistic community through Faena Art programming. All tickets are non-refundable.

For more information, visit www.faenaart.org or follow Faena Art on social media for the latest happenings at @FaenaArt.


By Maryanne Salvat

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.

Visit www.plenitudemedspa.com for more info or follow @PlenitudeMedSpa on Instagram for behind-the-scenes peeks, expert tips, and current promotions.

Here’s to glowing from within and making time for the care we so often give to everyone else.

The Playing For Change Foundation’s 2025 Impact Awards gala was nothing short of spectacular—an evening where music, philanthropy, and global unity converged to raise over $2 million for the foundation’s mission.

On March 15, Miami’s Rubell Museum set the stage for this star-studded affair, honoring The Marley Family, JUANES, and Anitta for their commitment to social change through music. The event, co-chaired by Whitney Kroenke Silverstein & Nick Silverstein; Karolina Kurkova & Archie Drury; and Sandra & Howard Hoffen, was a dazzling display of music’s power to unite and uplift.

Before the awards, guests were whisked into the Capital One Entertainment Garden Party, a lush, Amazon-inspired oasis featuring a Caipirinha Bar, vibrant greenery, and exotic performers—setting the night’s magical tone.

The red carpet sizzled with industry luminaries including Island Records founder Chris Blackwell, Grammy-winning artist Maxwell, supermodel Lais Ribeiro, NBA legend Alonzo Mourning, and Recording Academy President Panos A. Panay, all showing up in support of PFCF’s mission.

The Marley Family, led by Cedella & Rohan Marley, was recognized for carrying forward Bob Marley’s vision of One Love through their work with the Bob and Rita Marley Foundation. Chris Blackwell, a longtime reggae champion, presented the award. In a surprise twist, Blackwell himself received an Impact Award for his lifetime contributions to music and social change. JUANES was honored for his humanitarian work with Fundación Mi Sangre, which has empowered over 2 million people across Colombia. Anitta was celebrated for her advocacy in youth and music education, particularly through her work with Instituto Playing For Change in Brazil.

The evening featured show-stopping performances, with GALE delivering a powerful tribute to JUANES that enthralled the crowd. In an unexpected moment, JUANES himself took the stage for a surprise performance. Skip Marley honored his family’s legacy with an unforgettable set, while youth groups Young Musicians Unite (YMU) & Hip Hop Kidz kept the energy high, reinforcing the night’s theme: music as a force for change.

The celebration continued at Superblue Miami, where Cimafunk turned up the heat with its signature fusion of funk, Afro-Cuban, Latin, and electronic beats, keeping the party alive into the wee hours of the morning.

Among the night’s many philanthropic moments, Jerry Plush won a coveted guitar after an exciting, cut-throat bidding war with his wife, Jessica Plush, and Alitza Weiss made a significant contribution to the foundation’s cause.

Capital One Entertainment, Tiffany & Co., Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Jockey, and SPIN Magazine helped bring this mission-driven night to life, reinforcing Playing For Change Foundation’s impact across 95+ locations in 27 countries.

As the night came to a close, one message remained clear: music is more than a universal language—it’s a tool for transformation.

To learn more or support the cause, visit PlayingForChange.org/Impact.

Photo credit: World Red Eye

An Elite Gathering: Flaunt & Loewe’s Miami Open Event

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On March - 20 - 2025ADD COMMENTS
Aryna Sabalenka

In a vibrant fusion of high fashion and athletic fervor, Flaunt magazine and Loewe hosted an exclusive celebration honoring Aryna Sabalenka, the tennis virtuoso and recent Flaunt cover star, at chic Casa Neos to kick-off the Miami Open. This curated gathering, a testament to the intersection of sport and artistry, welcomed a discerning assemblage of athletes, creatives, and industry elites.

Vincent de Paul, Cuba Gooding Jr., Rose Thorn

Guests indulged in signature bites, the Marg-Aryna, a cocktail masterpiece conceived by Sabalenka and executed by Dobel Tequila, while the sonic landscape was sculpted by the dynamic DJ sets of Jay.Wav, Grand Marchis, and Sole Aspect. Sip Channe offered a unique, immersive pour experience, elevating the evening’s sensory journey. 

Rocco Shore and Max Shore

The esteemed guest list included:  Kris Humphries, Academy Award-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr., ’80s sensation Taylor Dayne, actor Vincent De Paul, entrepreneur and real estate visionary Alan Faena, art collector Rasher Benacerraf, designer Sam Robin, Kavita Channe, CEO of Sip Channé, VP of events, Ernesto Arambatzis, luxury connoisseur Gianfranco Berardinelli and a host of Wilhelmina models draped in beautiful Loewe ensembles. Each guest added their unique luster to the event.

Abigail Bromberg, Kat Andrews, Nick, Leonhardt

The event was produced by Rose Thorn (@rosefaiththorn) and Jeffrey Jah (@jeffreyjah), bringing a seamless blend of high fashion, sport, and culture to the heart of Miami. The celebration was captured by William Perez (@williamperez_at) and BFA (@bfa), highlighting the night’s energy and elegance. Photos courtesy of BFA.

Mary Timms, Kristina Key
Kavita Channe
Aryna Sabalenka

A Scented Journey: Olfactory NYC’s New Wynwood Location

Posted by Maryanne Salvat On March - 19 - 2025ADD COMMENTS

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.

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