MARILE LOPEZ

By Rebeca Herrero

The Philanthropist is a Style Icon in Miami

Jorge Luis and Marile Lopez are a power couple in Miami. Both were born in Cuba and fled Castro’s dictatorship seeking religious freedom, freedom of speech and freedom of choice. “We were both blessed to be raised in a loving, Catholic home. Our immigrant parents’ desire and accomplishments of the American Dream gave us the opportunity to be the professional, philanthropist couple we are today. It was their example and virtues that shaped us,” expressed Lopez from the comfort of her home in Miami. As the stylish woman she is, both her and her husband are also well-respected members of society. Both hold MBAs and Jorge Luis Lopez graduated from the University of Miami

School of Law. “He has been practicing Governmental Affairs for over 30 years and I joined the firm 15 years ago,” explained the beauty surrounded by her daughter Annia and Saramelia.

“In life we are partners in everything. There is no Jorge or Marile-it’s Jorge and Marile…We work together every day. At the office we are very professional and respect each other’s opinion on client issues, financial decisions and everything else-but we are like that at home as well; therefore you are the same no matter where you go, and what you are doing. My priority has always been my

On the other hand, her fashion sense is inherited by her mother, Maria Elena, who started a bridal headpiece company twenty-five years ago. “We started selling our handmade tiaras and headpieces door to door –to the bridal salons here in Miami, Puerto Rico and New York. Soon the line was established as the premier bridal headpiece, featured in all the bridal magazines, editorial, covers, celebrity using them on their wedding day…and the rest is history-as they say… Maria Elena Headpieces are sold in couture bridal salons all over the worldfrom Miami to Dubai. The next generation-our daughter Annia, will take over and continue her grandmother’s legacy.”

“My grandmother, Carmela was a seamstress in Cuba. She passed on her knowledge of fine fabrics, delicate embroideries and the right fit,” explained Lopez who alongside her husband, attend thirty fundraisers, galas and luncheons each year. Prior to each event, Lopez explains that she organizes her outfits three months in advance. Her personal closet looks like a well-organized room of beautifully kept gowns and cocktail dresses. It is a delight to watch. “I believe that looking your best is important and an affirmation that you believe that event is important enough to look appropriate. It is an honor for Jorge

Luis and I to Chair a gala or be recognized or simply attend as guests; therefore we take that serious and it is important to give each event its significance and the time to prepare.”

Lopez enjoys wearing Valentino, Dolce & Gabbana, Monse and Erdem, amongst other designers. She has also collaborated with her friend, designer Ivonne de la Vega, with whom she created evening gowns. “Fashion is cyclical, never disregard that favorite outfit from a few years ago, it might be in style soon…”

Based on Lopez’s belief about philanthropy, the power duo believes that it about fundamental change. “Philanthropy focuses on causes, while establishing a permanent change in the community-the world. Organizations, foundations and private donors are on the front lines of independently impacting substantive long-term change. Through innovative fundraising and new funding models, these causes will empower community and global changes. Our family foundation, Marile & Jorge Luis Lopez, Esq. Family Foundation, has a mission based on causes-not organizations, even though Jorge Luis and I have well established our “Charities of Choice” and support them with our time, talent and treasure.”

Another project they are currently getting involved is, consists of fundraising for the Polo School in Miami. “Jorge Luis and I are new to the Polo World. The beauty, elegance and grace of the sport attracted us to the World Polo League and the Grand Champions Polo Club, particularly the idea of bringing this world class sport to Miami and to make it available to children who perhaps would not have had the opportunity if it wasn’t for the Polo School and their great work in the community.”

Juhi Saigal-Shah