The Big Woof Festival today announced a new community partnership with Miami Children’s Museum, which will serve as the festival’s Official Museum Partner and power the Kids Zone at The Big Woof Festival, taking place January 16–17, 2027, at Regatta Park in Coconut Grove. Through the partnership, Miami Children’s Museum will bring its signature approach to learning through play to the festival, creating hands-on activities and interactive experiences designed especially for young dog lovers and their families. “We want The Big Woof Festival to be an incredible experience for the entire family, but we also have an opportunity to introduce children to some really important lessons about animals while they’re having fun,” said Carlos Blanco, Managing Partner of The Big Woof Festival. “Miami Children’s Museum understands better than anyone how to make learning interactive and exciting for kids. Having them power our Kids Zone allows us to create a space where children can play, explore and begin learning what it means to care for and be responsible for the animals in our lives.” The collaboration is a natural extension of the Museum’s commitment to playful learning and its existing Pet Central exhibit, where children learn about the responsibilities of pet ownership, the importance of “adopt, don’t shop,” how to care for a pet and even explore careers in veterinary science. “Miami Children’s Museum believes children learn best when they have the opportunity to explore, imagine and discover through play,” said Deborah Spiegelman, CEO and Executive Director of the Miami Children's Museum.“Bringing that approach to The Big Woof Festival gives us an exciting opportunity to engage children and families in a fun, interactive environment while reinforcing important lessons about caring for animals and responsible pet ownership.” The partnership builds on The Big Woof Festival’s growing commitment to engaging and educating the next generation of animal lovers. For 2027, the festival is also partnering with the YMCA of South Florida to present Paws & Professions Career Day, a new initiative introducing children to careers working with and caring for animals. Through interactive activities, a career-themed coloring and activity book and opportunities to meet professionals working in animal-related fields, children will discover the many ways their love of animals could one day become a career. Together, the Miami Children’s Museum and YMCA of South Florida partnerships create new opportunities for children to learn through play, explore careers involving animals and develop an early understanding of responsible pet ownership and animal welfare — all while adding fun, interactive experiences for families throughout the festival weekend. “By introducing these ideas at an early age, we have an opportunity to help shape the next generation of responsible pet owners and animal advocates,” added Carlos Blanco. “And just as importantly, we want kids to have an amazing time doing it.” In addition to the Kids Zone and Paws & Professions Career Day, The Big Woof Festival will feature two days of experiences for dogs and the people who love them, including dock diving, live canine performances, the popular Corgi and Dachshund races, Frisbee Dogs, a Wellness Pavilion, shopping, food, adoption opportunities, activities for dogs and more. The Big Woof Festival returns to Regatta Park in Coconut Grove on January 16–17, 2027. About The Miami Children’s Museum Miami Children’s Museum is a non-profit educational institution, which meets the needs of all children in our multicultural community. The Museum offers interactive exhibits, programs and learning materials related to arts, culture and our community. Miami Children’s Museum encourages visitors of all ages to play, learn, imagine and create together. Its Pet Central exhibit introduces children to responsible pet ownership, pet care, adoption and veterinary science. For additional information, please visit www.miamichildrensmuseum.org. About The Big Woof Festival The Big Woof Festival – Miami’s only large-scale dog festival in the nation’s 8th largest dog ownership market – is a celebration of dogs and the people who love them. Held at Regatta Park in Coconut Grove, the two-day festival brings together pet lovers, families, animal-welfare organizations, pet professionals and leading brands for interactive experiences, entertainment, education, adoption opportunities and activities for dogs and their humans. For more festival information, please visit www.thebigwooffest.com. For Sponsor and Vendor Opportunities, please email: info@thebigwooffest.com. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Miami Children's Museum & The Big Woof Festival

What exactly are premium coffee programs? If you are not aware, they are basically coordinated systems covering bean selection, equipment, recipes, staff training and service standards. Rather than simply offering better coffee, restaurants and hotels build a repeatable experience around how each drink is prepared, presented and served. A successful program may include locally-roasted beans, iced drinks, alternative milks and seasonal flavors. Premium coffee programs can undoubtedly become a competitive advantage for venues like restaurants and hotels. Let’s find out why. Turning a Routine into an Experience Coffee often shapes a guest’s first impression at breakfast or their final impression after dinner. A carefully prepared cappuccino or cold brew can make an otherwise routine interaction feel considered and memorable. A premium program can turn coffee service into a recognizable part of the brand. Thoughtful presentation, distinctive flavors and attentive preparation give guests an experience they are more likely to remember and associate with the property. Even a familiar drink can feel special when every detail reflects the restaurant or hotel’s identity. Raising Perceived Value without Rebuilding the Menu Upgrading coffee can elevate breakfast, brunch or dessert service without requiring a full menu overhaul. Guests may view a restaurant or hotel as more polished when its beverage quality matches its food, design and service. Equipment plays a central role in delivering that value. For example, the commercial espresso machines an establishment chooses determines drink quality, how baristas work during full service, and maintenance costs. Operators should align several program elements: Equipment capacity with expected order volume Drink options with guest preferences Barista training with service goals Improving Service Consistency and Efficiency Premium programs provide defined recipes, calibrated equipment and repeatable preparation methods. Consistency matters across shifts because guests expect the same latte quality, for instance, whether they order during a quiet afternoon or a crowded breakfast rush. Well-designed workflows can support stronger staff interactions. LODGING’s coverage of hotel coffeehouse concepts notes that focused coffee service can streamline staffing while giving employees more direct interaction time with guests. Faster preparation and fewer remakes help teams maintain hospitality when demand peaks. Keeping More Guest Spending on the Property Weak coffee can push hotel guests toward an outside café or encourage restaurant diners to skip an after-meal beverage. A varied, well-positioned program keeps more of those purchases within the business while creating opportunities for pastries, breakfast items and desserts. Premium coffee also supports multiple dayparts. Restaurant Dive’s coffee trend reporting highlights growing interest in differentiated experiences, cold brew and coffee-centered occasions. Restaurants and hotels can respond with options that attract morning regulars, afternoon visitors and evening diners. Turning Premium Programs into a Signature Advantage Premium coffee programs work best when quality, equipment, training and menu choices support one clear guest experience. Strong execution can improve perceived value, operational consistency and on-property spending without changing the business’s entire concept. Was this article helpful? If so, be sure to check out some of our related posts. By ML staff. Images courtesy of Unsplash.

Birthday parties are usually planned around what the birthday child will enjoy, from the theme and cake to games and entertainment. Guest comfort can receive less attention, even though it has a major influence on how smoothly the celebration goes. Thinking through the experience from arrival to pickup helps create a party where children can participate comfortably, and parents know what to expect. Make Arrival Simple for Families The guest experience starts before anyone walks through the door. Parents need an accurate address, clear start and end times, and enough information to know what their child should bring. Parking and building access can cause unexpected frustration. If guests need to enter through a particular door, check in at a front desk, or park away from the entrance, mention that in advance. For outdoor parties, parents should know whether they need sunscreen, appropriate shoes, or clothing that can get dirty. Give Children Time to Settle In Children rarely arrive at the same moment. Starting the main activity immediately can mean late arrivals miss instructions while early guests spend their first few minutes waiting. A simple opening activity gives everyone time to settle in. The physical environment matters too. A crowded room can become noisy quickly, especially with younger children. Choosing a kids' birthday party venue with enough space for the planned number of guests can make movement easier and give children some separation from the busiest activity areas. Plan Food Around More Than Cake Cake may be the birthday tradition, but the rest of the food deserves equal consideration. Party timing influences what guests expect. An event scheduled across lunchtime will usually require something more substantial than snacks. Food allergies should be addressed before the party rather than when food is served. Invitations can give parents an opportunity to share allergy information or other dietary concerns. Hosts can then decide what foods are practical and communicate clearly with families. Keep Waiting From Taking Over the Party Some activities sound exciting but create long periods where children stand around watching someone else participate. Consider how long a complete rotation will take. If 15 children each receive five minutes for an activity, the group cannot realistically finish quickly. Parallel activities can reduce that downtime. Children waiting for a turn might have another simple game or activity nearby instead of forming a long line. This keeps the party moving without requiring a tightly controlled schedule. Create Space for Different Comfort Levels Children respond differently to crowds, noise, unfamiliar people, and structured activities. One child may immediately join a group game while another needs several minutes to observe before participating. A quieter area can provide somewhere to sit away from the main activity. This does not need to be an elaborate sensory room. A few seats positioned away from speakers, games, or heavy foot traffic may be enough. Make Pickup Predictable The final part of the party can become chaotic if parents arrive while children are still involved in an activity. Plan the last few minutes around a natural stopping point. Coats, shoes, gifts, and personal belongings should be easy to locate. Hosts should also confirm who is taking each child home, particularly at drop-off parties. A clear handoff is more important than ending the celebration at the exact minute printed on the invitation. A comfortable birthday party does not require elaborate decorations or a packed schedule. When hosts consider what guests experience from the moment they arrive until they leave, children have more freedom to focus on the part that matters most: enjoying the celebration together. Look over the infographic below for more information. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Microsoft Stock Images

Adventure travel can become more complicated when grandparents, parents, teenagers, and younger children are all sharing the itinerary. Successful multigenerational trips give family members ways to experience the same destination at different intensity levels while preserving enough shared time to make the vacation feel like a group experience. Plan Around Ability, Not Age Age alone is a poor measure of what someone can comfortably do. An active grandparent may handle a long hike more easily than a teenager who rarely exercises, while a young child may have plenty of energy but struggle with heat or elevation. Talk about physical demands before booking activities. Distance is only part of the equation. Terrain, altitude, temperature, stairs, water conditions, and the amount of time spent standing can substantially change how difficult an excursion feels. Descriptions such as “easy” or “moderate” can also mean different things depending on the operator. Asking about actual mileage, elevation gain, trail surfaces, and rest opportunities provides much more useful information. Choose Destinations With Multiple Ways to Explore A destination works well for several generations when participation does not depend on completing one demanding activity. National parks, wildlife destinations, coastal regions, and mountain communities often provide different ways to experience the same environment. This flexibility is especially useful in destinations commonly associated with active excursions. For example, land-based Galapagos tours can provide a different trip structure from an itinerary centered on living aboard a vessel, giving families another factor to consider when comparing daily routines and activity options. Leave Space Between Major Activities Trying to maximize every vacation day can backfire with a multigenerational group. A morning hike followed immediately by an afternoon excursion and evening activity may look efficient on paper. After several days, it can leave everyone tired. Recovery time becomes particularly important after physically demanding activities or long travel days. A free afternoon gives adults time to rest and children a chance to swim, play, or simply spend time without following an itinerary. Think Carefully About Transportation Frequent transfers can make an adventurous itinerary harder than the activities themselves. Changing hotels every night means repeatedly packing bags, loading vehicles, and adjusting to new surroundings. Travel time deserves similar attention. A two-hour drive may be manageable for adults but difficult for young children after a long day outside. Older travelers may also appreciate regular stops to stretch and move around. Make Accommodations Part of the Plan Where the family stays can influence how easily people maintain different schedules. Multiple bedrooms or connecting rooms can give everyone privacy without separating the group completely. Location matters too. Staying close to restaurants and activities reduces transportation demands and gives family members more independence. If grandparents want to return early while others continue exploring, they should be able to do so without creating a transportation problem for the entire group. Allow People to Opt Out A family vacation does not require everyone to participate in every activity. Giving people permission to skip an excursion can actually make shared experiences more enjoyable. Someone who dislikes heights should not feel pressured into a zipline excursion simply because the rest of the family wants to go. Grandparents might enjoy a quiet morning while parents take children kayaking. Later, everyone can meet for dinner and share what they did. Multigenerational adventure travel works best when togetherness does not become a rigid schedule. Some of the strongest memories may come from the major adventures, while others happen during an unplanned afternoon or a long family dinner. A good itinerary creates room for both. To learn more about family travel, feel free to look over the accompanying infographic. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Microsoft Stock Images

Just 18 miles southwest of downtown Miami, Miccosukee Golf & Country Club has completed a major upgrade to its tennis facilities thanks to a $25,000 Tennis Venue Services grant awarded by the United States Tennis Association (USTA) to the David Ensignia Tennis Academy in January 2025. The grant funded the resurfacing of all four tennis courts at the club, significantly improving playing conditions, safety, and the overall experience for the approximately 150 players who use the facility each week. The impact is especially noticeable during busy periods, including summer camps, tournaments, and league play. Managed by the David Ensignia Tennis Academy, the courts serve a wide range of players through programs that include youth development, USTA tournaments, adult leagues, Junior Team Tennis, varsity high school matches, and seasonal camps. The improvements are also helping support new programming, including the academy’s upcoming “Love to Learn” initiative designed to introduce beginners to the sport. “The support from this grant has had a meaningful impact on our facility and the community we serve,” said David Ensignia Sr. “The resurfaced courts not only improve safety and playability but also allow us to expand our programming and welcome more players of all ages and levels.” The USTA’s Tennis Venue Services grant program supports the construction and improvement of tennis facilities across the country, helping communities provide safe and accessible places to play. Since 2005, the program has awarded more than $34 million in grants, including more than $16 million in 2025 alone to support nearly 300 projects affecting more than 2,500 courts nationwide. “We are committed to supporting the enhancement and construction of tennis facilities in communities across the country,” said Theodore Loehrke, Managing Director of Section Partnerships for the USTA. “Investing in the development of tennis facilities nationwide helps support the USTA’s mission of growing tennis to inspire healthier people and communities everywhere.” Along with funding, grant recipients receive project management and technical support from the USTA’s Tennis Venue Services team to help ensure facilities can serve players at a high level for years to come. For the tennis community at Miccosukee Golf & Country Club, the newly resurfaced courts are already making a difference, creating a better environment for competition, instruction, and the continued growth of the game. By ML Staff. Photos/USTA

At Dragonfly Boutique in South Miami, the racks hold carefully selected fashion, accessories, home goods, and occasional designer discoveries. Behind the boutique is another kind of curation: a Miami nonprofit model designed to ensure that women returning from incarceration have more than preparation for employment. They have a place to begin. On Friday, October 30, 2026, the Ladies Empowerment and Action Program will bring the community behind that model together for the LEAP Second Chance Gala: Celestial Masquerade, an immersive evening at the Rubell Museum celebrating 17 years of impact. The gala aims to raise $250,000 to support LEAP's incarceration-to-community programming, which begins through trauma-informed education inside prisons and Miami-Dade County jails and continues after release through housing, reentry support, workforce development, and paid employment. LEAP Built the Employer Women Needed LEAP launched Dragonfly in 2018 after repeatedly encountering the same barrier: women could complete classes, counseling, and job-readiness training, yet still struggle to find an employer willing to offer an immediate opportunity. Dragonfly became that employer. The social enterprise offers three-month paid internships through which women gain income, workplace experience, retail and technology skills, and professional references. Some interns earn permanent roles within the boutique. For many participants, that first paycheck supports the practical beginning of reentry like groceries, transportation, rent, and the ability to make decisions with greater independence. “Even more incredible, I had a job waiting for me at Dragonfly. That opportunity gave me stability, purpose, and dignity,” said Stephanie R. (LEAP Graduate, Class 25). In October 2025, Dragonfly relocated to South Miami, bringing the boutique and LEAP's program operations under one roof. Its donated inventory is carefully organized and priced accessibly, with clothing, accessories, home goods, and a dedicated designer section creating a shopping experience that is warm, personal, and distinctly local. “We realized that support could not end with preparing someone to work,” said Mahlia Lindquist, Executive Director of LEAP. “Women needed an actual employer, somewhere they could earn income immediately, build a work history, and be seen for their abilities. Dragonfly gave us a way to create that opportunity while inviting the wider Miami community to participate.” A Local Perspective on Fashion and Value As fashion increasingly embraces resale, longevity, authenticity, and intentional consumption, Dragonfly offers a Miami perspective on what those values can make possible. The boutique sits within a larger cultural conversation about how value is defined: by quality, history, individuality, local connection, and the impact created by a purchase or donation. A designer piece from a previous season can become inventory. That inventory can help fund a paycheck. The paycheck can help a woman begin building stability after incarceration. Fashion is the entry point. The opportunity it creates is the larger story. Since 2009, LEAP has served more than 2,000 justice-impacted women and delivered more than 60,000 hours of retail and technology job training. More than 450 women have graduated from its in-prison program, and the organization reports recidivism below 7 percent among prison-program alumnae, compared with an approximate U.S. average of 58 percent. Celestial Masquerade at the Rubell Museum The October gala will translate LEAP's themes of visibility, possibility, and transformation into an experience unfolding at the Rubell Museum. The evening will include performances by LEAP graduates, a special selection of songs from Phantom of the Opera arranged by Radmila Lolly, tarot readings, food stations, live and silent auctions, and a 360-degree photo experience. Guests will be invited to write wishes on dragonflies and add them to a constellation wall that develops throughout the evening. Custom luxury keychains by Piper & Skye, crafted from invasive lionfish skin, will introduce additional elements of design, reinvention, and second chances. Celestial cocktail or evening attire is encouraged. Masks, metallics, sparkle, and night-sky-inspired details are welcome, with masks optional. Honoring the People Behind the Work The 2026 gala will recognize individuals and organizations whose work has helped create pathways forward for women impacted by incarceration: Program Stars: Corinne Webb and Shed Boren, former LEAP instructors Corporate Star: Lennar Foundation Community Star: Ivon Mesa of the Miami-Dade County Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation “LEAP has been a trusted partner to the Miami-Dade Department of Corrections for over 15 years, providing life-changing programs that truly prepare women for success after incarceration,” said Mesa. Event Details LEAP Second Chance Gala: Celestial Masquerade Friday, October 30, 2026 6:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m. Rubell Museum 1100 NW 23rd Street Miami, Florida 33127 Tickets, tables, and sponsorship information: https://leapforladies.org/events/2026-leap-second-chance-gala About LEAP The Ladies Empowerment and Action Program supports women impacted by incarceration through an incarceration-to-community model encompassing trauma-informed education, workforce preparation, housing, reentry services, employment, job training, and long-term community support. Dragonfly Thrift Boutique is LEAP's social enterprise, providing paid internships and workforce experience while generating revenue to help sustain the organization's broader mission. For more information, visit LEAPforLadies.org. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of D.A. Varela & Nola Schoder

Did you know paddling can boost fitness and relaxation? Whether by stand-up paddleboard or kayak, it strengthens the core, improves coordination and offers a fresh view of Miami’s waterfront. Here are Miami Living’s favorite places to paddle in and around Miami, Miami Beach and Key Biscayne. 1 - Miami Beach Paddleboard Miami Beach Paddleboard is a convenient option for visitors and locals looking to get on the water from the Sunset Harbour area. The venue offers paddleboard and kayak activities, making it a practical choice for beginners, casual paddlers and groups who want bay access without leaving Miami Beach. Its location near Sunset Harbour also makes it easy to pair a morning paddle with lunch, coffee or shopping in one of Miami Beach’s most walkable neighborhoods. Facility type: Rental operator Rental/program fees: Varies Type: Outdoor, bayside paddleboarding and kayaking Amenities: Paddleboard rentals, kayak rentals, eFoil activities, online booking, waiver system Address: 1845 Bay Road, Miami Beach, FL 33139 Telephone: 305-874-8388 Website: Miami Beach Paddleboard 2 - PADL at Pine Tree Park For a flexible, self-service paddle option in Miami Beach, PADL at Pine Tree Park offers app-based kayak and paddleboard rentals. The city has partnered with PADL to make rentals available to residents and visitors, similar to a bike-share model. Pine Tree Park sits along Indian Creek and is best for independent paddlers who want a low-key public park setting. The park also includes a kayak launch, walking areas, a dog park and onsite parking. Facility type: Public park / self-service rental Rental/program fees: Yes Type: Outdoor, app-based paddleboard and kayak rental Amenities: Kayak launch, water fountain, parking, walking path, dog park, community garden Address: 4481 Pine Tree Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33140 Telephone: 305-673-7730 Website: PADL 3 - Get Up and Go Kayaking - South Miami Beach Get Up and Go Kayaking offers guided clear kayak tours in South Miami Beach, with routes that highlight Biscayne Bay, mangroves, skyline views and local wildlife. This is a strong choice for visitors who prefer a structured experience rather than a self-guided rental. The company’s South Miami Beach tour is especially suited for first-time paddlers, couples and groups who want a scenic outing with a guide. Facility type: Guided tour operator Rental/program fees: Yes Type: Outdoor, guided clear kayaking Amenities: Guided tours, tandem kayaks, online booking, gift cards Address: 2400 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33140 Telephone: 954-516-1236 Website: Get Up and Go Kayaking 4 - Miami Watersports Miami Watersports is a longtime Coconut Grove watersports operator based at Dinner Key Marina. While the company is known for a wide range of activities, its listed water options include kayak and SUP experiences, making it a useful stop for visitors who want multiple activities from one marina location. The Dinner Key Marina setting is ideal for those staying in Coconut Grove, Brickell or Downtown Miami. Reservations and pre-check instructions are handled through the company’s booking process. Facility type: Watersports operator Rental/program fees: Varies Type: Outdoor, marina-based watersports Amenities: Restrooms, water hose, group locker, waiting area, parking nearby Address: 3400 Pan American Drive, Miami, FL 33133, Pier 9 Slip 4-5 Telephone: 786-713-8006 Website: Miami Watersports 5 - Biscayne Bay Paddle Board & Kayaks Biscayne Bay Paddle Board & Kayaks operates from Sunset Harbour and focuses on paddleboard and kayak rentals with direct access to Biscayne Bay. The location is especially useful for visitors who want a relaxed paddle with skyline views and easy access to the Venetian Islands area. The company is also suited for families, small groups and dog owners, with pet-friendly paddling options and guest amenities listed by the venue. Facility type: Rental and tour operator Rental/program fees: Varies Type: Outdoor, bayside paddleboarding and kayaking Amenities: Paddleboards, kayaks, tours, waterproof bags, waterproof phone cases, cold refreshments, pet life jackets, concierge delivery/pickup Address: 1800 Sunset Harbour Drive, Suite 3, Miami Beach, FL 33139 Telephone: 786-721-3539 Website: Biscayne Bay Paddle Board & Kayaks 6 - PADL Key Biscayne Beach Park PADL’s Key Biscayne Beach Park station is a self-service option for paddleboard and kayak rentals near the water. It is best suited for independent paddlers who want a simple, app-based rental without scheduling a full guided tour. The location gives paddlers access to Key Biscayne’s beach environment and is close to some of the island’s most popular outdoor stops, including Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park and Crandon Park. Facility type: Self-service rental / public access Rental/program fees: Yes Type: Outdoor, oceanside beach launch Amenities: App-based rentals, paddleboards, kayaks, beach launch Address: 695 Ocean Drive, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 Telephone: 786-749-6730 Website: PADL Words by Luiz Porto. Images courtesy of each venue mentioned in this story. Top gif courtesy of Watery.

Nautor Swan is marking its 60th anniversary at the 2026 Cannes Yachting Festival with the world premiere of the Swan 80 and the first public presentation of the Swan 73, which is under construction ahead of its scheduled 2027 debut. The Finnish sailing yacht builder, which joined the Sanlorenzo Group two years ago, is using the anniversary year to expand its portfolio while maintaining the design, craftsmanship and performance characteristics associated with the Swan brand. The Swan 80 is the latest and most compact model in Nautor Swan’s Maxi range, bringing the concept into a 24-metre format. Designed by Germán Frers, with exterior styling by Lucio Micheletti and interiors by Misa Poggi, the yacht combines sailing performance with an emphasis on privacy and onboard living. Its cockpit separates guest and working areas, while the interior uses hand-finished timber, refined fabrics, polished metal and leather, with carbon-fibre details reflecting the yacht’s performance-oriented character. Swan 80: The Essence of the Maxi Swan The Swan 73 represents Nautor Swan’s return to the 70-foot segment after more than two decades and is designed by Germán Frers with interiors by Blend Studio. Currently in production, the yacht is intended for owners seeking the space and comfort of a larger yacht while retaining the experience of sailing with a minimal crew; it is designed to operate with two crew members. The model combines generous living areas with a performance-oriented platform intended to support comfortable and assured passages. Swan 73: a return to the 70ft class The anniversary program also highlights ClubSwan and the wider community surrounding the brand, with the 2026 Rolex Swan Cup in Porto Cervo expected to bring approximately 170 Swan yachts and hundreds of owners and sailors together. Founded in 1966, Nautor Swan has built more than 2,350 yachts ranging from 28 to 131 feet, with its current portfolio spanning Swan, Swan Maxi, Swan Alloy, ClubSwan, SwanScape and motor yacht models. The company’s new CEO, Gianguido Girotti, is overseeing the next stage of the brand’s development, with an emphasis on innovation, long-term growth and maintaining Swan’s established identity. By ML Staff. Photo/Nautor Swan.

Cordero Consulting has announced the inaugural "Day of Design," a new district-wide promenade taking place on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, across select showrooms in Coral Gables. The afternoon-into-evening event connects interior designers, tastemakers, and design enthusiasts with the city's growing creative community through curated workshops, panel discussions, and receptions. Founding partner showrooms include Maison Mischief, the Coral Gables Museum, Scavolini, and Maison & Co., with media support provided by Coral Gables Magazine. Photo resource Depositphotos. The event honors a design history that began in the 1920s when founder George Merrick envisioned Coral Gables as a planned "City Beautiful". Designed alongside architect Phineas Paist and landscape architect Denman Fink, the city established a Mediterranean Revival aesthetic defined by warm stucco, red clay roof tiles, and locally quarried limestone. The program builds upon this century-old architectural foundation, providing a platform for contemporary showrooms, craftspeople, and designers shaping the district today. Programming at the Coral Gables Museum includes a featured panel discussion titled "Materials, Mastery, & Meaning: The Art of Enduring Design," moderated by Harriet Mays Powell, Editor-in-Chief of Palm Beach Cottages & Gardens. The discussion brings together regional makers and visionaries to explore how generational craftsmanship, material choices, and intentional design transform architectural structures into lasting heirlooms. City leaders and civic organizations, including Mayor Vince Lago and the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, have noted the event's role in showcasing local creative talent and reinforcing the municipality's reputation as a South Florida design destination. DAY OF DESIGN — AT A GLANCE Tuesday, September 22, 2026 | Coral Gables, FL 1:00 PM — Maison Mischief: "Artistry Atelier" Workshop (361 Miracle Mile) 2:45 PM — Coral Gables Museum: "Materials, Mastery, & Meaning: The Art of Enduring Design" Panel (285 Aragon Ave) 4:30 PM — Scavolini: "The Art of the Italian Kitchen" Workshop (2600 Ponce de Leon Blvd) 6:00 PM — Maison & Co.: Closing Reception, "Beyond Illumination" (2850 Salzedo St) Additional programming details, partner announcements, and RSVP information will be released in the coming weeks at luma.com/DayofDesign and via @daysofdesignmia. By ML Staff.

Join us for Impact Evening: A Founder’s Talk with Daniel Gupta, an inspiring, not-to-be-missed evening exploring the connection between art, philanthropy, and social impact. Entrepreneur, Visionary and Changemaker Daniel Gupta, Founder of the International Art Project Foundation, will share the story behind IAP, the vision that inspired its development, and how art can and does create meaningful support for communities and nonprofit organizations. DATE & TIME: Friday, September 18th 2026 Doors open @ 5:30 pm 6-9 pm VENUE: IAP Impact Lobby — Wilzig Museum Building 1205 Washington Ave, Miami Beach The event is complimentary and open to the community. Space is limited, so advance registration is encouraged. RSVP through Eventbrite: RSVP EVENTBRITE Come for the conversation. Stay for the connections. Discover how art can create impact. This is what we do. Every day. Throughout the world. About the International Art Project The International Art Project (IAP), IAP a recognized 501(c)(3), is a Foundation that transforms fine art into tangible humanitarian impact, including clean water initiatives, school development, and community projects locally, regionally and globally. Every work of Art is directly connected to a humanitarian effort through IAP. The organization was founded by Miami businessman Daniel Savion Gupta, whose vision bridges the worlds of art and philanthropy, ensuring that creativity serves a greater global purpose. IAP collaborates with Artists in many ways: Our Impact Artists program presents extraordinary works of Art by significant Artists that support our clearly defined humanitarian projects. These works exist specifically to demonstrate how art can function as an engine for impact. These projects around the world have been facilitated successfully for two decades, with new projects being funded through the Impact Editions program. IAP PROJECTS . The IAP Impact Editions generate funding for humanitarian and community-based projects, supporting the charitable and humanitarian initiatives of the International Art Project Foundation. IAP has created a Fellowship and Emerging Impact Artist Scholarship initiative, the IAP's Emerging Artists for Impact Award 2026, a national open-call supporting the next generation of Artists whose work engages with ideas of meaning, impact and cultural dialogue. Twenty selected Artists will receive monetary awards and the opportunity to exhibit at the IAP Foundation Gallery in Miami Beach during Miami Art Week 2026. Photos/IAP.

Award-winning developer El-Ad National Properties, an Elad Group company with a South Florida-based team, today announced the official renaming of its transformative mixed-use development to The Plaza Davie District, formerly known as The District at Davie. The announcement follows the project’s recent topping-out milestone, marking the structural completion of the first building in Phase One and continued momentum at the site. The new name marks a significant evolution for the $1 billion, 2.8 million-square-foot mixed-use residential and commercial project and reinforces a refined identity heavily centered on lifestyle, prime location and hospitality. Designed to reflect the character of South Florida, The Plaza Davie District introduces a more immersive, amenity-driven environment that blends residential living with a destination experience. The project’s branding and visual identity were intentionally designed to feel light, airy and distinctly Florida-inspired, creating a cohesive aesthetic that aligns with the interior color palette and overall lifestyle positioning. As part of the rebrand, a new logo has been introduced featuring a palm tree motif, reinforcing a distinctly South Florida identity and reflecting the project’s hospitality-driven vision, outdoor lifestyle and connection to its tropical surroundings. The name also reflects El-Ad’s experience in acquiring and repositioning landmark properties, including its redevelopment of The Plaza Hotel in New York, where luxury residences and hospitality-driven experiences were integrated. “The Plaza Davie District represents the next chapter for this project and the community it will serve,” said Matthew Jeffries, CEO of El-Ad National Properties. “The updated name and logo reflect a more intentional, hospitality-driven vision tied directly to The Plaza Davie District, prioritizing connection, experience and the energy of South Florida living. The branding, architecture and interiors are all aligned in that vision.” From its design to its amenities, this is being built as a true destination in the heart of Davie.” “The Plaza Davie District exemplifies the Town’s vision for the Residential, Industrial, Social, and Export (RISE) District, which is designed to encourage mixed use that supports key target industries, including international trade, advanced technology, and manufacturing and distribution,” said Mayor Judy Paul of the Town of Davie. Rooted in the concept of a central gathering place, The Plaza Davie District is designed to bring together residents, visitors and the surrounding community in a setting that supports both everyday living and social interaction. Strategically located in Davie with convenient access to I-595, the Florida Turnpike and I-75, the development is also in close proximity to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Port Everglades and the South Florida Education Center, including Nova Southeastern University. The location places residents near major employment hubs, education, dining and entertainment. The first building is located at 4820 Park Way, Davie, FL 33314. The Plaza Davie District is being delivered in three distinct phases. Phase One consists of one 22-story building featuring 288 apartment residences, with completion targeted for early 2027. When fully built out, the $1 billion development is planned to include five residential towers with approximately 1,292 rental residences, 36,000 square feet of restaurants and retail, and 1.1 million square feet of access-controlled parking with 2,650 spaces. Residences will include high-speed internet, smart thermostats and keyless entry, along with private terraces on each floor. Many residences will offer views of the iconic Guitar at the neighboring Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. In collaboration with the project’s architectural and interior design teams, a defining component of The Plaza Davie District is its emphasis on hospitality and amenities. Inspired by South Florida’s landscape, the property will feature palm-lined pathways, green spaces and a strong indoor-outdoor connection. Amenities across the buildings will include rooftop pools, coworking spaces, pet parks, children’s play areas, 24-hour fitness and spa treatment rooms, outdoor kitchens, game lounges and a reservable Sky Lounge. As part of the rebrand, updated signage and fencing are being introduced at the site as construction continues. The project’s architectural team includes Cooper Carry of Atlanta. Promethean Builders LLC serves as the general contractor. The interior design team is CID Design Group based in Naples. With its scale, location and focus on amenities, The Plaza Davie District is positioned to become a leading mixed-use destination in Broward County. For more information, call 954-820-8200 or email info@theplazadistrict.com. By ML Staff. Photo/El-Ad National Properties.

W Miami in Brickell has appointed Mohamed Nady as its new Hotel Manager, bringing more than 25 years of luxury hospitality experience to the Miami property. In his new role, Nady will oversee hotel operations and the overall guest experience, with a focus on service, team development and strengthening W Miami’s position as a luxury lifestyle destination in Brickell. Born and raised in Egypt, Nady was educated in the French school system before earning a degree in Accounting from Cairo University. He has built an international hospitality career across Cairo, Los Angeles and South Florida, holding leadership positions in hotel operations, rooms, sales and marketing, revenue management and guest experience. Nady’s career includes leadership roles with Four Seasons Hotels and EDITION Hotels. He has been recognized with the President’s Club Award seven times and has developed a reputation for driving business performance while building service-focused teams. Before joining W Miami, Nady served as Director of Sales & Marketing at The West Hollywood EDITION in Los Angeles. During his tenure, the property received several industry and media accolades, including recognition from Time Out and TZR Readers’ Choice. The hotel’s restaurant, ARDOR, also received a Michelin Recommendation. At W Miami, Nady will focus on combining personalized service, innovative guest experiences and team development. His leadership approach emphasizes collaboration, accountability and creating a workplace where associates feel valued and motivated. Outside of hospitality, Nady enjoys traveling, hiking, spending time with his family and playing chess. W Miami is located at 485 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131 By ML Staff. Photo/Marriott