Acura launches an exhibition featuring renowned photographer, Erik Madigan Heck

Acura, the automotive luxury brand, presented their latest model, the all-new 2010 Acura ZDX four-door sports coupe, in Miami on Thursday, February 25th, at the W South Beach. The event launched a seven-city tour featuring the vehicle and the works of renowned photographer Erik Madigan Heck. The Acura ZDX was designed with as much creative freedom as Erik Madigan Heck’s works - making the partnership between the artist and Acura a natural fit. At 26-years-old, Heck is an established fine art and fashion photographer who has shot the collections of the world’s finest designers including Valentino Garavani, Christian Lacroix, Jean Paul Gaultier and Helmut Lang. Last night, I had the opportunity to interview Heck.

MBS: What is your favorite type of photography?

Heck: Well, I shoot mostly fashion photography but for this event, I wanted to show a balance between some of my landscape and figurative work. I also segmented the pieces based on color.

MBS: How did your partnership with the new Acura ZDX come together?
Heck: The concept for this new car was developed by a team of young designers (at the new Acura Design Studio in Torrance, California) who are all around my age. They were looking for a similar artist to represent their newest creation. In that respect, it works really well.

MBS: Have you ever been in Miami and is there anything you're looking forward to experiencing?

Heck: Never been in Miami! I haven't been able to explore it as much as I would like to but I definitely love the beautiful weather.

MBS: What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

Heck: I did a shoot for a Belgian fashion designer, Ann Demeulemeester, and I was a huge fan of hers for years. Ann's clothing is very expensive and she is a highly sought after designer. But, one day I did a photoshoot for her and she absolutely loved it so we became friends. It was like becoming friends with your hero. It was awesome!

Erik Madigan Heck is also the Editor-in-Chief and Creative Director of Nomenus Quarterly, a hybrid online/print publication that features the world’s most influential artists, institutions and fashion designers. To see more of Heck's work, you can visit his websites:
http://maisondesprit.com/ or http://www.nomenusquarterly.com/. Beware: his work is AMAAAAZZZING (I think he's MY new hero)!!!

After my chat with Heck, I returned to the exhibition where a crowd surrounded the new 2010 Acura ZDX. While some guests mingled, others couldn't help but sit inside the stunning coupe-like vehicle to see the panoramic glass roof. If you're interested in viewing this car yourself, then note that these Acura ZDX Launch Parties featuring Erik Madigan Heck will travel from Miami to Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Washington, D.C., culminating in New York City on April 8, 2010. I definitely see why Acura scheduled Miami as their first stop on the tour!

Guests at the 2010 Acura ZDX launch event in Miami

"Cultural Fridays" coming to Little Havana

If you're looking to immerse yourself in Miami's rich culture, you must attend Viernes Culturales (or Cultural Fridays) in the historic Little Havana neighborhood of Miami (8th St. SW between 14th and 17th Avenues). For those who didn't buy tickets to attend the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, this is certainly the place to be tomorrow (plus it's FREE)! Viernes Culturales showcases the talented visual artists and entertainers of our city. Once a month, visitors and tourists flock to this festival to experience an evening of culture highlighted by the diverse flavors of our Latino community.

On Friday, February 26th, check out some vibrant outdoor musical performances along the sidewalks of Calle Ocho or admire the exhibits presented by local artists. There will also be cuisine tastings at participating restaurants as well as an educational program hosted at the historic Tower Theatre. Free walking tours of Little Havana will also take place throughout the day. The event starts at 6:30 pm and will end by 11 pm. For more information on this festival, visit http://www.viernesculturales.org/. Enjoy the cool weather and have a wonderful weekend!

(Photo by Alex Diaz) Live painting by EVA

Miami International Fashion Week Party

On February 25th, the Miami Fashion Week Foundation will officially launch their March 2010 event by hosting a Kick-Off Party along with Tiffany & Co. Enjoy a fashion presentation by Miami’s most prestigious designers, delicacies prepared by local celebrity chefs, wine and champagne and a silent auction. During the party, there will also be a special performance by renowned pianist Julian De La Chica. Tickets are on sale for $100 with proceeds benefiting the Miami Fashion Week Foundation's scholarship fund. This foundation hosts a variety of fundraising events throughout the year to raise funds that will benefit the emerging designers and students studying fashion, photography, film and graphic design. The kick-off party will be held at the Gary Nader Fine Art (62 N.E. 27th Street, Wynwood Art District) from 7- 10 p.m. For more information on this event or to purchase your ticket online, visit http://www.miamifashionweek.com/.

A Fashionable Investment to help Haiti

It’s never too late to donate to Haiti while adding a fabulous shirt to your wardrobe. Make a charitable donation to the people of Haiti by purchasing your very own Saks Fifth Avenue "Fashion for Haiti" t-shirt. The shirt was designed by Peter Arnell and it features a block design with the words, “To Haiti With Love” along with a map of the country. A percentage of all profits will go toward the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund, an organization raising money for the immediate relief and long-term recovery process of Haiti. Since each shirt costs $25, Saks will be making their own contribution to the American Red Cross. The sale begins tomorrow, February 23rd, when both men’s and women’s styles hit South Florida stores (available at Saks Fifth Avenue, 7687 N. Kendall Dr., Miami, 305.662.8655 and 9700 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour, 305.865.1100). To purchase your shirt online, visit http://bit.ly/dASuYq.

The Spam Allstars are bringing the BEAT!!!

If you've never seen the Spam Allstars performing live, then you're missing a major source of Miami's sazon in your life! On Thursday, February 25th, the Spam Allstars are bringing their contagious beats to the Music Series at Bal Harbour Shops. To continue their weekly Cultural Series, Bal Harbour Village (9700 Collins Avenue) presents a complimentary outdoor concert featuring two performances by the eclectic band starting at 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Blending their improvisational electronic elements and turntables with latin, funk, hip hop and dub, the Spam Allstars will energize your mind and body with their soulful sounds. After this event, join the Spam Allstars as they host their CD Release Party at Hoy Como Ayer (2212 SW 8th Street, Miami) where you can hear two sets from "Rumberos de la 8" live!! For more information about the band or to see their full schedule, check out http://www.spamallstars.com/. By the end of the night, you'll be dancing and singing along to their catchy lyrics. Enjoy the shows, xoxo

Visit the South Beach Wine & Food Festival

The Food Network officially kicks off their annual South Beach Wine & Food Festival on Thursday, February 25th. This is a national, star-studded, four-day event showcasing the talents of the world’s most renowned wine and spirits producers, chefs and culinary personalities. Although most of the events have been sold out, you can still reserve your tickets for an educational wine seminar or a relaxing lunch over at Joe's Stone Crab.

Another event that has not been sold out is the "Whole Foods Market Grand Tasting Village" which takes place on Sunday, February 28th. This event actually features many of the chefs seen on the Food Network including Anthony Bourdain, Paula Deen, Emeril Lagasse, Guy Fieri and Daisy Martinez. Bring your friends and take a stroll through South Beach as you learn about the seductive, restorative power of inspired cuisine, excellent wines, and well-crafted spirits.

For a complete list of events or to purchase your tickets online, visit www.sobewineandfoodfest.com. Enjoy the festival and always remember to drink responsibly.

Bravo's Millionaire Matchmaker is in Miami!

If you're addicted to her reality show, then don't miss your chance to meet the Millionaire Matchmaker herself, Patti Stanger, as she autographs her new book: "Become Your Own Matchmaker." On Saturday, February 20th, Patti will be in Miami to greet her fans and autograph copies of her latest guide to finding true love. This event will be hosted at Books & Books on South Beach (927 Lincoln Road) and it will start at 5 p.m. (to be eligible for an autograph: books must be purchased at the store). After Patti mingles with her readers, she will be making a cameo at SET Night Club to celebrate her book release with style. Ladies are encouraged to come out and look your sexiest because Patti may match you with your very own millionaire! Enjoy some house music in the main room with DJ John Cash or catch Mr. Sandman spinning hip hop in the upstairs VIP room. For those who didn't have much luck with love on Valentine's Day, this may be your big break!

Join the Autism Speaks Walk this Sunday!

Join the Autism Speaks Walk to change the future for all who struggle with autism! On Sunday, February 21st, you will be able to walk for a good cause at Crandon Park in Key Biscayne. Walk Now for Autism Speaks is a fun-filled, family friendly event that funds vital research to help understand the causes, prevention and treatments for autism. Every 20 minutes, another family receives the news that their child has autism. Whether you strive to join the new "Grand Club" (walkers that raise $1,000 or more) or you raise $10, you can make a difference in the lives of others! To participate in the walk, you may register as an individual or you can start a corporate, school or family team. This Sunday, registration will begin at 8:00 a.m. and the walk will kick-off at 10:00 a.m. For more information on this event, visit www.walk.autismspeaks.org or call (888) 777-6227 to request materials. Go out and enjoy the cool weather this weekend!

Behind the Scenes at Casa Bikini's fashion show starring the Florida Panther's Ice Dancers!

On February 12th, Casa Bikini welcomed the Miami International Boat Show by showcasing their latest collection at the Raleigh Hotel on South Beach. Andrea V. Amorosi, CEO of Casa Bikini (pictured above wearing black), attended the powerboat party along with her fabulous models who also happen to be the Florida Panther's Ice Dancers! Casa Bikini is an online boutique that carries exclusive Brazilian designer swimwear. Only the most fashion forward designers are featured on Casa Bikini's website which means every piece offers a great fit at an affordable price. Amorosi allows customers the opportunity to find the hottest Brazilian swimwear without traveling halfway around the world. If online shopping is not your cup of tea, then you can host your very own bikini party and Casa Bikini will gladly bring their swimsuits to you. This is an awesome way to reunite with your girlfriends while planning your upcoming Spring Break vacation.

As demonstrated by the Panther's Ice Dancers, the Brazilian bikini is a sexy yet sophisticated swimsuit style that was popularized in Europe and South America where nudity is less taboo. However, Amorosi notes that "the demand for Brazilian bikinis has grown significantly in South Florida as modern day women are discovering the benefits of this unique Brazilian cut bottom." For those who may be hesitant to try a Brazilian bikini, the online boutique does offer swimsuit bottoms with more coverage.
In a city that highly depends on swimwear, it is easy to see why Casa Bikini has been embraced by Miami beach-goers! To check out some of the boutique's most fashionable prints, you can look inside the pages of the official 2010 Panther's Ice Dancers Calendar. In the calendar, you'll find every dancer wearing a distinctive "beach look" provided by Casa Bikini. Each calendar costs $10 and may be purchased by visiting: http://bit.ly/cVyvIy. Let's be honest, even though it's technically "winter" in Miami...you can definitely get away with purchasing a new bikini. We all know the heat will be back in no time! To start shopping online, visit www.CasaBikini.com and don't forget to plan your very own bikini party. Ciao!

Danielle DeMarzo Foundation raffles a Porsche Boxster S to benefit Children with Special Needs

Ever thought of winning a 2010 Porsche Boxter S? Here's your chance to make a difference in the lives of children with special needs and enter a raffle to drive away with the car of your dreams! The Danielle DeMarzo Foundation, Inc., is a non profit organization dedicated to supporting resources and activities for children with special needs through charitable contributions. Their latest fundraiser will be held at their 7th annual BBQ where they will giveaway a 2010 Porsche Boxster S (color depends on availability). Each raffle ticket costs $100 and you may buy as many as you can afford. The foundation is only selling 1,000 raffles tickets so don't be left behind! All raffle ticket holders are invited to attend the BBQ at 500 West Copans Road in Pompano Beach, Fl. where the winning ticket will be drawn (date will be announced once tickets are sold out). The winner of the Porsche does not need to be present during the BBQ to win. Simply make your $100 donation (tax deductible and non-refundable) and cross your fingers! For tickets or details, call 866-295-KIDS or visit www.DanielleDeMarzoFoundation.org. Good luck and may the force be with you...

Cosabella's Collection debuts at Nikki Beach

Last night, Nikki Beach hosted "Beauty's Night Out" as part of their What Women Want event series. Upon arrival, guests were treated to complimentary cupcakes by Miami’s own Cupcake Nouveau and chocolate covered strawberries from Nikki Beach. There were a variety of complimentary beauty treatments offered throughout the night including free hairstyling by Bravo’s Shear Genius winner Dee Adame, make-up by Rich Girl, palm readings by Sarah and mini-facials by Horwitz Dermatology to name a few. Even though it was a cold night in Miami, the runway models turned up the heat to showcase Cosabella's Spring 2010 collection. The fashion show featured Cosabella's exotic swimwear along with their more sophisticated lingerie garments. It was definitely a great way to welcome Valentine's Day! For more information about Cosabella, visit www.shop.cosabella.com and enter "womenwant" under the promotional code section to receive 15% off your purchases. Happy Valentine's Day to all of my readers!! xoxo

Dee Adame (picture to the right) from Bravo's Shear Genius
An elegant white bathing suit by Cosabella
A sexy one piece bathing suit made for Miami fashionistas!

Your sneak peak at Cosabella's flirty lingerie collection!

Flamenco Festival Miami 2010 Series

Need a little Spanish flavor in your life? The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County and PerilloMusic are bringing Miami residents a special dance series called "Flamenco Festival Miami." The series kicks off with "Gala Flamenco: Todo Cambia" on Saturday, February 13th. This performance features Rocio Molina, Pastora Galván, Manuel Liñán and Belén López as they move to the beats of guitars and rapid hand claps. The second performance takes place on Wednesday, February 17th at the Knight Concert Hall and it will showcase "Rocio Molina." Rocio was the winner of the Best Dancer Award at the Flamenco Bienal of Seville and now she will be mesmerizing our city with her beautiful dance techniques. Tickets for this show range between $35 to $95. To purchase your tickets or to watch exclusive videos from the shows, visit http://bit.ly/83zyLt. In this economy, why travel to Spain when the best flamenco dancers will be stopping by our neighborhood?

Rocio Molina dancing Flamenco in a traditional Spanish dress...lovely!

"Beauty's Night Out" at Nikki Beach presents Cosabella's Spring 2010 Collection

Nikki Beach is partnering with Cosabella swimwear and lingerie on February 13th, 2010 for an evening of beauty and fashion! "Beauty's Night Out" is the latest creation as part of the Nikki Beach signature series of fashion events called "What Women Want." Miami's fashionistas, trendsetters and influential elite will be on the scene to check out Cosabella's Spring 2010 Collection. Guests will enjoy complimentary mini-facials by Horwitz Dermatology, Make-up by Rich Girl, mini-manicures, airbrushing by Shirley Pearl and free hairstyling by Bravo's Shear Genius winner Dee Adame. What else can we ask for while sipping on sexy wine and champagne cocktails? "Beauty's Night Out" will kick off at 7 p.m. with complimentary cupcakes by Miami's own Cupcake Nouveau and chocolate covered strawberries by Nikki Beach! Ladies...this event is AMAZING and FREE...I suggest you RSVP right away. The event runs from 7 to 10 p.m. and the Cosabella fashion show begins at 8 p.m. To RSVP please email whatwomenwant@nikkibeach.com. For more information on this fashion show, visit http://www.nikkibeachlifestyle.com/ or http://www.cosabella.com/. See you there!

Just in time for Valentine's Day: Cosabella debuts their Spring 2010 Lingerie and Swimwear Collection!

Celebrate Valentine's Day with Jon Secada

Valentine's Day is right around the corner! If you're in the market for a memorable date, you cannot miss the sultry sounds of Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter Jon Secada this Valentine's Day. Jon and his band will be playing jazz favorites to stir some love in the air. Bring a picnic basket and a blanket because the concert is taking place within the beautiful Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden (10901 Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables). Tickets are $60 for Fairchild members and $75 for non-members. VIP tickets are $175 and include reserved seating, buffet dinner and wine. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and the concert begins at 7:00 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets online, visit http://www.fairchildgarden.org/. This will definitely impress that special someone so feel free to thank me later!

Get Artsy at the Coconut Grove Arts Festival

Join the Coconut Grove Arts Festival as they celebrate their 47th anniversary this upcoming weekend (February 13-15). More than 150,000 annual visitors gather in Coconut Grove to view the works of over 360 artists and craftsmen from around the world. Artists will display pieces in mixed media, painting, photography, digital art, watercolor, claywork, glass, fiber, jewelry & metalwork, sculpture and wood. This is definitely a signature event on South Florida's cultural calendar!! Meet with exhibiting artists, sample fine cuisine, enjoy live entertainment and stroll through the beautiful: Coconut Grove. Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily and admission is $10 per person (children under 12 receive free admission). Those who reside in the 33133 zip code only pay $5 with proof of residency. The Festival runs along the streets of McFarlane Road, South Bayshore Drive and Pan American Drive. For additional information or to see a complete list of featured artists, visit http://www.coconutgroveartsfest.com/. Here's your chance to get inspired and soak in some creativity!

Today is National Wear Red Day: GO RED!

Today, February 5th, is National Wear Red Day! Everyday women are dying at the rate of almost one per minute. Speak up. Make a difference. Show your support for the fight against heart disease in women by wearing red today. Heart disease is the #1 killer in America and most women don't realize that it is preventable! Wear red to work, to the mall and to the party you're attending tonight! You can also encourage the men in your life to help spread awareness by wearing a red tie. Heart disease can be triggered at any age so it is important to visit your doctor even if you're young. To learn how to live a proactive lifestyle or for more information on the Go Red For Women campaign, please visit http://www.goredforwomen.org/. Stay healthy and become aware: GO RED!

This past October, we met Maria Celeste, Host of "Al Rojo Vivo," during the Red Dress Fashion Show in Miami. Maria is a big supporter of Go Red For Women and she was truly inspiring that night. Help make a difference and wear red today.

J-Lo Performing Live at LIV this Saturday!

WARNING: Celebrities are literally dropping out of the sky to visit our sexy city during Super Bowl weekend. A perfectly good example: Jennifer Lopez is scheduled to perform live at the AXE Lounge at LIV (4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach) this Saturday, February 6th. AXE, a leading men's grooming brand, will transform LIV Nightclub at the Fontainebleau Hotel into an exclusive lounge where only the hottest celebrities, athletes and social butterflies are allowed. This event is open to the public so if you have any friends that can grant you access into the club: start making those phone calls! J-Lo will hit the stage at midnight as guest DJ for the night, Will.I.Am from the Black Eyed Peas, spins her record. For tables reservations, call 305-674-4680 or you may visit http://www.livnightclub.com/.

Kim Kardashian's new fragrance at Sephora

Want to take a picture with Kim Kardashian? On February 4rth, Kim will be in Miami to launch her new fragrance at Sephora (721 Collins Avenue, South Beach). The event starts at 7 p.m. and will run till 9 p.m. Attendees who purchase any of the three sizes of Kim Kardashian (the 1 oz $35.00 bottle, the 1.7 oz $50.00 bottle, or the 3.4 0z $65.00 bottle) will receive an autographed photo taken with Kim. However, this amazing opportunity will only be given on a "first come first serve" basis so make sure you arrive early. Kim's anticipated perfume is described as having a sensual floral scent that combines jasmine, tuberose, gardenia and orange blossom. Sounds like a cool mix but are we really even interested in the perfume? Taking a picture with Ms. Kim K seems like the big "deal" on this one!!! For more information about this event or to purchase the new fragrance online, visit http://www.sephora.com/. Good luck and frame that picture!
Kim Kardashian's new fragrance: exclusively available at Sephora!

FREE Super Bowl Event: The 4rth Annual DIRECTV Celebrity Beach Bowl on Feb. 6th

On February 6th, the DIRECTV Celebrity Beach Bowl returns home to South Beach for the fourth year in a row. Where else can you see football players and celebrities playing a sandy version of flag football? Only in Miami!!! Super Bowl-winning quarterback Eli Manning will coach the White Team, going head-to-head with Blue Team coach Mark Sanchez. Former NFL players Warren Moon and Merril Hoge will captain their respective teams at quarterback. Other former NFL players in the game will include Eddie George, Mark Schlererth, and Daryl Johnston. As far as the celebrities, you'll definitely spot Taylor Lautner, Jennifer Lopez, Kellan Lutz, Ed Westwick, Chace Crawford, Marisa Miller, Brian McKnight, Michael Clarke Duncan, and Jessica Szohr, all looking to prove they are just as much competitors as celebrities. The event will take place on Collins Avenue between 21st and 22nd Street in South Beach (gates to the event open at Noon). The pregame show starts at 1:30pm and the game starts at 2:30pm. You can also watch a special performance by the All-American Rejects during a postgame concert at 3:30pm. Did I mention that this event is totally FREE?? Make sure you arrive early and secure the perfect view. There's nothing better than watching celebrities play football while you work on a hot tan!

Catch Marisa Miller as she plays her very first Celebrity Beach Bowl.
All-American Rejects will perform during the Post-Game Concert.

February= The Miami International Boat Show

You can't live in Miami without acknowledging our favorite form of transportation: BOATS!! For boat aficionado's everywhere, the 69^th annual Miami International Boat Show & Strictly Sail Miami, one of the world’s greatest boating events, is coming to town February 11-15, 2010. If you're in the mood to check out thousands of the latest powerboats, sailboats and marine accessories, then get ready to meet more than 2,000 exhibitors from around the world! The Miami International Boat Show & Strictly Sail Miami offers something for every lifestyle and every budget. This year, there are two main locations where this massive event will take place: The Miami Beach Convention Center (1901 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach) and The Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center (1635 North Bayshore Drive, Miam). Don't miss your chance to meet Chris Fischer, an expert angler and Executive Producer and host of Expedition Great White, a landmark National Geographic Channel television series. Chris will be presenting some cool shark footage from one of his expeditions inside of the Big Game Room on Friday, February 12th from 5–8 p.m. To see a complete list of featured events and exhibitors or to purchase your tickets, visit http://www.miamiboatshow.com/. Take the time to relax and indulge your vision with some of the world's most beautiful yachts and sailboats.

Boaters strolling through the Miami Beach Convention Center