Aventura Magazine February 2024 by Palm Beach Media Group

COUPLE GOALS

SPEND VALENTINE’S DAY WITH 3 OF MIAMI’S CUTEST COUPLES Lindsay Silberman and Matthew Stevens

SWEET SIPS 5 BUZZWORTHY HONEY-BASED COCKTAILS

KEYS TO YOUR HEART

10 CARS SURE TO GET YOUR PULSE RACING

PASSIONS & PURSUITS 24

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CONTENTS

FEBRUARY 2024 | AVENTURAMAGAZINE.COM FOR THE LATEST IN ALL THINGS LUXURY

FEATURES 52 IT TAKES TWO Fall head over heels for three of Miami’s cutest power couples By Paige Bowers

58 GETTING BUZZED ON HONEY COCKTAILS Embrace the sweetness of honey with these five bee-loved cocktails By Jules Aron

64 ARRIVING IN STYLE Guarantee a grand entrance in stylish cars that will make your heart skip a beat By Howard Walker

72 FULL BLOOM Spring forward with floral-inspired fashions that are anything but garden variety Photography by Gabor Jurina

Oscar de la Renta gown, earrings For buying information, turn to page 106.

GABOR JURINA

AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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YafaSignedJewels.com • (561) 331-8611

Photography – Ian Jacob Studios Hair/Make up – Colleen Stone Styling – Zlata Kotmina

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CONTENTS

28 DEPARTMENTS 14

FROM THE EDITOR

AVENTURIST 21 HAPPENINGS ModaMiami celebrates horsepower and history at The Biltmore in Coral Gables

22 AROUND TOWN New York City’s Museum of Sex opens it southern outpost in Allapattah, a quartet of tennis icons trade in their rackets for pickleball paddes at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino’s Pickleball Slam, and the Lefty Writer on how to personalize Valentine’s Day gifting with the lost art of calligraphy

24 PUPPY LOVE

DEAN WEST

Ana Elvir of @tourwithteddy offers tips on Miami’s pet-friendliest places

28 ART SCENE

26 GUIDE How to make the most of your visit to the 2024 Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show

ON THE COVER: PHOTOGRAPHER: EMIN KADI MODELS: LINDSAY SILBERMAN AND MATTHEW STEVENS

Photographer Dean West documents Florida’s wild and sexy side

30 PROFILE Professor Marvin Dunn on the impact of Miami’s Black history

STYLE 33 THE LOOK Design and art collabs, plus Bauhaus-inspired accessories

36 THE EDIT What our editors will be gifting their Valentines

ASHLEY MEYER

38 JEWELRY BOX

Fierce, fire-breathing jewelry for the Year of the Dragon

38 39 BEAUTY

Hero products you’ll want to buy again and again

AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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INTERNATIONAL CONTEMPORARY + MODERN ART FAIR TICKETS AND EVENT INFO AT:

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CONTENTS

JOURNEYS 41 WANDERLUST Three properties leading a resort revolution in St. Barth

45 FLORIDIANA Brickell delivers the best of big-city life

46 QUICK TRIPS How to have a presidential stay in Washington, D.C.

48 HIGH ROAD Maserati returns to relevance with the MC20 supercar

50 HIGH SEAS Chris-Craft’s Catalina 28 earns our nod for best Florida boat

SIP & SAVOR 93 FAVORITES COURTESY GITANO MIAMI

Gitano Miami brings a taste of Tulum to the Magic City

101

94 LOCAL BITES Events and eats not to miss at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, heart-shaped croquetas and pastelitos from Dos Croquetas, date night at home with help from Carbone Fine Foods, plus three South Beach margaritas made for National Magarita Day

98 MINDFUL MIXOLOGIST A raspberry-rich cocktail is the perfect red-hued elixir of love

HOME 101 INTERIORS A couple infuses their personal aesthetic into an iconic Coral Gables home

102 BY DESIGN Find your flow with coordinated interior color schemes

103 ELEMENTS Glass decor that’s a cut above the rest

104 INSPIRED LIVING Interiors that ignite the senses

SOCIAL STUDIES 107 SEEN ON THE SCENE

CRAIG DENIS

Pics from Miami-Dade’s most fabulous events

LAST WORD 112 ON THE RECORD WITH... Matchmaker Laura Jacobs dishes on finding love in Miami

AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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Your health has a new address THE WELL Bay Harbor Islands is more than a high-end home. It’s 400,000 square feet of spaces and services surrounded by tranquil beauty to help you live a healthier, balanced everyday —It’s fresh-pressed juice at your doorstep, a weekly massage in your living room, yoga on the terrace, workouts in your private gym, a breakthrough session with your nutritionist, restored sleep, new meditation practices, fitness in body, mind and spirit—your home for personal wellness.

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Residences from $2.3 M EXCLUSIVE SALES BY DOUGLAS ELLIMAN DEVELOPMENT MARKETING This project is being developed by 1177 Bay Harbor Islands LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Developer”), which has a limited right to use the trademarked names and logos of Terra and THE WELL. Any and all statements, disclosures and/or representations shall be deemed made by Developer and not by Terra or THE WELL, and you agree to look solely to Developer (and not to Terra, THE WELL or any of their affiliates) with respect to any and all matters relating to the marketing and/or development of the project. The Terra and THE WELL groups of companies are each comprised of several separate companies that are legally distinct. Reference to Terra and THE WELL is merely for convenience and should not be relied upon for any other purposes. Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating the representations of the developer. For correct representations, make reference to this brochure and to the documents required by section 718.503, Florida statutes, to be furnished by a developer to a buyer or lessee. These materials are not intended to be an offer to sell, or solicitation to buy a unit in the condominium. Such an offering shall only be made pursuant to the prospectus (offering circular) for the condominium and no statements should be relied upon unless made in the prospectus or in the applicable purchase agreement. In no event shall any solicitation, offer or sale of a unit in the condominium be made in, or to residents of, any state or country in which such activity would be unlawful. All images and designs depicted herein are artist’s conceptual renderings, which are based upon preliminary development plans, and are subject to change without notice in the manner provided in the offering documents. All such materials are not to scale and are shown solely for illustrative purposes. Renderings depict proposed views, which are not identical from each residence. No guarantees or representations whatsoever are made that existing or future views of the project and surrounding areas depicted by artist’s conceptual renderings or otherwise described herein, will be provided or, if provided, will be as depicted or described herein. Any view from a residence or from other portions of the property may in the future be limited or eliminated by future development or forces of nature and the developer in no manner guarantees the continuing existence of any view. Furnishings are only included if and to the extent provided in your purchase agreement. THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS ARE IN A CPS-12 APPLICATION AVAILABLE FROM THE OFFEROR. FILE NO. CP23-0020. The project graphics, renderings and text provided herein are copyrighted works owned by the Developer. All rights reserved.

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Editorial Director Daphne Nikolopoulos Editor in Chief Kristen Desmond LeFevre Creative Director Olga M. Gustine Executive Editor Mary Murray Fashion Editor Katherine Lande Automotive Editor Howard Walker Travel Editor Paul Rubio Libations Editor Jules Aron Web Editor Abigail Duffy DESIGN Art Directors Airielle Farley, Ashley Meyer, Jenny Fernandez-Prieto Digital Imaging Specialist Leonor Alvarez-Maza

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2118 N.E. 123rd St., North Miami, Florida 33181 (across the bridge from Bal Harbour Shops)

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Jane E. Enos, Allison Wolfe Reckson, Gaylene Salomons CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Riki Altman-Yee, Paige Bowers, Alena Capra, Jeanne De Lathouder, Christiana Lilly, Jesse Scott, Liza Grant Smith, Jess Swanson CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Gabor Jurina, Emin Kadi, Gyorgy Papp SUBSCRIPTIONS 800-308-7346

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In Memory Of My Beautiful Mother Susan. Statements will remain open and I will continue our legacy of excellence in fashion and service.

Published by Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC, P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL 33480, 561-659-0210 • Fax: 561-659-1736 Aventura magazine is a registered trademark of Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC • Corporate Headquarters: P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL 33480

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Publisher Terry Duffy

Highest prices paid for your Jewelry, Diamonds, Watches and Modern Art.

ADVERTISING National Sales Director Deidre Wade, dwade@palmbeachmedia.com Account Managers Sandy Silverman, ssilverman@aventuramagazine.com Sima Kohen, skohen@aventuramagazine.com Libby Lekach Roffe, lroffe@aventuramagazine.com

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Ryan Hollihan, rhollihan@aventuramagazine.com Advertising Services Coordinator Elizabeth Hackney Marketing Manager Rebecca Desir PRODUCTION Production Director Selene M. Ceballo Production Manager Lourdes Linares Digital Pre-Press Specialists George Davis, Beatriz S. Salazar Advertising Design Coordinators Anaely J. Perez Vargas, Jeffrey Rey Production Coordinator Ileana Caban Digital Marketing Manager Tyler Sansone OPERATIONS Chief Operating Officer Todd Schmidt Accounting Specialist Mary Beth Cook Accounts Receivable Specialist Ana Coronel Distribution Manager Judy Heflin Logistics Manager Omar Morales Circulation Manager Marjorie Leiva Circulation Assistants Cathy Hart, Britney Stinson Circulation Promotions Manager David Supple IT Manager Omar Greene

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In Memoriam Ronald J. Woods (1935-2013) HOUR MEDIA, LLC CEO Stefan Wanczyk President John Balardo PUBLISHERS OF: Palm Beach Illustrated • Naples Illustrated • Palm Beach Charity Register Naples Charity Register • Florida Design • Florida Design Naples • Florida Design Miami Florida Design Sarasota • Florida Design Sourcebook • Palm Beach Relocation Guide Southwest Florida Relocation Guide • Fifth Avenue South • Palm Beach 100 Naples 100 • Art & Culture: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County • Pinnacle: Jupiter Medical Center Foundation • Waypoints: Naples Yacht Club • Naples on the Gulf: Greater Naples Chamber • Jupiter • Stuart • Aventura • Vero Beach Magazine Community Report: Collier Community Foundation • Advances: Tampa General Hospital Naples Realtor: Naples Area Board of REALTORS

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FROM THE EDITOR

CAPEHART

HEART’S DESIRES

EDITOR’S NOTEBOOK SCOOT & SHOOT Photographing couple Laura Kozelouzek and Kathy Andersen for our “It Takes Two” feature this month (with pup Tinkerbell in tow) on South Beach’s Lincoln Road was Vespatastic, thanks to the talents of photographer Emin Kadi. (page 52) CROQUETAS, MI CORAZÓN Forget the flowers and chocolates this Valentine’s Day. For me, there’s no better way to say “I love you” than with food—specifically, croquetas. If you haven’t placed your order for these adorable heart-shaped bites of deliciousness from Dos Croquetas, don’t delay: they’re only available this month. (page 95)

Love is in the air this month—not just romantic love (something alternately frustrating and inspiring for single folks, like me) but also the passion for the pursuits that stir our hearts. In this issue, we profile three of Miami’s cutest power couples who channel their passions into successful endeavors in both business and philanthropy. This month’s cover stars, Lindsay Silberman and Matthew Stevens, are partners in work and in love, setting romantic scenes for couples everywhere with their popular Hotel Lobby Candle brand. Read their story, and those of two more darling duos, in “It Takes Two,” beginning on page 52. If cars and boats are what make your heart go pitter-patter, this issue has you covered. Beyond our monthly “High Road” (page 48) and “High Seas” (page 50) columns, we’ve got Jesse Scott’s tips for visiting the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show this month (see “Ship Shape” on page 26). For Howard Walker’s rundown of 10 vehicles sure to make any gearhead’s pulse quicken, see “Arriving in Style,” starting on page 64. To further sweeten the pot, Jules Aron has crafted recipes for a series of honeybased cocktails. For inventive sips, including the Hive Five and Buzzworthy, turn to her feature, “Getting Buzzed on Honey Cocktails,” beginning on page 58. Does February conjure a bevy of beautiful bouquets in your mind? Flip to “Full Bloom” (page 72), which was shot in the workrooms of one of South Florida’s most noted floral designers. Fashion editor Katherine Lande has curated a lover’s look book of feminine florals and heart-stopping hues perfect for this month’s date nights about town. Cheers to all the dreams and desires (romantic or otherwise) that February brings!

Kristen Desmond LeFevre klefevre@aventuramagazine.com

AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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AVENTURIST TH E INSIDE TRACK TO A L L T HI NGS NEW A ND NOW I N MI A M I- DA D E

HAPPENINGS

The Biltmore will become a car lover’s playground this month when it hosts the inaugural ModaMiami, a celebration of horsepower, history, and luxury in the automotive space. Taking place February 29 to March 3, the event will feature two full days of ogling roadsters, including

REV YOUR ENGINES

examples from the early days of the automobile, pre-war European vehicles, classics from legendary brands (like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Porsche), and modern sports cars. Sprinkled throughout the schedule are auctions, dining experiences, salons, and a cruise. “ModaMiami is set to be the ultimate playground for luxury enthusiasts who want to experience the best of the automotive, culinary, and design worlds all in one place,” says Rob Myers, the founder and chairman of event partner RM Sotheby’s. (modamiami.com) —Christiana Lilly FEBRUARY 2024

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AVENTURIST

AROUND TOWN

Sex Objects Given Miami’s sexy vibe, the city is the perfect location for the Museum of Sex. The museum, which already operates an outpost in New York City, opened its doors in Allapattah during Art Basel. “The Museum of Sex navigates the taboo surrounding sexuality by adopting an educational and immersive approach,” says Daniel Gluck, the museum’s founder and executive director. “Rather than shying away from the topic, the museum embraces it as a fundamental aspect of [the] human experience. Miami’s vibrant and diverse cultural landscape, coupled with its reputation for embracing the unconventional, makes it an ideal destination

for expanding the Museum of Sex.” Across 32,000 square feet of exhibition space, the museum explores the spectrum of human sexuality beyond just the physical aspects of sex, adds Gluck. “It delves into the social, psychological, and cultural dimensions, providing a comprehensive and enlightening perspective,” he explains. Debut exhibitions include “Modern Sex: 100 Years of Design and Decency,” “Superfundland: Journey into the Erotic Carnival,” and “Hajime Sorayama: Desire Machines,” which features Sorayama’s robot sculptures and is the artist’s first American solo museum show. (museumofsex.com) —C.L.

The Write Stuff

Magen Ferrer, aka The Lefty Writer, was so enamored with the calligraphy in the Harry Potter movie series that she devoured online tutorials—especially those made for lefties like her. Her first calligraphy event was personalizing photo frames at the Aventura Mall during a breast cancer walk; today she leads classes of her own in MiamiDade and Broward counties. Aventura caught up with Ferrer to learn how to incorporate personalization into Valentine’s Day gifting. (theleftywriter.com) —C.L.

PICKLE POWER MOVE OVER TENNIS, PICKLEBALL IS THE NEW KING OF THE COURT. THE SEMINOLE HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO HOLLYWOOD WILL HOST THE SECOND PICKLEBALL SLAM FEBRUARY 4. TENNIS ICONS JOHN MCENROE, ANDRE AGASSI, STEFANIE GRAF, AND MARIA SHARAPOVA ARE TRADING IN THEIR TENNIS RACKETS FOR PICKLEBALL PADDLES TO VIE FOR A $1 MILLION PRIZE. THE TOURNAMENT WILL BE BROADCAST ON ESPN, WITH MCENROE AND SHARAPOVA TEAMING UP AGAINST GRAF AND AGASSI. AMATEUR PICKLEBALL PLAYERS CAN ALSO GET IN ON THE FUN, WITH DOUBLES TEAMS INVITED TO PLAY FOR A CASH PRIZE IN THE SLAM AMATEUR CHALLENGE FEBRUARY 2-3. (THEPICKLEBALLSLAM.COM) —C.L.

Aventura: Why is calligraphy so special? Ferrer: Watching someone handwrite something like your name, favorite quote, or favorite verse just makes the experience so much more special. In today’s digital world, I feel like it is more important than ever for people to not just watch and appreciate it but really try to understand it and not let it become a dying skill. What if you have terrible handwriting? Calligraphy is not about handwriting. Calligraphy letters are made up of different strokes. When you combine them, they create every single letter. It’s similar to when we all first learned how to write. What’s a good beginner project for Valentine’s Day gifting? The most common thing that I encourage even my very beginner students to do is take a roll of brown craft paper, wrap their gift, and then use a marker or brush pen. They can do calligraphy on the wrapped gift, making it so much more personal [and giving] it so much more value and significance for the receiver.

AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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AVENTURIST “THE LOEWS IN CORAL GABLES AND MIAMI BEACH IS OVER-THE-TOP PET-FRIENDLY. THEY GIVE YOU THE DOG BED, THE DOG BOWLS, A LITTLE POOP BAG. THEY ALSO HAVE DOG ROOM SERVICE THAT THEIR EXECUTIVE CHEF CREATED.” (LOEWS HOTELS.COM/ CORAL-GABLES)

PUPPY LOVE

TINA DASILVA PHOTOGRAPHY

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ILV A

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“PURA VIDA USUALLY GIVES TEDDY A DOG BOWL FOR WATER. THEY EVEN HAVE DOG MACAROONS. AT CIELITO ARTISAN POPS, YOU AND YOUR DOG CAN HAVE ICE CREAM TOGETHER.” (PURAVIDAMIAMI. COM, CIELITOARTISANPOPS.COM)

“The Intercontinental Miami does a ‘yappy hour’ every Wednesday. When they first started it, Teddy was their official host and then we started getting all the dogs to come to that area and check it out. They are so pet-friendly that they act like your dog is a celebrity there.” (icmiamihotel.com)

TIN

Ana Elvir never knew how much she could love a dog until she met Teddy. The 6-and-a-half-pound Maltese is her partner in crime and social media. Together, they are the stars of @tourwithteddy, Elvir’s travel blog where she shares the duo’s favorite Magic City outings. For his part, Teddy has been named Fort Lauderdale’s Very Inquisitive Pup, the Chief Canine Officer for Brightline, the host of several “yappy hours,” and is the face of pet-friendly campaigns for many hotels and restaurants. “Teddy has such a cute personality,” Elvir says. “He creates so many new friendships for me; I never knew I could have so many new friends with a dog.” Looking to make a foray with your furry friend? Here are a few of Elvir and Teddy’s go-to Miami spots.

X “THE BRIGHTLINE IS VERY PET-FRIENDLY. AS THE CHIEF CANINE OFFICER FOR THE TRAIN, TEDDY GOT TO GO ON BRIGHTLINE FOR SO MANY FREE RIDES AND SHOW PEOPLE AROUND. I HONESTLY THINK THAT’S SUCH A FUN WAY TO TRAVEL, ESPECIALLY IF PEOPLE DON’T WANT TO GET IN THEIR CAR. IT’S SO EASY TO TAKE YOUR DOG AND IT’S SUCH A FUN EXPERIENCE.” (GOBRIGHTLINE.COM)

“AVENTURA MALL IS SO PET-FRIENDLY. THEY ALLOW YOUR DOG INSIDE ANYWHERE. YOU CAN EVEN GO TO THE RESTAURANTS, WHICH NORMALLY HAVE A LOT OF OUTDOOR SEATING SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE WITHOUT YOUR DOG. A LOT OF THEM HAVE DOG BOWLS, AND IT FEELS LIKE YOUR DOG IS FAMILY.” (AVENTURA MALL.COM)

“We are big supporters of Paw Patrol Animal Rescue. I absolutely love them because they will continue taking dogs in even when they don’t have the funds. They’re constantly finding fosters. They will make sure these dogs are not just given to anybody [and] that the next home is going to be the dog’s forever home.” (pawpatrolanimalrescue.com)

AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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AVENTURIST GUIDE

SHIP SHAPE

FIVE WAYS TO MAKE THE MOST OF THE 2024 DISCOVER BOATING MIAMI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW

SNAG YOUR TICKET IN ADVANCE There is no box office on-site, so be sure to buy a digital ticket ahead of time.

TAKE THE BRIGHTLINE Brightline will provide free shuttles from the Miami Central station to Herald Plaza, potentially saving you big bucks on ride-sharing services and parking.

DON’T STICK TO A SINGLE VENUE The various locations throughout the boat show experience come with their own unique vibe. Pride Park centers on educational seminars and family-friendly activities. The Superyacht Miami at Yacht Haven area lives up to its name (for an added fee); here you can gawk at some of the largest vessels on Earth. And over at Herald Plaza, you can peruse in-water powerboats as well as retail pavilions showcasing the latest marine accessories, gadgets, merchandise, and other goodies.

GO VIP Included in a Windward VIP ticket is access to the Superyacht Miami area, as well as one-day admission to the Art Wynwood art fair. This pass also includes culinary bites as well as cocktails from select partners including Crown Royal, Ketel One, and Tanqueray.

The Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show(DBMIBS) sets sail February 14-18 at a handful of locations throughout the 305, including the Miami Beach Convention Center, Pride Park, Herald Plaza, Museum Park Marina, and Venetian Marina. A network of water taxis and shuttle buses will make it easier than ever to smoothly sail among the venues and get a taste of it all. For eight-plus decades, DBMIBS has been the destination for boating novices and aficionados alike, showcasing the latest toys, innovations, and products in the global boating biz. In recent years, the show has attracted more than 100,000 guests annually. “The cities of Miami and Miami Beach have a storied boating and yachting history, adding to the vibrant energy that is unique to the destination,” says Andrew Doole, president of U.S. Boat Shows at Informa Markets, the production team behind DBMIBS. “This year, our show is offering attendees a blend of entertainment, marine know-how, innovation, and an exclusive look at what’s new in the realm of luxury yachting.” Here, we share five pro tips to make the most of your DBMIBS experience by land, sea, and all modes in between. (miamiboatshow.com)

COURTESY OF INFORMA MARKETS

BY JESSE SCOTT

EMBRACE AN ECO-CONSCIOUS SPIRIT Beyond seminars on sustainability and discussions on environmental conservation, you’ll notice a number of green initiatives on-site. These include a no-plastic policy for water and soda served at the show, as well as a fleet of electric golf carts transporting guests to various locations. Fun fact: 100 percent of the energy used at this year’s show will be drawn from renewable sources including wind, water, and solar.

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AVENTURIST

ART SCENE

Altered State MIAMI PHOTOGRAPHER DEAN WEST CAPTURES THE STRANGE AND WONDERFUL SIDE OF THE SUNSHINE STATE BY RIKI ALTMAN-YEE

Above: Pink Dreams No. 1 was inspired by a housekeeper whom photographer Dean West encountered while scouting Miami Shores’ iconic Pink House for a photo shoot. Top right: Though based in Miami, West has traveled all over Florida for his work. Right: Palma de la Noche is made up of numerous composite images; it took West over a year to complete.

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Stormy conditions, highway roads, and dangerous wildlife are all par for the course for photographer Dean West and the idiosyncracies he brings to his work. “It’s not all glitz and glamour,” he says. “I feel like [my photography] taps a little bit into the dark side of Florida, and that’s not a bad thing.” Best known for his meticulously staged photographs that take everyday moments out of the ordinary realm, the Australian-born West spent most of his early adult life in Toronto and New York, creating award-winning imagery for brand partnerships with the likes of Disney, St-Germain, and MTV—companies that appreciated the artist’s atmospheric and cinematic language. Two weeks before the COVID-19 shutdown in 2020, West moved to Miami in search of sunshine, sensing inspiration would follow. “It made sense to me that the weird and the wonderful of Florida was the perfect surrealist canvas,” he says. He was right. West spent the isolating days of the pandemic alone with his digital camera, traveling from Miami to the Panhandle in search of inspiration and subject matter. One byproduct from that period is Palma de la Noche, a photograph of a palm tree that’s an amalgam of composite images captured during his 12-month trek through the state. “The world I created for that shot is not complete reality, but the object that gets shown actually is,” he explains. “You never see a beautiful palm tree

12/26/23 9:37 AM

alone, but I kept going out in the middle of the night to photograph palm trees that I had scouted all over Florida.” West’s more orchestrated shoots can take just as long to envision and produce. The vision for Luis (The Wrangler) No. 1, an image of a bare-chested cowboy staring down an alligator in a Boca Raton pool, took months to fine-tune, but it was time well spent as it’s become one of West’s most popular

shots. Unlike other artists who churn out copious material for exhibition, West is content supplying images at a trickle throughout the year. His next project? Collecting photos for a Florida-centric book he hopes to publish in about two years. “I know it takes me a long time to produce my work, so yes, I’m a bit slower than most photographers,” says West. “But you know what? Sometimes the turtle wins the race.” (deanwest.com) «

Luis (The Wrangler) No. 1 exemplifies the essence of West’s work: tonal and powerful, while simultaneously familiar and expected.

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AVENTURIST PROFILE

MAKING HISTORY FEBRUARY MARKS BLACK HISTORY MONTH. THIS MONTH AND EVERY MONTH, MARVIN DUNN WORKS TO REMIND US THAT BLACK HISTORY IS MIAMI HISTORY. BY JESS SWANSON

“I’ve lived here most of my life and had no idea that these things happened.” That’s what author Marvin Dunn says most locals say to him after they read his book, Black Miami in the Twentieth Century, which recounts local Black history, from the proud heritage of the city’s Black community to Black pirates in Biscayne Bay, the glamorous but problematic heyday of Overtown, and the civil rights movement in Miami. “When I did that book, I was hoping that it would do just that: help folks who are new to the community know our history, as well as remind those of us who have lived through it what that history is,” says Dunn, who is a professor emeritus at Florida International University. Dunn is considered by many to be the forefather of Miami Black history. Born in DeLand, Florida, in 1940, he attended segregated schools, dealt with being called racial slurs, was kicked off busses and out of bars, and witnessed a KKK rally. In addition to his lived experiences, Dunn’s historical research is exhaustive—informed by newspaper clippings, eyewitness accounts, cemetery monuments, and more. He published History of Florida: Through Black Eyes in 2016 and has produced three documentary films including Rosewood Uncovered (detailing the 1923 Rosewood massacre), Murder on the Suwanee: The Willie James Howard Story (exploring the lynching of a 15-year-old in Florida in 1944), and Black Seminoles in the Bahamas: The Red Bays Story (telling the stories of enslaved people in Florida who escaped to the Bahamas in the 1800s). “All my books deal with the same sort of 30

Marvin Dunn is a professor emeritus at Florida International University. His books and documentaries explore Florida’s Black history.

issues, and the work needs to be absorbed quietly and alone,” Dunn says. “I urge people to turn this private learning into private growth: to try to apply what they read to what they’re doing and how they’re living their lives.” While many of the events Dunn recounts are deeply troubling and painful, he urges Miamians to take pride in inspirational Black leaders, including M. Athalie Range (the first Black person to serve on the Miami City Commission), Reverend Theodore Gibson (a former president of Miami’s NAACP chapter), and Dr. John O. Brown (a leader

of peaceful protests at Miami’s segregated lunch counters and beaches in the late 1950s and early ’60s). Dunn, too, has looked to inspire the community by co-founding the Academy for Community Education, an alternative high school for students who are at risk of dropping out. As Dunn sees it, progress has a lot to do with perspective. “Being 83 years old gives you a perspective on history and on life that people who are not at this age don’t have so much,” Dunn says. “I can look way back in my own life and see things have changed for the better.” «

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YOUR GATEWAY TO BETTER SLEEP IN 2024

TANIA YUMBLA’S TOUCH OF ROYALTY Known as the “Mattress Queen,” Tania brings her passion and expertise to ensure each mattress embodies the essence of luxury. It’s an invitation to embrace serenity, elevate your sleep experience, and awaken each morning feeling refreshed and revitalized.

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STYLE

CURATED FINDS, LUXE ACCESSORIES, AND RUNWAY REPORTS 2

MARIO KROES

4 3

FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION DESIGNERS EXPRESS THEIR CREATIVITY WITH COLLECTIONS INFLUENCED BY ART AND DESIGN BY KATHERINE LANDE 1. Stella McCartney x Sorayama Elyse strawberry print metallic platform shoes ($1,045), Stella McCartney, stellamccartney.com,, Stella McCartney and Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama crafted a unisex collection steeped in sustainability and powerful sensuality. | 5 2. Louis Vuitton x Frank Gehry limited-edition handbags (prices upon request), Louis Vuitton, us.louisvuitton.com, Louis Vuitton’s collab with architect Frank Gehry includes handbags in themes of Architecture and Form, Material Exploration, and Animals. | 3. Leather Origami charm ($520), Fendi, fendi.com,, Fendi’s Origami charm pays homage to the fortune-teller game popular in the 1990s. | 4. Spring/Summer 2024 collection (prices upon request), Alexander McQueen, alexandermcqueen.com, for her final collection for the house, Sarah Burton was inspired by Polish artist Magdalena Abakanowicz’s sculptures representing motherhood, comfort, and protection. | 5. Large link bracelet in high-polished sterling silver ($2,000), Tiffany & Co., tiffany.com, the Tiffany Forge collection boasts an open-link motif evocative of chains from the Tiffany archives. | 6. Loewe x Suna Fujita Penguin mini Puzzle bag ($2,650), Mandragora small Puzzle bag ($3,650), and Panda mini Puzzle bag ($2,900), Loewe, loewe.com, this collection of bags, ready-to-wear, and accessories features characters from Kyoto-based Suna Fujita’s ceramic pieces.

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STYLE THE LOOK

BOLD BAUHAUS

AKRIS SPRING/ SUMMER 2024 Clean, minimal lines are elevated with a graphic print inspired by artist Felice “Lizzi” Rix-Ueno.

LEVEL UP YOUR LOOK WITH PRIMARY COLORS INSPIRED BY THIS ART AND DESIGN MOVEMENT

ROLL WITH IT Medium hoop earrings with malachite ($295), Christina Caruso, christina caruso.com

BY KATHERINE LANDE

STYLE NOTES ART HISTORY: Focus on solid colors and geometric shapes. COLOR WHEEL: Play with different colorblocking combinations. PRINTS 101: Go for bold strokes, angular forms, and vibrant hues.

TRUE BLUE Small Loop earrings ($750), Hermès, multiple locations, hermes.com

GREEN LIGHT Elsa Peretti Sevillana cuff with green jade and 18-karat gold ($14,900), Tiffany & Co., multiple locations, tiffany.com

TOP BANANA Yellow leather Fendigraphy mini handbag ($2,150), Fendi, multiple locations, fendi.com

CLEAR SKIES Leather handbag ($2,300), Ferragamo, multiple locations, ferragamo.com

APPLES AND ORANGES Small hobo bag in orange patent leather ($2,950), Gucci, multiple locations, gucci.com UNDER ARMOR Armadillo pumps ($1,090), Alexander McQueen, Bal Harbour, Miami, alexander mcqueen.com

RED CARPET Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello Suite 105 mule sandals in crepe satin ($945), Saint Laurent, multiple locations, ysl.com 34

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STYLE KISS FROM A ROSE Tattoo bowl ($175), Kosta Boda, kostaboda.us Leave a lasting impression on your loved one by gifting Kosta Boda’s Ludvig Löfgren–designed crystal bowl. Inspired by tattoo art, the bowl’s cool combination of romance and rock and roll will surely leave its mark. —Allison Wolfe Reckson, contributing editor

THE EDIT

So This is Love

SPOIL THE VALENTINE IN YOUR LIFE WITH THESE EDITOR-APPROVED GIFTS NO DOUBT ABOUT IT Wool beanie ($98), Ralph Lauren, ralphlauren.com Send your boyfriend off to cooler climes with a wool beanie that proclaims he is loved by someone special. It’s as good as putting a ring on it. —Gaylene Salomons, contributing editor

SEEING RED Lyma laser ($2,695), Lyma, lyma.life If you, like me, are partnerless on Valentine’s Day, then give yourself the gift of high-tech self-care. Lyma’s handheld laser is a splurge, but you’re worth it. When used for just 15 minutes daily, this clinicalgrade, FDA-approved laser works to clear scars, improve elasticity, and reduce wrinkles in as little as 12 weeks. —Kristen Desmond LeFevre, editor in chief 36

EGGCELLENT BITE The Perfect Pair cooler gift set ($185), The Caviar Co., thecaviarco.com Food is often considered a love language, and what better way to master this language than gifting your better half a taste of the good life? This cooler contains an ounce each of classic white sturgeon and Siberian sturgeon caviar, alongside French cocktail blinis, crème fraîche, and two mother-of-pearl caviar serving spoons. —Paul Rubio, travel editor TO THE LETTER ABC for You personalized book ($40), Wonderbly, wonderbly.com If you count young readers among your Valentines, then these toddlerperfect tomes have their names written all over them—literally. Help your kiddos learn their ABC’s through a personalized story in which they star. —Mary Murray, executive editor

WEEKEND LOVER R.M.S. weekender bag ($9,350), Hermès, hermes.com Ensure your loved one shows up in smart style for that romantic Valentine’s Day getaway with this simple yet chic canvas bag. —Jane E. Enos, contributing editor

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Seamless Edge Sinks

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

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STYLE

JEWELRY BOX

FIRE BREATHERS USHER IN THE YEAR OF THE DRAGON WITH THESE FIERCE ACCESSORIES

BY MARY MURRAY

6 7 8 38

1. THREE’S COMPANY La Enovesé Designs Curated Collection one-of-a-kind triple dragon charm necklace with clear, ruby, and emerald baguettes set in 24-karat-gold-filled sterling silver, $850. (laenovesedesigns.com) 2. FLY BY NIGHT Anita Ko Lucky Diamond Dragon Talisman necklace with diamonds set in 18-karat gold, $10,500. The Webster, Miami Beach (thewebster.com) 3. TAKE A CHANCE Jewelmer La Chance dragon pendant with a golden South Sea pearl set in 18-karat gold, $4,520. (jewelmer.com) 4. WILDEST DREAMS Effy Safari dragon ring with diamonds set in 14-karat gold, $5,597. (effyjewelry.com) 5. BACK IN BLACK David Webb dragon bracelet with rubies, diamonds, and black enamel set in 18-karat gold and platinum, $69,000. (davidwebb.com) 6. FULL CIRCLE Natori dragon earrings with diamonds set in 14-karat gold, $2,219. (natori.com) 7. HUG IT OUT Adina Reyter pavé dragon huggie hoops with diamonds set in 14-karat gold, $1,598. (adinareyter.com) 8. GRAB A BITE John Hardy Naga bracelet with diamonds and blue sapphires set in 18-karat gold, $10,500. (johnhardy.com)

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Everyone needs a hero. Defend your skin from the elements, vanquish fine lines, bring peace to irritated areas, and more with formulas packed with hero ingredients that save the day: Albion Flora Drip, an essence that harnesses the power of five fermented herbs to firm and rejuvenate ($70, albiongarden.com); Eve Lom Radiance Repair Retinol Serum, a powerhouse of liposome-encapsulated retinol and prebiotic oat kernel ferment that gently repairs and protects ($185, evelom.com); Guerlain Abeille Royale Advanced Youth Watery Oil, a healing elixir with royal jelly, black bee honey from Ouessant Island, and honeys from Corscia, Ikaria, and Åland ($145), and Honey Treatment Day Cream, a collagenrestoring cream inspired by clinical honey bandages ($180, Sephora locations); Chanel Sublimage La Crème Lumière Ultimate Regeneration and Brightening Cream, enriched with antioxidant-rich vanilla planifolia water and Anthyllis extract to even tone ($430, Chanel counters); and Sulwhasoo The Ultimate S Cream with Ginseng Berry SR to preserve skin’s youthfulness ($450, us.sulwhasoo.com). —Abigail Duffy

ASHLEY MEYER

SKIN CARE SUPERHEROES

BEAUTY

FEBRUARY 2024

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12/27/23 4:06 PM

Discover The International At Aventura Luxury Senior Living!

Amanda Griffith Community Relations Director

Book Your Exclusive Personalized Visit Today. Every day is a celebration of refined living at the International at Aventura. We invite you to experience the epitome of sophistication and exceptional service that sets us apart. Secure your place as an inaugural member in our Cosmopolitan Club and relish in the exclusive privileges that accompany membership. Contact Amanda at 786-882-6645 or visit LuxurySenior.Life to schedule your appointment. As a token of our appreciation, enjoy a special gift to take home. Your Adventure Starts Here.

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JOURNEYS

COURTESY OF ROSEWOOD LE GUANAHANI ST. BARTH

YOUR PASSPORT TO THE MOST FASCINATING CORNERS OF THE GLOBE

WANDERLUST

ST. BARTH REDUX

Stunning views abound at Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth, from its beachfront pool (above) to its Admiral Suite (inset).

NEVER ONE TO REST ON ITS LAURELS, ST. BARTH REDEFINES TROPICAL CHIC THANKS TO A TRIO OF REIMAGINED ISLAND LEGENDS BY PAUL RUBIO

Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth Though it presents as completely organic, St. Barth’s effortless elegance in fact takes tremendous effort. Case in point: Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth, which spent nearly five years perfecting its detail-heavy reinvention FEBRUARY 2024

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COURTESY OF ROSEWOOD LE GUANAHANI ST. BARTH

JOURNEYS

Clockwise from above: At Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth, look forward to pastel-tinged interiors, ocean views, sunset dinners on the beach, and dining among the myriad design-forward nooks within the Beach House St. Barth.

and integration into the Rosewood portfolio. Nowadays, the 66-room hotel—the island’s largest—is a highly evolved version of its former self, with its pastel Caribbean cottages completely refurbished and complemented by a surfeit of new amenities. This includes the Beach House St. Barth and its Mediterranean-tinged restaurant, the vibeforward Bar Mélangé, and a beachfront infinity pool with incomparable views over the aquamarine waters of Grand Cul-de-Sac. Also part of the property enrichment is a Rosewood Explorers kids’ club and a complex housing Rosewood’s signature Sense spa, inclusive of a state-of-the-art gym, an ice room, an adults-only 42

pool, and multiple treatment rooms intersected by reflecting ponds. Executing Le Guanahani’s reboot involved a deep dive into the wants and needs of today’s travelers and how best to serve them within the 18-acre private peninsula. To maintain a true sense of place and keep one foot in the past, the property preserved its colorful Caribbean aesthetic. All the while, it delicately enhanced many of the gingerbread cottages with private pools. Inside, interior designer Luis Pons delivers a residential feel, where high design meets approachable, often underscored by the likes of four-poster beds, brightly painted wooden headboards, and cabinetry fashioned after vintage luggage. Amenities and programming consider all trends and mainstays of modern travel—intergenerational, romance, wellness, epicurean— and foster a space that at once caters to the full spectrum of luxury travelers. Personal highlights from a recent stay at Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth included a candlelit barefoot dinner on the beach, memorable deep tissue massages at Sense, and lazy afternoons on my sundeck, sipping Champagne, ogling sea turtles emerging from the lapping waves, and fantasizing about relocating permanently to this impossibly perfect island. Knowing (and loving) the property in its former incarnation and revisiting it now is testament to a resort

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where the good life just keeps getting better. (rosewoodhotels.com)

Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf St. Barth Another reimagination more than a halfdecade in the making, Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf St. Barth transforms one of the island’s oldest hotels (circa 1970s) into an impressive study in au courant coastal excellence. Etched into a hillside above the port of Gustavia, the property promises sweeping views of the yacht-studded capital, plus easy access (even by foot) to the island’s best restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Celebrated French interior designers Gilles & Boissier (of Baccarat Hotel New York fame) craft a splendid vision of sophisticated retro chic across Le Carl Gustaf’s 21 bungalows and suites. Expect French Colonial decor of rich dark woods and marble countered with pops of color aplenty, from headboards and cushions draped in a lime-green palm print

R. RÉGLADE, COURTESY OF CHEVAL BLANC ST. BARTH

to canary-yellow throw pillows, sandals, and towels that scream vintage glam. Each unit boasts a sizable terrace for intimate moments with those postcard-perfect panoramas. While the hotel doesn’t nestle the beach per se, Shell Beach is a three-minute walk downhill. Here, you’ll find Le Carl Gustaf’s lounger-lined private stretch of fine white sand and sapphire sea plus its gourmet venue, Shellona, where dishes commingle flavors of the Caribbean and the Mediterranean in the best ways imaginable. Think: fish carpaccio St. Barth style (dressed in a passion fruit and green chili sauce) and a tomato-laced local red snapper served with grilled eggplant à la Spetses. DJ-led sessions, a high-energy atmosphere, and Shellona’s proximity to the port make it a daytime hot spot for not only hotel guests but also transient yachties and downtown residents. Come evening, dine alfresco at the property’s hilltop restaurant, Beefbar, the latest outpost of the popular European concept, largely focused on

high-quality cuts of meat as a blank canvas for decadence. The braised Wagyu beef quesadillas (with Oaxaca cheese and black truffle) and the miso black beef from the robata grill are two favorites among hard-core carnivores. Vegans can delight in the likes of bao buns made with plant-based meats and a flavorful white beet carpaccio with tomato and strawberry dashi. (hotelsbarriere.com)

Cheval Blanc St. Barth A love match between Caribbean natural beauty and St. Tropez sensibility dazzles at Cheval Blanc St. Barth, which now comprises 61 dreamy rooms, suites, and villas as well as the sublime Cheval Blanc Spa and big-deal restaurants, La Cabane and La Case. Expanding its footprint from the original Maison of the esteemed Cheval Blanc collection, the property added 19 hillside suites and a five-bedroom residence, integrating the new inventory into a comprehensive revamp by acclaimed French interior designer Jacques Granges. Though mainly cast in light distressed wood and bone-white furnishings, guest

R. RÉGLADE, COURTESY OF CHEVAL BLANC ST. BARTH

COURTESY OF HÔTEL BARRIÈRE LE CARL GUSTAF ST. BARTH

C. SEGUES, COURTESY OF CHEVAL BLANC ST. BARTH

Clockwise from right: the beach club and swimming pool, yoga alfresco, and massage pavilion at Cheval Blanc St. Barth; a private pool and views over Gustavia at Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf St. Barth.

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suites erupt with color as the turquoise of Flamands Bay and the emerald of native flora penetrate windows and floor-to-ceiling glass doors, complementing the tropical prints of soft goods and art. Cheval Blanc The oceanside reverie continues Beach along the sands of Flamands Beach, Suite where guests alternate between the full-service beach club and two sleek swimming pools, all strewn with ivory parasols and taupe sun loungers. Around this water world, discover Granges’ visionary toes-in-thesand Le Cabane restaurant, a top spot for beach bubbles, bikini-conscious cuisine, and languid days of good conversation and people watching. Come evening, the social and dining scenes shift to La Case, an interpretive showcase of Caribbean cuisine by French celebrity chef Jean Imbert. As part of its redesign, Cheval Blanc St. Barth has been repositioned as a wellness retreat. The bi-level Cheval Blanc Spa is the only facility in the

V. MATI, COURTESY OF CHEVAL BLANC ST. BARTH

JOURNEYS

entire Caribbean offering Guerlain treatments, augmented by an all-star team of self-care specialists including yoga masters available for private sessions. To maintain a connection with island nature, therapies and sessions can be arranged in an outdoor pavilion, surrounded by lush gardens and coconut forests. Further this bond by taking either a guided or solo hike to Colombier Beach; a trailhead begins right off Flamands Beach and snakes through the cactus-specked hills, revealing some of the best sunset vantage points in all of St. Barth. (chevalblanc.com) «

DESTINATION: ST. BARTH

X St. Barth is now easier to reach thanks to Tradewind Aviation’s increased daily flight frequency between San Juan, plus direct routes connecting the island to Anguilla, Antigua, and St. Thomas. Island-hopper flights on Tradewind’s Pilatus PC-12s are often timed according to arrivals and departures from Florida feeder markets, making the entire process of reaching the tropical French paradise quick and painless. (flytradewind.com)

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Clockwise from far left: Hotel AKA Brickell’s porte cochere; Brickell City Centre; mojito at Marabú inside Brickell City Centre; light-filled interiors and grilled branzino at Adrift Mare; new twenty-fifth-floor lounge at Hotel AKA Brickell.

FLORIDIANA

BETTER IN

BRICKELL

THIS MIAMI NEIGHBORHOOD PUTS A SOUTH FLORIDA SPIN ON BIG-CITY LIVING BY MARY MURRAY

Miami is a metropolis all its own, but Brickell offers a taste of Manhattan that consummate city dwellers will find hard to ignore. Nestled between Downtown and Key Biscayne, Brickell is famous for its top financial firms, high-rise condos, upscale shopping, hip new restaurants, bayfront views, and walkability. This is a neighborhood where high-energy Miami vibes give way to luxe livability, and few hotels capture that quite like Hotel AKA Brickell (stayaka.com). Known for hotels that bring top-notch lifestyle amenities to destination neighborhoods stateside and globally, the AKA brand purchased this spot at the Brickell Arch in 2021 and embarked on a $16 million reimagination

of the 201-key property. Lauded architecture firm Gabellini Sheppard Associates stepped in to elevate the aesthetic and guest arrival experience. This included moving the lobby from the twenty-fifth floor to the ground level, enabling visitors to disembark at a porte cochere—enhanced with greenery and water features—and enter a tranquil space that sets the tone for their entire stay. That twenty-fifth floor is now home to a central lounge as well as Adrift Mare (adriftmare.com/ miami), a new restaurant by Michelin-starred chef David Myers. Situated within an 11-story atrium topped with a custom

installation of more than 100 lanterns, Adrift Mare fuses cosmopolitan style with a captivating menu of Mediterranean delights. Everything from the grilled king prawns finished with Fresno chili and lobster oil to the shish kebabs with pickled vegetables is thoughtfully conceived and layered with flavors sure to ignite every corner of your palate. Even simple side dishes—such as the crispy eggplant fried in an activated charcoal batter—are deceptively complex. Hotel AKA Brickell also boasts a spa, fitness center, and rooftop pool. When you’re ready to explore elsewhere, however, take advantage of the myriad eateries and hot spots within walking distance, or hop onto the Metromover to discover other Downtown pockets. A short stroll away is Brickell City Centre (brickellcitycentre.com), a massive indooroutdoor complex with dozens of big-name stores and such headline-grabbing culinary outposts as The Henry and Casa Tua. Augment your retail therapy with a stop at Marabú (maraburestaurant.com). Here, Miami meets Cuba across a menu of modern classics like truffle yuca fries, pan-seared salmon with sour orange, and a divine rendition of ropa vieja. Walking back to the AKA, you might cross paths with a food-delivery robot, a young couple on their way to school pickup, or a barrage of bankers skirting the sidewalk in single file. They’re all a part of the fabric of this community and what make it one of Miami’s most exciting enclaves. « FEBRUARY 2024

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JOURNEYS

WASHINGTON.ORG

Clockwise from far left: Jefferson Memorial during cherry blossom season; scenes from the Conrad Washington, D.C., including the view-heavy Sakura Club, the snazzy lobby bar, a stunning skylit atrium, and a crisp, handsome guest room.

QUICK TRIPS

A Capital Experience

WASHINGTON, D.C. PROVES THE ULTIMATE MASH-UP OF AMERICA’S PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE BY PAUL RUBIO

STAY Backed by two of today’s most illustrious names in modern design, Herzog & de Meuron and Rottet Studio, the 11-story Conrad Washington, D.C. is a visual feast for the senses, centrally located at the intersection of New York Avenue and Tenth Street Northwest. Upon entering the glassheavy construct, ascend to the third-floor lobby—a skylit atrium veiled in contoured assemblies of steel mesh suspended from 100 feet above—where an illuminated circular pendant dangles at its core. A labyrinth of curvaceous corridors and hallways leads to myriad cozy lounge nooks and the start of 360 minimalist suites and guest rooms (which, at a minimum, measure an ample 416 square feet). Upgrade to a Sakura Club–level room on the tenth floor to gain access to a refined club lounge with panoramic city views, daily breakfast and dinner presentations (each showcasing 46

a different cuisine, from Greek to Mexican), nightly cocktail hours and whiskey tastings, and a fully stocked snack fridge, freezer, and pantry to satisfy cravings at all hours. (conradwashingtondc.com)

EAT & DRINK Of the 24 Michelin stars awarded to restaurants in the greater D.C. area, two shine from a quaint, century-old brick building at 1015 Seventh Street Northwest. While

ground-level Kinship (kinshipdc.com) presents chef Eric Zeibold’s thoughtful take on modern American cuisine à la carte, the upstairs Métier (metierdc.com) does so through a more daring multicourse tasting menu.

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WASHINGTON.ORG

tasty pan-Pacific bar bites. Finally, D.C. is the center of the Ethiopian diaspora in the United States—and it has amazing ethnic cuisine to prove it. Discover a plethora of authentic haunts hidden among D.C.’s alphabet streets, none more welcoming than Chercher (chercherrestaurant.com), which offers a memorable vegan sampler platter plus heartier meat-based dishes.

WASHINGTON.ORG

SEE & DO Ditch Google Maps and get lost in epic tales of American history across the great outdoors of the National Mall (nps.gov/nama), which extends from the United States Capitol to the Potomac River and includes the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, and World War II Memorial. Go for deep cultural dives—free of charge—within your choice of 17 museums, galleries, and complexes comprising the Smithsonian Institution (si.edu). The National Museum of Natural History, National Air

For mid-Atlantic farm-to-table excellence peppered with Asian and European influences, try Ris (risdc.com), chef Ris Lacoste’s eponymous neighborhood restaurant and a semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation’s 2023 award for Outstanding Restaurant. For a heady mix of refined American cuisine, Spanish tapas, and plenty of jamón Ibérico, reserve a table at The Bazaar by José Andrés (thebazaar.com), found within the handsomely preserved late-nineteenthcentury tower of the former General Post Office, which today accommodates the Waldorf Astoria Washington, D.C. During daylight hours, anchor a stroll along the freshly minted District Wharf with lunch or happy hour at Tiki TNT (tikitnt. com), where owner/distiller Todd Thrasher takes inspiration from his global travels to create rum-spiked cocktails, each more Instagram-worthy than the next, paired with

JONATHAN THORPE

LOUIIE VICTA

WASHINGTON.ORG

Clockwise from far left: Savory waffles are brunch standouts at The Bazaar by José Andrés; get lost among the museums, memorials, and monuments including the National Museum of Natural History, the Washington Monument, and the World War II Memorial; quench your thirst with a rum cocktail at Tiki TNT.

DON’T MISS COINCIDING WITH D.C.’S MOST PICTURESQUE TIME OF YEAR, THE 2024 NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL WILL RUN FROM MARCH 20 TO APRIL 14. (NATIONALCHERRYBLOSSOMFESTIVAL.ORG)

and Space Museum, and National Museum of African American History and Culture are three favorites. Come spring, get bird’s-eye views of D.C.’s iconic sights and cityscapes—cocktail in hand—from one of its many chic rooftop bars. For voyeuristic scopes of the White House, try Vue (vuerooftopdc.com); for the Capitol Building and the downtown skyline, head to Summit back at the Conrad; and for the Kennedy Center, Potomac River, Washington Monument, and more, check out Top of the Gate, which crowns the infamous Nixon-era Watergate Hotel (thewatergate hotel.com). « FEBRUARY 2024

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JOURNEYS HIGH ROAD

TRIDENT MISSILE MASERATI’S MID-ENGINE MC20 SUPERCAR OFFERS 202-MPH DRIVING NIRVANA BY HOWARD WALKER

ou won’t find this feature listed in any owner’s manual. It’s not highlighted in the glossy brochures. But the steering wheel start button on Maserati’s new MC20 supercar comes neatly hardwired to every single one of those teeny hairs on the back of your neck. Just press the big blue button, hear the MC20’s 621-hp twin-turbo V6 explode to life with all the ferocity of Krakatoa, and you’ll instantly feel those follicles stand to attention like those fuzzy-hatted guards outside Buckingham Palace. Maserati calls its new V6 technical masterpiece Nettuno, which translates to Neptune in Italian. The mythical sea god’s trident happens to be Maserati’s iconic logo. Yet, this remarkable new power plant is simply the icing on the triple-layer chocolate cake that is the sensational MC20. Unveiled in 2020, this mid-engine super coupe is the poster child for Maserati’s return to relevance. Together with Maserati’s new Grecale compact SUV, GranTurismo two-door coupe, and clear focus on electrification with the upcoming Folgore EV models, the MC20 showcases a much brighter future for the Trident brand, now part of the burgeoning Stellantis group. Just look at the thing. It’s one of the most stunning exotics money can buy, right up there with pricier rivals like Lamborghini’s Huracán, Ferrari’s 296 GTB, and McLaren’s Artura. The beauty here is a swimsuit catalog of toned curves and taut muscles, without the typical supercar plethora of fighter-jet wings and aero add-ons. But its exotic style goes deeper than looks. The car is built around a state-of-the-art, singlepiece, super-stiff carbon-fiber chassis. Flying down the road, the whole car tips the scales at a fighting-fit 3,300 pounds. That helps account for the car’s rock-out-of-a-catapult performance. Dial up the most aggressive Corsa drive setting, engage launch control, hit it, and the Mazzer will slingshot from standstill to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds. It won’t quit until the speedo is showing 202 mph. The way this new V6 screams to its 7,500-rpm red line is like having the Three Tenors sitting in the passenger seat, hitting the high notes in “Nessun Dorma.” Climb aboard through that high-lifting butterfly door, settle into the well-bolstered bucket seat, and place your hands on the lovely wheel of carbon fiber and Alcantara. Aah. If there’s a criticism here, it’s the lack of a sense of occasion. The

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POWER FILE PRICE: FROM $217,000 ENGINE: 3.0-LITER TWINTURBO V6 TRANSMISSION: 8-SPEED DUAL-CLUTCH POWER: 612 HP TORQUE: 538 LB-FT 0-60: 2.9 SECONDS TOP SPEED: 202 MPH LENGTH/WIDTH: 184/77 INCHES WEIGHT: 3,300 POUNDS WHY WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE THIS STUNNING SUPERCAR IS NOTHING LESS THAN POETRY IN MOTION.

whole cabin is minimalist and functional— bleak, almost. All that gray upholstery could have come out of a 1980s Buick. But the twin 10.3-inch digital displays (one a configurable instrument cluster, the other a touchscreen mounted low above the center console) do away with traditional buttons and knobs. Here, there’s little to distract you from the main business of hard driving. And drive it does. The steering is laser precise, with perfect weighting and telegraphic feedback. It just adds to the car’s sensational feeling of lightness and agility. Turn into a tight corner and

the combination of that awesome steering, huge chunks of rubber at each corner, and adaptive suspension makes the MC hammer around as if it’s running on invisible rails. Perhaps the best part of the driving experience is just how easy it is to drive fast. The car almost shrinks around you, making it feel way less intimidating than some supercars. There’s excellent visibility, courtesy of big door mirrors and a camerafed digital rearview mirror. Driving this Italian thoroughbred is like drinking a triple espresso after a lifetime of decaf. It’s hard to think of $217,000 as a great value, but with the MC20 it is. Yes, must-have options (like the $4,000 front suspension lift, $5,500 20-inch forged alloys, and $10,000 carbon-ceramic Brembo brakes) will push the price closer to a quarter of a million. But it’s still worth every penny. The biggest challenge will be choosing the MC20 coupe over the gorgeous folding-hardtop Cielo roadster version, which has a base price of around $250,000. Trust me, either one will have those neck hairs standing to attention. «

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JOURNEYS HIGH SEAS

CLASS ACT CHRIS-CRAFT’S BRAND-NEW CATALINA 28 CENTER CONSOLE IS A MARRIAGE OF FAMILY FUN AND STYLE BY HOWARD WALKER

Is there such a thing as the ultimate Florida boat? It’s a tough category considering the sheer volume of contenders worthy of this nautical Oscar. I still have sore feet and worn Sebagos from three days of pounding the docks at last year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in search of an answer. One true standout is the latest offering from Sarasota-based Chris-Craft, the Catalina 28, which made its red-carpet debut at the show. This addition to the Catalina center console lineup slots neatly between Chris-Craft’s popular 24 and 30 models, and it checks an Amazon fulfillment center’s worth of boxes. I recently spent a morning piloting this 28-footer around Sarasota Bay, close to Chris-Craft HQ, where the company has opened a 70,000-square-foot factory to build it. What’s the appeal? For me, 28 feet is just about the perfect size for day-boaters looking for a fun time out on the water with friends and family. Even at this size, the Catalina offers comfy seating for at least 11, a wellequipped cockpit galley, an enclosed head, and a generous 9-foot beam for stability and easy walking around. Plus, for those who adhere to the ethos that life’s too short to own an ugly boat, this new Catalina is the Christie Brinkley of center consoles—stylish, classy, athletic, and essentially ageless. Yes, it keeps the signature Chris-Craft design cues, including a gor-

The Catalina 28 impresses with its signature ChrisCraft design elements and exceptional craftsmanship.

geous Carolina Flare bow, an elegant reverse transom, and wood trimmings. But it features a new wide-body hull for a smoother ride and sportier handling. It also has the power. The standard engine setup is a pair of Mercury Verado 225 V8s. But you’d be foolish not to step up to the twin 300-hp Verados with their easy-docking joy-

stick control. Like to go fast? With the purring 300s, the Catalina 28 can fly at an eye-watering 60 mph. Stepping aboard is a breeze, courtesy of the starboard-side “dive” door. I’ve taken to calling it the “Labrador” door as it makes life so much easier for a four-legged Fido to enter the cockpit from the dock. As with any good center console, there’s a sizable hardtop over the helm, though ChrisCraft refers to it as a pilothouse on account of the three-piece tempered glass windshield that gives plenty of protection from the elements. Perched at the helm and gliding across Sarasota Bay at 50 mph, there was hardly a whistle of wind. And because being shaded from the sun is becoming more and more important to us Florida boaters, I give full marks to the 28’s power-deploying SureShade bimini top and Mediterranean-style canvas shade over the foredeck, which essentially provide complete coverage for the entire boat. What hasn’t changed with this new Catalina

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28 is Chris-Craft’s single-minded focus on craftsmanship. This, to me, is what really sets it apart. It’s dressed in diamond-quilted upholstery, shiny stainless fittings, and mile-deep paintwork available in a choice of 12 colors. The wooden steering wheel wouldn’t look out of place in a vintage Jaguar. Out on the water, the Catalina is a true joy to drive, and much of this comes down to the Seakeeper Ride active trim tabs on the lower transom. Acting like flaps on a Gulfstream jet, they can reduce roll by 42 percent and quell fore-aft pitch by 53 percent. Punch the throttles from rest and instead of the bow pointing up at Mars, the Seakeepers keep the nose down, reducing the drama while increasing forward visibility. Spin the wheel to go hard into a turn, and the flaps decrease the lean dramatically. They’re a revelation and completely automatic. Naturally, this level of Bentley-like quality and painstaking attention to detail doesn’t come cheap. A base 28 is priced at around $340,000. However, if you want the beefier engines, a Seakeeper gyro for no-roll stability at anchor, the SureShade bimini, and engines painted to match the hull, you’re looking at closer to $400,000. Think of it as a small price to pay for the perfect Florida boat. «

POWER FILE PRICE: FROM $339,900 LENGTH: 28 FEET BEAM: 9 FEET WEIGHT: 8,680 POUNDS ENGINES: TWIN VERADO 225 OR 300 TOP SPEED: 60 MPH WITH 2 X 300 HP WHY WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE IT BRINGS CLASSIC STYLE, LUXURY, AND ELEGANCE TO THE WATER.

DO YOU HAVE ANY OF THESE RELATIONSHIP CONCERNS? • Are you looking to create a relationship that is safe, passionate, and long-lasting? • Do you want to take your relationship to the next stage and re-connect with your partner on a new and much deeper level? • Are you concerned your marriage is headed for separation or divorce? • Have you and your partner struggled to heal your relationship after a marital affair? Dr. Coral Arvon, Former Director of Behavioral Medicine & Wellness at the Pritikin Longevity Center, was selected as Top Relationship Expert of the Year by the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP)

Dr. Coral Arvon, National speaker, author and expert psychotherapist of Dr. Arvon and Associates, was just recently selected as Top Relationship Expert of the Year by the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP) for her outstanding leadership and commitment to the field. – Aventura, FL – 11-20-2019 (Press Release Jet) MAIN OFFICE LOCATION AVENTURA, FL 2627 NE 203rd St. Suite #118 Aventura, FL 33180

ALL OFFICE LOCATIONS Aventura, FL • Doral, FL Plantation, FL • Boca Raton, FL Naples, FL

Call to schedule a session at (305) 936-8000 We provide both in-office and virtual appointments | www.drcoralarvon.com

FEBRUARY 2024

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Two

It Takes

MEET THREE OF MIAMI’S CUTEST COUPLES WHO POUR THEIR HEARTS AND SOULS INTO EACH OTHER—AND THEIR VARIOUS ENDEAVORS IN THE 305

BY PAIGE BOWERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMIN KADI

LAURA KOZELOUZEK AND KATHY ANDERSEN

Laura Kozelouzek and Kathy Andersen believe that the universe conspires to give us what we need. In their case, it was each other. But for a while, Kathy was convinced that all she really needed was her dog, Tinkerbell. “I was in a 10-year relationship that ended before I met Laura,” says Kathy, an author and the founder of End1in4, a 501c3 nonprofit that aims to end child sexual abuse (kathyandersen.com/ end1in4). “It was a perfectly good relationship, but there was something missing. I wanted the fairy tale, or I didn’t want anything at all.” Six months before COVID-19 hit, Kathy was nominated for a nonprofit industry award by the Women’s Chamber of Commerce of Miami-Dade County. Though Laura’s company, Quest Workspaces (questworkspaces.com), was sponsoring the ceremony, she was on the fence about whether she’d attend. Ultimately, she decided to show, which was a good thing, because the second she laid eyes on Kathy, she was “fixated on her” without even realizing that she was the night’s honoree. Even better, Kathy needed office space, and Laura had some to spare. They exchanged contact information, and the texting began. “Kathy sent me a picture of Tinkerbell,” Laura recalls. “And I sent her a picture of my son, Jordan. After some back and forth, I said I needed to talk to her before Monday, which was when I was going to show her the office space. I was riding my bike in Central Park when I went out on a limb and told her how I felt about her. I was in a relationship 52

at the time that wasn’t right, and Kathy told me it sounded like I had a few things to work out.” Laura worked those things out within a week. “When something is right, it feels like this,” Laura says. But Laura’s son had two years of high school left in Connecticut, so she needed to go back and forth between there and Miami, as Quest was starting to grow. Logistics were complicated, and Laura was eager for Kathy and Jordan to meet. She planned a ski trip for the three of them in March 2020, but COVID-19 forced the ski resort to close. Laura, Kathy, and Jordan ended up in a yearlong quarantine with each other in Connecticut. By the end of lockdown, Kathy was helping Jordan with his college essays. When he was accepted into the University of Miami, things started falling into place. Now, Kathy and Laura divide their time between Connecticut and Miami, where they get up 45 minutes before sunrise every day to ride bikes together on the beach. In August 2023, they married in a small ceremony at the Church of Dirt in Park City, Utah. “It was an unusual wedding, but it was wonderful because of the love, friendship, and simplicity,” Kathy says. “We didn’t get hung up on the usual stuff. It was from the heart.” Tinkerbell was there too. At the end of the night, the couple and their guests decided to change into their pajamas, order takeout, and watch movies. By all accounts, Kathy and Laura have gotten their happily ever after.

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LINDSAY SILBERMAN AND MATTHEW STEVENS When Matthew Stevens met Lindsay Silberman for the first time in March 2007, he knew she was beautiful, but he wasn’t sure if she was into him. They were both Syracuse University students at the time, enjoying themselves in Acapulco with their friends on spring break. Matthew had two more months until he graduated, but Lindsay had another two years to go. One night he asked her to dance. She didn’t say no, but she also didn’t make eye contact with him the entire time. He thought she was playing it cool. She swears she was just surveying the crowd. “By the end of spring break, I was like, ‘It’s been fun, enjoy the rest of college,’” Lindsay recalls. “I said it partly to see his reaction. I didn’t want to seem desperate, but I kept thinking about how cool he was, how easy he was to talk to, and how much we had in common.” A month before Matthew graduated, they started to date. Their romance blossomed into a long-distance relationship that had her visiting him in Manhattan, where he worked as an investment banker, and him crashing with her at her sorority house. By the time Lindsay graduated and got a job in the magazine industry, Matthew was ready for them to move in together. But Lindsay felt things were getting too serious and moving too fast. She needed time, maybe three weeks tops. “After the third week, she came crawling back,” Matthew says, laughing. But it still took a few years before Lindsay was ready to move in with him. A year after she did, Matthew proposed, and in 2016 they married

in Mexico in what Lindsay calls “a fullcircle moment.” When the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuing lockdown began, the couple decided to rethink their priorities. Lindsay wanted to leave magazines to focus on her career as an influencer. As a self-described candle snob, she also began contemplating starting a candle company that would replicate some of the beautiful candle scents she had smelled in luxury hotels. “I wanted people to have that in their homes, especially during COVID, when people were looking for small indulgences to make them happy and transport them,” she says. When Lindsay and Matthew launched Hotel Lobby Candle (hotel lobbycandle.com) in 2020, they sold out of their 3,000-candle inventory in 24 minutes. A month later, Matthew left his job and dedicated himself to the company full-time. Online, he is known as @instahusband, his hat tip to being the company’s behind-thescenes guy. The couple moved to Miami part-time in May 2021, another postCOVID lifestyle tweak. Now they enjoy long walks on the beach with their miniature long-haired dachshund, Pierre, tennis in the sunshine, and anything that gives them a chance to take a break in perfect weather. “Our life is chaotic, but in a good way,” Lindsay says. “We’re running a company together, working from home together, and married. The good thing is that our personalities are complementary. I don’t know many people who could do this, but we’ve figured out how to make it work.” FEBRUARY 2024

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HEIDI AND SHANE BATTIER Former Miami Heat power forward Shane Battier still remembers the first time he laid eyes on his future wife, Heidi. It was seventh grade, and he was the new kid in school—awkward enough at age 13, but amplified by the fact that Shane was already 6 feet, 4 inches tall. “I walked into math class that day and saw this beautiful girl who had ’90s bangs and braces, and she was wearing a plaid skirt,” he recalls. “I thought, ‘Oh, I’m in love.’ I knew right away I was going to be her man.” The Shane plus Heidi equation took time to solve. They were friends first, bonding over their shared love of sports. By ninth grade, Shane says he wore Heidi down, and they began dating. By the end of tenth grade, they had broken up, but everyone could see that they were destined to get back together. It was just a matter of time. “My freshman year of college, I was playing field hockey at Villanova and we had a fall break,” Heidi says. “I convinced a teammate who had a car on campus that we should drive down to North Carolina to visit Shane at Duke before his basketball season started. [Shane and I] were technically just friends on that visit, but on the next visit, we were like, ‘Okay, maybe this is back on.’” After graduating college in 2001, Shane was drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies, and Heidi moved back to Michigan, where she worked in the communications department of a small bank. “I was kind of like, ‘I don’t know how this whole NBA thing works, so you go do your thing and I’ll come 56

visit,’” Heidi says. That calculation didn’t add up, so the couple got engaged at the end of the season and married two years later. Heidi began teaching at an innercity charter school, where she saw promising students who did not have the same opportunities afforded to kids in more affluent neighborhoods. After Shane was traded to the Houston Rockets in 2006, Heidi decided it was time to address that gap. In 2008, they founded the Battier Take Charge Foundation (battiertake charge.org), which provides college scholarships, mentorship, networking, and leadership training to underprivileged youth. Through its Battier Scholars Program, the foundation hands out $32,000 scholarships to top students in Houston, Detroit, and Miami, where the Battiers have lived since 2011 after Shane signed with the Heat. One of the ways the Battiers raise scholarship money for these students is through their Cabernet with Battier event, which will be held at Byblos Miami on February 3. The event includes a wine tasting, a multicourse meal, a live auction, and karaoke with a live band. When they’re not helping others, the Battiers say they’re “your typical suburban family,” dividing their time between their son’s high school basketball games and their daughter’s middle school club soccer matches. “Currently having a seventh-grade daughter, I’m reliving my middle school years,” Heidi says. “She does not like to hear me say, ‘Just be careful. That tall guy in your math class? You could marry him.’” «

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GETTING BUZZED ON

With a provenance older than the cocktail itself, honey has been a beloved natural sweetener for centuries. With its floral notes and viscous texture, honey adds depth and complexity to recipes and fosters unique enzymes, vitamins, and minerals that bestow a slew of health benefits. From classic sips like the Hot Toddy to the Prohibition-era Bee’s Knees and modern favorites such as Penicillin, there is a rich history and vast culture around honey cocktails. Discover the buzz for yourself with these bee-witching libations.

Honey Cocktails BY JULES ARON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GYORGY PAPP

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Hive Five

This classic old-fashioned is reimagined with the essence of the hive. The richness of honey is infused with seductive notes of rose and the earthiness of pollen, which coats the rim of this sophisticated sip.

INGREDIENTS 2 oz. bourbon 3/4 oz. rose honey syrup (recipe below) 2 dashes apple bitters Honey and pollen to rim glass Orange peel to garnish (optional)

Rim a glass with honey and pollen, and set aside. In a mixing glass, stir together the bourbon, rose honey syrup, and apple bitters. Pour into the rimmed glass and garnish with a classic twist of orange.

ROSE HONEY SYRUP INGREDIENTS 1/2 cup water 1/2 cup honey

1 tbsp. dried rosebuds

BUY LOCAL Support your local beekeepers in their hard work to spread the benefits of honey and provide the best quality product in the state. In MiamiDade County, the Native Guy is the man. A certified horticulturist, Nick Bofill is committed to sharing his honeys, all sourced from his South Florida bee boxes. (thenativeguy.com)

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a low simmer. Remove from heat, let steep, and then strain. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

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The Sweetest Sting The combination of spicy ginger and exotic citrus notes gives this bright, effervescent drink a lively punch of flavor, while the golden nectar offers subtle sweetness like no other. Garnish with a cube of honeycomb, allowing it to drip playfully into your glass.

INGREDIENTS 2-3 fresh ginger slices 1/2 oz. lemon juice 1/4 oz. chamomile honey syrup (recipe below) 1/2 oz. dry vermouth 1 oz. Amaro Nonino 1 bottle Fever Tree Sparkling Lime and Yuzu Soda An assortment of citrus wheels to garnish

Muddle the slices of fresh ginger in a shaker, then add all other ingredients except the soda. Shake vigorously with ice and strain into a wine glass filled with fresh ice. Top with sparkling soda. Garnish with an assortment of citrus wheels and enjoy the sweetness of the sting.

CHAMOMILE HONEY SYRUP INGREDIENTS 1/2 cup orange blossom honey 1/2 cup water

2 tbsp. dried chamomile flowers or 4 tea bags

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a low simmer. Remove from heat, let steep, and then strain. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. 60

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HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT HONEY FOR YO U R C O C K TA I L The flavor possibilities of honey and spirit pairings can be highly nuanced, and the best pairing is up to your palate. However, with more than 300 honey varietals produced in the United States, all sourced from different botanicals, the options can seem overwhelming. Here are a few suggestions: Dark rum pairs well with Florida mangrove honey, given its complementing notes of butterscotch. Floral gins benefit from a more delicate orange blossom honey. Scotch and bourbons play well with a rich buckwheat honey, with notes of chocolate, coffee, and molasses. For more vegetal cocktails that use agave spirits like tequila or mezcal, try a honey with grassy undertones such as an alfalfa honey.

Bear Necessities

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This sparkling number features fresh berries, plums, and a honey bear ice pop that acts as a whimsical garnish and adds a delicate sapor as it melts. It’s a satisfying sipper that we hope Baloo would approve of.

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INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup blackberries 1/2 cup raspberries

•

1 cup plum slices 2 tbsp. lemon juice 2 tbsp. honey syrup Prosecco

•

To make the honey bear ice pops, place all ingredients (except the Prosecco) in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour mixture into molds and freeze for 4-6 hours. Place an ice bear in a glass and top with Prosecco. Serve immediately. FEBRUARY 2024

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Buzzworthy

This exotic blend of mezcal, mango, and passion fruit, complemented with a touch of honey, will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. For an elevated experience, coat the rim with lightly toasted black sesame seeds, adding aroma and drama to the glass.

INGREDIENTS 1 1/2 oz. mezcal 1/2 oz. lemon juice 1/2 oz. salted honey sesame orgeat (recipe below) 1/2 oz. passion fruit puree 1/2 oz. mango juice Honey and toasted black sesame seeds to rim glass

Rim the glass with honey and sesame seeds, and set aside. Add all ingredients to a mixing tin with ice and shake well. Strain into your rimmed glass with a large ice cube.

S A LT E D H O N E Y S E S A M E O R G E AT 1 1/2 cups sesame seeds 1 1/2 cups water 1 cup honey Pinch Maldon Salt 1/2 tsp. orange blossom water

HANGOVER CURE? Sure, honey is a sweet and tasty superfood with antibacterial and antiviral properties that can boost your immune system and fight sickness, but did you know it could also prevent your next hangover? The natural sugars in honey help the alcohol metabolize in the body and prevent sudden changes in blood sugar levels. A tablespoon before bed and again in the morning can help seal the deal. 62

In a food processor, finely grind the sesame seeds. Combine the remaining ingredients (except the orange blossom water) in a small pot and bring to a boil. Add the ground sesame seeds and simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Add the orange blossom water and transfer to the refrigerator to chill for at least 12 hours. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, and store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

PALM BEACH AVENTURA MAGAZINE ILLUSTRATED

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Bee-Witched

This elegant variation on the Bee’s Knees boasts a delightful twist. The sweetness of ripe pear is enhanced by the aromatic notes of lavender and vibrant butterfly pea flowers, creating a sensory experience that is nothing short of enchanting. Yet, it’s the locally sourced honey that infuses this cocktail with its irresistible sweetness and steals the show in this purple beauty.

INGREDIENTS 2 oz. gin 1 oz. fresh pear juice 3/4 oz. butterfly pea and

lavender honey syrup (recipe below) 3/4 oz. fresh Meyer

lemon juice Honey and lavender and/or cornflower petals to rim glass Dehydrated and butterfly pea– infused pear slices to garnish (optional)

Rim a coupe glass in honey and dip in mixture of lavender and/or cornflower petals, and set aside. Add all remaining ingredients to a mixing tin with ice and shake well. Strain into the rimmed coupe glass and garnish with a dehydrated pear slice.

B U T T E R F LY P E A A N D L AV E N D E R HONEY SYRUP INGREDIENTS 1/2 cup wildflower honey 1/2 cup water

1 tbsp. dried butterfly pea flowers 1 tbsp. culinary-grade dried lavender

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a low simmer. Remove from heat, let steep, and then strain. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

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ARRIVING IN

STYLE FROM A $28 MILLION R O L L S - R OYC E D R O P TA I L TO A 2 6 0 - M P H B U G AT T I , THESE 10 HEAD-SPINNING AUTOMOBILE S GUARANTEE A GRAND ENTRANCE BY H O WA R D WA L K E R 64

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R-Royce

LA ROSE NOIRE D R O P TA I L Any car costing a reported $28 million is going to get you noticed. And this La Rose Noire Droptail, the latest Coachbuild creation from Rolls-Royce, will do just that. It’s a one-of-one, two-seat, two-door convertible-coupe hand-built for a very prominent French madame. Inspired by the Great Gatsby hot rods of the roaring twenties, this V12-powered masterpiece features wine-red paintwork that mimics the color of the velvet-like Black Baccara rose from France. Inside, the cabin is decorated with 1,603 individual triangular veneer pieces meant to resemble scattered rose petals. The cabin also features a unique Champagne cooler designed to carry a bottle of special-edition Champagne de Lossy along with crystal flutes. The roof is unusual in that it has to be removed for sunny-day driving and there isn’t a folding soft-top in case of a sudden downpour. Pick your weather wisely. This La Rose Noire is the first of four commissioned Droptail models, each one specially made for the owner. We’re sure Rolls-Royce is awaiting your call.

Cadiac

CELESTIQ

Here is arguably the most extravagant, most expensive, most avant-garde Cadillac ever built—a car guaranteed to turn heads quicker than Elvis behind the wheel of his pink ’55 Fleetwood Sixty Special. The all-electric Celestiq, which went into production in late 2023, will cost more than $340,000. This four-door fastback is Cadillac’s poster child for its plans to go entirely electric by 2030. Thrusted by a pair of electric motors generating more than 600 horsepower, this flagship Caddy will rush from standstill to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds and glide for around 300 miles on a full charge. Like any Rolls-Royce or Gulfstream jet, the Cadillac Celestiq has two adjustable rear seats. Up above, the glass roof features smart glass, with four sections that you can maneuver to let in

just the right amount of light. And as with Rolls-Royce, buyers will be able to design and customize their Celestiq at a special Artisan Center in Warren, Michigan, choosing from an endless array of paint colors, leathers, woods, and cloths to make their car unique.

C A D I L L A C S AY S I T P L A N S T O HAND-ASSEMBLE NO MORE THAN 500 CELESTIQS A YEAR ( A N D O N LY S I X A T A T I M E T O E N S U R E AT T E N T I O N TO D E TA I L ) . E LV I S W O U L D H AV E A P P R O V E D . FEBRUARY 2024

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3 Rezvani

HERCULES 6X6 If anyone suggested you could arrive in style in a pickup truck, you might question their sanity. But if the aforementioned pickup was a Rezvani Hercules 6x6 with 6-wheel drive and a 1,300-hp supercharged V8 under the hood, you might agree. Helena, Montana–based Rezvani took apart a humble Jeep Gladiator pickup, stretched the body and chassis to accommodate that third axle, and cladded it in apocalypse-style bodywork extensions. For the pièce de résistance, it took a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 from the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon and bumped it up to 7 liters and an insane 1,300 horseys. Sixwheel smoky burnouts? Not a problem. But if you really want to impress friends and family, go for the Military Edition package. It features full Kevlar armor, bulletproof glass, underside explosion protection, ramming bumpers, and a James Bond–style rear smoke screen. Pricing for this end-of-the-world off-roader kicks off at around $465,000. 66

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5 Btley

BACALAR

R-Royce

A new Bentley Continental GTC convertible would make for a stylish arrival. But for the ultimate in jaw-dropping, eyes-wide-open entrances, Bentley has built the exquisite $1.9 million Bacalar open-top convertible. Bentley produced just 12 Bacalars and, alas, all 12 have been sold. Though we predict that, because the first cars were delivered in 2021, one or two might be entering the pre-owned market right around now. While the car is based on the mechanical bits of the fastest Continental, the 650-horsepower GT Speed convertible, every body panel is unique to the Bacalar.

And what a body; the front-end styling is more aggressive, the rear is more distinctive, and those muscular shoulders over the wheels were surely inspired by Arnold Schwarzenegger’s in his bodybuilding days. Equally dramatic is the interior, which gets the full bespoke Mulliner treatment. Those diamond-quilted leather seats require no fewer than 148,199 stitches each, while the wood on the dash is made from trees that fell 5,000 years ago. But check the weather before you drive off: the one thing missing with the Bacalar is a roof.

PHANTOM When it comes to making the grandest of grand entrances, stepping out from the back seat of the latest RollsRoyce Phantom flagship is hard to beat. No, make that impossible. The massive rear-hinged coach door that powers open at the touch of a button, the ethereal glow of 1,600 twinkling fiber optic

stars in the roof lining, the sheer size of the car transform this from automobile to rolling wonder. The Phantom might have been around since 2003, but in its latest guise—priced from $475,000—it’s as much a symbol of wealth as ever. And with the ability through Rolls’ Bespoke Division to

design a car exactly the way you want it, no two iterations will be the same. The Phantom’s mighty 6.75-liter twinturbocharged V12 engine is not long for this world; it will soon get replaced by electric motors and batteries from the new Spectre two-door coupe. A Phantom EV? Now that will be electrifying. FEBRUARY 2024

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Mercedes-Benz

280SE 3.5 CABRIOLET

Nothing defines Old Hollywood glamour more than a big four-seat Mercedes-Benz Cabriolet. All that chrome, that wraparound windshield, the acres of glove-soft leather. The best version is without a doubt the 1971 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet, which was the final year of production for these magnificent

hand-built drop-tops. This is the version with that trademark lower and wider chrome grille and Teflon-smooth 4.5-liter V8 engine under that mile-long hood. A mere 1,232 examples of these 280SEs were built between 1969 and 1971, ensuring their collector status—and high price. This metallic blue

ECD Jaguar E -T Y P E Enzo Ferrari once described Jaguar’s EType as “the most beautiful car ever made.” Gazing at the 1974-vintage E-Type Series 3 that’s the latest handcrafted creation from Kissimmeebased ECD Auto Design, we’d agree with Il Commendatore. Formerly East Coast Defenders, ECD Auto Design is best known for its impressive restomod conversions of Land Rover’s rugged workhorse 4x4. And as with the Defender models it’s been building for the past decade (more than 500 to date), ECD is now reimagining the iconic E. In a process that takes roughly 2,200 hours, the company takes an original Series 3 E-Type donor car (either a drop-top convertible or 2+2 coupe made between 1971 and 1975) and painstakingly restores it from the ground up. Buyers get to pick the engine, choosing from a 6.2-liter 450-hp Corvette LT1 V8, an uprated original 5.3-liter Jaguar V12, or even a 300-hp electric setup with a motor juiced by a trio of lithium-ion batteries. Costing upward of $300,000, these are true works of art that can be driven every day. 68

example sold at a recent RM Sotheby’s auction in Phoenix for $313,000. They drive as tremendously as they look. A magic-carpet ride, surprisingly brisk acceleration, and whisper-quiet refinement put them on a par with convertible offerings from RollsRoyce and Bentley.

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Pininfarina

B AT T I S TA

If arriving in style means making a lot of noise, then the $2.5 million Battista hypercar from Automobil Pininfarina might disappoint. It’s electric and about as vocal as a Dyson hair dryer. The only sounds you’ll likely hear are the gasps from onlookers as this projectile rolls into view. No, the Battista is all about rocket-style power. With a quartet of electric motors juiced by a 120-kWh battery pack, it produces an insane 1,877 hp. Off the line, it can sprint to 60 mph in under 1.8 seconds. That’s faster than a Formula 1 racecar. Top

speed? That would be 217 mph. In case you’re wondering, Automobil Pininfarina is a spinoff of the legendary Italian design studio Pininfarina, which has shaped some of the most beautiful Ferraris ever built. This Battista shares its electric bits with the equally rapid Nevera hypercar from Croatia’s Rimac. As you’d expect from Pininfarina, the Battista is a masterpiece of design, with its curvaceous carbon-fiber body, skyscraping scissor doors, and towering rear wing. Just 150 are being built. FEBRUARY 2024

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Bugi

MISTRAL A Bugatti—any Bugatti—will garner more attention than a Taylor Swift sighting at a Kansas City Chiefs game. But for making the ultimate grand entrance, there is nothing quite like turning up in the valet line behind the wheel of a $5 million Bugatti Mistral roadster. Named after the powerful wind that roars down the Rhône Valley in Southern France, this Mistral roars with equal ferocity, courtesy of its 8.0-liter W16 nuclear reactor pumping out 1,578 hp. Top speed should be more than 260 mph. And talking of the Mistral’s engine, there’s added appeal in that this hip-high roadster will be the last Bugatti ever to feature the legendary 16 cylinder. Next up will be hybrid-electric power. Bugatti is in the process of building just 99 of these open-top speed demons with most (if not all) already accounted for. An inquiry for a canceled order might be necessary. 70

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Ast Ma D B 1 2 V O L A N T E

When you’re driving arguably the most beautiful car in the world, arriving in style at any destination is guaranteed. That’s the effect of Aston Martin’s achingly gorgeous 2024 DB12 Volante. Yes, there’s a coupe version of this grandest of GT grand tourers, but it’s this drop-top, wind-inthe-hair, sun-on-your-face convertible that’s the one to have. Just look at the thing—it has more brooding sex appeal than Daniel “007” Craig and Gal Gadot com-

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bined. It’s just stunning, from that enlarged trademark Aston grille to those muscly haunches to that raked-back windscreen. Plus, a new top design with eight sound-absorbing layers and the ability to open in a mere 14 seconds and at speeds up to 31 mph makes it the perfect convertible. Speaking of speed, under the hood is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 packing 671 hp, enough to slingshot this DB from rest to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds and on to an astonishing top speed of 202 mph. All for around $265,000. «

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EMBRACE GIRLY FLORALS AND FEMININE HUES Photography by Gabor Jurina Shot by Aventura on location at Renny & Reed, West Palm Beach Carolina Herrera top, jacket, pants, belt; Jimmy Choo heels; Oscar de la Renta necklace, earrings. Opposite page: Alexander McQueen dress, cuff bracelet, ear cuffs

Full

Bloom 72

For buying information, turn to page 106. Fashion editor: Katherine Lande

PALM BEACH ILLUSTRATED

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PALMBEACHILLUSTRATED.COM | JANUARY 2023

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Dolce & Gabbana dress, coat; Jimmy Choo heels; Oscar de la Renta earrings. Opposite page: Valentino dress For buying information, turn to page 106.

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PALM BEACH ILLUSTRATED

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Dior blouse, pants, handbag; Jimmy Choo heels; Oscar de la Renta earrings. Opposite page: La Double J jacket, shorts; Carolina Herrera earrings. For buying information, turn to page 106.

PALMBEACHILLUSTRATED.COM | JANUARY 2023

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Chanel top, dress, shoes, necklaces, earrings Opposite page: Oscar de la Renta gown, earrings; Jimmy Choo heels. For buying information, turn to page 106.

PALM BEACH ILLUSTRATED

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PALMBEACHILLUSTRATED.COM | JANUARY 2023

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Akris dress; Carolina Herrera earrings. Opposite page: Gucci coat; Jimmy Choo heels; Dolce & Gabbana handbag; Oscar de la Renta earrings. For buying information, turn to page 106. Model: Charlotte Coquelin, The Industry, New York Hair and makeup: Heather Blaine, Creative Management, Miami Digital tech: Tony Lai

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FEBRUARY 2024

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STUART FLORIDA DESIGN

MIAMI EDITION

FLORIDA DESIGN Creative Class ART-CENTRIC INTERIORS FROM MIAMI TO SUNNY ISLES BEACH

Creatives You Need To Know

WOMEN

BY THE NUMBERS

WHO FLY

LOCAL LADIES WHO HAVE EARNED THEIR WINGS

100 THINGS WE LOVE ABOUT COLLIER COUNTY

YOUR GUIDE TO

STATE OF THE ART

M AGAZINE

SEASONED VOICES

LONGTIME RESIDENTS REMEMBER NAPLES

THE CAMERA EATS FIRST

FOODIE FEVER

SLIDE INTO THE DMs OF A LOCAL FOOD INFLUENCER

IS THE MAGIC CITY THE WORLD’S HOTTEST FINE DINING DESTINATION?

BREWS YOU CAN USE

ART & THE CITY The Players, Must-Sees, and Surprises of Basel 2022

FOOD & DRINK

CELEBRATING

DESIGN INTEL One-on-One With Paola Lenti

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AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO SPRING TRAINING

Vincenzo Betulia, chef/co-founder of Osteria Tulia, Bar Tulia, and The French Brasserie Rustique

HOW SUPER CLAMS ARE CLEANING THE INDIAN RIVER LAGOON

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PERFECT

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EIGHT MIAMI BREWERIES AT THE TOP OF THEIR CRAFT

E N T E R TA I N M E N T A V E N U E F L AV O R S O N 5 T H D I N I N G G U I D E

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SETTING THE STANDARD

Palm Beach Media Group is a renowned publishing company with print publications representing a mix of proprietary titles and custom magazines, along with digital solutions, serving the entire state of Florida and more.

P A LM B EA CH M ED IA . COM

PUBLISHER OF: Naples Illustrated Naples Charity Register Palm Beach Illustrated Palm Beach Charity Register Naples Realtor Magazine Palm Beach Relocation Guide Vero Beach Magazine The Jewel of Palm Beach: The Mar-aLago Club Jupiter Magazine 5th Avenue South: 5th Avenue South Business Improvement District Aventura Magazine Naples 100 Stuart Magazine Community Report: Collier Community Foundation Palm Beach 100 Pinnacle: Jupiter Medical Center Foundation Vero Beach Magazine: Vero Beach Handbook art&culture: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County Time and Treasure: Guide to Better Giving Florida Design Southwest Florida Relocation Guide Florida Design Miami Edition Florida Design Annual Sourcebook Florida Design Naples Edition Fisher Island Magazine Club Braman Magazine Advances: Tampa General Hospital Naples on

ILLUSTRATED

the Gulf: Greater Naples Chamber Waypoints: Naples Yacht Club

JUPITER PITER CharityRegister PALM BEACH

MAGAZINE

30th ANNIVERSARY EDITION

BADGLEY & MISCHKA AT FASHION MEETS ART • CUSTOM JEWELRY • TIMELESS NEW RIOMAR HOME • BEACH BARBER SHOP • PEDAL POWER VOLUME XXVI, NUMBER 2

2022-2023

ADVANCES THE ACADEMIC DIFFERENCE

FEBRUARY 2023

Fashion Times Five

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SPRING 2023

WORLD-CLASS HEALTH CARE IN PALM BEACH COUNTY

NEXT-DAY ONCOLOGY APPOINTMENTS

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JESSICA

KORDA AFTER RECOVERING FROM INJURY AT HOME IN JUPITER, SHE’S READY FOR THE 2023 LPGA TOUR

FLY THE FLAG

PALM BEACH DANDIES

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AVENTURA // 2024 Aventura Magazine presents THE FACES behind some of the most successful organizations in our region

84 // INTERIOR DESIGN 86 // TRANQUIL REST 88 // LUXURY REAL ESTATE 89 // CUSTOM STORAGE 90 // GREAT DESIGN 91

// ENHANCED VISION

92 // PLASTIC SURGERY

FEBRUARY 2024

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THE FACE OF

INTERIOR DESIGN SARAH ZOHAR — SARAH Z DESIGNS Sarah Z Designs is a Miami interior design firm founded by Sarah Zohar. Zohar has built an impressive portfolio and stature for excellence that spans South Florida and beyond. She’s been recognized by several industry publications and has won multiple awards for her work on

luxury residential projects. Zohar is a native New Yorker who moved to Aventura, Florida, where she received her degree in residential design from the Arts Institute in Ft. Lauderdale. Shortly after, she founded her award-winning firm Sarah Z. Designs. 2605 NE 189TH ST., MIAMI, FL n 305-906-5500 n SARAHZDESIGNS.COM

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

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A V E N T U R A // 2024

FACES OF FACES_AVM0224.indd 85

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THE FACE OF

TRANQUIL REST TANIA YUMBLA — AVENTURA MATTRESS Tania Yumbla, president and CEO of Aventura Mattress, has risen to the top of the South Florida business world by providing superior-quality mattresses and service to her clientele, suppliers, and community. Yumbla’s personal and professional journey is the epitome of the American dream. Her career spans from her grandfather’s ice creamery in a small town in Ecuador to New York City, where she became the “princess” of the largest mattress retailer in the country to Miami, where

she has become the “Queen of Aventura Mattress.” Her success is built on her genuine personality trait of positive thinking and passion for giving her heart to all. She believes that the superior quality of her products must paired with the superior quality of her service to others. Yumbla’s leadership has attracted her family members Kate (daughter), Christopher (son), and Sara (mom) to help carry out her vision.

15516 BISCAYNE BLVD., NORTH MIAMI BEACH, FL n 305-627-3755 n AVENTURAMATTRESS.COM

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A V E N T U R A // 2024

FACES OF FACES_AVM0224.indd 87

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A V E N T U R A // 2024

FACES OF

THE FACE OF

LUXURY REAL ESTATE DENISE RUBIN — DENISE RUBIN GROUP Denise Rubin breaks records in the real estate industry, surpassing $2.6 billion in personal sales, and dominating the marketplace. Exposure is everything, and Denise promotes her listings with unmatched, innovative local, national, and international marketing programs, including on her Emmy Award-nominated TV show, The American Dream—Selling Miami. Denise has amassed a roomful of awards including 32 BEST

Awards from the Builder’s Association of South Florida. Denise is ranked No. 1 at Coldwell Banker Aventura, No. 6 in the State of Florida, in the International Society of Excellence—Legend’s Society, and in the top half of 1 percent of Realtors nationwide. A home is one of the most important assets that most people will ever buy or sell, and Denise is committed to exceeding expectations.

20803 BISCAYNE BLVD., SUITE 102, AVENTURA, FL n 305-409-0019 n DENISERUBIN.COM

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A V E N T U R A // 2024

FACES OF THE FACE OF

CUSTOM STORAGE JULIE SHVEDYUK — CALIFORNIA CLOSETS Julie Shvedyuk, vice president of operations for California Closets Miami is excited for the company’s future. With a brand-new showroom in Miami Shores opening in 2024, California Closets is looking forward to showcasing everything that they have to offer. “The showroom is really one of a kind. It is built like a house, so walking through, you truly feel at home,” says Shvedyuk who is excited to host events in the space, especially those geared towards California

Closets trade partners. The California Closets trade program offers exclusive perks such as discounts on projects, commissions, sponsorships, and more. Partnering with interior designers, developers, contractors, realtors, professional organizers, and more, the trade program has grown more than 70 percent since the time of her hire. Explore all opportunities, work with California Closets today.

12700 NW 42 AVE., SUITE 100, OPA LOCKA, FL n 305-623-8282 n LOCATIONS.CALIFORNIACLOSETS.COM/CALIFORNIA-CLOSETS-MIAMI-E1C0578753AF

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A V E N T U R A // 2024

FACES OF

THE FACE OF

GREAT DESIGN ALFREDO LEON — ABITAR DESIGN GROUP Alfredo Leon, a Venezuelan architect, came to Florida in 2001 to advise new clients with design needs. As director of Abitar Design Group LLC, Leon is dedicated to architecture and interior design. The company expertly manages architectural projects, construction, and remodeling, in addition to the interior design of homes, offices, restaurants, and commercial spaces. With a team of licensed architects and engineers, licensed and insured contractors, subcontractors as well

as project managers and assistants, Abitar offers a one-stop response. Leon himself offers more than 36 years of experience since completing his education with honors in Venezuela. “Our greatest contentment is our client’s happiness with their final project results,” Leon says. “We only care for our client satisfaction, through a professional and innovative response to all their design project needs.” 2330 NE 192 ST., MIAMI, FL n 754-234-0871 n ALFREDOLEON.NET

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A V E N T U R A // 2024

FACES OF THE FACE OF

ENHANCED VISION ALAN D. MENDELSOHN, MD — EYE SURGEONS & CONSULTANTS For decades, South Florida physicians have called Dr. Mendelsohn “the physician’s physician.” He has the honor and privilege to serve as the ophthalmologist to thousands of families throughout Florida. Doctors know which physicians have certain areas of expertise and seek out the best of the best medical and surgical care for themselves and their family members. As a pioneer of five-minute laser cataract surgery, Dr.

Mendelsohn is recognized by fellow physicians as a preeminent expert in laser cataract surgery. From start to finish, this painless procedure takes only five minutes and includes implantation of an intraocular lens (IOL). There are no shots, no stitches, and no patches! Patients resume normal activities the very next day and enjoy enhanced quality of vision for the rest of their lives.

4651 SHERIDAN STREET, SUITE #100, HOLLYWOOD, FL n 954-894-1500 n MYEYESURGEONS.COM

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A V E N T U R A // 2024

FACES OF

THE FACE OF

PLASTIC SURGERY RUSLAN ZHURAVSKY, MD — Z FACE PLASTIC SURGERY Dr. Zhuravsky is a premier and highly sought-after facial plastic surgery expert, who has now brought his talents from New York/New Jersey to South Florida. He brings with him a high quality, luxury, results-driven approach. Patients value Dr. Z for his naturally beautiful results utilizing the most advanced and detail-oriented techniques, as well as patientcentric approach. As the face of faces, Dr. Z prides himself on delivering

customized and comprehensive treatments to make his patients beautiful, without the gimmicks, hype, and fake appearance. The Z Face Plastic Surgery office and fully certified operating room are located in the heart of Aventura, near the famous Aventura Mall and directly next door to the Mount Sinai emergency department.

2925 NE 199TH ST., SUITE 303, AVENTURA, FL n 786-347-6211 n ZFACEPLASTICSURGERY.COM

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

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SIP&SAVOR BOLD FLAVORS, COOL COCKTAILS, AND LOCAL FAVORITES

Downstairs at Gitano Miami, indulge in creative Mexican dishes such as the heirloom tomato and tamarind salad (left) and the tangy branzino in banana leaf (above). Upstairs on the rooftop, sip on mezcal-spiked cocktails in an oh-so-Tulum setting.

FAVORITES

Cast between the ground floor and rooftop levels of Casa Faena in Midbeach, Gitano Miami brings a taste of Tulum to the Magic City through creative and elevated Mexican cuisine, eco-chic design, and DJ-led evenings. Downstairs, Gitano Miami plays out as an intimate tropical café, strewn with small tables and enveloped by palm fronds and native foliage. Shared-plate highlights include the succulent lobster tostada with Mexican yuzu kosho, radish pico de gallo, and chile morita; the heirloom tomato and tamarind salad served in a scooped watermelon wedge; and the tangy and unexpectedly epic branzino in banana leaf, topped

with a confit of spinach, kiwi, serrano, and tomatillo. Pre- or post-dinner, hop in the elevator to the fourth floor, arriving at Gitano’s vibe-heavy, sultry rooftop bar to sip refreshing cocktails on a tented bed or cozy wooden benches within nooks adorned with colorful cushions. Enjoy the mezcal-forward Jungle Fever and the spicy Kisses in the Car, both available by the glass or in a punch bowl format (always a hit when bringing out-of-towners). Chill and chat on the terrace to Gypsy Disco sounds and house beats or get up and dance the night away under starry skies. (gitano. com/miami) —Paul Rubio

COURTESY GITANO MIAMI

SPLIT PERSONALITY

FEBRUARY 2024

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SIP&SAVOR FESTIVAL FUN

SOBEWFF

FROM HOSTED DINNERS TO EPICUREAN ADVENTURES, THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL PROMISES FOODIE FUN BY PAUL RUBIO

We’re counting the days until the return of the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF) presented by Capital One February 22-25. For its twenty-third edition, the beloved festival brings together a who’s who of today’s highestprofile chefs, rising culinary stars, TV personalities, and noted sommeliers to lead tens of thousands of foodies through four glorious days and 105 awesome events. Here, we spotlight some annual favorites and new headliners to look forward to in 2024, each promising unlimited food, drink, and fun. (sobewff.org) BURGER BASH When: February 22, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Buzz: Original host Rachel Ray

DINERS, DRIVE-INS, AND DIVES LIVE When: February 23, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Buzz: Famed chef and Emmy Award–winning TV host Guy Fieri brings his iconic Food Network show to American Airlines North Venue, showcasing the best in unapologetically caloric cuisine from 25-plus roadside diners, vintage drive-ins, and eclectic “dives” featured on his hit show.

OVERTOWN EATUP! When: February 25, 3 to 7 p.m. Buzz: James Beard Award–win-

returns to emcee the seventeenth iteration of this much-hyped burger showdown between top Miami and national chefs held at American Airlines North Venue (entrance located on the sand at 1 Lincoln Road). Come hungry and ready to critique as you eat your way through some 30 handhelds competing for this year’s People’s Choice Award.

ning chef Marcus Samuelsson hosts an afternoon filled with jazz and African American gastronomic delights by local Overtown chefs at Overtown Ninth Street Pedestrian Mall.

BOBBY’S TRIPLE THREAT When: February 24, 8 to 11 p.m. Buzz: At the Kimpton SurfSTEAK AND WHISKEY When: February 23, 8 to 11 p.m. Buzz: The proclaimed “King of Carnivores,” Michael Symon, hosts a night dedicated to pairing two American favorites, steak and whiskey, in Miami’s Design District at Jungle Plaza. Twenty-plus chefs put different spins on the perfect Prime cut, while Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits curate adventures in whiskey tasting and offer endless pours of whiskey-forward cocktails.

NOCHE CUBANA When: February 23, 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Buzz: Miami’s favorite James Beard Award–winning chef, Michelle Bernstein, her husband, David, Gio Guiterrez (aka @chatchowtv), and friends pay homage to Miami’s Cuban roots with a night of ethnic cuisine, cocktails, live music, and dancing at the National Hotel on South Beach.

comber Hotel, celebrity chef Bobby Flay and his all-star cast of Triple Threat—chefs Tiffany Derry, Brooke Williamson, and Michael Voltaggio—host a live version of the high-stakes food competition, which sees a team of bigdeal chefs facing off against a guest chef and a mystery judge every week.

BUBBLES BRUNCH When: February 25, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Buzz: Join the co-hosts of Food Network’s The Kitchen, Katie Lee, Jeff Mauro, and Geoffrey Zakarian, over a Sunday Funday of brunch bites, endless bubbles, and rubbing elbows with fellow foodies and reality TV royalty.

AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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THE GOODS

I Miami

Te Quiero: Say “I love you” Miami style this Valentine’s Day with heart-shaped croquetas and pastelitos from Dos Croquetas.

says co-owner Alec Fernandez. Since then, Fernandez and chef Vicky Carballo have added a Hialeah pop-up and a second brick-and-mortar location (on Calle Ocho) to the fold. In addition, those who want a Valentine’s light experience (read: less romance but all the flavor) can order assorted party-size croquetas (in a standard smaller shape and multiple flavors beyond ham) by the dozen and have them packaged in a Valentine box. (doscroquetas.com) —P.R.

COURTESY OF DOS CROQUETAS

This Valentine’s Day, those looking for something special beyond mainstays like cards, chocolates, and roses can find inspiration in the cupid-kissed culinary creations of Miami restaurant and bakery Dos Croquetas. The familyrun establishment off Bird Road started taking preorders in January for its two big Valentine specials: heart-shaped ham croquetas (by the dozen) and heart-shaped guava pastelitos (by the pair), both served in custom Valentine boxes. In the run-up to February 14, the croquetas and pastelitos can be ordered for pickup, delivery, or shipped nationwide, depending on date and availability. “Last year we sold over 10,000 heart-shaped croquetas and 3,000 heart-shaped pastelitos,”

FEBRUARY 2024

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SIP&SAVOR RECIPE

CARBONE AT HOME Fancy a restaurant-quality date night this Valentine’s Day but don’t want to deal with reservations and the big price tag? Consider playing chef and making one of Miami’s most iconic dishes—Carbone’s Spicy Vodka Rigatoni—in the comfort of home. Last fall, Mario Carbone bottled and released his popular secret recipe sauce, and also shared simple instructions on how to make the next best thing to his restaurant staple. Find the fiery tomato temptation on carbonefinefood.com or Amazon, priced at $24 for a pack of two; single jars are available at Whole Foods Market for $10 each. (carbonefinefood.com) —P.R.

X INGREDIENTS 1 24-oz. jar Carbone Spicy Vodka Sauce 8 oz. heavy cream 1 lb. rigatoni 2 tbsp. butter Salt

In a medium saucepan, combine the entire jar of Carbone Spicy Vodka Sauce and all the heavy cream. Stir and bring to a simmer over low-medium heat. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions. Add the rigatoni and butter to the sauce and heavy cream, and mix together over low heat for 2 minutes. Season with salt to taste and serve.

TRANSFORM ING YOUR

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T: 954-900-6610 | F: 954-900-6609 drduque@innovationmedicalcenter.com www.InnovationMedicalCenter.com Telemedicine Appointments Available Se Habla Español

AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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DRINK UP

February Fiesta I RR SA

PI L

AMONG THE MYRIAD FOOD AND DRINK HOLIDAYS GRACING OUR CALENDARS, A FAVORITE IS NATIONAL MARGARITA DAY FEBRUARY 22. TO CELEBRATE, WE’VE ROUNDED UP SOME OF THE MOST EXCITING MARGARITAS ON SOUTH BEACH, GUARANTEEING A TEQUILAFORWARD NIGHT TO REMEMBER. —P.R.

Avocado Margarita, Sweet Liberty Sweet Liberty is known for pushing the envelope when it comes to mixology, and its avocado margarita is testament to this. Expect an ambush of the senses over a mix of Ocho Plata Tequila, Vago Mezcal, Ancho Reyes Chile Liqueur, Cointreau, Chareau Aloe Liqueur, avocado puree, lime, and black pepper. (mysweetliberty.com)

Spicy Cucumber Margarita, Smith & Wollensky

This clever Eastern Mediterranean interpretation of the margarita combines reposado tequila, spiced strawberry-cilantro tea, and fresh lime juice. It’s served in a traditional tea set, branding it social media gold. (byblosmiami.com)

COURTESY OF SMITH & WOLLENSKY

COURTESY OF BYBLOS MIAMI

Habibi Margarite, Byblos

Packing a refreshing kick, this margarita is a balance of ghost pepper–laced Ghost Tequila, cucumber juice, lime juice, and agave. It’s the perfect cocktail to sip while taking in the sunset from Smith & Wollensky’s waterfront location. (smithandwollensky.com)

FEBRUARY 2024

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SIP&SAVOR MINDFUL MIXOLOGIST

Raspberry Revelry

L EL VI CO A C FRANCES

THE SHORTEST MONTH OF THE YEAR OFFERS MANY REASONS TO CHEERS BY JULES ARON

In the spirit of love and kindness, February’s cocktail spotlights the sweet raspberry. With strong ties to mythology and history, red berries are thought to symbolize life and the energy of blood. Raspberries, in particular, have long represented kindness and softness through their delicate drupelets, juicy pulp, and crimson color. Ancient Romans and Greeks enjoyed raspberries, and the fourth-century Roman agriculturist Palladius regarded them as having one of the highest mineral and antioxidant densities of any fresh fruit. Native peoples of the Americas recognized raspberry’s powerful medicinal and protective properties as well and utilized the leaves in natural medicines and teas, especially surrounding fertility and women’s health. In astrology, raspberries are considered a feminine plant, making it the perfect ingredient for an elixir of love. This Crimson Crush is a tangy bevvy loaded with fresh citrus, raspberries, tequila, and a splash of a bitter aperitif.

X Crimson Crush Ingredients 5-7 raspberries, plus more for garnish 1/ 2 oz. fresh-squeezed lime juice 1/ 2 oz. fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice 1/ 2 oz. agave syrup 2 oz. blanco tequila 1/ 2 oz. Campari or Aperol

GYORGY PAPP

Add the raspberries, lime juice, grapefruit juice, and agave syrup to a shaker and muddle the berries gently. Fill the cocktail shaker with ice, then add the tequila and Campari or Aperol. Shake well and strain into a glass with fresh ice. Garnish with fresh raspberries.

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An invitation to Style, Functionality and Elegance.

alfredo leon ABITAR DESIGN GROUP LLC www.alfredoleon.net • (754) 234 0871 • alfredoleon63@aol.com MIAMI • FT. LAUDERDALE • PALM BEACH

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ENTIRE STORE SHOWING THIS AD TRADE ACCOUNTS AVAILABLE

PRODUC T SHOWN

OSAKA DINING SET

NEW SHOWROOM - OUTLET STORE OPENING

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HOME

FROM CIT Y TO SHORE, THE FINE ART OF MIAMI LIVING

INTERIORS

CRAIG DENIS

HISTORY PROJECT

After many years away, a New York couple aspired to infuse their personal aesthetic into an iconic Coral Gables home. The 4,500-square-foot Mediterranean dwelling was built in 1925 by esteemed architect Phineas Paist and has become a well-guarded neighborhood gem. Even the home’s original arched front door is part of a collective of historic Gables doors, preventing it from being updated or demolished. Nevertheless, the owners’ love of color and enthusiasm for modern art fueled a stunning interior overhaul. “The clients’ sophistication and practicality were the foundation of this project,” says interior designer Luciana Fragali,

owner of Design Solutions. “Their free spirit and great taste in fashion inspired us to go outside the box of what a historical home should look like.” Working alongside her studio’s creative director, Andre Wanderley, Fragali composed a scheme that honored the original architecture yet spoke to the owners’ passion for contemporary art and bold color combinations. The main challenge was integrating a highly personalized modern design into a classic Coral Gables landmark. “The question was how do we combine history and tradition with irreverence and funkiness?” Wanderley says. “Coral Gables is a homecoming for us,” says the homeowner. “My wife’s father grew up here, and 50 years later, we’ve moved back home. The starting line was that we wanted a fun, mature, colorful house. When Luciana and Andre showed us our first renderings, we were hooked. The furniture, design, and vision were startlingly unique.” (ds-miami.com) —Jeanne De Lathouder FEBRUARY 2024

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HOME BY DESIGN

GO WITH THE FLOW HOW TO TELL A CONTINUOUS COLOR STORY THROUGH INTERIOR DESIGN BY ALENA CAPRA

R DA NOBLES

DARRYL NOBLES

L RY

Ground RULES DARRYL NOBLES

When it comes to creating a cohesive design flow from room to room, your color palette plays no small part. Continuity of color in a home helps to bridge the design from one space to another. So how do you make it all work? Here are my top tips for how to carry a color through your home seamlessly. (alenacapradesigns.com)

ALAN BARRY

MAP IT OUT

PLAY Nice Don’t be afraid to add several tones of the same color from room to room— from deep hues to softer ones or even a gradient. If you stick to three tones total, you’ll achieve a balanced feel that isn’t overly matchy.

Repeating a color throughout a space is known as color mapping. Once you have established the main colors for your decor, you can weave them throughout your home. I especially like to do this in open floor plans. In some areas, the color can be introduced in more subtle ways, like with accessories, pillows, or accent furniture. In other areas, go a little bolder with your color in items that cover more surface area, such as wallcoverings, area rugs, large pieces of furniture, or art. The goal is to incorporate a little bit of that color throughout, some in large-scale, some in small accents.

IN THEORY

DARRYL NOBLES

TROY CAMPBELL

STAND (OUT) ALONE While the flow of continuous color throughout a home can bring harmony, not every room has to have the same color story. There are some rooms that might call for a complete change in color. Usually, these are the more private spaces in a home like bedrooms, bars, or offices. In this scenario, it’s best to follow the 60/30/10 color theory to properly disperse your color palette of choice and to bring continuity to your space.

Start by selecting a neutral color palette as your base—whether your preference is shades of warm white, cream, taupe, gray, or something a bit deeper in tone. This will help ground the design. Once you’ve established your base neutral, then it’s time to add a little color.

A PREVAILING COLOR THEORY FOR HOME DESIGN ADVISES THAT 60 PERCENT OF A ROOM SHOULD BE THE DOMINANT COLOR, 30 PERCENT THE SECONDARY COLOR, AND 10 PERCENT THE ACCENT COLOR. THIS ALSO WORKS WELL IF YOU’RE USING A MONOCHROMATIC COLOR SCHEME IN A ROOM; IN THIS CASE, JUST THINK OF IT AS WORKING WITH A RATIO OF DIFFERENT SHADES OF THE SAME COLOR.

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ELEMENTS

ENHANCE YOUR DINING DECOR WITH CHIC GLASS ACCENTS BY LIZA GRANT SMITH

EYE OF THE TIGER Lalique’s large sitting tiger crystal statue ($6,700) will impart a majestic grace to a styled grouping of accessories. Lalique, Bal Harbour (us.lalique.com)

HEAD IN THE CLOUDS Hundreds of glass balls in various sizes are arranged to form a cloud-like orb and give rise to the nomenclature of Regina Andrew’s Nimbus chandelier ($3,250). Design Shop by Shell, Coconut Grove (shelldesignshop.com)

SEA AND BE SEEN Bring a sense of seaside calm to your interiors with Palecek’s seaglass mirror ($1,868) encircled with recycled glass stones. Monica James & Co., Miami (monicajames.com)

RUFFLE SOME FEATURES The golden border of this elegantly ruffled Rufolo glass platter ($89) by Vietri gives it inherent panache for any entertaining endeavors. Cactus Flower, Fort Lauderdale (cactusflower. myshoplocal.com)

CLEAR-CUT WINNER Let your florals take center stage with this clear hexagon-edge crystal vase ($400) by Tizo Design. Violeta’s Home Design, Miami, Coral Gables (violetas homedesign.com)

EMILIO COLLAVINO

RAISE A GLASS

WARM REGARDS When approaching this dining room, designers Laila Colvin and Rafaela Simoes of 2id Interiors sought to craft a harmonious blend of materials and elements and create a space that is balanced and inviting. “We wanted to embrace the warmth and richness of the walnut and glass table by complementing it with the beautiful glass light fixture that served as a focal point and added a touch of modern elegance and visual lightness,” they explain. North Miami (2idinteriors.com)

REVERSE COURSE The Currey and Company Arden pink chest ($4,940) is a nod to a 1970s reverse-painted glass antique discovered at the Paris Flea Market. Judith Norman, Hollywood (judithnorman.com)

PRETTY IN PINK These Vista Alegre highball glasses ($96 for set of four) pay tribute to Portuguese artisans who have been creating spiked glasses for more than a century. Fina Tavola, Miami (finatavola.com)

FEBRUARY 2024

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HOME INSPIRED LIVING

OLD-SCHOOL APPROACH For those who love the idea of fresh florals for fragrance but desire something more permanent and less high-maintenance, consider planted options. Modern Sprout offers stylish grow lights (freestanding, countertop, or wall-mounted) that mimic the sun and come with an app for added support. Use them to nourish indoor plants that can impart both beauty and aroma. Try a classic like gardenias, something unexpected like nutmeg-scented geraniums, or herb varieties like lemon balm, rosemary, or basil for the kitchen. (modernsprout.com)

AWAKEN THE SENSES EASY TIPS FOR INCORPORATING SENSORY DESIGN INTO YOUR HOME BY LIZA GRANT SMITH To create a truly soothing environment, it’s best to engage more than one sense. Begin by defining the mood you’d like to cultivate, then lean into design choices that evoke that emotion and reflect that intention. Here are a few tricks to stimulate your senses beyond sight.

SMELL A GREAT-SMELLING SPACE CAN BOOST YOUR MOOD, SO GO BEYOND THE SCENTED CANDLE WITH THESE COOL PRODUCTS

NEW-SCHOOL APPROACH With a showroom in Wynwood, Aroma 360 is focused on the science of aromachology (the study of how smell impacts human behavior). Whether it be in luxury hotels and spas or personal residences, the brand’s crafted fragrance oils can add depth and character to a space. Select one of the diffusers based on the square footage you are scenting and then pick out a transportive blend. For example, Aroma 360’s best-selling Summer Breeze was inspired by The Ritz-Carlton hotel collection and boasts top notes of cucumber, melon, and violet. (aroma360.com)

HEAR DECIDE WHETHER YOU WANT A ROOM TO SPEAK VOLUMES OR BE A SILENT SANCTUARY

SPEAK UP Thanks to advanced sound technology, you can set up a multiroom sound system throughout your home. By pairing Sonos speakers and their accompanying app with a streaming service such as Spotify, you can create a soundtrack for each primary room. Keep it zen in rooms meant for relaxation and upbeat and engaging in convivial gathering areas. (sonos.com)

QUIET TIME Reducing noise can promote a sense of calm and focus. Sound bounces off hardwood and tile floors, so consider layering a plush carpet in areas meant for comfort, such as bedrooms. Another option is cork wallpaper. Designers like Candice Olson for York Wallcoverings have introduced gorgeous versions of this type of wallcovering, which, in addition to being eco-friendly, is an excellent sound absorber. Available at Jeffrey Michaels, Hollywood (jeffreymichaels.com)

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TASTE THE KEY TO ENGAGING THE SENSE OF TASTE IS TO CELEBRATE EPICUREAN EYE CANDY INSTEAD OF HIDING IT BEHIND CLOSED CABINET DOORS

ENTICING EATS An old favorite, the countertop fruit bowl, can deliver a pop of color to any kitchen. Fill it with green apples or citrus fruits for an instant dose of cheer. Or purchase a cake stand and glass dome, like this one by William Yeoward Crystal, and make it a habit to pick up or prepare baked goods to display. Available at Neiman Marcus, Bal Harbour, Coral Gables (neimanmarcus.com)

DRINK DISPLAYS Keep in mind that taste includes libations. Wine walls are a great way to aesthetically pique the sense of taste. That same effect, on a smaller scale, can be obtained through a bar cart adorned with liquor bottles, mixers, and glassware.

TOUCH IS ESSENTIAL TO THE EXPERIENTIAL NATURE OF A HOME, BECAUSE HOW WE TACTILELY INTERACT WITH A SPACE GREATLY INFLUENCES OUR IMPRESSION OF IT

MIX AND MATCH When it comes to textures, sometimes more is more. By mixing and layering various materials, you avoid boredom—both from a visual perspective and a mental perspective. An easy way to achieve this is through pillows. Using pillows of different fabrics and feels creates a sense of depth and elicits intrigue.

TOUCH

CREATE A COCOON Establish one or more areas where you can retreat and find solace in soft fabrics and cushioning. While a weighted blanket can provide that, try building a comfort zone with a cozy couch and sumptuous accessories or installing a hanging chair with a cocoon-like shape, such as this option from Anthropologie. Anthropologie locations (anthropologie.com)

FEBRUARY 2024

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FULL BLOOM BUYING INFORMATION PAGE 72 Ruched bandeau top in Taxicab Multi ($990), embellished beaded cropped jacket ($5,290), high-waisted skinny pants ($1,090), Demi Lune belt ($890), Carolina Herrera, carolinaherrera.com; Amita 45 smoky blue fishnet mesh slingback pumps ($825), Jimmy Choo, Aventura Mall, Shops at Merrick Park, Coral Gables, jimmychoo.com; Candied crystal choker ($1,290), mixed stone coin earrings ($590), Oscar de la Renta, oscarde larenta.com. PAGE 73 Dress ($4,300), cuff bracelet ($1,490), lower ear cuff ($290), upper ear cuff ($290), Alexander McQueen, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, alexandermcqueen.com PAGE 74 Long brocade dress with abstract flower print ($2,445), long brocade coat with abstract flower print ($4,995), Dolce & Gabbana, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, dolcegabbana.com; Rosalia Flowers 65 black leather pumps with flowers ($975), Jimmy Choo, Aventura Mall, Shops at Merrick Park, Coral Gables, jimmychoo.com; small hand-casted Starfruit hoop earrings ($550), Oscar de la Renta, oscardelarenta.com. PAGE 75 Dress ($7,500), Valentino, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, valentino.com PAGE 76 Torero primavera tweed jacket with fringe ($1,100), Playa primavera tweed shorts with tassels ($620), La Double J, ladoublej.com; beaded hoop earrings ($390), Carolina Herrera, carolinaherrera.com. PAGE 77 Blouse ($3,800), pants ($3,300), D-Bubble bag in white multicolor Albero della Vita cotton embroidery ($3,450), Dior, Miami Design District, dior.com; Rosalia Flowers 65 pumps with flowers ($975), Jimmy Choo, Aventura Mall, Shops at Merrick Park, Coral Gables, jimmychoo.com; Cloudy resin layered chandelier earrings ($490), Oscar de la Renta, oscardelarenta.com. PAGE 78 Neoprene top ($2,000), Fantasy tweed dress ($8,450), Mary Jane shoes ($1,375), perfume bottle necklace ($1,300), leather and chain necklace ($900), hoop earrings ($950), Chanel, Aventura Mall, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, chanel.com PAGE 79 AND TABLE OF CONTENTS Balloon-sleeve silk taffeta caftan ($5,490), dotted petals pearl drop earrings ($360), Oscar de la Renta, oscardelarenta.com; Rosalia Flowers 65 pumps with flowers ($975), Jimmy Choo, Aventura Mall, Shops at Merrick Park, Coral Gables, jimmychoo.com. PAGE 80 Allover Anemone silk organza flower patch dress ($6,950), Akris, Bal Harbour Shops, akris.com; flower earrings (price upon request), Carolina Herrera, carolinaherrera.com. PAGE 81 Long-sleeve mock-neck faille silk double-breasted coat with covered buttons and red bow detail ($9,000), Gucci, Aventura Mall, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, gucci.com; Aurelie 65 silver liquid metal leather pointed pumps with pearl embellishment ($925), Jimmy Choo, Aventura Mall, Shops at Merrick Park, Coral Gables, jimmychoo.com; embellished box bag ($8,895), Dolce & Gabbana, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, dolcegabbana.com; Cloudy resin asymmetrical pearl earrings ($420), Oscar de la Renta, oscardelarenta.com.

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SOCIAL STUDIES SEEN ON THE SCENE IN SOUTH FLORIDA

SHELTON AND JULIA BERG, EMILIO ESTEFAN ANDREA LINARES

SHELTON BERG VIA WINDOWCAST JULIO FRENK

HIGH NOTES WHO: University of Miami’s Frost School of Music WHAT: Shaping the Future of Music WHERE: Knight Center for Music Innovation, Coral Gables HIGHLIGHTS: Gloria Estefan emceed the gala, which celebrated a new $36.5 million music and technology hub.

JON AND MARI SECADA

ALEX TAMARGO/GETTY

GONZALO RUBALCABA

TONY CHINCHILLA, LISSETTE GONZALEZ

MATT SERLETIC

GLORIA AND EMILIO ESTEFAN

FEBRUARY 2024

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SOCIAL STUDIES

JORGE XIQUES, MICHELLE ZUBIZARRETA, LIUDMILA ESQUERDO, RODOLFO LLEONART1

ALEX LIVINALLI

BELKYS NEREY, DEMETRI MOURATIS

WALK ON THE WILD SIDE WHO: Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade WHAT: Wild About Kids Gala WHERE: Loews Coral Gables Hotel HIGHLIGHTS: The Motown-themed event raised more than $600,000 for programs and services at the organization’s six local clubs, which help children realize their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens.

ALEX RODRIGUEZ-ROIG, ALLISON AND ANDREW STUART

SEBASTIAN GARCIA, BELKYS NEREY

NOA KAHNER, DORIE TEITELBAUM, MEREDITH VIRNIG

WORLD RED EYE

ALEX RODRIGUEZ-ROIG, STEVEN GALLON III, OLGA GUILARTE, ALLISON AND ANDREW STUART

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12/26/23 11:48 AM

A Seasoned Caring Cardiologist with a Concierge Approach

PAUL AND LISA MAGNES, BELKYS NEREY, DEMETRI MOURATIS, TATSIANA AND ANDY ANSIN

ERICA ZOHAR, ELYSZE HELD

LEONARD PIANKO M.D, FACC 2023 Gold Award Winner for Best Doctor Miami-Dade Favorites Contest Sponsored by the Miami Herald Voted “Best Doctor” by Castle Connolly Board-Certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiology Expertly trained in Preventative Cardiology & Non-Invasive Cardiology Offering a Concierge Care Option

WORLD RED EYE

VICTOR AND LISA MENDELSON

THE THOMA BRAVO TEAM

Accredited Nuclear Stress, Ultrasound, and Echocardiogram Labs ANA AND RAUL MARMOL

21097 NE 27th CT., Suite 110, Aventura, FL 33180

305.384.4720 • leonardpiankomd.com FEBRUARY 2024

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SOCIAL STUDIES

NORMAN WEDDERBURN, SHAREEF MALNIK, GABRIELLE ANWAR, GLENN SAMPERT

FAT JOE

WISH LIST

MADLENA KALINOVA, NAEEM KHAN

KAMAL HOTCHANDANI, SHREYA ARUN

KAROLÍNA KURKOVÁ

ROMERO BRITTO

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LIOR SUCHARD

WORLD RED EYE

JHONNATAN PINILLA CONTRERAS

WHO: Make-AWish Southern Florida WHAT: Twenty-eighth Annual InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Ball WHERE: InterContinental Miami HIGHLIGHTS: Legendary musician Sting performed a private concert for 900 guests. The event raised more than $5 million to help grant the life-changing wishes of critically ill children.

AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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12/26/23 3:21 PM

B O UTIQ UE

DERMATOLOGY PRACTICE

KAROLÍNA KURKOVÁ AND ARCHIE DRURY ELAINE LANCASTER

Newsha Lajevardi, MD B O A R D - C E R T I F I E D D E R M AT O L O G I S T

(305) 330-9933

WWW.NEWSHADERM.COM AVENTURA MEDICAL TOWER 2801 NE 213th St., Suite 1005 | Aventura, FL

STING

GLORIA MARIA AND FRANCIS SUAREZ

MAXWELL BLANDFORD, CLIF LOFTIN

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WORLD RED EYE

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ELAINE LANCASTER, LEE BRIAN SCHRAGER, ROMERO BRITTO, ANA NAVARRO

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1/3/24 10:09 AM

LAST WORD ON THE RECORD WITH...

LAURA JACOBS Model-turned-matchmaker Laura Jacobs is the star of Roku’s Match Me in Miami, a reality series chronicling the ins and outs of her day-to-day job helping Magic City singles find love. The would-be Cupid talks with Aventura about finding lasting love on dating apps, the pitfalls of reality shows, and the best (and worst) spots in town to hit up if you’re single and looking to make your next first date your last. (laurathematchmaker.com) —Kristen Desmond LeFevre

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COURTESY OF LAURA THE MATCHMAKER

I grew up in… Vancouver, Canada. I came to Miami… in January 2021 to find love. I started my matchmaking business because… I love to help others find love, and I love learning about human relationships. When someone tells me they are unlucky in love, I tell them… You make your own luck! Love these days is something you need to work harder at. There are things you can do to find love. Dating apps are... a useful tool to help you find your partner—if you know how to use them. There is a science to mastering dating apps and finding your [match] by using them. A question I get asked a lot as a matchmaker is… how I found my partner. I found him on a dating app! However, I had moved to Florida in hopes of finding him. I knew the city I lived in at the time was not conducive to finding the type of man I wanted. Sometimes you really are in the wrong environment. Being on a reality show is like... being in a simulation of your real life. Being single in Miami can be... super fun and exciting (if you let it be). The best place for a first date in Miami is... Mila or Michael’s Genuine. The worst Miami date is... any coffee date. The keys to finding lasting love are... never giving up

and working on yourself. At the end of the day, you can only control yourself and your own actions. My average day is filled with… speaking to clients, interviewing potential matches for them, and coordinating schedules for dates. When I’m not busy making matches, you’ll find me… hanging out with my wonderful boys—my partner and my children. If I were to write a memoir, the title would be… How I Found Love After a Pandemic.

AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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12/21/23 8:58 AM

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