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With more than 200 jobs listed on her resume, Barbie was among the first to prove women can do it all. Now, anyone can work from her glossy desk for free, thanks to the launch of the “Barbie Dream Office” at Quest Workspaces’ Downtown Miami location at 1395 Brickell Ave., just in time for the upcoming movie premiere on July 21. Barbie broke the glass ceiling in the 1980s with the debut of “Day to Night” CEO Barbie, just as women began to break into the C-suite. Quest Workspaces, the largest women-owned coworking brand in the U.S., has long championed “resimercial” design, which showcases elements of home decor in commercial office spaces. So it’s no surprise that its new Barbie-themed office, showered in a palette of hot pink and bedazzled with glitter and sequins, looks straight out of the film’s Barbieland. “With more than 200 jobs listed on her resume– Barbie was the first to prove women can do it all," said Laura Kozelouzek, CEO & Founder of Quest Workspaces. “As the largest woman-owned shared workspace company in the country, it makes sense we align with the pop-culture phenomena that is the release of the Barbie movie. It’s also an opportunity for us to showcase how Quest Workspaces is both effective and FUN. The immersive Barbie Dream Office brings is the perfect opportunity for us to co-create and engage with our members while sharing our brand culture with broader audiences.” From July 17 to August 31, the Barbie Dream Office can be reserved for free by emailing: barbiedreamoffice@questworkspaces.com. It can be rented by the month starting September 1. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Quest Work Spaces

“Nothing big planned ... just a giant blowout party with all the Barbies, planned choreography and a bespoke song.” – Barbie to Ken in the Barbie movie Come on Barbie, let’s go party! In celebration of the new movie Barbie, CMX CinéBistro at CityPlace Doral is celebrating with a free Barbie Blowout Party on Wednesday, July 19, at 5 p.m. Guests are encouraged to dress in their Barbie best. Movie tickets are available for purchase here with pricing varying depending on the day of the week. Please note, guests do not need to have movie tickets to attend the free party. Barbie lovers will enjoy exclusive CMX and Barbie goodies. Special themed cocktails will be available for purchase including: Sunkissed Soirée ($14.99) is the ultimate summertime drink. With a swirl of sweet dragon fruit with the warmth of reposado tequila and a slight tartness from fresh lime juice and a black sea salt rim to mellow the flavor for a more savory taste. The Pina Verano ($14.99) is a tropical refreshing combination of pineapple, Sprite, vodka, rum and blue Curacao liqueur. Champagne Please! Blue Harpoon ($13.99) is a bubbly blend of Champagne, blue Curacao liqueur and lemonade. CMX CinéBistro at CityPlace Doral is a one-of-a-kind elevated movie-going experience with amenities such as all reserved recliner seating, full-service in-theatre dining, extensive beer, wine and cocktail selections and a chef-crafted menu. All auditoriums feature 4k digital projection and 7.1 surround sound. CityPlace Doral is South Florida’s premier wellness, entertainment, dining, and restaurant destination in the heart of Doral. CityPlace Doral has an expansive collection of dining options, from upscale restaurants to outdoor cafés and bistros with unique tequila cocktails to sip on this summer. Valet service and complimentary self-parking are available. CityPlace Doral is open seven days a week. For more information, please visit www.cityplacedoral.com/stores/cmx-cinebistro-doral. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of CityPlace Doral

To reduce costs for clients and streamline its operations, Mr. Cannabis Law, a leading boutique marijuana and psychedelic law firm based in South Florida, is at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into cannabis and psychedelic law practices. Mr. Cannabis Law is investing $100,000 in the firm’s AI initiative, allowing it to further its goal to provide quality work similar to large law firms, but at a far better price. While AI tools are in place for general law firms, currently there are no specific AI tools for cannabis and psychedelic law practices. “Practicing cannabis and psychedelic law requires very specifically tailored legal work, including contracts, applications, private offering documents, ownership transfer documentation, real estate documentation and more,” said Dustin Robinson, Esq., CPA, founding partner of Mr. Cannabis Law. “With the progress in AI, much of this work can be automated, increasing efficiencies for law firms and ultimately reducing costs to clients.” While Mr. Cannabis Law’s AI initiative will allow the firm to provide work more efficiently, a firm attorney will carefully review, tailor and personalize the work produced via AI. The firm will send the client the drafts of the applicable documents, and then continue to iterate them until they are final. Over the next two years, Mr. Cannabis Law plans to incorporate various AI initiatives. A couple examples are the following: 1. Automating medical marijuana license applications, as well as documentation generally required for these applications. While Mr. Cannabis Law has drafted many medical marijuana applications in various states in the U.S. ― typically a long, cumbersome and costly process ― using AI will significantly lower the cost of application drafting and other legal documentation. With a goal to decrease the typical $300,000 – $400,000 application cost (in competitive states such as Florida) to $30,000 – $40,000 per application, Mr. Cannabis Law hopes to open medical marijuana license application opportunities to marginalized communities and low income applicants. 2. Automating cannabis real estate deals. Due to cannabis being federally illegal and municipalities having specific ordinances relating to cannabis business, cannabis real estate deals are complex. By incorporating AI, Mr. Cannabis Law will streamline these real estate deals, ensuring that clients are compliant with various cannabis-specific regulations. “Ultimately, I believe that law firms that don’t embrace AI will be left behind,” Robinson continued. “Having embraced technology since our founding, we are pleased to now integrate AI initiatives into our practice, which will greatly benefit our clients.” Mr. Cannabis Law is committed to leading the way in the cannabis and psychedelic law industry and is proud to continue to innovate with technology such as AI. About Mr. Cannabis Law Mr. Cannabis Law is a leading law firm in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, providing full-service expert legal advice and representation in cannabis and psychedelics. With a team of highly skilled attorneys, the firm is committed to providing exceptional service to its clients and promoting the well-being of its employees. For more information about Mr. Cannabis Law and their commitment to mental health and team culture, please visit their website at https://mrcannabislaw.com/. By ML Staff. Image by Mr. Cannabis Law

This July, Miami locals have the opportunity to taste their way through Coral Gables with the city’s restaurant month! This exciting celebration, titled “Taste The Gables” will immerse food enthusiasts in a month-long extravaganza of culinary excellence and captivating events. Taste the Gables welcomes both residents and visitors to indulge in an extensive range of delicious experiences at 40 different participating restaurants with specially curated prix fixe menus at set price points. Check out these top 3 South Florida hot spots offering Taste The Gables menus. KAO Sushi & Grill, the premier Argentine, Peruvian and Japanese fusion restaurant on Miracle Mile, has great options on Taste The Gables menu. The $30 lunch menu is available 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily and includes one choice of a starter such as Citrus & Walnut Salad, Pork Buns or Sweet & Spicy Edamame. For the main course, options range from the hearty Pork Ramen with tonkotsu broth to the delectable Summer Sushi Combo, consisting of 12 pieces of sushi crafted by the chef. The menu also includes the enticing KAO Chicken and the flavorful Shrimp Chaufa Rice Wok. To conclude the meal, guests can savor the luscious 4 Leches or indulge in the traditional Argentinian Flan. The $35 menu builds upon the $30 offer, granting diners the choice of a glass of wine or beer to accompany their meal. The $45 dinner menu is available from 4 p.m. to close and includes a choice of a starter, such as the tantalizing Chorizo Buns, the zesty White Fish Ceviche or the flavorful Tango Sliders. Main course options range from the freshly prepared Poke Bowl to the Grilled Branzino. Alternatively, guests can choose two full sushi rolls from the chef’s selection or the Kao Wok, featuring chicken or beef, vegetables, rice, and KAO sauce. Dessert offerings include 4 Leches and traditional Argentinian Flan. To elevate their experience, guests can participate in the $60 menu, which comes with two glasses of prosecco, beer, or sake or a glass of house white or red wine. Located inside THesis Hotel, Mamey is inspired by Chef Niven Patel’s travels throughout Asia, French Polynesia and the Caribbean and features locally grown produce, most of which is sourced from his own farm, Rancho Patel in Homestead. This Taste the Gabels, Chef Niven is presenting Lunch ($35) and Dinner ($60) menus to satisfy any guests’ craving that will showcase the exotic flavors and spices commonly found in the islands. The first course boasts a variety of options including the seasonal Spring Farro Salad made with mangos from Rancho Patel, shaved asparagus, arugula, goat cheese feta, snow peas and pomegranate; the indulged White Truffle & Brie Grilled Cheese made with Florida Mango Jam and Sullivan Street Bread; and the Local Daily Catch Ceviche, presented with Coconut Leche de Tigre, red onion, avocado, Cachucha Peppers, and fresh cilantro. The lineup for entrees feature the Glazed Lamb Ribs, with local honey, chives and pickled local fruit; Lemongrass Glazed Grouper with bok choy, heirloom carrots, bamboo rice and Thai curry; and Farm Vegetable Pad Thai with Tamarind, peanuts and Thai basil sprouts. For the full Taste the Gables experience, guests can indulge in the dessert menu that highlights the Jamaican Rum Cake, with a sweet toffee sauce and creamy vanilla bean ice cream. Mamey’s Taste the Gables Dinner menu features a few different appetizers and entrees including appetizers like the Conch Fritters, with a fresh cilantro aioli and habanero for a slight kick; the entrees include the Mishima Ranch Currasco, accompanied by yucca, rainbow chard red pepper chimichurri; and the Ghee Roasted Plantains with Tamarind Chutney, Chatt Yogurt, Zima Tomato, Cilantro Chutney and Crispy Chickpeas. Miami New Times Best New Restaurant, Orno at THesis Hotel in Coral Gables, will be showcasing its first Brunch and Lunch ($35) menu and Dinner ($60) menu for the annual Taste of the Gables. Orno is a modern restaurant with an open-kitchen concept, helmed by 5x James Beard Nominee and Food & Wine’s Best New Chef of 2020, Chef Niven Patel. The restaurant offers guests a true, farm-to-table experience using locally sourced ingredients from Chef Patel's very own farm, Rancho Patel and consists of New American cuisine featuring the finest selection of meats and seafood. For brunch and lunch, guests can indulge in a three course menu with a selection of Chilaquiles with salsa verde, queso fresco, avocado and a farm egg; Shakshuka served with a farm egg, castelvetrano olives, goat milk feta, sourdough; and Green Chickpea Hummus with pickled beets, za'atar pita for the first course. The second course includes sweet and savory options like the French Omelette made with goat cheese, roasted garlic and fine herbs; Ricotta Pancakes served with fresh strawberries and Vermont syrup; and Bacon Potato Pave with gruyere and sourdough. To finish off the meal, brunch lovers can indulge in a dessert course with options like the S’mores with dark chocolate, marshmallow and mezcal and Banana Bread with chocolate sunflower butter. The dinner menu is equally as indulgent. The first course selection gives guests the choice of the Snapper Crudo, with cucumber aguachile, farm mango relish and cilantro; a Roasted Eggplant Crostini with harissa, basil and crème fraiche; or the Pork Confit with pickled peaches, Thai basil and cornbread. Guests also have an option to add on the Hudson Valley Foie Gras ($29+), a melt in your mouth addition served with Rancho Patel mango, cardamom and sourdough. The second course lineup consists of a selection of Braised Short Rib, with peperonata served alongside a bed of cilantro rice and jus; the Grilled Skill Island Prawns, accompanied by a Thai mango salad, cilantro and chipotle glaze; or the Summer Corn Risotto, with charred corn from the wood-fired oven topped with black truffle and parsley gremolata. Taste of the Gables diners with a sweet tooth can choose from Orno’s dessert options such as the Semifreddo with buttermilk, mango and tajin or the S’mores with dark chocolate, marshmallow and mezcal. Other participating restaurants include The Lion & The Rambler, Vinya Table, Fiola, Portosole and Noma Beach at Red Fish. For a full list of participating restaurants and more information visit coralgables.com/tastethegables. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of each featured restaurant on this article

GOL! There’s been madness in Miami with the arrival of Argentine soccer superstar Lionel Messi to Major League Soccer team Inter Miami. In celebration of Messi’s first home game against Mexico City’s Cruz Azul, Novecento at CityPlace Doral is hosting a watch party this Friday, July 21, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Guests can enjoy two for one Meszi Cocteles and two for one Prison Pal’s GOAT 10 lagers as well as Novecento’s signature Argentinian menu items. Doral-based Prison Pals Brewing Co. brewed the special-edition American lager GOAT 10 (Greatest of All Time) to celebrate Messi’s recent move to Inter Miami. Each can is decorated in Inter Miami’s signature pink and black colors and printed with Messi’s iconic number 10. Novecento offers a selection of Argentinian influenced dishes, premium steaks and pasta. Reservations for the watch party are strongly suggested, and can be made either at OpenTable or by calling 786-871-4935. Messi Madness has hit SuViche. Join SuViche this Friday, July 21st to watch Inter Miami take on Cruz Azul while enjoying 2X1 Goat 10 Prison pals Lager all day long. Friendly reminder, seating at the bar is limited so be sure to beat the crowd and get there early. For those who are planning a watch party for Messi’s first game at their home, The Cheese Course at CityPlace Doral is offering 20% off catering from July 21-23. Adventure through artisanal, handcrafted cheeses from all around the world or bite into flavorful sandwiches, fresh salads and savory soups. CityPlace Doral – South Florida’s premier wellness, entertainment, dining and restaurant destination – is home to Novecento and The Cheese Course. CityPlace Doral is open seven days a week and located at 8300 NW 36th Street in Doral, Florida. For more information, please visit https://cityplacedoral.com/stores/novecento.

Tony Bennett: the timeless visionary who, with a nod to America’s musical heritage, embraced the future In the history of American popular music, there have been few luminaries as enduring and innovative as Tony Bennett. With a career that spanned almost 80 years, Bennett’s smooth tones, unique phrasing and visionary musical collaborations left an indelible mark on vocal jazz and the recording industry as a whole. Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga in 2015. Charles Sykes/Invision/AP That his death at the age of 96 on July 21, 2023, was mourned by artists as varied as Keith Urban, Ozzy Osbourne and Harry Connick Jr. should come as no surprise. Yes, Bennett was a jazz crooner. But if his voice was always a constant – even late into his 80s, way past an age when most other singers have seen their vocal abilities diminish – then his embrace of the contemporary was every bit a facet of Bennett’s appeal. Vocal innovator Bennett’s journey is a testament to the power of daring innovation. From the early days of his career in the 1950s to his final recordings in the early 2020s, he fearlessly explored new musical territories, revolutionizing vocal jazz and captivating audiences across generations. His vocal style and phrasing were distinctive and set him apart from other artists of his time. He utilized a delayed or “laid-back” approach to falling on the note, a technique known as “rubato.” This created a sense of anticipation in his phrasing, adding an element of surprise to his performances. Through Bennett’s skilled use of rubato, he was able to play with the tempo and rhythm of a song, bending and stretching musical phrases to evoke a range of emotions. This subtle manipulation of timing gave his songs a natural and conversational quality, making listeners feel as though he was intimately sharing his stories with them. Armed with this silky, playful voice, Bennett found fame fairly early on in his career, delivering jazz standards alongside the likes of Mel Tormé and Nat King Cole. By the mid-1960s, he was being touted by Frank Sinatra as “the best singer in the business.” Tony Bennett in 1960. AP Photo But his musical style fell out of fashion in the 1970s – a lean period during which Bennett almost succumbed to a drug overdose. Then, in the 1990s, Bennett found a new audience and set off a series of collaborations with contemporary musical stars that would become the standard for his later career. No genre of artistry was deemed off-limits for Bennett. “Duets: An American Classic,” released to coincide with his 80th birthday in 2006, saw collaborations with country stars such as k.d. lang and the Dixie Chicks – now known as the Chicks – and soul legend Stevie Wonder, alongside kindred jazz spirits such as Diana Krall. “Duets II,” a 2011 follow-up, saw further explorations with the likes of Aretha Franklin, Queen Latifah, Willie Nelson and Amy Winehouse, in what would become the British singer’s last recording. But his cross-generational, cross-genre and cross-cultural appeal is perhaps best exemplified by his collaborations with Lady Gaga, first on the 2014 Grammy-winning album “Cheek to Cheek.” The recording brought together two artists from different generations, genres and backgrounds, uniting them in a harmonious celebration of jazz classics. The collaboration not only showcased each one’s vocal prowess, but also sent a powerful message about the unifying nature of music. Lady Gaga, a pop artist with avant-garde leanings, might have seemed an unlikely partner for Bennett, the quintessential jazz crooner. Yet their musical chemistry and mutual admiration resulted in an album that mesmerized audiences worldwide. “Cheek to Cheek” effortlessly transcended musical boundaries, while the duo’s magnetic stage presence and undeniable talent enchanted listeners. The successful fusion of jazz and pop encouraged artists to experiment beyond traditional boundaries, leading to more cross-genre projects across the industry – proving that such projects could go beyond one-off novelties, and be profitable at that. Timeless artistry Bennett’s embrace of contemporary artists did not mean that he abandoned his own musical self. By blending traditional jazz with contemporary elements, he managed to captivate audiences across generations, appealing to both longtime fans and new listeners. One key aspect of Bennett’s success was his ability to embody the sentiment of old America, reminiscent of artists like Sinatra, Billie Holiday and Louis Armstrong, while infusing contemporary nuances that resonated with the human condition of a more modern era. His approach to music captured both the essence and struggle of America, giving his songs a timeless and universal appeal. Moreover, his voice conveyed familiarity and comfort, akin to listening to a beloved uncle. Bennett’s albums stood out not only for his soulful voice and impeccable delivery but also for the way he drew others from varied musical backgrounds into his world of jazz sensibilities. As a producer, he recognized the importance of nurturing creativity and bringing out the best in artists. Meanwhile, Bennett’s approach to evolving his own sound while preserving its essence sets him apart as an artist. Fearless in his pursuit of innovation, he delved into contemporary musical elements and collaborated with producers to infuse new sonic dimensions into his later albums. The result drew listeners into an intimate and immersive, concert-like acoustic journey. Depth of emotion The greats in music have an ability to speak to the human experience. And either in collaboration with others or on his own, Bennett was able to achieve this time and time again. His albums were successful not only due to their technical brilliance and musicality but also because Bennett’s voice conveyed a depth of emotion that transcended barriers of time and culture, touching the hearts of listeners from various backgrounds. There was a universality in his music that made him a beloved and revered artist across the globe. Bennett’s life spanned decades of societal upheavals in the United States. But in his music, listeners could always find beauty in challenging times. And as the 20th- and 21st-century American music industry went through its own revolutions, Bennett’s artistic evolution mirrored the changes, cementing his place as a music icon who defies the boundaries of time and trends. By Jose Valentino RuizProgram Director of Music Business & Entrepreneurship, University of Florida. Special thanks to The Conversation for this store. Click here to donate and support The Conversation.

Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute announced today that it will be expanding its services in South Florida with a new cardiovascular care office, located on the Baptist Health Baptist Hospital campus in Kendall. Upon completion this summer, the multidisciplinary office will provide streamlined cardiovascular care, with 30 exam rooms, more than 10 medical specialists and a new, innovative arrhythmia center. Joseph T. McGinn, Jr., M.D., chief of Cardiac Surgery Spanning 13,000 square feet, the new cardiovascular care office will be home to cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, interventional cardiologists and electrophysiologists, as well as advanced practice providers. The completion of this new location will further eliminate the need for patients to visit multiple offices for their care, which, in some cases, can delay diagnoses and further treatment. “This location marks the first cardiovascular care office that we’ve built from the ground up, with a focus on patients’ needs and their desire for convenience,” said Jonathan Fialkow, M.D., chief of cardiology at Baptist Hospital and deputy medical director of Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute, who envisioned this comprehensive care concept. “By bringing each of these specialties together, along with clinical pharmacists, nurse navigators and administrative staff, patients will experience various high-quality heart and vascular services all under one roof.” The office will also feature a dedicated arrythmia center – the first of its kind in South Florida and one of the few in the United States – providing advanced care for patients with arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia. The new cardiovascular care office will be located on the sixth floor of the west tower of the Baptist Medical Arts Building on the Baptist Health Baptist Hospital campus. For more information, please visit Cardiac Services | Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute | Baptist Health South Florida or call 786-204-4200. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Baptist Health Miami Cardiac

Photo Credit: Matt Pluznick Megan Mae Stevens is making waves all along the coast with her luxury swimwear line, Megan Mae Miami®. Colorful bikinis and one-pieces are everywhere in this city, but Megan’s collections have an indefinable quality that feels authentically Miami. It’s not only the colors and designs that are quintessential Magic City. There’s something else there. When I sat down to chat with Megan, I realized that she is much more than a typical business owner. I started to understand exactly why her collections radiate that warm Miami feeling. It’s because the person behind the brand puts her heart and soul into her designs, and that person embodies the best aspects of this city. It’s now clear to me that it’s Megan’s sunny disposition and fiery drive that has made her brand so successful. It’s her humble spirit, steady perseverance, and yearning for personal and professional growth that make Megan such an inspirational figure. She’s found a way to make her swimwear line feel like the natural extension of a real human being. I learned that buying swimwear from Megan Mae Miami® can be a three-dimensional experience. Photo Credit: Matt Pluznick How has Miami influenced your swimwear line? Megan Mae Stevens: Miami is so diverse. There are so many different kinds of people with their own unique styles, and each community has its own vibe. Brickell, Wynwood, the Design District, and so many others — each area has its own flavor. It’s pretty easy to find inspiration just by looking around! Our collections are definitely influenced by local neighborhoods and the amazing people who live here. What else inspires you when you’re designing and creating new collections? Megan Mae Stevens: I wanted to do something brand new with our latest collections. With our initial collections, we focused on bright, vibrant, poppy colors. I wanted to bring a different feel this time around. It’s day versus night. In Miami, day-time and night-time are two totally different atmospheres and lifestyles. With our upcoming Liquid Metal collection, we used cooler, darker, moodier tones that are perfect for transitioning from sunny days to starry nights. For our Sandstorm collection, we used warmer, neutral tones for those who prefer something that’s a bit more low-key. We all have different tastes, so we try to keep our line eclectic so everyone can own a perfect Megan Mae Miami® swimsuit. Here in Miami, it’s not uncommon for someone to incorporate a swimsuit into an outfit and call it a night — anything goes! [laughs] We try to keep our line versatile so people have more styling freedom. Photo Credit: Matt Pluznick With so many swimwear brands in the market, how does Megan Mae Miami® differentiate itself? Megan Mae Stevens: We try to bring a human element to our brand so people can really have a meaningful connection with Megan Mae Miami®. So many brands feel two-dimensional — where’s the depth? We want to give people that three-dimensional experience that goes beyond the surface level and gets them excited to be part of something special. I think everyone should visit Miami at some point in their lives. Bringing that authentic Miami experience to our customers is important to me. We love your brand’s commitment to sustainability! Can you tell us a little more about how Megan Mae Miami® is making a difference? Megan Mae Stevens: All of our bikinis are sustainable. They’re created from ECONYL®, which is a textile fiber from Italy that’s made from recycled plastics and fishing nets from oceans all over the world. When you purchase a bikini from us, you know that you’re making a difference in the environment. Every bikini makes a difference, and you might as well look good doing it! You’re an influencer yourself, but who would you say has influenced you most? Megan Mae Stevens: I’m extremely impacted by fitness and a role model I’ve looked up to since high school is Tony Horton, the creator of the P90X workout program. I just loved his enthusiasm on camera and had the privilege of meeting him — I won a contest and got to join him for a workout. He’s the same person off-camera as on camera. He has that same enthusiasm, humor, and charisma. I really appreciate people who are humble and act the same behind the scenes as they do in the limelight. Staying grounded is so important to me, and I think that’s a big reason why our customers gravitate toward Megan Mae Miami®. When you put kindness, respect, gratitude, and positivity into the world, they come right back to you. You specialized in human performance when studying exercise science in college; how has that affected your journey? Would you say fitness is still a huge part of your life? Megan Mae Stevens: Yes, fitness is still a huge part of my routine, my lifestyle, and who I am. When I feel like relaxing or de-stressing, my first thought is to hit the gym or go for a walk. It’s second nature for me. Many things in life come down to a formula; fitness is a formula I've figured out. It’s plug-and-play for me. I keep it simple and just do it. If you want to maintain a healthy lifestyle, you have to make it simple. For example, I like to do total body exercises and focus on doing three sets of four exercises per workout session. Don’t overcomplicate or overthink it. Put your shoes on and go! Looking back at your career so far, what would you say are your biggest accomplishments? Megan Mae Stevens: I’m extremely proud of Megan Mae Miami®. I was in real estate, and it just wasn’t for me. There wasn’t enough of a human element for me. It wasn’t my passion. It’s really cool to have such a young product line and have already attended Miami Swim Week® three times, along with other similar events. It’s a designer’s dream come true. I’ve also always wanted to walk in Swim Week, and it was so rewarding to combine both goals and be able to say I’ve walked for my own brand. I’m always pushing myself to do something unique that most people wouldn’t expect. It's not just about cute suits for me. It’s about accomplishing something meaningful. It’s about adding dimension and depth to my life and the lives of others. Also, what is the hardest lesson you've learned, and how does it serve you now? Megan Mae Stevens: Sometimes you feel like you want something so badly, and you’re convinced it’s exactly what you need for your life. Sometimes God just has a different plan for you, and usually, it’s an even better plan. There’s a fine balance between what I believe to be destiny and our role in that. We have free will, so it’s up to us to take the steps and create our own destinies. I’m a go-getter, so I’ll find a way. Say you’re pounding at a certain door. You might find that there’s no answer, or you’re hitting a brick wall. You might just need to change your focus slightly and discover that unlocked door that you missed the first time around. If it’s not there, build your own door. I’ve wanted things for my life that I thought were right for me at the time, but once I let go, everything fell into place. For example, I wanted to be a model in Miami, but every agency turned me down because I wasn’t tall enough by industry standards. So, I built my own door. My hope is that I can inspire others to turn adversity into opportunity. Let it drive you and push you forward. Maybe there’s a better plan waiting to unfold or be created. How do you balance your work and personal life? What are your favorite ways to decompress? Megan Mae Stevens: I have no social life. [laughs] Only teasing, but yes, I work a lot, but I feel I’m in the building phase in my life now. I’m happy with where I am. To be completely honest, I’m not always a very balanced person with how I use my time. I think it’s important to stay focused on my goals to continue growing. When you spend too much time alone, or you don’t have enough to do, you get in your own head. Covid was such a hard time for many people, including me. Right now, I’m focused on becoming the best person I can possibly be. I’m focused on growth and becoming the best person I can possibly be. When I’m not focused on work, I love playing piano and singing. I picked it up over the last six months, and I’m having a blast with it. When I need to decompress, I find that taking the time to put down my phone, disconnect, and focus on the abundance of good things in life, no matter how small, can work wonders. What's your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs? Megan Mae Stevens: Do it! Go for it! [laughs] I have a healthy naivete. If you know what you’re in for, it can deter you. I just dove in head first and started this business. It’s like you plunge into the deep end, and you just have to keep swimming. It’s great to have talent and passion, but you also need a team that can help you cover all your bases. My business partners are phenomenal and help me see things from all angles. Being a business owner is truly a rollercoaster. There will be times when it’s sunshine and roses and times when you’re in deep, dark valleys. People who are close to you can propel you forward or hold you back. Identify who will push you forward on your journey and support you in your dreams, and keep them close. Can you share any secrets or news about what you have planned for the next six months? We’re going to be launching two brand new collections: Sandstorm and Liquid Metal. We’re also looking forward to a lot of fashion shows, including Miami Swim Week®, New York Swim Week®, and Hamptons Fashion Week®. Besides those exciting milestones, we’re just going to keep building brand awareness and keep sending out a message of love and positivity to the amazing Megan Mae Miami® community — a three-dimensional one, at that! And, finally, where can people find your swimwear, Megan Mae Miami®? The easiest way to find us is through our website: https://meganmaemiami.com/ If you like what you see, come say hi on Instagram @meganmaemiami and @meganmaestevens as well as YouTube @ youtube.com/meganmaestevens! By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Matt Pluznick (www.MattPluz.com) and Megan Mae Miami®

When life gives us lemons, we say grab salt and tequila! In that spirit, CityPlace Doral's retailers are celebrating National Tequila Day on Monday, July 24. Following are specials and offerings in celebration of National Tequila Day: In true Miami fashion, Chico Malo's Un Pastelito ($16) is a traditional Hispanic pastry transformed into a cocktail with the perfect blend of tequila and coconut rum, giving it a sweet flavor until the very last drop. Calling all the Margarita lovers! SuViche’s Verde Margarita ($14) is a combination of suerte tequila, triple orange liqueur, jalapeno and cucumber. The cocktail is only available during brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Available through Aug. 12, CMX CinéBistro's Sunkissed Soirée ($14.99) is the ultimate summertime drink. With a swirl of sweet dragon fruit with the warmth of reposado tequila and a slight tartness from fresh lime juice and a black sea salt rim to mellow the flavor for a more savory taste. Novocento's Apasionado ($14) is a mix of reposado tequila, passion fruit, bell pepper and togarashi. Rich, rested tequila meets tart passion fruit and peppery umami for a unique, delicious combination. CityPlace Doral is South Florida’s premier wellness, entertainment, dining, and restaurant destination in the heart of Doral. CityPlace Doral has an expansive collection of dining options, from upscale restaurants to outdoor cafés and bistros with unique tequila cocktails to sip on this summer. Valet service and complimentary self-parking are available. CityPlace Doral is open seven days a week. For more information, please visit www.cityplacedoral.com. By ML Staff. Images by City Place Doral

Informa Markets Fashion, organizers of premier fashion events MAGIC, PROJECT, COTERIE and Sourcing at MAGIC, wrapped the 2023 edition of destination:miami held duringMiami Swim Week from July 8-10 at Eden Roc Miami. Destination:miami fused fashion, wellness and discovery during the three-day vacation inspired event where attendees were welcomed each day with sunrise yoga and breakfast followed by two floors of exclusive advanced contemporary swim and resortwear brands. “This season retailers came to see a preview of the vibrant colors and patterns that the swim and resortwear market has to offer. destination:miami is the place where future must-have designs, styles, and accessories are discovered before they ever reach the consumer market, said Kelly Helfman, President, Informa Markets Fashion. “In addition to the show, destination:miami embodied the experience of vacation through rejuvenating activations designed to promote balance through self-care sessions and wellness moments.” Swim and resortwear fashion were in full bloom with designs from the likes of Gapaz displaying delicate patterns and beautiful bright colors from the latest swimwear collections and Sigal inspiring wearable art concepts with watercolor designs across a stunning collection. Other categories ranged from fine jewelry created by Paris based Van Den Abeele, handbags by Think Royln, sunglasses by Mr. Boho and contemporary footwear by 4CCCCEES. Other notable exhibiting brands included B Label, Liliana Meza, Bonfire, Apaya, Nammu, Respoke and Esenshel. Buyers from online shops, boutiques, 4-star resorts and large retailers included Neiman Marcus, Four Seasons, Anthropologie, ShopBop, Revolve, Kith and Net-A-Porter in attendance, looking to fill inventory across the globe with immediates as well ordering for the Spring / Summer 2024 season. The highly anticipated Spring/Summer 2024 COTERIE New York will take place September 19-21, 2023, register today at coteriefashionevents.com and follow @coterie_show for the latest destination:miami and COTERIE New York updates. More on COTERIE COTERIE is the premier women’s contemporary to advanced contemporary apparel, footwear, and accessories platform. Connecting emerging and established brands and designers to an elite list of domestic and international retailers, influencers, and media, COTERIE’s first-class events build exclusive experiences that fuel discovery, commerce, and connectivity, while inspiring upmarket trends. For more information, please visit: www.coteriefashionevents.com. More on Informa Markets Fashion Informa Markets Fashion a division of Informa Markets, a subsidiary of Informa plc, (LON:INF), connects and inspires the global fashion community through online experiences, industry insights, and worldwide fashion trade events including MAGIC, COTERIE, PROJECT, and SOURCING at MAGIC. From more effective manufacturing and supply chain opportunities to creative design inspiration and retail on the wholesale floor, Informa Markets Fashion’s diverse portfolio supports the entire fashion ecosystem - fostering innovation and driving creativity year-round. For more information on upcoming events, please visit: www.findfashionevents.com. By ML Staff. Images Courtesy Of The Show/Miami Swim Week

The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum-FIU unveils its newest exhibition lineup for the summer, featuring four shows spanning artistic mediums, eras, and geographic regions to encapsulate fleeting glimpses of life across time. They include: How We Remember: Photographs by Christine Cortes, Joel Meyerowitz, Ruth Orkin, and Roscoè B. Thické III (on view from May 10, 2023 through Sept. 12, 2023) explores multifaceted subjects and approaches to photography, with an emphasis on archiving memories, preserving feelings, and marking milestones. Miami-based photographers Christine Cortes and Roscoè B. Thické III depict communities in Bogotá, Colombia and the South Florida communities of Liberty City and Miami Gardens. New Yorkbased artist Joel Meyerowitz’s captivating photographs document the insurmountable strength and acts of courage in the aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks. Allegories for Learning: 16th to 18th-Century Italian Works on Paper from the Georgia Museum of Art (on view from June 10, 2023 through Sept. 10, 2023), launches the Frost’s summer of drawing with more than 25 drawings and prints by Old Masters including Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione, Salvator Rosa, and Guercino. The exhibited works come from the Georgia Museum of Art and from the private collection of Giuliano Ceseri. These works depict subject matter ranging from landscapes to mythological and religious scenes. The exhibition urges close looking at styles of individual artists and workshops. Allegories for Learning encourages visitors to engage with masterworks by making connections among the works on view, offering interpretations, and fine-tuning observational skills. Draw: Point to Point (on view from June 17, 2023 through Sept. 17, 2023) explores, celebrates, and plays with conventional concepts of drawing as a form of artistic expression. The exhibition pushes the boundaries of material and scale, revealing the versatile nature of the medium as both an integral part of the artistic process and a powerful statement about mark making. Point to Point illustrates connections between the work of local, national and international artists at various stages of their careers. It features an interactive installation by contemporary artist Rirkrit Tiravanija and new work by Kiki Smith. Works by Miami-based artists including Gonzalo Fuenmayor, Victoria Ravelo, Amy Schissel, and Cornelius Tulloch reveal their individual approaches to drawing as an end and a means to an end. Amy Sillman, After Metamorphoses (on view from June 10, 2023 through Sept. 10, 2023), a five-minute animated video, picks up the thread of drawing, produced with layers of abstract drawings and iPad sketches. Developed during the artist’s residency at the American Academy in Rome, Sillman follows the narrative of the Roman poet Ovid’s Metamorphoses (8 CE). Sillman renders forms with an economy of line that morph and transform quickly to reflect life’s constant changes. “The Frost’s summer exhibitions invite us to reflect on the fragility, fluidity, and fleeting quality of time expressed in different media. As our visitors navigate these diverse expressions of time, they may find points of connection, such as the moment they heard about the collapse of the World Trade Center. Drawing has equally lent itself to capturing time or an idea, sometimes as a simple scrawl on a napkin or a more complex composition that takes months to complete. As a part of FIU, our educational mission includes representing a diverse group of artists who span geographies and eras,” said Jordana Pomeroy, director of the Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum-FIU. The Frost will host an opening ceremony for all its summer exhibitions on June 17, 2023 from 1 to 5 p.m. The event takes place at the Frost Art Museum, located at 10975 SW 17 Street and is free and open to the public. By ML Staff. Courtesy of Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum

Eating ice cream is a great way to cool down under Miami's mounting heat. On top of that, having an ice cream is known to increase serotonin production which leaves us feeling relaxed, satisfied, and with a big smile : ) So head out to one of Miami Living's favorite ice cream parlors and grab a scoop! 1 - Dasher & Crank Dasher & Crank is a craft ice cream shop located in the heart of Wynwood. All of the artisanal flavors are made in-house from scratch using local and premium ingredients. Making everything in small-batches allow them to be creative and rotate their menu constantly. In the first year of operation, they created over 225 flavors and released new flavors each week. Stop by today to see what new and exciting flavors they are scooping this week! Address: 2211 NW Second Ave, Miami 33127. Telephone: (305) 213-1569 Website: Dasher & Crank 2 - Morelia Gourmet Paletas It all started when long time friends, passionate about ice cream, decided to embark on a mission to create the best ice cream experience. They decided to make their own paletas that would be extraordinary from the first bite to the last one in different flavors. The challenge took them on several trips to Argentina, Peru and Brazil looking for the best training available and they even set up a lab inside one of their apartments. Their journey eventually took them to Miami in order to open MORELIA their first paleta shop. Address:185 NW 25th St, Miami, FL 33127 Telephone: (305) 967-8782 Website: Morelia Gourmet Paletas 3 - Lulu's Nitrogen Ice Cream Lulu excels in crafting each ice cream from scratch, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and finish them off with a splash of liquid nitrogen. At Lulu’s Nitrogen Ice Cream, they are creating some of the most outstandingly rich and creamy ice cream you’ve ever tasted. So why not to give it a go? Address: 2001 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33137 Telephone: 786-717-7323 Website: Lulu's Nitrogen Ice Cream 4 - Whip ‘N’ Dip Ice Cream Whip ‘n Dip has been family owned and operated since it was founded in 1985 by George Giampetro, Sr. and his wife Nancy. Their children – George Jr. and Kathy – worked alongside George Sr. and Nancy to build what has become one of Miami’s best homemade ice cream shoppe‬. While Kathy and Nancy dedicated endless hours to create some of the most amazing ice cream flavors in all of South Florida (like pistachio, mango, cookies & cream, and mint chip), George Sr. and Jr. dedicated their time to growing and nurturing what is now known as a staple in the city of Coral Gables.‬‬ This is one of Coral Gables' favorite spot for homemade ice cream, soft serve, & cakes. Address: 1407 Sunset Dr, Miami 33143 Telephone: (305) 665-2565 Website: Whip ‘N’ Dip Ice Cream Special thanks to Gizenth for the ice cream gif (animation). Gizenth is an illustrator, comic artist and animator from Colombia, based in Milan. For more information visit gizenth.mutaborstudio.com and follow her at @gizenth. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of each featured venue on this story.