Moleskine Product Launch

Moleskine Passions : Choose the one that fits your lifestyle

Everyone knows the legendary book or Moleskine notebook. The legend tells us that Hemingway, Picasso and Van Gogh  used these notebooks to take notes, to write their best-sellers, to outline their fabric, mark down evidence, ect…. Personally,I’m a big fan of books , of all kinds. I’ve  always had Moleskine in my bag (the traditional model ,black, and line filled). Yes , this notebook is so known quite simply as; Moleskine. I often pass on the site of the mark to see works of art that other users of this notebook manage to produce: the pages were painted, drawn, and colored. In short there is for all the tastes, of all the styles but it is always a treat for the eyes.

After the notebooks for the drawing, the notebooks in several formats, the diaries, etc, Moleskine arrives with notebooks called Moleskine Passions. There exist several sets of themes like the wine, the books, etc…

An interior, full with things interesting such as for example a calendar with the fruit and vegetables, month by month, for the northern  hemisphere and southern…

… of the tables of conversion…

… and well many other things!

One arrives then at the pages of receipts: some of the tabs are already allotted but the  others are left free for us to define our own categories:

This was a quick example of the recipe passions notebook, but each Moleskine passion is uniquely different and fun to use to organize some aspect of your life!

Check out the normal journal one from Moleskine .

Sex and The City Ultimate Girls Night Out!

Are You Ready for the Sex and the City “Private  Party” – Miami Style?

Girlfriends, get it together, dig into your closets, break out your most fabulous designer dresses, and be a part of the chicest event to hit to South Beach since…well EVER!

Now, not only can you have the chance to attend the sexiest soiree in town, but thanks to the VIBE /Pink Carpet Parties, four girl friends will have the opportunity to get “Carried Away” and be treated like celebrities. Start with a limo that will bring you to a mansion off of the Venetian causeway, where you’ll be styled and fussed over by your own hair and make-up artist! Just chill-lax and get set to walk the “pink carpet” looking fine.

How can you enter to win? Visit our blog tomorrow and check out the SATC Quiz. If you think you are a fan, answer the questions and send your answers to valerie@thevibeagency.com. The winner will take three friends with her to get pampered, primped, and fussed over by hair and make-up artists, before being whisked to the event via limo from a private mansion. After all, it’s the only way to arrive!

Remember, strap on your Louboutins, dress up in the ultimate diva-wear and get ready to be a star. So, here are the details:

WHAT: Sex and the City 2 Exclusive Pre and After-Party.

WHERE: 1111 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach, FL

WHO: The sassiest, savviest ladies in South Florida.

WHEN: Wednesday, May 26, 2010 – Screening begins at 8:30 p.m. (be there at 8:15)

WHY: Because amazing women should be celebrated – by themselves, for
themselves, and with themselves – with no excuses. It’s all about letting
your inner diva out – and this is the place to do it!

How do I get Tickets? This is a LIMITED-SPACE, PRIVATE event, send Valerie an email today !

Don’t forget the fab SWAG bags filled with the ultimate girly goodies!
Raffles will include exotic vacations, glamor goods and more!

Miami Gets Carrie-d Away with Sex and the City 2

Miami Gets Carrie-d Away with Sex and the City 2 May 27th, 2010. The date that marks the much-anticipated premiere of Sex and the City 2 – for most of the USA.

Carrie, Samantha, Miranda, and Charlotte are back in action, in a movie so fabulous, so glamorous, and so fashion-filled, that in order to properly prepare, it’s time for us to put on our strappiest stilettos, slip into skinny jeans, shop, shop, shop, and, sip, sip, sip!

 

Of course New York and Los Angeles will be filled with sneak previews and star-studded parties, but guess what? So will Miami!

 Miami’s special screening is happening on Wednesday, May 26^th, making it the happiest hump day ever!

But wait. There’s even more good news! Ladies, grab your girlfriends and get ready to be a part of the “fabulousness” Miami-style at the VIBE agency‘s Sex & the City 2 kick-off event. The “2-die-for”party of parties.

That’s right SATC2 fans, we are celebrating the sneak preview with an extremely amazing and private VIP Launch Party and Sip ‘n Screen. Your evening will begin at the hottest new spot - 1111 Lincoln Road – where V.I.P.s will arrive on the pink carpet, nibble fab food, sip sumptuous signature drinks, dance and prance to the music mix of our smokin’ hot DJs, collect some super SWAG and take part in a raffle, and most of all see and be seen at the party of the season! About an hour pre-special screening, V.I.P.’s will be joined by those who want to Sip ‘N Screen (think breathe in, be seen, and out…) and then it’s off to the theater you go!

So dress your best. Break out the couture, call your colorist, and be as fabulous as you know you are! Before leaving you’ll receive Miami’s most amazing SWAG bag, filled with irresistible goodies. There’s a serious raffle for great giveaways – including a 6 night stay for four girlfriends at the Sofitel Hotel Marakesh, a C2 Crystal Flatiron from corioliss, a $1,500 shopping spree at Sisley, a 2-night stay at the Viceroy in Miami, and more, so do not miss it!

This is a private event with a limited number of tickets, so don’t miss out! Tickets are on sale now and include V.I.P Launch Party to get you primed and ready for this screening (which starts at 8:30 p.m. sharp so do not be fashionably late); or Sip ‘N Screen, a quick in-and-out see-and-be-seen option for women on the move (Just show up at 7:45p.m.). For more information contact Valerie from the VIBE office

“Get Carried Away” with sponsors including Peace Love World, Ronen Rentals,Lorina, Petal Productions, Event Couture Group, soak, Misha’s Cupcakes, Credelis, Hutdogs, Cell Trek Theatrics, Mix on Wheels, Lush Oasis and 944 magazine. Raffle partners include Corioliss, The Viceroy Miami, Sisley, and The Sofitel Marrakesh.

If you’re already breaking out the Blahniks’ trying on the Choos, you’re not going to wanna miss the night Sex and the City 2 –  Hits Miami  – and it’s going to be too hot. for all the details. Remember, we’ve never met a Chanel suit or a Pucci gown we didn’t like, and we bet you haven’t either! So dig deep in your closet because May 26 is around the corner.

Five Common Mistakes People Make On Facebook

This is an article that my friends Merri Jill & Dave from HUTdogs sent me and I just thought that it was great information that everyone should know! Five Common Mistakes Made On Facebook: As we’ve been teaching workshops and helping people be more productive with their facebook time, we’ve noticed some common mistakes people make and areas of facebook that are misunderstood. Here are the top 5: Not segmenting lists. Most people don’t realize how this one simple fix can save time, keep personal and business relationships separate, provide more privacy control and allow you to target what you share with certain groups of people on your list. Segments show up everywhere on facebook. Not setting up privacy and notification settings. A lot of people we talk to are confused about the privacy settings.  They don’t realize they have a lot of control on facebook. So many new features have been added on facebook and they have scared a lot of people into thinking that facebook is sharing all of your information with other sites.  You just need to take the time to set the privacy settings to your comfort zone.  You are still in control. Segmenting helps with this. Being a wall flower and not participating. You get what you put into it. It is important to share and to be responsive to your facebook friends. Give a like or a comment on their posts. Ask a question now and again. Facebook is about two-way communication. Wall graffiti. If you write directly on a person’s wall or “tag” them in a status post or note (which automatically posts to their wall), be mindful about what you write. Your message should be about them and not an advertisement from you. Use your own wall or your fan page to post your billboards. Some people are confused about how to message on facebook and don’t realize when they write directly on someone’s wall, everyone can see it. Use the “messages” tool for things you want to keep more private. Auto populating from and to other social media platforms. Respect that the big 3, Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn, each have their own culture. If you set your system to auto populate (ie. you feed in from twitter) just make sure that what you say works for both platforms. For instance, the lingo on twitter can look like Greek to a facebook user who is not familiary with the @ and the #. Want to learn more? HUTdogs will be teaching a social media workshop on Wed., May 19 from 6-8pm at Kids Island in Arcadia.  We’ll cover a little twitter, a bit of LinkedIn with a focus on facebook. Bring your questions and your kids! Kids Island will provide supervised play for the kids while you attend the workshop in the next room. Kids Island is a gigantic, fun, indoor playground. This is an ideal workshop for parents and grandparents but all are welcome. Sign up and learn more >

About HUTdogs HUTdogs offers workshops, tools, strategy coaching and creative services that help businesses promote their products and services on and off line.  HUTdogs is a division of Emjay Creative. Questions: Call MJ at (626) 462-0983

Best Travel Strategies

Always on the go in this industry…Things I’ve learned on the way that may help you out with your next jet-setting travels.

Shipping luggage:

• Pros
  • you don’t have to worry about anything on the plane or luggage check
  • quicker check in time
  • less hassle at the security check points
  • save money and frustration at gates
  • Cons
    • setting up times and locations for shipping your luggage
      • in new places it is not always easy to get around and figure out how to get in contact with shipping company’s
      • you don’t want to spend time on the phone when you could be out at the pool enjoying your vacation
• ensuring the arrival of your luggage
  • making sure it arrives on time and when you need it

Taking luggage on the plane

• Pros
  • Luggage should arrive with you to your desired destination as soon as you get there
  • you are less likely to over pack
  • you don’t have to worry about shipping back your luggage
  • Cons
    • you have to carry your luggage to and from the air port
    • you are limited to bringing what TSA allows and regulates
      • amount of luggage
      • sometimes high cost of checking in luggage
      • limited to items you are not allowed to take both carry-on items and check-in items

avoiding over packing

• count the days you will be gone and imagine what your trip is about take the essentials make sure that you bring appropriate articles of clothing and shoes for the trip. It is okay to take one outfit for a just in case or unplanned event but make sure that you don’t over load on things you probably and might not use
• try to plan your outfits in advance and try to limit yourself with shoes and hand bags (for the ladies).  try to take as many universal shoes as possible, they take up space and extra weight that you can use to able to take more cloths or bring back souvenirs from your destination.
• watch the weather of your destination
• wear your bulkiest outfit in order to save some space in your luggage
• avoid over-packing bulky items

luggage types to consider

• anything with wheels
  • this makes it easy to take anywhere and avoid the hassle of having to carry or rent carts for luggage that sometimes are sold out or hard to find during peak hours
  • different patterns and colors VS black luggage
    • Many times a large amount of people always have the same and close to similar bag colors. When at the carousel sometimes mistake yours for theirs since they are similar. avoid the hassle and purchase different colors. If that is not an option, decorate them with a pretty ribbon to easily distinguish them

Looking for splashes of color Vera Bradley , is the site that you want to look at. Its bright colors and patterns will  definitely make your luggage stand out from the crowd. The Expandable WheelAboard has a lightweight Performance. Abrasion-tested, tightly woven new micro ballistic nylon fabric for increased durability. Dupont Teflon? coated exterior fabric provides extra water and stain resistance. Tailored construction; new sturdy patent leather PVC handles and protective piping, additional stitching for added strength. Additional capacity and packing options, two-compartment design, with a full, protective backboard. Coordinating shoe bag. In-line skate wheel system with industrial strength steel ball bearings. Travel-tested zippers stand up to rigorous use and provide smooth, quiet operation. Thermoplastic Rubber ergonomic handle grip ensures a firm, comfortable hold. Add-a-bag strap tucks into a hidden zippered compartment. Hub-Guard? protects the wheels against daily wear and tear. Includes a coordinating ID tag.

Longchamp is known for their sturdy nylon, but will this luggage do the job for your travel needs?  The Longchamp Pliage Trolley is trimmed with cowhide leather and has a pull handle. There is a zip around closure. The material is polyamide canvas with PVC coating, which should be sturdy enough. 13″W X 20″H X 8¼”D

tips to avoid airport security issues with luggage

• For carry-on luggage
  • Buy no more than 3 3oz. plastic containers for your carry on must haves to avoid security issues
  • make sure you read TSA’s safety regulations as you are packing
    • they are constantly changing their rules and regulations, it is better to be safe as you are packing before you have to throw something away or have to wait an extra time for another security check.
    • Reminder
      • take comfortable shoes that are easy to take off and put back on at the security check
      • make sure passenger brings no more luggage than is allowed as a carry on and is not heavy (the placing of the over head bin and the limited space they provide you with, especially in a full plane)
      • try to avoid jewelry and items in your pockets that will set off the alarm.
      • make sure that you have your boarding pass and passport/ID at hand when reaching the TSA attendant

So maybe next time you’re getting ready for a trip you’ll get with the VIBE of things and be prepared for your next trip to the airport.

Mother’s Day Tips and Ideas Recap

Mother’s Day always seams to catch people off guard or we’re all just procrastinators. Walking into a Walgreen and CVS yesterday was a disaster…all of the cards were pretty much cleaned right off the displays and Publix the lines were around the corner should we say.

We put together some tips that you can do for your mother next year. Here are some cool products that we thought you might like to indulge  your mother in  and of course the best spa  recommendations in town. Pull out the pen and paper because you’re going to want to remember these for next year!

Call us crazy, but although we live in paradise, there are times we want to escape the Miami scene. It’s always fast paced and hot, so for this last Mother’s Day theme, we’re leaving Miami… leaving South Florida all together… and heading to a slower, calmer place, one where mom can relax – Cape Cod.  Why not transform your home into a “Cape Cod Cottage” for an afternoon?

To achieve this classic New England country chic look, think stripes. Dress the table with yellow and white stripes, green, blue and white, pastels, etc.  Use napkins in the same colors that contrast – or mix and match.  Use big thick mugs, cobalt blue, lemon yellow, orange and white plates.  For a centerpiece, this one we want to try to keep it light and nautical. Place fresh cut wildflowers, try daisies or small sunflowers, in rustic metal pails.  Or you can even spread out sand on table, add plenty of pretty seashells, and lay some candles in the sand.

As for food… with so many potential seafood options, where do we start?? Let’s start by whipping up some classic “boil” shrimp appetizers, some small blue crabs to pick at and corn on the cob! Now I know what you’re thinking, where’s the clam chowder? Fear not, we found a simple recipe to make the famous New England Clam Chowder, which can seem intimidating to make—but isn’t!

New England Clam Chowder

slices bacon, diced

1 1/2 cups chopped onion

1 1/2 cups water

4 cups peeled and cubed potatoes

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

ground black pepper to taste

3 cups half-and-half

3 tablespoons butter

2 (10 ounce) cans minced clams

Directions

1.  Place diced bacon in large stock pot over medium-high heat. Cook until almost crisp; add onions, and cook 5 minutes. Stir in water and potatoes, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, and cook uncovered for 15 minutes, or until potatoes are fork tender.

2. Pour in half-and-half, and add butter. Drain clams, reserving clam liquid; stir clams and 1/2 of the clam liquid into the soup. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until heated through. Do not allow to boil.

Mom has got a sweet tooth…

Schakolad Chocolate Factory

internationally acclaimed brand for fresh, handmade European style chocolates. Their  signature chocolates are prepared with the finest ingredients and presented in the time honored traditions of quality, artistry and innovation. Their flavors are endless I’m sure one will appease your palette.

Here are a few that you will find

• dark coconut pattie
• dark almond cluster
• key lime truffle
• milk butterscotch truffle
• cheesecake ganache
• Italian amaretto ganache
• dark caramel

Misha’s Cupcakes

They make cupcakes, cakes, scones,muffins and brownies, with more delicious creations to come!

Misha’s Cupcakes truck delivers to more than 30 locations, and we are always on the look-out for fabulous places where our customers will be able to enjoy our cupcakes. they cater to your needs with the coolest designs and originality.

Shari’s Berries

Shari’s berries offer chocolate covered goodness…from strawberries, truffles, cakes, to apples. These vibrant morsels are picture perfect and melt in your mouth.

Strawberries

Succulent ripe strawberries are hand-dipped with gourmet confections, and decorated with pastel swizzles and sugar crystals especially for Mom. Our delectable berries are an Unforgettable Mother’s Day Gift.

Truffles

• 4 Dark Chocolate Cabernet Truffles
• 4 White Confection Champagne Truffles
• 4 Dark Chocolate Chardonnay Truffles
• 4 Dark Chocolate Port Wine Truffles
• Truffles arrive nestled in individual fluted-paper cups and tucked into a box
• Item #30001463

The only thing better than wine and chocolate is the combination of both. Popped into the mouth, the flavors of decadent chocolate and wine meld into one sensual bite. Truffles are infused with non-alcoholic wine flavorings. Truffles contain no alcohol.

Cakes

Cheesecake Medley (8″ diameter, serves 12)

One bite of this deliciously creamy cheesecake could make even the most grounded person feel like they’re walking on air. This heavenly combination features: a classic New York chocolate chip cheesecake, a luscious chocolate Rocky Road cheesecake, a raspberry swirl cheesecake with a rich chocolate crumb crust and the most decadent gooey caramel swirl cheesecake topped with chopped pecans. Gravity is clearly overrated!

A Personalized Touch

This time around make it a little more personal and take your mom’s , grandmother’s or aunt’s  favorite item and turn it into a timeless treasure for them. The Personalization Mall takes about everything and lets you create your perfect moment for it.

Day of Relaxation

These Beach Spas are still having great Mother’s Day deals so if you didn’t have the time yesterday, make sure you make some time for it before the end of the month!

The Betsy Hotel

One of South Beaches exquisite hotels, the Betsy Holds an Mother’s Day Brunch…and Extends a generous offer of 15% off Guest Rooms and 50% off Grand and Master Suites, with a special amenity subject to availability; offer valid until May 30, 2010.

Dramatically poised alongside its Art Deco neighbors on Miami Beach’s famed Ocean Drive, The Betsy is a distinguished historic landmark hotel. The Betsy’s 63 rooms and suites are private, beachside havens where sensory details, imaginative amenities and inspirational design coalesce to produce an unparalleled experience.

Elegant, but relaxed tropical interiors and an intimate courtyard pool, maintain an aura that is passionately low-key. The Deck at The Betsy, an expansive rooftop with sweeping views of the Atlantic, offers a Wellness Garden with a full range of spa treatments, therapies and yoga. Specialty cocktails and light fare are offered on The Deck and at the exquisite lobby bar, or one may prefer fine dining at Laurent Tourondel’s new take on the modern American steakhouse – BLT Steak at The Betsy. Designed with a hint of vintage glamour, B Bar offers an exclusive and discreet version of Miami nightlife, accessible by invitation only.

Make your Reservation today: 305.531.6100

Ritz Carlton

Escape to a South Beach, FL, spa that offers an elite menu of La Maison de Beauté Carita treatments alongside an extensive menu of European wellness and beauty rituals. The Ritz-Carlton Spa, South Beach topped the 2008 Allure magazine’s A-List recognized by readers as the Best Day Spa in Miami. Featuring 14-treatment rooms, luxurious relaxation lounges, a full-service salon and two couples suites, The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach hotel and spa is home to the exclusive Astro Balance Massage; a unique massage treatment based on your birth date and astrological sign.

Reservation 786 .276.4000

Mommy and Me
A perfect way to say I love you … The Mommy & Me Mother’s Day package is designed for mothers and daughters to bond over a relaxing visit to the award-winning Ritz-Carlton Spa, South Beach, enjoying the following services:

* A Citrus Manicure and Pedicure for mother and daughter
* A mimosa for mom and a mocktail (a fruity beverage) for daughter

$168 including gratuity, complimentary parking included. Offer available throughout the month of May. Please take note it cannot be combined with any other special promotions.

Viceroy, Brickell

Viceroy Miami presents sophisticated international travelers and discriminating South Florida denizens with a glamour-infused Miami resort hotel created for business and leisure pursuits in the city’s burgeoning downtown.

Designed by tastemaker Kelly Wearstler, this luxury Miami hotel on Brickell Avenue deftly juxtaposes elite residential necessities with scene-making dining, roof-raising lounging and the intuitive service and unexpected delights recognized as Viceroy signatures.

Set within the ten-acre Icon Brickell enclave, the Viceroy is the quintessential Miami luxury hotel, located at the center of this urban resort replete with skyscraping residential towers, two parks, a 28,000-square-foot spa and fitness center, and a two-acre outdoor living room bedecked by a 300-foot long pool, oversized outdoor fireplace, and more lifestyle flights of fancy.

Reservation: 305. 503 .4400

The Biltmore, Coral Gables

A sanctuary for the senses in the center of Miami, a place that offers peace, inspiration and profound relaxation.  Perched on the 7th floor of the iconic Biltmore Resort, with spectacular views of the golf course, the Biltmore Spa relaxes and tunes the mind and body while stimulating the senses. The timeless feeling of the Historic Landmark hotel, rich stones and warm wood, were used throughout the Spa to create a serene and restful ambiance. Here in the contemporary elegance befitting the Biltmore’s distinguished past and new splendor, each therapist is driven by a deeply personal vision of well-being.  The Biltmore Spa offers a wide array of nourishing and balancing personalized treatments from around the world and seeks to capture a connection with each guest.

Marvelous May

Take a Spa Escape at 9am or 2pm with our Signature Chardonnay 70-minute massage and pay for the price of the Signature Chardonnay 50-minute massage. Add any facial and receive 20% off your facial treatment.

*This promotion is not valid with gift card purchases or any other discounts or offers. Promotion must be mentioned upon booking and has limited availability so we encourage you to book well in advance. Promotion is available on only 70-minute Chardonnay massage reserved for 9am or 2pm. Facial treatment must be received the same day by same guest to qualify for 20% discount. Promotion is not available on Saturdays or Holidays and expires on May 31st.

Harmonize: The Art of couple’s massage

This 70-minute session enables couples to learn diverse massage techniques in the luxurious Zen Spa suite. Your massage therapist will start the session by introducing you to the benefits of aromatherapy oils and massage as a unique tool to de-stress and reconnect with each other. Each participant will be given the opportunity to choose which area they would like their partner to focus on – full body, back, hands or feet. Your therapist will then show you various techniques, before you and your partner spend time practicing on each other under the watchful eye of a professional guiding you to perfection. This is the perfect way for you and your partner to learn the art of massage, share a magical moment together and take home some valuable relaxation tools.

Cost:70 minutes Session $190 per couple

*18% gratuity not included

Consultation & Acupuncture Treatment

A comprehensive initial consultation, evaluation and extended acupuncture session utilizing sterile, disposable acupuncture needles, and topical herbal applications or other adjunctive acupuncture techniques. Herbal, dietary and/or lifestyle recommendations may also be included.

Cost: 90 minutes $150 (regular price $200)

*This promotion is available Monday through Friday and not valid with gift card purchases or any other discounts or offers. Promotion must be mentioned upon booking and is based on availability.

Happy Hands and Feet

Mango Manicure and Pedicure

Cost: $80 for 70 minutes. Reservation required.

*This promotion is available everyday  and not valid with gift card purchases or any other discounts or offers. 18% gratuity not included. Promotion must be mentioned upon booking and is based on availability.

Reservation 305.913.3187

Hope these ideas help you to get into the VIBE next year and for those few events that are still going on till the end of the month.

Organic Elegance Mother’s Day

So, with just 4 days to go until mom’s special day, we are continuing the series of “How-To” Themed brunches. Today let’s focus on an Organic Elegance. When we say that, we mean keeping it natural, using local ingredients, keeping it real – preservatives free if possible, using elements that will enhance the brunch and keep us close to nature.

At the VIBE agency, we try to be eco-friendly. It is the only way to keep the planet going, and we hope we can change the world, one person at a time. To demonstrate our love for the environment, and mom, and  help raise awareness of going green, we’ve decided to create an Organic Elegance Mother’s Day theme. Celebrate your Mother’s Day by also celebrating the Earth we live on! This simple and easy green-inspired party will leave everyone feeling refreshed and delighted, especially mom!

For décor, we’re keeping it simple and responsible. Try an earthy burlap cloth to dress the tables, which will preferably be located outside — in a garden, in your backyard, on a balcony, anywhere the sun can shine. As for centerpieces, if you’ve learned one thing from these themed blogs, it’s to be creative with centerpieces! You can play around with terra cotta or wheatgrass pots, fill them up with moss add some flowers on top, and you got yourself a beautiful earthy design.

Try a “veggie garden/crudités display” by placing baby carrots, zucchini, squash, and cucumber spears (Organic? Better!) in wheatgrass pots. You can also use bamboo plates, which add to the earthy elements and are also reusable. If you must use disposable plates (after all, no one likes cleaning up… and no asking mom!) try these biodegradable options: Verterra, Bambu, Ecopalm – functional, responsible, and pretty!

For the main dish, visit any local farmers market for an array of delicious fruits and vegetables. Try an heirloom tomato salad. Buy an assortment of beautifully colored heirloom tomatoes— green, purple, red, yellow— cut up, add some fresh basil and a hit of aged balsamic vinaigrette.

Next, go to your favorite local fish market, and pick up your favorite fresh catch. Cut up some squash, carrots, and zucchini, add with fish in a ceramic baking dish, add a squeeze of lemon and olive oil, dash of salt and pepper, and bake at 400°F. Cooking time will vary depending on what fish and the thickness of the filet. Thin filets usually take 15 minutes, small steaks anywhere from 10-15. So keep an eye out!

Lastly, whip up some fresh squeezed ginger orange juice. Squeeze fresh oranges, add 1 teaspoon of crushed fresh ginger for every cup of OJ, and heat until boiling, let boil for 5 minutes total. Pour juice through a strainer, serve warm or cold.

With these delicious dishes, you are sure to impress your guests, while also becoming a responsible locavore! Mom won’t forget, and our Earth will appreciate your gorgeous green affair.

Cinco de Mayo !

Cinco de Mayo is a small regional holiday in the State of Puebla in Mexico and the truth is that in Mexico, most people do not even know what Cinco de Mayo is.  Over time, the Fifth of May has come to mean many things to different people.  To Americans of Mexican ancestry, it is  a cultural holiday, much like St Patrick’s Day for the Irish.  For others, it has become an important night of partying, also, much like St. Patrick’s Day.

Decorate with plenty of tissue paper flowers, add the colors of the flag of Mexico – green white and red, put on your sombreros and some Mexican folk music, salsa or mariachi music and join the fiestas!

Invitation Ideas – Cover page greeting suggestions – “No time for a Siesta, it’s time to Fiesta!”, “Margaritas & Fajitas!, “It’s Party Time, Amigos!” Inside, be sure to put the date, location, time, phone, RSVP date, dress code or costume suggestions.

Food

Corn chips with salsa & queso, tacos, chili, fajitas, Margaritas, Daiquiris, cerveza, Mexican wines, Tia Maria, and, of course, lots of tequila!

Hanger Steak with Margarita Marinade

1 hanger steak, about 2 pounds

Zest and juice of 2 limes

1/2 cup tequila

2 tablespoons vegetable oil, plus additional for the grill

Salt

In a large bowl or casserole dish, whisk together the zest and juice of the limes, tequila, oil and a hefty pinch of salt. Add the meat to the marinade, toss to coat and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to overnight.

To cook, preheat an outdoor grill or grill pan over high. Lightly brush the grill with a little oil and grill the steak until seared, 5 to 6 minutes per side for medium. Let the steak rest on a cutting board for a few minutes before slicing.

Serves 4.

Source: Rachael Ray

Margarita Bunt Cake

1 (18.25-ounce) package white or vanilla cake mix

1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix

4 eggs

1/2 cup vegetable oil

2/3 cup water

1/4 cup lime juice

1/4 cup tequila

2 tablespoons orange-flavored liqueur, such as triple sec, Grand Marnier or Cointreau

Glaze:

1 cup confectioners’ sugar

1 tablespoon tequila

2 tablespoons orange-flavored liqueur

2 tablespoons lime juice

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan.

In a large bowl, combine cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, oil, water, lime juice, 1/4 cup tequila and 2 tablespoons triple sec. Beat for 2 minutes.

Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Cool in pan for 10 minutes; remove to rack and pour glaze over cake while still warm.

To make the glaze: In a small bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar with 1 tablespoon tequila, 2 tablespoons triple sec and 2 tablespoons lime juice. Mix until smooth.

Serves 10.

Source: Allrecipes.com

Margarita Ice Cream

1 ½ cups plus 2 tablespoons heavy cream

6 large egg yolks

1 ¾ cups sweetened condensed milk

3 ½ ounces (7 tablespoons) tequila

2 tablespoons orange-flavored liqueur, such as triple sec, Grand Marnier or Cointreau

Juice of 6 limes and zest of 1

Make a custard by heating the cream (do not boil) in a medium saucepan, whisking it very slowly into the egg yolks in a medium bowl, and then pouring the mixture back into the cleaned saucepan. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 4 minutes. (Again, do not let boil.) Pour mixture into a clean bowl and leave to cool a little, then stir in the condensed milk, tequila and orange-flavored liqueur, lime juice and zest and then cool completely. Pour into a container with a tight-fitting lid and freeze for at least 4 hours.

Serve in margarita glasses rimmed with sugar.

Serves 8.

Source: Nigella Lawson

Grill Margarita Shrimp

2 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/4 cup tequila

1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

1/4 cup olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 jalapeno, minced

2 tablespoons orange-flavored liqueur, such as triple sec, Grand Marnier or Cointreau

2 tablespoons lime juice

Combine all ingredients, except shrimp, in a medium bowl. Add shrimp, cover and marinate in refrigerator for 30 to 45 minutes. Thread shrimp onto skewers and grill for 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally. Remove and serve immediately.

Serves 4 to 6. Note: Shrimp, patted dry, can be sauteed.

Source: About.com

Margarita Fruit Salad

Tequila orange liqueur dressing:

3 tablespoons tequila

3 tablespoons orange-flavored liqueur (triple sec, Cointreau or Grand Marnier)

3 tablespoons orange marmalade

Juice of 1 lime, approximately 2 tablespoons

Salad:

4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

4 oranges, peeled, sectioned and cut in small pieces

1 small honeydew melon, rind and seeds removed, and cut in small pieces

1 small cantaloupe melon, rind and seeds removed and cut in small pieces

In a large bowl, mix together tequila, orange-flavored liqueur, orange marmalade and lime juice. Add strawberries, oranges, honeydew and cantaloupe. Stir to combine and refrigerate for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to blend.

Serves 6.

Source: Fabulousfoods.com

Party Favor Ideas – Mini cactus plants, toy maracas, small clay pots with candy “Red Hots”, bouquet of red, green & white carnations or other plants that combine the colors of the Mexican flag.

Drink Recipes

Corona Margarita

* 6 ounces white or blanco tequila
* 12 ounces Corona
* 6 ounces frozen limeade concentrate
* Ice cubes to suit
* Lime flavored salt
* Lime wedge (optional)

Cover the rim of the glass with the salt.  Pour all ingredients into blender and blend well.  Pour it in a flashing margarita glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Places to Go

Mercadito

On Wednesday, May 5th, join the fiesta at the all-new Mercadito Midtown Restaurant nearby downtown Miami.

This new hot-spot for quality, affordable Mexican fares will host a mega fiesta to celebrate the triumph of the Battle of Puebla. Cinco de Mayo

Come check out live Mariachi music while sipping on ‘Vato Loco’ (a drink so hot a signed waiver is mandatory) for just $12 and tequila shots at $5 – all the while enjoying a sharing menu at $40.

Mercadito’s menus, using the freshest ingredients available and served in small sharing portions, embrace the sociable approach that has been a Mercadito seal. One of the main attractions at Mercadito Midtown is the “guacamole, salsa and ceviche bar,” where a variety of savory guacamoles ($8.50 – $12.50), mouth-watering ceviches ($10.50), and spicy salsas ($2.50 – $4.50), are made in-house while guests watch.

Signature guacamoles include avocados expertly blended with interesting ingredients such as: mango – jicama, chipotle, pico de gallo; mole poblano – plantain, mole poblano, chile Serrano, pico de gallo; and manzana – apple, tomatillo, almonds, habanero. Crispy chips accompany every order. Salsas, served with delicious corn bites, range from chipotle to cacahuate (peanuts).

Already a Miami favorite is Mercadito’s selection of mouth-watering tacos ($13.50) that come four to an order. These tasty delights include Chef Sandoval’s pescado tacos, made with pan seared tilapia, a bold chile poblano and tomatillo-garlic mojo, named “Best Fish Taco in New York City” by New York Magazine. Also designed to please palates, Mercadito’s signature estilo baja – beer battered mahi mahi, with coleslaw, drizzled with chipotle aioli; and pastor – succulent, chile-ancho rubbed pork, grilled pineapple, and chile de arbol salsa; one of the 11 different salsa varieties available.

Side dishes, para acompañar ($4.50 – $6.50), include arroz verde – green rice casserole with Oaxaca and manchego cheeses, a favorite among diners at Mercadito restaurants in New York and Chicago; elote Mexicano – Mexican style corn on the cob with lime mayonnaise and chile piquin, and rajas – mild roasted strips of poblano pepper and onion with hominy corn and crema fresca.

Here, seafood lovers can enjoy a variety of refreshing ceviches ($11.50 – $24.50). Stand-outs include camaron – shrimp, tangerine, roasted jalapeños, in a citrus-guajillo broth; callo de hacha – bay scallops, red apple, tomatillo pico de gallo, key lime-morita broth and mint; and, dorado – lime marinated mahi mahi, avocado and tomato, in a tangy orange-chile de arbol broth.

Botanas ($10.50) are a sumptuous collection of Mexican style appetizers such as tostadas de hongos – crispy corn tortillas, topped with wild mushrooms, pinto bean hash, manchego cheese, tomatillo salsa, and flavorful epazote crema fresca, and flautas – crispy tortillas filled with chicken barbacoa, served with black bean purée, tomatillo salsa and crema fresca. Meant to be shared with dining companions, and a perfect way to kick start any meal, is the queso fundido – baked Oaxaca and manchego cheeses served with a choice of wild mushrooms, rajas (roasted poblano strips), or chorizo.

A visit to Mercadito Midtown isn’t complete without a handcrafted margarita. Mercadito’s beverage program, created by Tippling Bros, (industry veterans and leading beverage experts, Paul Tanguay and Tad Carducci), features a dizzying array of Mexican tequilas and creative takes on traditional Mexican cocktails, along with an assortment of beers. Diners can wash down bites with individually muddled fresh fruit margaritas made with 100% blue agave tequila such as the Little Market (tequila reposado, fresh pineapple, chile guajillo, cilantro), or the Smokey Pablo (cien años reposado, mango, chile morita, blueberry float), among others.

LIV

On Wednesday, May 5th 2010, come to Liv Nightclub at the fabulous Fontainebleau Resort in Miami Beach and celebrate Cinco de Mayo, late-night style, at the Dirty Sanchez party!

Featured DJs Ross One, Contra and Jessica Who will be busting the turn-tables until the early morning!

The party starts at 11pm, must be 21 and over of course! Early arrival is STRONGLY recommended due to limited space.

For more info or table reservations, send an email to info@epoplife.com.

Talavera

From the creators of Coconut Grove’s acclaimed Jaguar Ceviche Bar & Grill comes Talavera Cocina Mexicana – in the beautiful city of Coral Gables.

On Wednesday, May 5th 2010, Coral Gables’ newest Mexican restaurant will host a night that promises to be entertaining with live Mariachi’s performing authentic Mexican music at 6:30pm and also at 8pm.

Stop by Talavera Cocina Mexicana for that authentic regional flavor that just can’t be imitated. Amazing Mexican fares will be served alongside tasty Margaritas that will be flowing all night for this very special occasion.

Raliegh
On Wednesday, May 5th 2010, come out to the prestigious Raleigh South Beach Hotel, on Collins Avenue, to celebrate Miami’s 2010 Cinco de Mayo Festival and the hotel’s 70th Anniversary in style.

Bring your Sombrero down to Miami Beach and enjoy a live Mariachi band performing in the beautiful Oasis area of the Raleigh Hotel.

Drinks will be aplenty with $7 tequila shots and Margharitas, specialty cocktails and small bites.

All the fun and Mexican snacking begins at 5pm until 8pm.

Please note that parking on location will also cost you $7, so keep that in mind!

RED CROSS
Dust off your Mexican sombrero and join the American Red Cross at John Martin’s Irish Pub & Restaurant on Wednesday, May 5th 2010  for some drinks and fine Irish fare from 5pm to 8pm.

Your $15 entrance fee includes a complementary drink and appetizers, and helps fund the vital programs of the American Red Cross in South Florida through the I’m 4 Red Cross series of events in Miami-Dade and Broward counties.

You know the Red Cross is always ready to help our neighbors when they lose everything in a fire and that it helps train lifeguards who watch out for us at the beach and at the pool.

Now it’s your turn to help support the Red Cross while having a little fun with your friends and family.

By coming out to the “I’m 4 Red Cross” events in April, May and June, and snacking on decadent desserts at Kilwins and LA Sweets, joining friends for drinks at John Martin’s Irish Pub, or competing in a dominos tournament, your purchases and participation on selected days will help fund the vital programs of the Red Cross.

Dolores (but my friends call me…)Lolita

Senor Frogs and La Misma Gente Productions are coming to Dolores Lolita

to bring you a 12 hour non stop party featuring:

• DJ’s Lenim + Willy
• Live Mariachis
• Specials on bottles all day/night
• Complimentary tequila shots for ladies

Bottle Specials:
JOHNNIE WALKER BLACK LABEL $200
BUCHANAN’S 12 YR $200
BUCHANAN’S 18 YR $250
ABSOLUT $160
BERVEDERE KETEL ONE Y CITROEN $200
JOSE CUERVO RESERVA PLATINO $180
DON JULIO BLANCO ANEJO $200
RON ZACAPA 23 YR $180
DON Q $150
JACK DANIELS $160
MOET & CHANDON IMPERIAL , NV $80
CHANDON BRUT RICHE $35
DOM PERIGNON $290
GREYGOOSE $200

Doors open at 5pm for complimentary admission until 10pm ladies no cover all day/night

Dolores lolita, 1000 South Miami Ave, Miami FL 33130

Tropical Mother’s Day

source mindscapes

As we continue our Mother’s Day series, the next theme to consider  is “Tropical”. Here in Miami, it is so simple and easy (just step outside!) to create this type of event, but it’s great to bring the tropics up North and to other areas that may not have this naturally. Here, you’ll find some theme ideas, a nice tropical “brunch-style” recipe, some décor ideas and more.

Mother’s Day – Island Style!

If you want to put a spin on your Mother’s Day celebration, why not brighten it up with a gorgeous tropical brunch celebration?  After all, we do live in Miami… it is only right that we take the gorgeous tropical weather we were given, fill it with some more tropical vibes, and leave your mother relaxed and rejoiced!

Start off with some brightly colored linens—try bright yellows, some mermaid blues, and lime greens. Add some creative centerpieces— play around with different ideas. Fill up small trays with sand, stick in a few candles and

shells to create a nice beachy accessory.  You can also try filling up glass vases with lemons and limes (incorporating those two beautiful colors) or with a thick white candle surrounded by more sand! Play with it, be creative, no rules here!

To take your centerpiece to a whole new level, try an Edible Arrangements delicious fruit bouquet! Fruit is the ultimate theme of a tropical celebration… so live it up! Make sure to fill white or bamboo plates with an array of different tropical fruits, veggies, and yogurts!  Try a tasty non-alcoholic punch, anything with pomegranate, acai, blueberries—refreshing, healthy, and delish!

For a light, main course, throw together a Tropical Chicken Salad:

• 4 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• Spring Mix lettuce
• Grape tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• ½ cup slivered almonds, chopped
• Large cucumber, peeled and sliced
• ½ cup peach yogurt
• ½ cup mayonnaise (low-fat if desired)
• Splash of lemon & lime

Directions

Combine peach yogurt, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, lemon, and lime in a small bowl. Whisk together until well blended, then set aside. In a large bowl combine lettuce with tomatoes, pineapple, almonds, and cucumber. Add yogurt-mayonnaise mixture to the large bowl, mix well. Top with shredded chicken, can be served warm or cold. Makes 4-6 servings.

Serve with lightly toasted multi-grain bread, brioche, or popovers, freshly squeezed orange juice, sparkling water or create your own menu!

Thai Fruit Salad

• YIELD: 1 large bowl of fruit salad
• 1+1/2 cups fresh papaya, cubed (for papaya instructions, see link below)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned (for fresh pineapple instructions, see link below)
• 1 banana, sliced
• 1 cup mango, cubed
• 1 cup strawberries, sliced or cut into quarters
• 1 cup other fruit, local OR exotic such as blueberries, melon, dragon fruit, lychees, longans, or rambutans
• Garnish: starfruit slices
• FRUIT SALAD DRESSING:
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 1 Tbsp. freshly-squeezed lime juice
• 2 Tbsp. brown sugar OR palm sugar

Directions
Stir fruit salad dressing ingredients together in a cup until sugar dissolves. Set aside.  Place all the fresh fruit in a mixing bowl.  Pour the dressing over and toss well to mix. Pour or scoop the fruit salad into a serving bowl, or into a prepared pineapple boat (as pictured). Garnish just before serving with a star fruit slice. For easy instructions, see: How to Make a Pineapple Boat.

Star Fruit Tip:To keep starfruit from going brown after slicing, simply drizzle over some fresh lime or lemon juice.

Source about.com

You can also grill your favorite fish, or chicken, with grilled pineapple— serve with white rice and enjoy! Plate your dishes with beautiful ginger, birds of paradise, or  heliconia flowers. Again, be creative! No rules apply to this theme— add your own spices and flair that your mother will be sure to love!

Look forward to catching up with the VIBE later to day for great gift and treats for mom!

Mother’s Day Tea Party

For the second installment of our multi-segmented blog, our minds got us thinking—bring on the tea! Shower your mother with an elegant and sophisticated afternoon English Tea party. Don’t let the rich decor and elegant ambiance intimidate you— with our helpful tips and recipes, you can pull off this quaint celebration your mother will surely love!

Begin by assembling your décor.  To bring the English Tea theme, dust off that vintage blue and white china and lay a plain white lace tablecloth. If you find yourself with an incomplete set of china from years of storing, don’t panic! The beautiful thing about tea parties is the “shabby chic” feel to it. Mix and match different teacups, adding your own vintage flair. One thing to remember though: keep the teacup and saucer matching at all times.

No worries now we’ll show you some themes you can do if you want to spicy up your decor a little, here are few images I found that I thought you would like.  Country Living has some fresh new spring table setting that you may want to check out as well.

Next, what is a tea party without the tea? Did you know that tea compliments food similar to wine? This being said, the following teas are perfect for an afternoon tea party:

Assam - an Indian black tea, Assam is commonly used as a  breakfast tea. However, known for its body and malty flavor, pair this tea with any beef dish.

Ceylon – can be found as black, green, or white tea. Its bold flavor goes well with vegetables.

Darjeeling -  most commonly found as a black tea, this is a perfect tea to serve with desserts, due to its fruity, floral flavoring. Also goes perfect with fresh fruit.

Green – this tea has been growing in popularity, and good thing! It’s healthy— promoting defenses against heart disease and certain cancers. Pair green tea with fruits for a delicious and light snack.

Oolongs – a traditional Chinese tea, it has a bitterness to it, leaving a sweet aftertaste. For this reason, this tea goes perfect with dark chocolate desserts.

If one of these teas don’t interest you you can always choose from one of my favorites…Teavana allows you to create your own tea creations, this place is my playground.

Strawberry Lemonade with Peppermint – Irresistibly fragrant strawberries infused with tart lemon slices creates a new twist on an old favorite! This healthy, vitamin-packed herbal tisane is the delicious strawberry lemonade you’ve been waiting for infused with pure peppermint tisane that is extremely refreshing. It also makes an excellent after-dinner drink, since it helps to aid digestion and is very helpful against irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or curbing acid reflux.

Go Go Goji White Tea- Tart Goji berries are perfectly matched with sweet Lychee fruit, fragrant rose blossoms and a soft white tea in a tumultuous fusion of flavor, phytonutrient energy and vitamins. This is truly a blend which will get you go, go, going!

Peach- Cran Tango Black Tea- Join crisp cranberry and smooth peach in a delicious dance of fresh fruit and complex black tea. The pairing of sweet and sour flavors will motivate your feet to join in the rhythm of a new day!

The Teavana site also offers teas by country as well, just in case your mother has a favorite from a specific place.

Looking for a more traditional take on tea Harney & Sons offers a great selection of  teas ranging from green teas to herbal mixes.

Pair these teas up with your favorite finger sandwich assortments, scones, jams jellies and clotted cream. To have a heartier meal, add in courses of soup and quiches, which are also traditional in an English Tea party.

Remember to have your finger sandwiches up to par: not too soggy of a filling, wrapped well to not dry out, and cut in unusual shapes!

The most traditional afternoon tea sandwich would be the cucumber sandwich. You can pair it with delicious smoked salmon, or just simply alone. Here are easy savory sandwich recipes:

Cucumber Sandwich

• Large cucumber, peeled and sliced very thinly
• Salt 3/4 cup soft butter
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh garlic
• 20 slices bread
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Pepper to taste

Directions

1. Lightly salt the cucumber slices and place them in a colander to drain for 1 to 2 hours

2. combine the butter and garlic and apply to one side of each slice of bread.

3.In a small bowl, stir together the lemon juice, olive oil, and pepper.

4.Add the cucumber slices, coating them well.

5.Arrange the cucumber on 10 of the bread slices, top with the other 10 slices, remove the crusts, and quarter. Serve immediately. Makes 40 tea sandwiches.

Chutney Chicken Salad Tea Sandwiches

• 1 pound(s) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup(s) finely diced celery
• 3 tablespoon(s) finely diced red onion
• 4 tablespoon(s) finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
• 1 cup(s) walnuts, toasted and chopped
• 1/3 cup(s) mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon(s) fresh lemon juice
• 3 tablespoon(s) Major Grey’s (mango-ginger) Chutney
• 16 slice(s) very thin white bread
• 4 tablespoon(s) butter, room temperature

Directions

1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, simmer chicken 15 to 20 minutes, or just until cooked through. Drain and transfer to a plate to cool 10 minutes.
2. Thinly slice chicken into strips, then finely chop. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Toss chicken with celery, onion, parsley, and walnuts. In another bowl, stir together mayonnaise, lemon juice, and chutney. Add to chicken mixture and blend well. Taste and adjust seasonings, if necessary.
4. Place approximately 1/2 cup chicken salad on each of 8 slices of bread; spread and press salad onto bread to make an even layer. Butter remaining 8 slices and place on top of chicken salad. Trim crusts to make even squares. Slice sandwiches in half to form 16 triangles. (Sandwiches may be made to this point up to an hour ahead. Cover with damp paper towels and wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate until ready to serve.) Arrange on serving platter.

From The Oprah Magazine Cookbook ©2008 Hearst Communications, Inc.

Now all that’s left is to brew the teas, invite the guests, and celebrate your mother with a beautiful tea party she will never forget.

Check out the next few parts of the blog in the next few days …and make sure your Mother’s Day has that special VIBE!