Executive Retail Shops Hosts World of Wonder at Casa Neos

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On March - 8 - 2026

Executive Retail Shops brought global glamour to the waterfront at Casa Neos for the second annual World of Wonder, transforming the venue into a series of immersive destinations celebrating the future of luxury travel retail.

More than 320 guests attended the evening of curated experiences featuring premium spirits, fragrance and indulgent sweets. Among the crowd were Bravo personalities Erin Lichy and Abe Lichy alongside Miami’s own Kiki Barth, creating a lively Bravo crossover moment.

The trio made their way through the evening’s installations — posing for photos at the Mediterranean-inspired Vespa scene, trying their luck at the roulette table and eventually taking over the DJ booth as Abe spun music for the crowd. Later, he stepped behind the bar to pour tastings of his mezcal brand, Mezcalum.

Erin Lichy & Kiki Barth

Guests explored immersive environments inspired by global destinations. Spirit of the Sea transported attendees to the Mediterranean with coastal décor, a vintage Vespa photo moment and a vibrant Mediterranean buffet. Nearby, House of Smoke recreated the energy of Old Havana where guests enjoyed Old Fashioneds by Angel’s Envy and premium pours including Rémy XO, Gold Bar and Johnnie Walker Blue while gathering around the roulette table.

Michael and Mary Jo Shore

The evening concluded at Le Salon Sucré, a Parisian-style confectionery lounge serving flambé desserts alongside espresso martinis made with Bacardi’s Patrón XO Café and Licor 43 Carajillos provided by Monarq.

Throughout the evening, guests also sampled Dom Pérignon, Teremana Tequila, Hendrick’s Gin, Zacapa No. 23 and Rémy Martin 1738, while a Jägermeister Cold Brew station served chilled coffee cocktails. A high-energy fire performer became one of the most Instagrammable moments of the night, while live music from Miami artist Riamonae and her band kept the waterfront venue buzzing.

World of Wonder brought together tastemakers, industry leaders and media to experience Executive Retail Shops’ vision for the future of travel retail — rooted in storytelling, discovery and elevated experiences for private aviation travelers.

For more information, visit executiveretailshops.com.

The Bass Ball: A Kaleidoscopic Night of Art, Fashion and Fun

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On February - 11 - 2026

Photo credit: World Red Eye

The Bass proved once again why its annual gala is among the most anticipated dates on the Miami art/social calendar. The Bass Ball: Kaleidoscopic brought out artists, fashion-forward philanthropists, socialites, and party people to honor the fabulous Cathy Vedovi—the collector and designer whose French roots and LA education have made her a true icon in our local arts scene.

Photo credit: World Red Eye
Photo credit: World Red Eye

The theme was “Kaleidoscopic,” inspired by the museum’s exhibition The Kaleidoscopic: Writing Histories Through the Collection. The evening reflected the multifaceted nature of storytelling through art, welcoming artists and art lovers into a richly layered visual experience. This wasn’t your average black-tie affair; the guests took the theme to heart with outfits that were pure creative genius. Everywhere you looked, there were bold prints, shimmering textures, and over the top accessories that turned the museum into a living, breathing art gallery.

Silvia Karman Cubina, Cathy Vedovi, Paul & Trudy Cejas & Paolo Vedovi
Cathy Vedovi, Mera Rubell & Trudy Cejas
Cathy Leff & Angie Ferrer

Guests were immersed in lavish décor by Alejandro Muguerza, complemented by a dynamic lighting installation by artist MIKIHUMO that illuminated the museum’s façade and interior. Dinner by Le Basque was top-tier, as usual, but it was the outstanding music that really set the night apart. Things kicked off with smooth jazz by saxophonist Manuel Echazabal in the Social Assembly Lounge, giving everyone a chance to catch up in style.

Evelio Gomez, Keith Pomeroy; Lorena Gomez, Carlos Betancourt, José Díaz, Alberto Latorre & Cristina Lei Rodriguez
Evian Kudnik, Paola Martínez & Samantha Díaz
Alberto Latorre, Mary Jo Shore, Carlos Betancourt & Sofía Citarella
DJ ClaudioF

But even before the dinner plates were cleared, the vibe shifted into high gear. The museum lobby transformed into the ultimate energetic dance party thanks to @DJCLAUDIOF aka Claudio Figueroa, the man behind the vibe at Casa Tua. He was on fire, spinning every genre imaginable—from global house beats to crowd-favorite anthems.

Sofía Citarella & Mary Jo Shore

The music was so good it kept the gorgeous, fashion-focused crowd glued to the dance floor, keeping the energy electric well into the early morning hours. Let’s just say no one was ready to go once the “lights came on.”

Caitlin Collins & Ariel Penzer Milgroom
Dr. Mary Jo and Michael Shore in the Mirror Photo Booth by InstaMirrorPhoto

All of the glam and fun supports a worthy cause, with proceeds going directly to the museum’s education programs and world-class exhibitions. Be sure to keep up with all of the happenings at the Bass on Instagram @thebassmoa and online at https://thebass.org.

Photos

Courtesy of the Bass Museum and World Red Eye.

Casa Gianna: Downtown’s Glamorous Italian Darling

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On December - 12 - 2025

At Casa Gianna golden-hour cocktails, flawless service, and unforgettable pasta make every meal feel like a celebration.

Tucked inside the chic Gale Miami Hotel and Residences, brings a touch of Italian glamour to the heart of Downtown Miami, with its golden glow, elegant bar, impeccable service — and a vibe that hits that perfect note between sophisticated and social. 

The moment you walk in, you feel it: the hum of conversation drifting from the marble bar, the smooth rhythm of clinking martini glasses, the warmth of a team that knows exactly what hospitality means. The management here sets the tone — gracious, polished, and genuinely attentive — the kind of service that turns dinner into an experience.

The dishes are generous, flavorful, and unapologetically delicious. The fennel meatballs are pure perfection — tender, saucy, with just enough fennel to supercharge the taste. The grilled octopus arrives well-charred , smoky and soft, brushed with olive oil and lemon. For something rich and decadent, the Pappardelle a la Rosa de Ricotta: lemon pappardelle with pistachio and truffle cream is a star — velvety ribbons of pasta layered with indulgence and just enough brightness to balance it out. For the main we recommend the pistachio-crusted lamb chops- cooked to perfection and simply outstanding.

The dinner menu as a whole is indulgence done right: chicken parm that’s crisp and comforting, several specialty home-made pasta dishes and a number of wood-fired pizzas that bridge Italian tradition and Miami flair. For those craving something heartier, the steak selections impress with prime cuts grilled to order. The branzino and other seasonal fish dishes bring a lighter touch, as do the specialty salads. The menu moves effortlessly from simple to refined.

Casa Gianna is glamorous without trying too hard — a restaurant that makes you want to stay for dessert and maybe one more round.

Aperitivo Hour: Italian Tradition

The bar alone is worth a visit — a gleaming statement of style and substance, with spritzes, Negronis, and cocktails crafted with precision. It’s the ideal setting for a pre-dinner drink, a post-work rendezvous, or an entire evening spent at the counter, soaking in the scene.

Weekdays from 4 to 7 p.m. (4 to 6 p.m. on Fridays), aperitivo hour brings an authentic slice of Italy to Downtown. Expect well-priced wines, handcrafted cocktails, and small bites designed for grazing and gossip. It’s effortlessly cool — a place to unwind, flirt, and fall in love with the art of lingering.

When night falls, Casa Gianna becomes cinematic — candle-lit tables, glimmering wine glasses, and the kind of energy that makes for a fantastic evening.

Brunch: La Dolce Morning

Weekends from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Casa Gianna transforms into a sunlit sanctuary of leisure. Think golden-hour lighting, laid-back elegance, and a menu that celebrates Italian comfort. Guests are encouraged to relax and sip espresso martinis and Mimosas, savoring dishes like eggs al forno, crisp salads, and — of course — those signature meatballs that somehow taste even better before noon.

With its flawless dishes, magnetic atmosphere, and genuine hospitality, Casa Gianna is more than just a dining destination— it’s an experience. The kind that lingers long after the last sip of limoncello.

Casa Gianna

601 Northeast 1st Ave,
Miami, FL 33132

(305) 605-2272
info@casagianna.com

https://www.galehotelmiami.com/dining#casa-gianna-italian-ristorante

Brunch: Saturday & Sunday 8 a.m.–4 p.m.  Aperitivo Hour: Monday–Thursday 4–7 p.m.; Friday 4–6 p.m.  Lunch: Monday–Friday 11:30 a.m.–5 p.m.  Dinner: Nightly from 5 p.m. 

Step inside, sip something sparkling, and settle in — because at Casa Gianna, every hour is golden hour.

Amigos Night 2025: Miami’s Most Fabulous Party Just Keeps Getting Better

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On November - 4 - 2025
Jorge Plasencia, Nicole Valls Duarte, Maggie Fresen Zulueta, Karina Pavone, Yosel Ibarra

One of Miami’s most highly anticipated parties, Amigos Night, manages to outdo itself every year and this year was no exception. On Saturday, October 18, The Hangar at Regatta Harbour in Coconut Grove was completely transformed for what can best be described as the party of the season.

The space shimmered with sequined tables, soft candlelight, and a sea of chic guests dressed to the nines. From the moment we arrived, the mood was pure celebration — laughter, dancing, and that signature Miami magic in the air. The open bar, courtesy of Bacardi USA, flowed freely all night long, keeping glasses full and spirits higher.

Nicole Valls Duarte, Pamela Silva, Luly Valls, Letty Tornes

A stellar showcase of Miami’s top restaurants provided an eclectic selection of bites to suit every taste. But truth be told- it was tough to leave the dance floor long enough to grab a bite- because the music was THAT good! From the second Extasy hit the stage, it was over — the dance floor never emptied. The band was perfection, playing one crowd-pleaser after another until well after 1 a.m. A conga line snaked across the room on more than one occasion and friends, old and new, danced and sang with sheer joy.

Miami Socialholics
Maryanne Salvat & Mary Jo Shore

Just when we were about to take a short break- around midnight, an explosion of confetti filled the air and showgirls took over the dance floor for the Hora Loca: pure, high-octane fun fueled by feathers, confetti, and wild energy!

Earlier in the evening, Karina Pavone, President & CEO of Amigos For Kids and Jorge A. Plasencia, Co-Founder & Chairman Emeritus, shared heartfelt thanks, reminding guests that every donation helps to strengthen families and protect children across Miami-Dade. Amigos Night was both a celebration and a statement — proof that Miami’s heart beats strongest when it’s dancing for a cause.

Jorge Plasencia and Mayor Daniella Levine Cava

This remarkable evening was made possible by sponsors and culinary partners including—Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Bacardi USA, Greenberg Traurig, Academica, ABS Imprint, Ford, Amazon, Banesco, Baptist Health, Goya, Telemundo, Jorge Luis Garcia, Larry Geller & Ingrid Hoffmann, Prestige Clinical Research, Ryder, and Supreme Twins Foundation. Dining sponsors included: Arcano, Bartaco, Bayshore Club, Bulla Gastrobar, Café La Carreta, Costazul Peruvian Cuisine, CrepeMaker, Edda’s Cake Designs, Glass and Vine, LA Sweetz, Mena Catering, Miami Dade College, Morton’s The Steakhouse, Night Owl Cookies, Ossobuco, Papa Johns Pizza, Pisco y Nazca, Sufrat Mediterranean Grill, Sushi Maki, The Tipsy Truffle, Vegan Vibess, and Versailles Cuban Restaurant.

Amigos Night is a perfect example of why Miami parties are in a league of their own — a whirlwind of style, soul, sparkle and dancing. Few events capture the city’s spirit with such flair: dazzling, dynamic, and utterly unforgettable.

To support and learn more about Amigos For Kids, visit: amigosforkids.org and follow @AmigosForKids on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Electric Energy, Endless Dancing: Amigos Night Returns October 18

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On October - 13 - 2025

If there’s one party we look forward to all year, it’s Amigos Night—the city’s most electric, feel-good bash that proves philanthropy and fun can absolutely share a dance floor. On Saturday, October 18, The Hangar at Regatta Harbour in Coconut Grove will transform into a whirlwind of lights, music, and Miami magic as Amigos For Kids hosts its signature fundraiser to support children and families across the city. This can’t miss event features an A-list crowd, red-carpet welcome, irresistible bites from Miami’s top restaurants, handcrafted cocktails flowing courtesy of Bacardi USA, and music that makes dancing shoes de rigueur.

As the evening unfolds, guests will enjoy traditions like “Domino Park” that bring an unmistakable hometown flair, while surprise shout-outs and heartfelt moments celebrate the community leaders who make it all possible. When Miami’s high-energy band Extasy hits the stage the dance floor erupts into motion, culminating in a wild hora loca.

Amigos Night is a party—but it’s also a worthy effort. Every ticket, every toast, every dance step fuels Amigos For Kids’ mission to provide after-school programs, parent education, and wraparound support for families in need. Glamorous, heartfelt, and unapologetically fun, Amigos Night captures the very soul of Miami: community, compassion, and contagious rhythm.

Event Details
What: Amigos Night 2025
When: Saturday, October 18, 2025 | 8:00 p.m.
Where: The Hangar at Regatta Harbour, Coconut Grove

Learn more at amigosforkids.org or follow @AmigosForKids