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By Vannia Enriquez July 20, 2012 in All, Fashion, Fun

LIGHTS, CAMERA, FASHION!

It’s official, Swim Fashion Week 2012 is in full effect!

From July 18th to the 23rd, Miami Beach will be filled with fashionable: designers, buyers, tourists, bloggers, models and press. If you planned for a quiet and calm weekend at the beach, good luck finding a parking spot. I suggest you avoid Collins 15 – 22 street.

However, if you love all things fashion and couldn’t get your hand on those VIP Mercedes Benz Fashion Week tickets… Here are a few ways that you can still enjoy some 2012 Swim Week perks!

Checkout Funkshion at The Tent @ Collins Park, located between 21st and 22nd Street on Collins Avenue (across from the W hotel).  All attendees must RSVP at swim@funkshion.com.Pulpit rock

Want to meet and greet a swimwear designer? The Fashion Poet has you covered, cocktails, free gifts, and a trunkshow! What more can a girl ask for? Hurry, what are you waiting for head on over!

Pulpit rock

Still want more Sand. Play. & Fashion? Saturday, July 21 – 22, Nikki Beach is where it’s at! Checkout this awesome promo by Wallace Cruz.

Last but not least, don’t miss the annual pop-up Summer Sample Sale brought to you by Guilt City.  The sale will start July 22 from noon – 8 p.m. and will be open to the public at the Tent in Collins Park! Get there early and you can even get a workout in.  Green Monkey will be providing a free yoga class at 10 a.m. ! ENJOY!

Have a fabulous weekend! See you around.

By Vannia Enriquez July 16, 2012 in All, Food

DITCH THE BIG MAC, AND EAT AT SHAKE SHACK!

Perhaps, you’re the type that jumps for joy at the thought of a new burger joint; if so, I’ve got a new spot for you… Check out Shake Shack!

Shake Shack’s new Miami location is now open in Coral Gables. No need to drive all the way to Lincoln Road anymore, which was their first Miami location outside of New York that opened in June 2010. Located just minutes from the University of Miami at 1450 South Dixie Highway, this will sure be the new spot!

Since 2004, Shake Shack has been known for their scrumptious burgers, flat-top hot dogs, and frozen custards. They began their journey as a simple hot dog stand in Madison Square Park in New York, but have now gone international. And if that doesn’t make you want to try their food, maybe their ingredients will. According to sources, they are “100% all-natural Angus beef, vegetarian fed, humanely raised and source verified. No hormones or antibiotics –  They pride themselves on sourcing incredible ingredients from like-minded artisan producers.”

Their hours are Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. – midnight. Be sure to try it out and let me know what you think. Bon Appétit!

 

Pulpit rock

Photography by: Robyn Lee

By Vannia Enriquez July 13, 2012 in All, Fashion

DIY: OMBRE CUTOFF SHORTS

Here’s what you’ll need:
Bleach
Chalk
Gloves
Ruler
Tweezers
Sand paper
Fabric scissors
Laundry detergent
Large bowl or bucket
X-acto precision knife
Old denim jeans (avoid using spandex or stretchy jeans)
And a buffing nail block (suggested to help the fraying process)

Now we’re ready to recycle those old jeans into some awesome trendy shorts!

Directions:

  1. First things first, let’s figure out the length of your new shorts. Draw a line across your jeans with chalk, this will be where you’ll begin to cut. A good rule of thumb to follow is to cut a little longer than you think and trim later, also use a ruler and measure the length starting from the center/tipped crotch area – measure down: 1 inch = very short shorts, 4 inches is about upper thigh and 6 inches tends to be longer shorts. You can also try on the jeans and mark your desired length. (I personally  didn’t want them super short, so I measured 4 inches from the center crotch area and drew my straight line. As opposed to a rounded circled cut – shorter on the sides.)
  2. Now you’re ready to cut along your line with fabric scissors. If you have good enough scissors you may cut both legs at the same time. If in doubt, cut one leg at a time, then place the cut leg on top of the uncut one and use it as a guide.
  3. Fill bowl with bleach.

    The amount of bleach depends on the size of the container you use. After the bowl or bucket is filled with bleach, submerge your shorts in the bleach for about 20-30 minutes. Add more bleach as needed.

    (Obviously, the section you decide to dip will be the area that will lighten. Play with it and feel free to get creative!)

    Please note: Some shorts may need to remain dipped in bleach for either a shorter or longer period of time. The thickness and color of the denim is an important factor in this process. Be sure to stand by and watch the color change. This will allow you to decide when the shorts have reached your desired color. If you dipped the bottom part of the shorts and you’d like to achieve an ombre effect (graduated decrease in tone or color), dip the opposite portion of the shorts for half of the time. The longer you leave them submerged, the lighter they’ll be. (I dipped one entire side, because I wanted the entire shorts to have a washed out lighter tone.)

  4. Remove shorts from bowl/bucket. Run water through the shorts trying to remove as much of the bleach as possible. Do this for at least 5-10 minutes to prevent further change in color.
  5. After you’ve completely rinsed the bleach, place shorts in the washing machine. Add some laundry detergent and run a short cycle. Once the cycle is finished, proceed to place the shorts in the dryer.
  6. Remove the shorts from the dryer, and now we’re ready to begin the fraying process.


Fraying and distressing shorts:

  1. Wrap the rough finished sandpaper around a nail buffing block.
  2. Place the edges of the shorts on either a box or a rough surface. I used the edge of my outdoor stairs. Begin sanding the shorts until you reach your desired frayed look.
  3. Using the tweezers begin to pick the white threads and pulling them toward you. Do this in each leg and all the way around.
  4. To give the shorts a more rugged look, decide where you’d like to add a hole and cut the line using your X-acto.

    Flip the shorts inside out, so that you can see the white threads easier. Begin pulling the threads toward the center of the hole. Be sure to not rip these threads to create the following look.
    And you’re done. Viola! The more you wash them, the better they’ll look.

    I got a little more creative and added studs to my shorts. :) There you have it, my first DIY (do it yourself) blog post. Enjoy!
By Vannia Enriquez July 9, 2012 in All, Fun

TO LOVE IS TO SERVE

As you may have noticed, it has been about 2 weeks since my last blog update… mostly because I’ve been out of town. But not just on a regular vacation, me and a team of 11 young adults went on a “mission trip” to the Grand Bahamas to serve an impoverished area of the island.

Here’s a picture of our team: 11 ladies and 1 brave and lucky man!

What’s a mission trip? And why would anyone do such a thing?

Well, perhaps when you think of the Bahamas, the first thing that comes to mind is paradise: A place with beautiful beaches, good food and sunny days. (Very similar to Miami…) And though that is definitely the case in some areas, that wasn’t quite the reason why we went.

June 25, 2012, eleven of my lovely friends and one lucky guy decided to hop on a charter plane and head over to Freeport, Grand Bahamas. Why, you ask? Because we wanted to share the love and provision that God has given us with other people who are in need. Our desire was to serve the people of Freeport (in specifically Karazim Ministries) with whatever was needed. Our goal was to serve and empower Bahamian residents with the knowledge and tools that would help build their future.

During our stay, we spent time in the community. We got to know the people, their culture and their current situations. We purchased paint for a church and finished painting the exterior walls (saving them time and money in the process.)

Karazim Ministries works with residents on a yearly basis by empowering them and teaching them trade skills such as carpentry, sewing, and jewelry making. We helped local artists by purchasing handmade products and we look forward to continuing to work with them as we expand their business plans and extend their outreach.

We held a vacation bible-school with 20 kids from the area. We taught them about the love of Jesus, played games, did some arts and crafts, and even danced together.

All in all, we did this not because we’re better than them, in fact, quite the opposite – we are all created by God and for God. Some of us realize that, while others haven’t had the chance to. Some have access to more resources and opportunities, while others lack both the opportunities and the knowledge. Our UBC Young Adult Team went on this “mission trip” because we strive to follow Jesus’ example of unconditional love and selfless-giving. We’d like to help others to find and follow Christ, He’s brought joy to our lives and we’d like to share that joy with others.

A great time was had by all, but the most important lesson we learned was that “serving” is more than just taking a trip and helping others for a week. Jesus calls all Christians to “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind…  and to love your neighbor as yourself.” But what would it look like to love our neighbors in Miami? How can we use our resources, knowledge and opportunities to serve our community? I’m still trying to figure out what that looks like on a day to day basis… Till then, I hope this inspires you to learn more about who Jesus is and to get involved in your community. I love Miami and I’m glad I’ve been placed here.

By Vannia Enriquez June 22, 2012 in All, Fun

HOT HOT HEAT!

That’s right, our Miami Heat are the 2012 World Champions!!!!!

Last night (June 21, 2012), Miami Heat teammates celebrated their best game thus far: They are officially the proud champions of the 2012 NBA Playoffs.  This hard-working team won their championship title against the Oklahoma City Thunders with a final score of 121 – 106.

Just two years ago, Lebron James faced the tough decision of either staying with his former team, the Cleveland Cavaliers, or heading down to play for the Miami Heat. Looks like his decision finally paid off, the king has a ring!

James, 27, is not only a champion, he was also named the NBA Final’s MVP.

“It’s about damn time,” he said after being presented with his trophy.

The Heat dynasty: Lebron James, Chris Bosh, and Dwyane Wade were an essential part of the win. James scored 26 points, 11 rebounds and 13 assists. Bosh racked-up 24 points, and 7 rebounds, while Wade got 20 points, and 8 rebounds.

“We never thought of it as the Big Three,” coach Erik Spoelstra said. “That was the theme outside, but we knew other guys would have to contribute. This was a perfect example tonight. Everybody stepped up, Shane, Norris Cole, Mario Chalmers, Mike Miller, the list goes on… Udonis Haslem. Everybody had to sacrifice something, but the guys who had an opportunity to choose to come here, they sacrificed… That just doesn’t happen…very often. And that’s why this is a special group.”

“We love you Miami, thank you for your patience,” said Spoelstra.

But right now, it’s a mutual love for Spoelstra, regardless of all the “heat” he got this past year, he still played a vital role in helping our Miami team. And we love him back!

Last night, pure adrenaline filled the arena and the streets of Miami, as fans celebrated in true Miami-fashion, casuelas and all! Noise-makers, pots and pans, fireworks, and loud music set the mood after Game 5. And the celebration isn’t over yet…

After this big win, it looks like Miami fans will celebrate all weekend. However, be sure to save some energy for Monday, June 25, as the Miami Heat Parade hits the road.

When: Monday, June 25, at 11am

Where: It begins at the corner of SW 2nd Avenue and Calle Ocho (SW 2 Ave. & 8th St.) The parade will head north and travel down Brickell Avenue, Downtown, and end at the American Airlines Arena.

Enjoy the celebration and be safe!

 

 

By Vannia Enriquez June 18, 2012 in All

LOCAL OLYMPIC HOPEFUL: BRITTANY VIOLA

Meet Brittany…

Brittany Viola was born April 19, 1987 in St. Paul, Mn. Viola isn’t just your average University of Miami graduate, while majoring in electronic media and sports administration, Viola, 25, was also training to be a part of the 2012 U.S. Olympic Team. This very week, Brittany and other Olympic hopefuls will be at the U.S. trials (June 17-24) in Federal Way, Wash.

But just before leaving her Miami home, we were able to chat and get some one-on-one girl time. Here’s the scoop…

Who is Brittany Viola? Tell our readers:
“Hello readers! We’ll, I am Brittany Viola and I grew up in Orlando, Florida. I graduated from the University of Miami, and my entire life I have been pursuing the Olympics. This Olympic dream was sparked when I was 8-years-old and I was at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta when I saw the Magnificent Seven in gymnastics win a team gold medal and realized I wanted to achieve that someday. At the time, I was a gymnast, but I retired at the age of 13. Training for eight hours a day wasn’t fun. I got tired of it and I wanted to have a life outside of gymnastics. I transitioned into diving and realized that I could still use some of my gymnast abilities, while at the same time continue to pursue my Olympic dream.”

How has your diving journey been thus far:
“It’s been almost a 12-year journey and it has been extremely difficult, full of many challenges. The first challenge I faced was an eating disorder that I developed at the age of 16. I began to compare myself to other divers and I realized I wasn’t as thin as them. We didn’t have the same body type so I began to try out different diets. Basically, I was trying to become the image that society and the world was displaying and it just made me fall into the eating disorder even more. Pressure surrounded me. My parents were never quite satisfied with my competition results, it seemed like they always wanted more and more from my career. I felt like I could never satisfy all of these expectations. Finally in 2005, I went to an inpatient care hospital called Remuda Ranch, it was a faith-based Christian facility that my mom picked out. I wasn’t a Christian at the time, but I was open to getting help. That was where I eventually accepted God into my life, but I didn’t really understand what it meant to be a believer of Christ until my sophomore year of college; one of my teammates walked me through the process. I started growing in my faith and then I was hit with yet another obstacle: I had two ankle surgeries. This happened in November 2009 and August 2010, and I was completely out of diving for a year and a half. I had no idea whether I would recuperate and get back in the sport, but God taught me to have faith. And He also made me realize that I could do a lot more than just dive. I wasn’t just Brittany the diver. At this point, I was ready to move on with my life and continue regardless of the circumstances. Luckily, God allowed me to heal and I’m back in the sport heading to the Olympic trials.”

What would making the Olympics mean to you?
“Whenever I think about making the Olympics, I see it as a miracle. It’s something that has been in my heart and mind for so long, so to see it come true doesn’t seem possible. For me to be this close, and to have this great chance to make the team and represent the U.S. is definitely a miracle. Winning the gold medal, would be just ridiculous to me! I would give God all the glory.”

What would be your advice to other young women who are trying to reach a lifetime goal?
“The word that comes to mind is persevere. One of the verses that has helped me in this journey is James 1:2-4. It says “2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” I love that verse and I love that if we keep persevering and pushing through hard times we’ll become the person that were meant to be.”

What support can your community give you as you reach this dream?
“Well, I know that I wouldn’t have this opportunity at all if it wasn’t for my Lord and Savior, and my purpose in diving is to glorify Him in all I do. I’m here to reflect all that He has given me and share it with the world so that they can experience the joy, hope, and peace that I have in Him… So honestly, the best way that others can support me is through prayer. Pray that I keep my eyes only on Him.”

What’s in store after the Olympics?
“I’m really excited for what’s to come after the Olympics…

I want to get married!

I want to marry Anthony Gonzalez!”


There you have it, our very own Miami Olympic hopeful, Brittany Viola and boyfriend, Anthony Gonzalez.

I hope this interview allows you to have a personal look into her life. She’s not only an amazing athlete, she’s also a wonderful friend with a heart of gold. Hope you’ll cheer her on.

Brittany is currently looking for sponsors. If you’re interested in having Brittany be your brand’s ambassador or you’d like to book her for an on-air-appearance email us, we’d love to hear from you.

Want to know more about Brittany? Check out this awesome CNN feature:

Photography by: Deidre Novotny & Diego Espinosa

By Vannia Enriquez June 15, 2012 in All, Food

FAVORITE FOOD

If you could eat only one food for the rest of your life, what would you choose? My answer without a doubt is sushi!

I love sushi, and I’d like to think of myself as a Miami sushi connoisseur. ;) Since I’ve lived in Miami most of my life, I’ve tried quite a variety of local sushi restaurants. I normally stay away from all buffets, not usually a big fan. I find that quantity doesn’t always equate to quality. But today, I’ll share the ONE buffet I do trust…


POC American Fusion Buffet & Sushi

POC (short for Ports of Call) is located at 2121 Ponce de Leon in the heart of Coral Gables. POC isn’t just any kind of buffet, it’s a quality buffet dining experience near Miracle Mile. They offer a wide variety of options…

From your average Chinese buffet options…Lo mein, fried rice, honey chicken, etc… To a delicious meat carving station offering cuts of prime rib and churrasco. As well as grilled vegetables and sausages… And of course, my very favorite, tons and tons of sushi.

Over 20 selections of rolls to choose from… Including a raw bar with fresh oysters, clams, mussels, shrimp and even crab legs. Yum!

And what’s a buffet without a little sugar fix? Plenty of options to choose from.

Let’s not forget the salad bar, soup station and an ice cream area. Mmmmm, now I’m hungry, and I hope you are too.

POC offers a daily $12.69 lunch special Monday – Friday from 11am-3pm. A Saturday – Sunday brunch for $15.69. And a dinner buffet with extra goodies for $21.69. (Monday – Thursday 5pm-10pm & Friday – Sunday 5pm-11pm.)

PS: Stay tuned for more upcoming restaurant reviews. I’ve had quite a few complains from close friends, apparently I’m “not sharing my restaurant secrets.” I’ll do my best to write about my favorites, but I’d love your feedback. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know what you think once you visit these places.

 

By Vannia Enriquez June 2, 2012 in All, Fashion

AND THE MIAMI H&M CRAZE BEGINS

As excited as I was to visit the new H&M store in Miami Beach, I was also scared of the lines and crowds.

Nevertheless, I enlisted another brave soul and took on the challenge. We got there at around 11:30 am. There was definitely a line, but luckily it wasn’t as long as I had expected. The first 200 people got a nice scratch-off incentive for patiently waiting. Some got $5, $10, $20, to even $50 off. (I only got $10. Boo!)

The store was scheduled to open its doors to the public at noon. But after talking to several shoppers, we  learned that some had been in line since 9am! Talk about a passion for fashion!

As expected, their merchandise was fashionable and affordable.

And as always, I went a little crazy when I saw the fun accessories and bikinis! Some tops were as low as $4.95!

I tried to not have shoppers remorse after the fact, and to not be selfish with the limited XS sizes.

And this was the damage. Summer here we come!

Still haven’t gotten a chance to go visit?  The shop is located at 1669 Meridian Avenue. The store hours are Monday – Thursday 11 am to 10 pm, Friday – Saturday 11 am to midnight and Sunday noon to 10pm. Check it out!

PS: Have you been wondering why H&M doesn’t offer online shopping? Wonder no more. The company is currently working on it… I’ll be sure to keep you posted when it becomes available. Yeay H&M!

By Vannia Enriquez May 31, 2012 in All, Fashion

H&M HITS MIAMI BEACH

The wait is finally over! Miami’s frugal fashionistas can now rejoice. We officially have our very own H&M! The store is located at 1669 Meridian Avenue and is scheduled to open its doors to the public June 1st at noon. You better believe I’ll be there – line and all! Today, the store had a press sneak peek, but unfortunately I was swamped at work and couldn’t attend. Not sure if reporters, photographers, and bloggers were able to shop just yet, but there’s no question about that tomorrow.

This specific location is only a pop-up shop scheduled to be here until September 2012. As the official home for the long-awaited H&M store will be the theater in Lincoln Road. According to Marybeth Schmitt, U.S. Spokesperson for H&M, the long-time requests of Miami fans is what encouraged them to open a few months in advance. The pop-up store is approximately 3,800 square feet, while the Lincoln Road location will be over 20,000 square feet. Can’t wait till that baby opens. Well, at least this is way closer than the Palm Beach Gardens location. If you plan on attending the grand opening, be sure to get there early. Oh, and don’t worry about them running out of stock. I hear that they’ll be more than prepared, as they’ve scheduled a re-stock delivery every day…

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