Fun – Page 10 – Flair Miami

By Vannia Enriquez October 15, 2012 in All, Fitness, Fun

PRETTY MUDDY

Perhaps by now know you that as much as I enjoy being a girly girl and playing dress up, I’m also very competitive and I really enjoy a good workout.

However, I don’t often get to have the best of both worlds, but what if I could? Is it possible to play dress up, have girl time, be competitive, and get a workout all at once? I think it is… Allow me to introduce you to the Pretty Muddy Women’s Mud Run, coming to Miami for the first time ever on November 17, 2012.

According to their founders, Pretty Muddy is a 5k (3.1 mile) “adventurous obstacle course mud run for any woman who wants to get outside, spend time with friends, and have fun.”

Why would anyone want to do this? Why not! It’s good clean fun that can make a difference in your community.

Okay, so maybe I lied a little, and it’s not that clean. But it can definitely make an impact. Before each muddy event, the organization links up with a Pretty Preferred Partner (a local organization) that is dedicated to making a difference in the city they’re visiting. Pretty Muddy then donates $5 for each registration under the partner’s link and a 2.5% of each additional entry fee.

Did I mention they encourage playing dress up? Best costume receives a prize!

Oh and don’t worry, you don’t have to be an athlete to complete the run. You can take as long as you like, and you can either run or walk the course. Scared of the challenging obstacle courses? Don’t be, some are simple and fun, while others may be a bit more difficult. But you don’t have to complete every obstacle; unless of course, you want to… It’s just good ol’ dirty fun.

So what are you waiting for? Register today and let’s do it together. Flair Miami and Pretty Muddy are teaming up and giving away a free registration to one of our readers for a limited time. Just leave a comment below using the words “Pretty Muddy” in a fun sentence. Creativity is strongly encouraged, good luck! Winner will be announced Nov. 1.

Hope you’ll join me.

By Giselle Valenzano October 1, 2012 in All, Fun

MASQUERADE BALL FOR A CAUSE

Interested in attending a masquerade ball, while giving to a good cause? This may be your chance. Show off your favorite Halloween costumes at the 4^th Annual Green Masquerade Ball, hosted by The Early Development of Global Education.

So you may be wondering, what is The Early Development of Global Education, and what is the purpose of this event?

The EDGE was founded in 2007 by a group of diverse women who understood the importance of environmental education. Since then, the EDGE curriculum has spread to 10 different countries and is currently impacting over 13,000 children worldwide. The biggest impact, though, has been right here in South Florida, where over 40% of whom they serve, are domestic violence and trafficking victims. Not only are they educators and environmentalists, but they are also humanitarians, being that one of their main goals is to secure a comfortable learning environment for each child.

Check out this video for more information on the cause:

This charity event will be held on November 3^rd, 2012, at 7pm, in the Palm Room at the Palmetto Bay Village Center on Old Cutler Road. Guests will get the chance to enjoy an open bar, organic hookah lounge, great food, special guests, and live performances, all while dressed as their favorite character from Alice in Wonderland.

According to founder Mercy Hernandez, “ The Green Masquerade Ball, is presently our largest source of fund raising, therefore its success is crucial to our mission and the impact we can make in our children’s lives”

For more information on donating and purchasing tickets for this event, visit www.theedgeeducation.com or contact Mercy Hernandez at (305) 298-1763.

By Vannia Enriquez September 7, 2012 in All, Fitness, Fun

5 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MARATHON TRAINING

To run or not to run, that is the question?

A few months back, I mentioned that I signed up for a full marathon this year. (I’ve ran a total of 3 half-marathons, I figured it’s now or never.) Well, it’s that time of year when I decide to just run and start my training, or not run nor train at all. Yikes!

At this point, I’d like to start telling you reasons why I don’t want to run the race. But instead, I’ll fight the urge and tell you how training for it shouldn’t be all that bad… So let’s do this together?

5 things you should know about marathon training:

1. Training will take time and dedication. Be ready to persevere. Whether you’re thinking of training for a half or a full, training will take a lot of time. Be patient and find a friend that can train alongside you, it helps if he/she runs at your same pace.

2. To get the best results, be sure to incorporate cross-training and core strengthening into your week. Strengthening all of your muscles is key during such a time, find a training schedule that is right for you! You can find tons of training guides online. A good training plan will require a minimum of 3-4 days of running and two days of cross/strength training. Start slow and build up your mileage weekly.

3. Be sure to always stay hydrated and be conscious about refueling your body. Running will hep your body burn calories, but replacing your body’s energy and nutrients with good sugars and carbohydrates is a must! Therefore, maintaining a balanced diet is a pivotal part of good training. What you put in it is what you’ll get out.

4. Prevent injury by running with the right gear. It is very common for runners to experience injury while training. To avoid this, you can take an at-home wet test, visit a bio-mechanics expert or an experienced shoe retailer. There are three basic foot types: flat, normal, and high arches. Depending on your step and foot type, your shoe may need to be reinforced with cushion, stability or motion control.

5. Runners really do experience a runner’s high. There may be times where you’ll want to quit and it will seem as though you’ve “hit the wall.” But if you push through it, soon to follow is that “runner’s high,” a state of euphoric joy that athletes experience after a vigorous workout. Your body has done what you never thought you could, you’ve accomplished your goal and the finish line awaits!

By Vannia Enriquez August 31, 2012 in All, Fun

WHAT TO DO THIS LABOR DAY WEEKEND

Tropical Storm Isaac is long gone, and just in time to let us enjoy our Labor Day weekend!

So, whether you want some fun in the sun, or you just want to sit back and enjoy a drink with friends, here are a few options to kick-off your weekend festivities. All under $20 or free.

OUTDOOR DAYTIME EVENTS :

Miami Critical Mass
WHAT: The last Saturday of every month local bicyclists head to the streets to ride bike and enjoy Miami in a Critical Mass Ride. Participants must keep a 12 m.p.h pace and stay close to the group. The group is often over 100 individuals, so be prepared to meet new people and ride anywhere from 12 – 18 miles. Bring your bike and bring a friend.
WHEN: 08/31/12 – Meets at 6:30 p.m. and departs at 7:15 p.m.
WHERE: Downtown Miami – Government Center

The 2010 Great Grove Bed Race
WHAT: A bed race where individuals carry beds down a 1/8^th mile street in Coconut Grove. Teams consist of four bed pushers/runners and one in-bed rider, all contestants will race against the clock until teams reach the finish line. Prizes are awarded for creativity, decorations, and race results.
WHEN: All day long. 09/01/2012 (Pajama Pub Crawl) & 09/02/2012
WHERE: Coconut Grove, along Commodore and Grand Avenue.

“Nabor Day” Weekend at Jungle Island
WHAT: A family friendly escapade with animals and all! Miami Dade and Broward County neighbors are invited to experience Jungle Island for just $10 per person.
WHEN: 09/01/2012 – 09/03/2012
WHERE: 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail -Watson Island, FL 33132

EVENING EVENTS:

Tweetup at The Abbey
WHAT: A Labor Day weekend tweetup party at The Abbey Brewery Company.
WHEN: 08/30/2012 7 p.m. (Free drinks from 7-9 p.m.)
WHERE: 1115 16TH Street – Miami Beach, Florida 33139

PALO! Cuban Pig Out 2
WHAT: Enjoy a delicious Cuban pig roast, while jamming out to Afro-funk band Palo! You can expect art, free raffles, games, and face painting. $10 cover.
WHEN: 09/02/2012 from 4 to 11 p.m.
WHERE: PAX Miami: Performing Arts Exchange – 337 S.W. 8 St. – Miami, Fl. 33130

The Stage – Labor Day Party
WHAT: A great party with 3 musical performances by Araka and Mixed Culture performing reggae beats and Bento Box mixing it up with blues rock. $10 cover.
WHEN: 09/02/2012 at 7 p.m.
WHERE: The Stage – 170 NE 38th St Miami, Fl. 33137

EVENTS FOR THE REST OF THE WEEK:

Miami Spice
WHAT: A restaurant package promotion showcasing the top restaurants in Miami. Select participating restaurants are offering three-course meals for a fixed price. (Lunches $19 or $23, Dinners $33 or $39) All restaurants feature top signature dishes created by world-renowned chefs.
WHEN: 08/01/2012 – 09/30/2012
WHERE: Participating Miami Spice restaurants throughout Miami. Click here to view your options.

Fashion Night Out (FNO)
WHAT: A glamorous evening filled with sales, runway shows, live music, and complimentary cocktails.
WHEN: 09/06/2012 6 to 10 p.m.
WHERE: Fashion retail stores across Miami. (Miami Design District, Village of Merric Park, Bal Harbour, Dadeland Mall, The Falls, Aventura Mall, and Lincoln Road. For more info visit www.fashionnightout.com.

DWNTWN Art Days
WHAT: A unique two-day celebration of Miami’s art culture. Ride the Miami Trolley to different participating venues and enjoy free art exhibits, film screenings and even a bike tour.
WHEN: 09/07/2012 & 09/08/2012
WHERE: Locations throughout Downtown Miami. For more info visit www.dwntwnartdays.com.

Enjoy the festivities and have a wonderful Labor Day weekend.

By Giselle Valenzano August 27, 2012 in All, Fun

SPEEDING IN STYLE

Adrenaline junkies and exotic car lovers get excited because Miami has a new attraction just for you!

Based out of the Homestead-Miami Speedway, Miami Exotic Auto Racing offers anyone the chance behind the wheel of a some of the fastest exotic cars. With instruction from professional racers, you could be driving up to the highest speeds in a Ferrari F430, Lamborghini Gallardo, or an Audi R8.

However, maybe like me, you would like to experience these beautiful exotics in the passenger seat alongside a professional racer. Thanks to the wonderful Miami Exotic team, I was able to do just that. Not knowing what to expect, I was a little nervous stepping into the cars, but the excitement and enthusiasm from the racers made me, not only enjoy the ride, but want to go again and again!

I had the pleasure of riding with Eduardo Placucci (Corvette C6) and Manny Martinez (Ferrari F430). Thanks to their incredible skills and years of experienced racing, I was able to do something I never thought I would. Taking sharp turns at top speed in the Corvette C6 or zipping down the track in the Ferrari F430, both rides were exhilarating and definitely unforgettable. As did many of the others, I left the track with a smile on my face and a story I could not wait to share.

To my surprise, many of the riders had never driven an exotic car, and even fewer had any experience racing, but that is what is so great about Miami Exotic Auto Racing–anyone can drive. All it takes is a 30 minute safety/instruction course and guidance while driving from one of the professional racers. With that, you are well on your way to the most memorable joy ride, and a story to tell your friends and family. But, if a story alone isn’t enough, you can purchase your laps with car video.

Here I am in the Ferrari F430 with Manny Martinez.

Whether it be a birthday gift, anniversary gift, or for the sheer love of exotics and racing, the experience alone that Miami Exotic Auto Racing has to offer, goes beyond expectation. From the excitement and energy that the entire Miami Exotic team has, to the beautiful selection of cars and exceptionally skilled professional drivers, Miami Exotic Auto Racing is an attraction like no other.

But, If you aren’t sure whether or not you want to drive or ride in the cars, come on out to the next track day, sit back and watch! Although, watching wont last too long because as soon as you see the beautiful cars and the riders thrilled faces you will want to take one of these cars out for a spin yourself.

If you have any questions regarding lap prices or track days visit www.miamiexoticautoracing.com or contact Michael Rivera at (305) 877-0269 or michael@miamiexoticautoracing.com.

By Vannia Enriquez August 20, 2012 in All, Fun

DIY: WINE BOTTLE VASES

Have you ever walked into someone’s house feeling a little overwhelmed by all of their holiday and seasonal decorations? Christmas not included. I’m talking about every season and holiday: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall, Halloween, Valentines Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, etc. I sure have, and I must admit I can’t help but to feel a little Scrooge-like every time this happens.

I’m what you call a modern minimalist. My place looks the same all year round except during Christmas. But this year, I decided to add a tiny form of seasonal decor to my apartment by creating my very own up-cycled wine bottle vases. Hopefully they’ll allow me to get fancy and change things up a tiny bit throughout the year, now I’m in the hunt for fall-like stems. I may or may not change them according to holidays. ;)

If you’re feeling crafty and want to join me, here’s what you’ll need:

Gloves
Newspaper, tarp or scrap paper
An empty wine bottle
Your choice of colored spray paint (I used white with a matte finish)
Spray adhesive
Epsom salt
Clear spray paint sealer

Directions:

Soak your wine bottle/s and gently remove all labels.
Once the labels are removed, wash the bottle to make sure there is no dirt, dust, or glue residue.
Surround your working area with newspaper, preferably do this outdoors.
Put on gloves and place the wine bottle in the center of your newspaper/working area.
Begin spray painting the bottle, keeping the bottle 10 to 12 inches away from the surface. Rotate as needed and air dry according to the manufacture’s recommendations. Re-coat paint if necessary.
After the paint is dry, begin spraying the adhesive in areas where you would like to add texture. (I added texture to most of the bottle.)
Begin sprinkling Epsom salt directly onto the bottle. I used a spoon to help me disperse the salt. Let it dry for a few minutes and repeat process if necessary.
After you’ve achieved your desired look, spray the sealer to finalize and seal the salt.
Let it dry overnight and you’re done.
I bought flowers from Casa Ideas and Michaels and there you have it. Get creative and enjoy your new vases.

By Giselle Valenzano August 13, 2012 in All, Fitness, Fun

YOGA BEGINNERS AND YOGA LOVERS

Yoga beginners and yoga lovers. A little something for both.

Whether it be stretching and preparing your body for an intense work out, relaxing and calming your muscles after a long day, or focusing on certain poses to achieve balance and strength, practicing the asanas may be the perfect thing for you.

The great thing about yoga is it can work for anyone. Since there are so many different practices of yoga, each person can choose the specific practice that suits their physical and mental needs and goals.

As a current yogi part of the YogiSukha group right here in Miami, I have been able to learn first hand the benefits that come out of yoga, and with out paying a penny!

Vanessa Salcedo, a devoted yoga student, created the YogiSukha community in January of 2012 as a way to reach out to anyone interested in the yoga practice. Vanessa always asks her students what positions they are interested in learning and makes sure to incorporate different sequences each time, “In class, we use Vinyasa yoga as a way to focus on the students specific needs for that day. None of our classes are the same.”

Classes are four times a week and run for 90 minutes, and the best part–they are free! The only thing Vanessa asks to bring is a yoga mat, a towel, water, and a smile!

For more information on class times and locations visit yogisukha.wordpress.com or contact Vanessa directly at yogisukhamiami@gmail.com

Namaste!

By Vannia Enriquez August 6, 2012 in All, Fun

SALSA CON COCO MIAMI STYLE!

Today’s post is a little different, Flair Miami was invited to cover the 2012 Miami Salsa Congress and one of our awesome readers, Izabella Lipnharski, got to attend the event and tell us all about it… Thanks for your contributing post Bella!

The Annual Miami Salsa Congress: 5 days of non-stop adrenaline pumping salsa action

Held every summer in Miami Beach, the Annual Miami Salsa Congress was a hit yet again! This 5-day Latin dance conference included a series of live concerts, dance showcases, workshop classes, dance parties, and pool parties. This year marked their 11th anniversary, making it one of the largest salsa dance congresses in the East Coast of the United States. The event took place August 1-5 at the historic ocean front Deauville Beach Resort.

The party kicked off Wednesday, August 1st, with parties welcoming all artists and fans attending. Throughout the day, guests had the option to attend workshops to help sharpen their dance skills, or enjoy poolside dancing, lounging, and partying; not to mention beach side yoga in the mornings.

Here’s a preview:

Image and Video Source: Miami Salsa Congress

The 2012 Miami Salsa Congress offered over 40 hours of unique workshops, giving guests the chance to learn a variety of salsa dance styles and techniques taught by world famous dance instructors, covering ladies styling, body movement, shines, lifts, dips, and tricks, and much more.

The event was attended by a blend of newbies and pros, the free beginner salsa dance boot camp was designed to get beginners through the basics and on the dance floor in almost no time!

As the event progressed, the Miami Salsa Congress offered 3 nights of 80 dance showcases, featuring over 500 performers across the globe who came together to showcase their talent and share their passion for salsa. Each year, the Miami line up offers a unique blend of the world’s top talent, including international touring artists, youth groups, amateur teams, and word championship dancers.

Following the spectacular dance showcases, the official 2012 Congress DJ Team opened the main event with a full scale live concert featuring the industry’s leading talent. Guests danced all night long and in true Miami fashion, the party continued until 6 a.m.

This event is offered every year, and if you’ve got some Latin flavor or would like to, it is truly worth attending. Whether you know how to salsa dance or not, I encourage you to attend next year and watch the amazing performances, or even consider taking some workshops to learn the basics.

Dancing some salsa, and sipping on agua de coco by the poolside… ah! Hope you’ll join us next year. Dates are still to be announced.

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.

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!

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 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.