Music & Manicures

Music & Manicures: Get Nailed Bar

Music & Manicures: Get Nailed Bar

What:

“Get Nailed” at the hippest new salon in the Magic City.

Why:

When I first heard my good friend, Michelle Pooch, was opening a cool new business in Wynwood, I knew it was going to be special — because she is. I’ve known Michelle for years; in fact, when I first moved to Miami, she was one of my biggest cheerleaders, asking me to host charity events she was involved in or inviting me to fabulous parties she was promoting.

Back in the day, Michelle was always flanked by the rich and famous, but she was the one who stood out. So it didn’t surprise me when I heard she’d been cast on VH1’s, “Love & Hip Hop: Miami”— a reality show about all things Miami; mainly, its fabulous music scene. Her success, though, doesn’t stop there. Michelle’s just added #BossBabe to her already impressive resume.

Combining her world-renowned deejaying skills, party acumen and savvy television personality, she’s opened “Get Nailed Bar” — a full-service nail salon seamlessly mixing “Music & Manicures” #SignMeUp! The funky little space, located in Wynwood, feels like New York City on the outside, but on the inside, it screams MIAMI. With glamorous artwork, a cocktail area, a “Love & Flip Flop” bar & a cool little corner where Michelle can spin her tunes, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled onto the best-kept secret in the city (at least, for now.) When I went last week to “Get Nailed,” I was completely enamored with my posh pampering experience.

~Translation~

Good-byeeeeee, elevator music and stank eye from your conservative nail neighbor (especially if you’re on your iPhone) and HELLLoooo, energetic tunes, music videos and vixen-style nail art. From the manicure/pedicure menu you can choose from saucy services like The Mary J, The Mona or The Pippen Pedi. You can even customize with add-on’s like The Britney Bitch (nail art), The Mariah (glitter application), The Cardi B (drippin’ in dippin’ powder) and so on. There’s even a thousand dollar “Queen Bey — The Gold Record Edition,” featuring 24K exfoliation & nail polish. Believe you me, I thought about it, but the Deco Drive credit card doesn’t have that kind of limit. Instead…

The lovely, Annick (@glamdbyannick on IG, check her out, she’s amaze,) cleaned up my cuticles and carefully crafted my fingertips into complete fabulosity, all while sipping on a cocktail. (Me, not her. Lol. 😂) With help from Michelle, I decided on “The Mary J” with a “Trina Rockstar” add-on (which means custom crystals on my ring fingers.) After the digit-dust settled, I squealed like a school girl and Annick and I hit up social media to show off her artistry — fuzzy white hand prop and all.

Getting your nails “did” in the Magic City is easy; there’s practically a salon on every corner. But having an experience that energizes you and breathes new life into your beauty routine is something Michelle not only believes in, she does it for herself, too and now, I totally get why. “Music & Manicures” doesn’t just match my Miami lifestyle, it elevates my entire fashion game and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things. 💫

Where:

Get Nailed Bar
2328 NE 2nd Ave. m
Miami, Florida 33137
786-431-5924

Book an appointment here:
https://go.booker.com/#/location/GetNailedBar/service-menu

When:

Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm
Sunday 12-6pm

Be Social:
IG: @getnailedbar
FB: @getnailedwynwood
www.getnailedbar.com

Nails — one thing you can get into shape without exercise.anonymous
James Woodley Photography
Manicure by Get Nailed Miami
white suit: @touchdolls
purse: @katespadeny
purse scarf: @camarrero
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Cuticle Cutie” Auerbach
Wednesday, August 1, 2018 Shireen's Favorite Things , , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: Chuy’s

Shireen’s Spotlight: Chuy’s

Shireen’s Spotlight: Chuy’s

Shireen’s Spotlight: Chuy’s

Shireen’s Spotlight: Chuy’s

Shireen’s Spotlight: Chuy’s

Shireen’s Spotlight: Chuy’s

What:

FINALLY, good #TexMex makes its way to South Florida —thank you, Chuy’s!

Why:

Oh, the crazy things I’ve done to get some half-decent #TexMex in Florida.

I’ve eaten at dark, dank restaurants where runny beans and large plates of unidentifiable mush have made my bowels shriek for days. I’ve flown my mother in from New Mexico and forced her to bake (in bulk) my favorite Green Chicken Chile Enchiladas and in moments of complete despair, I’ve made midnight runs to “The Bell” to buy a box of tacos to munch away my miseries. #ExtraHotSaucePlease

I miss #TexMex so much that during my last visit home I ate it for breakfast, lunch AND dinner. Even my boyfriend was impressed with my South of the Border chow-down prowess. Frankly, I treated every meal like it were my last because I knew once I was back in the Magic City, #TexMex would become an elusive enigma again. I was so traumatized by the thought of not eating it…

Before we left the #LandOfEnchantment, I insisted on arriving at the airport a few hours early so I could have ONE more bowl of green chili stew (with extra sour cream.) I wept as I gulped it down. Sure, I was sad to leave home, but it was also extra spicy. Just the way I like it. #ThereIsNoShameInMyGame

As our plane lifted off bound for Miami, my chest tightened and while it was probably heartburn, it was also the thought of never finding the food I truly loved in South Florida. Oh, and I’d miss my family, too. So, imagine my delight when the very next night, I found myself presenting a story on #DecoDriveTV about a new place called: Chuy’s.

Its #TexMex concept intrigued me, but could its food REALLY withstand my ‘I grew up in New Mexico’ taste test? I wasn’t sure, but a few months later (after a nice invitation from my good friend, Larry) I decided to give it a go. The restaurant, originally from Austin, has a spirited feel to it. When you walk in, it’s buzzing with excitement and its decor is a mish-mosh of surfboards, metal palm trees and twinkly lights. There’s even a hubcap ceiling, a shrine to Elvis, pictures of customers’ pets line the walls and a plethora of suspended wooden fish give off the illusion of life underwater. 🐠🐟🐠🐟🐳

I found out the reason for the eclectic nature of the place. The two guys who started it (in an abandoned barbecue joint back in the 80’s) didn’t have money for much. Eventually, though, its quirky decor became part of its charming personality. With that being said, I went for a table in the bar because I liked its funky energy and we all know, mama likes a good drink. Speaking of…

I started #Spotlight with a Swirl, which is one of Chuy’s famous “Rita’s” (margaritas). Mine was frozen and layered with flavors. The cute concoction is perfect for a piping hot summer day and, it was about 90 degrees out. I almost dumped it over my head, but instead went for an aggressive form of sipping. Hello, #BrainFreeze While I’m not a sweet drink lover, it was yummy and of course, refreshing.

If you prefer your adult beverages 305-style, try one of their hand-shaken “Mojitos” with fresh mint. Go Classic or fruity with fresh Blackberry/Strawberry. If you really wanna turn it up a notch, “The Original Texas Tini” will knock your socks off. It’s served in an 18-oz. shaker and comes with a dainty salt-rimmed martini glass. My favorite part? It’s garnished with hand-stuffed jalapeño olives. #GetInMyBelly I shook my Tini like I meant it for a maximum frustrated bartender effect, once poured it was — #WOW #OliveYou #IneedThisInMyLifeOnAweeklyBasis. Strong drinks mean you gotta eat and…

Why try one starter when you can nibble on ‘em all, literally. The “Appetizer Plate” comes with chile con queso, nachos, deluxe quesadillas, chicken flautas, guacamole & sour cream. #MyCupRunnethOver It’s definitely large and in-charge and made for the entire table. Watching your waistline? Don’t worry, they have great salads, too. I tried the “Mexi Cobb” served with fajita chicken, green chiles, cheese, avocados, tomatoes and fresh greens.

When I bit into the “Steak Burrito” (under House Specialities) a warm feeling of home came over me. The 12” roll of deliciousness isn’t just stuffed with sliced grilled steak and cheese — it’s topped with spicy HATCH Green Chili Sauce FROM NEW MEXICO. Sorry, I don’t mean to yell at you in all caps, but it was an earth-shattering moment for me. True #TexMex in South Florida!!!? 😭 My prayers had finally been answered. (The entree was served with green chili rice and charro beans.) #ThankYouFoodGods

If that weren’t enough, I went cra cra over Chuy’s sizzling Fajitas, which are marinated in a blend of bock beer, Serrano peppers, lime juice & secret spices. I got the beef and chicken combo served with all the fixings: lettuce, guacamole, sour cream, cheese & pico de gallo. It comes with Mexican rice, refried beans and fluffy handmade flour tortillas. (They make ALL of their tortillas from scratch.)

Because I don’t want to make this blog as long as the Old Testament (and it’s getting close,) you have to try the “Tres Leches” dessert. I lovingly call it “crack cake” because it’s highly addictive. One bite and your life changes forever. The fabulous staff at Chuy’s (shout-out to them for making my visit so special) also served-up “Sopapillas” — a New Mexico tradition and a great way to make a girl feel at home. Which got me to thinking…

They say home is where the heart is, but I’m pretty sure —now— a part of mine is at Chuy’s in Doral and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things. Cheers !!

Where:

Chuy’s
8001 NW 36th Street
Doral, Florida 33161
& opening soon in Kendall & Miami

When:

Sunday – Thursday: 11am-10:30pm
Friday & Saturday: 11am-11pm

www.chuys.com

Be Social:
FB: @Chuys.Restaurants
IG: @chuysrestaurant
Twitter: @ChuysRestaurant

Thank God I don’t have to hunt for my food, I don’t even know where tacos live…anonymous
James Woodley Photography
wardrobe by Vchic Boutique
jewelry by Lexi Jewelry
Hat & Boots are my own from Santa Fe
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Muy Bueno” Auerbach
Friday, July 20, 2018 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , ,

Treasure Hunting

Treasure Hunting

Treasure Hunting

Treasure Hunting

Treasure Hunting

Treasure Hunting

Treasure Hunting

Treasure Hunting

Treasure Hunting

Treasure Hunting

What:

Shopping for the unique and eclectic at “The House of Findings” in Upper Buena Vista.

Why:

Magical, inspiring and one-of-a-kind: “The House of Findings” is just one of those special places. When I stumbled onto its social media profile about a month ago, I knew I had to see the chic new boutique in person AND the fashion Gods did not disappoint on this one. It’s simply, #HeavenOnRetailEarth …

Tucked inside the just opened “Upper Buena Vista” bohemian shopping community, “The House of Findings” is an enchanting experience from the moment you see it and its whimsical windows are just a warm-up of what’s to come. From the magnificent to the marvelous, once inside, you’ll find mint condition vintage clothing & accessories so unique, you’ll hardly believe you’ve found such treasures.

If I had my dream closet, “The House of Findings” would definitely be my template. It’s warm lighting gives way to a cornucopia of well-placed nick-nacks, hats, broaches, sunglasses, purses, dresses, skirts, blouses and shoes, but it’s the way it’s all harmoniously presented that’s truly mesmerizing. Every square inch of the lovely little space evokes a need to explore, touch and discover.

Its irresistible quality didn’t happen by chance. In fact, it’s a direct reflection of owner Mayra Gonzalez. Not only is she is a modern fashionista with a gypsy soul, her sweet smile and charming personality could disarm even the grumpiest Miami shopper. When I met her on a quiet Sunday morning, alongside her husband, Dr. Biorn (who’s just as much a part of the business,) she happily explained how her travels and family life helped shape the character of her store.

Mayra, of course, has great style, but what makes her exceptional? Her fashion instincts: she’s able to see beyond herself and identify what others would like, look good in or what they’re truly “Treasure Hunting” for. She styled me in bold and beautiful clothing and accessories. I don’t want to sound dramatic, but I’m convinced she’s a mind reader.

The night before our blog collaboration, I was droning on to a close friend about breathing new life into my wardrobe. Working in TV News (albeit , entertainment) doesn’t always give me the opportunity to express my true fashion individuality and I think Mayra got that about me. She chose pieces that said something, made a statement and let my true self shine through. If you’re a regular blog reader, you know my take on fashion — it’s not just an extension of your personality, it’s a form of true artistic expression and looking for places to cultivate that can be difficult. Especially in this on-line, cookie-cutter, buy one get one free shopping society we’re living in. I want to see, engage, lament, emote and eventually, identify with what I’m buying.

Whether you’re looking for something no one else will have or just longing for a quality boutique that puts people first, “Treasure Hunting” at “The House of Findings” is the perfect place to do it and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things. Happy shopping, fashionistas!

Where:

The House of Findings
5030 NE 2nd Avenue #404
Miami, Florida 33137

When:

Tuesday – Sunday: 12pm-6pm

Be Social:
FB: @TheHouseofFindings
IG: @thehouseoffindings
Twitter: @HouseofFindings

Collect things you love, that are authentic to you, and your house becomes your story.Erin Flett
James Woodley Photography
Outside wardrobe by Touch Dolls
Shireen’s Jewelry by Lexi Jewelry
Inside clothing & accessories by The House of Findings
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “BOGO” Auerbach
Wednesday, July 18, 2018 Shireen's Favorite Things , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lona Cocina & Tequileria

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lona Cocina & Tequileria

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lona Cocina & Tequileria

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lona Cocina & Tequileria

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lona Cocina & Tequileria

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lona Cocina & Tequileria

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lona Cocina & Tequileria

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lona Cocina & Tequileria

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lona Cocina & Tequileria

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lona Cocina & Tequileria

What:

Lunching at Lona — because everyday is an extraordinary experience at this new Fort Lauderdale hotspot.

Why:

Energetic, fun and beachfront: “Lona Cocina & Tequilera” is one of the best things to happen to the 954 in a long time. It’s the brainchild of rock star chef, Pablo Salas, who effortlessly combines upscale Mexican food with a laid-back, yet lively atmosphere.

When I stopped by last Sunday, the inside-outside bar was buzzing with excitement. Not only was a DJ spinning some crazy good tunes (wicky, wicky,) the weather couldn’t have been any better. The ocean, which is smack-dab in front of the restaurant, shined a sparkling bright blue and the sun was showing off in all her South Florida glory. So — it was settled. Despite being hot as balls because it’s June in the sunshine state…

I sat patio-side under Lona’s large canvas awning. It’s the best spot to people-watch and of course, enjoy the view. By the way, if you’re worried about being too hot, it’s not —Lona’s fan game is so strong, you’ll feel like you’re starring in a Beyoncé music video. If that doesn’t do the trick, how about liquid refreshment(s)? 🍹

You’ll fall #CrazyInLove with Lona’s drink menu, thanks to tasty thirst quenchers like “Housemade Red Sangria” or why not #RunTheWorld after a few shots of one of the many Tequilas and/or Mezcals they serve (over three hundred to be exact.)

The tart & salty “Paloma Brava” has both —Tequila Cabeza & Ilegal Mezcal — mixed with lime, agave and grapefruit soda. My absolute favorite? The“Rio De Rosas,” strong enough for a man, but made for a woman: spiked with Four Roses Bourbon, apricot liqueur, Campari and lemon. It’ll definitely #GrowHairOnYourChest if you have two, watch out for your face. 🧔🏻

Sure, Lona’s cocktails are creative and unique, but one can never go wrong with a straightforward Margarita and they make a good one. Sip a traditional style or go all fancy with choices like Mango, Coconut, Hibiscus or Passion-Fruit.

If you love sashimi with a South Of The Border twist, try the “Tuna Tostada” with chipotle aioli, soy, ginger, Serrano pepper, sesame seeds & crispy leeks. I’ve never had leeks like this, but man, I’m sold. The bite-sized appetizer is a carnival of fresh, spicy and savory flavors. When it comes to chips, salsa and guac, I’m a die-hard snob (it’s the New Mexico girl in me,) but Lona’s “Bacon & Chicharron” guacamole with cilantro, tomato, onion & jalapeño is amaze-ballzzzz.

The fresh ingredients are delivered to your table in a filled-to-the brim Molcajete, then mixed & mushed right in front of you. It’s meal-worthy in itself, especially on a hot summer’s day. If you’re more of a nacho lover, “Huarache de Carne” (piled high with refried beans, crumby white cheese, crema fresca and skirt steak,) will hit the spot. The bottom of the dish is a chip-like shell you can either cut into or break off and use to pile on the perfect bite.

If you’re not a snacker per se and like ordering off the main menu, the “Braised Beef Cheek” is tender and savory. Made with pumpkin sauce and pureed cauliflower, it melts in the mouth. Prefer Fish? The “Salmon Mole” is a work-of-art perched up on cubes of winter squash topped with crema fresca and roasted cashews. As far as Mole sauces go, I could lick this one off the plate. #HelloLovah

If you want your mind blown, get dessert, people. The three-layered “Chocolate Ganache” is cray good, and apparently, the extra rich, extra yummy sauce is a family recipe. NOW (drum roll please) introducing the life-changing, ”Tres Leche” — (said in my best TV anchor voice.) My taste buds were shook-eth. Besides being soaked in three different types of milk, the sponge cake is marinated in berries and topped with whipped cream. #HeavenOnEarth 🍰

The view, the drinks, the food — there are so many reasons to fall madly in love with Lona. Not to mention they also do Taco Tuesday’s, Ladies Night and Bottomless Brunch & that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things. Cheers!

Where:

Lona Cocina & Tequileria
321 N. Ft. Lauderdale Beach Blvd.
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33304

When:

Monday-Thursday: 11am-10pm
Friday-Saturday: 11am-12am
Sunday: 10:30am-10pm

Be Social
IG: @lonarestaurantfll
FB: @lonarestaurantfll
Twitter: @lona_restaurant

www.lonarestaurant.com

I wonder if there’s a margarita somewhere out there thinking about me, too.Word Porn
James Woodley Photography
Dress by @SemaiHouseofFashion www.semaihouseoffashion.com
accessories: @theblingclub
Handbag by @aldo_shoes
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Hot As Balls” Auerbach
Friday, July 6, 2018 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , ,

Sole-ful Art

Shoes, painted, art, miami, miami beach, shireen sandoval, james woodley photography

Shoes, painted, art, miami, miami beach, shireen sandoval, james woodley photography

Shoes, painted, art, miami, miami beach, shireen sandoval, james woodley photography

Shoes, painted, art, miami, miami beach, shireen sandoval, james woodley photography

Shoes, painted, art, miami, miami beach, shireen sandoval, james woodley photography

Shoes, painted, art, miami, miami beach, shireen sandoval, james woodley photography

Shoes, painted, art, miami, miami beach, shireen sandoval, james woodley photography

Shoes, painted, art, miami, miami beach, shireen sandoval, james woodley photography

Shoes, painted, art, miami, miami beach, shireen sandoval, james woodley photography

Shoes, painted, art, miami, miami beach, shireen sandoval, james woodley photography

Shoes, painted, art, miami, miami beach, shireen sandoval, james woodley photography

Shoes, painted, art, miami, miami beach, shireen sandoval, james woodley photography

What:

Beautiful hand-painted slide-on’s for charity.

Why:

I’ve been trying to do this blog for about a year, and I’m not even exaggerating. ALEPEL approached me months and months ago about its newest Capsule Collection; featuring beautiful one-of-a-kind hand-painted slide-on’s, but then IRMA happened and my schedule fell apart and then LIFE happened and now, here we are.

I’ve always been a big believer that things happen in life as they should; when we’re open and ready to receive them. That’s how I feel about “Sole-ful Art”. I’ve needed something “feel good” and meaningful, especially now.

Like a lot of people in our country, I’ve been in despair over some of our extreme and sometimes heartbreaking problems: mass shootings, political rhetoric and societal issues. Making matters worse? How we’re treating one another.

Listen, I don’t wanna open up a can of worms here. After all, this is a fashion blog AND over the years I’ve dedicated myself to making Favorite Things a safe harbor of feel-good stories & experiences, but my heart is heavy as I watch our country fuel its own vitriolic divide. Fighting for what you believe in is one thing, but disparaging others and becoming a mean-spirited tyrant is another.

When I open social media these days I literally wince, especially Facebook and Twitter. My friends, family, even journalists (who btw are supposed to be non-biased) spew opinionated hate. Is this really the world we’re living in? Of course, I already know the answer. YES.

I don’t expect us to all hold hands and sing “Kumbaya;” I know how the world works and it can be a cold, hard place. I’m talking about just common human decency. Love thy neighbor? Treat people the way you want to be treated? Is the Golden Rule dead or is she just taking a leave of absence? My gut instinct makes me shudder.

Then I remember something my parents taught me. One person’s attitude, decorum and behavior CAN make a difference and that’s where “Sole-ful Art” comes in. ALEPEL by Adriana (a shoe company based on modern architecture and provocative design,) released their 2017 Capsule Collection to pay homage to Venezuela, the designers’ home country, but that’s not all. The company’s mission? Giving back.

Employing the talents of a young disabled Caribbean artist, ALEPEL released a line of joy-inspiring slides. The whimsical hand-painted themes centered around Venezuela’s national flower, bird and tree. Proceeds from the sale of the shoes went to a local non-profit organization in the region dedicated to helping abandoned children. The project was so successful, it extended into Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Partnering with social media influencer, Angeles Almuna, ALEPEL released another one-of-a-kind, Capsule Collection celebrating the beauty and strength of women fighting breast cancer. These slide-on’s featured delicate hand-painted peonies symbolizing good fortune, happiness and positivity for the future. A portion of the sales were given to GLAM4GOOD, an organization that ignites positive social change through style and fashion.

As “Sole-ful Art” has grown more popular, so has ALEPEL’s collaborations; most recently with on-line luxury retailer, Moda Operandi and one of my favorites, Olivela.com (when you shop on this site, they donate to children in need at no extra cost). When I finally received my own pair of slides a few weeks ago (mind you, almost a year later,) I was happy and emotional. Sure, I love shoes, but it’s more than that — it’s the gesture of good people in our community doing good things for those who need it.

And while there are a lot of things about the world that make me sad right now, there are also things like “Sole-ful Art” that give me hope and re-calibrate my purpose. Even if it’s just one pair of shoes, it’s certainly a step in the right direction — and that’s something every fashionista can wear well and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things.

Where:

Shop the collection
www.alepel.com
IG: @alepel_byadriana
FB: @alepelbyadriana
Twitter: @AlepelByAdriana

 

Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.Pablo Picasso

 

James Woodley Photography
Jumper by @forloveoflemons from @EtiquetteBoutiques
“Paisley Mule in White Pastels” – Alepel by Adriana Epelboim-Levy & hand-painted by Miami artists
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Sole Man” Auerbach

Wednesday, July 4, 2018 Shireen's Favorite Things , , , , , , , ,