News – Page 3 – Flair Miami

By Vannia Enriquez November 9, 2015 in All, Fun, News

#CHEVYPLAY MIAMI

Remember in my last post I was complaining about working from home?

Well, this past week has been quite the opposite. I’ve actually loved every second of it! ( I wasn’t kidding when I told you it’s a love/hate relationship.) Luckily, I’ve been busy running around town from meeting to meeting and I’ve had the opportunity to meet with some pretty amazing brands, one of them being Chevy.

Last week Chevrolet and She Buys Cars asked me to be a part of the ChevyPlay Miami program — since the Miami Auto Show is in town (Nov. 6-15), they gathered a few Miami influencers and invited us to participate in a day of fun, fashion and social hacking at the Surfcomber hotel.

The event included sessions on social media, a quick coding class and helpful fashion tips. However, the highlight of my day was getting to test out the new Chevrolet in-car technology, featuring Apple Car Play. The technology was beyond impressive!

To get started, you simply plug-in to the USB port and voila! All compatible apps are automatically displayed on the vehicle screen allowing the user to navigate through the system with voice commands or through the touch-screen of the vehicle. The system allows access to texts, music, maps and even wifi. Did I mention that some models even offer a wireless charging station? Genius and oh so convenient!

Looks like now instead of working from home, you can even work from the comfort of your Chevy. ;) Integration is available in 14 of the Chevy vehicles and this winter they also plan on integrating Android Auto. Pretty neat huh?

If you get a chance, be sure to pass by the Miami Auto Show and check out the new Chevy features and all the other cool car exhibitions. Whether you’re a car enthusiasts or not, it is always fun to see more than a thousand new vehicles from over 40 manufacturers from around the world! PS. If you don’t already — be sure to follow me on Instagram because we’ll be having another giveaway soon!

By Vannia Enriquez November 4, 2015 in All, Fashion, News

RAINBOWS AND BUTTERFLIES

For someone that only knows me through the blog, I suppose it’s easy to assume that my life is filled with rainbows and butterflies.

I mean, why would you not think that? For the most part, my pictures look pretty and my life seems peachy. Right?

But can I get real with you? Today, I’m having a really hard time “working from home.” I don’t know if other people that work from home feel the way I do, but I get serious cabin fever. Sure it has its ups and downs… Sometimes I love it. Sometimes I hate it.

But at the end of the day I’m the type of person that needs to feel like I’m making a difference, I need to interact with others and I need to be reminded that the world doesn’t evolve around me.

As a blogger it is so easy to get wrapped up in frivolousness. In a ME world.

But at the end of the day, when I look up to the sky I know that I don’t live for me. I don’t live for you. I live to honor God and bring Him glory. Days like today, reading verses like Col. 3:23 reminds me to work willingly at whatever I do… “Work as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.“

Sometimes, soaking-up a little sun letting my toes touch the grass and breathing some fresh air is just the reminder I need to get back on track. Getting a chance to step outside to look at actual rainbows and butterflies reminds me that life is fleeting. We’re simply passing mists in the presence of a greater being.

On that note, I really want to start incorporating more stories of other people on the blog. Do you know someone worth highlighting? Is there someone facing a trial that could use our help? Leave me a comment or shoot me an email — let’s make a difference and actually make this blogging world a community. Are you with me? Can you help me look?

YOINS lapel c/o YOINS
NORDSTROM tank
FOREVER 21 shorts (sold out)
KATE SPADE bag c/o Sawgrass Mills (similar)
TORY BURCH flats

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By Vannia Enriquez October 28, 2015 in All, Fun, News

WHAT TO DO IN MIAMI HALLOWEEN 2015

Costumes, candies, cookies and crazy kids. Mix these ingredients and whadaya‘ get? Halloween!

That’s right, Halloween is just days away and as you rack your brain trying to figure out what to wear. Allow us to help by also giving you a line-up of what do in Miami • Halloween 2015 — from family-friendly block parties, eerie haunted houses to some adult fun. We’ve got you covered!

CHILDREN’S HALLOWEEN PARADE
WHAT: Trick-or-treating, kid-friendly activities and a dance-off!
WHEN: Oct. 31 • 1:30p – 4:00p
WHERE: Lummus Park • Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
COST: Free!

SPOOKY ZOO NIGHTS 2015
WHAT: A goulish night with eary rides and fun for all!
WHEN: Oct. 30 and 31 • 7 – 11p
WHERE: Zoo Miami • 1 Zoo Boulevard • 12400 SW 152 Street • Miami, Florida 33177
COST: Admission is $10.95/person ($9.95 for zoo members)

HALLOWEEN AT JUNGLE ISLAND
WHAT: Trick-or-treating, animal shows and kid-friendly knock knock jokes!
WHEN: Oct. 31 • 10:30a – 4:30p
WHERE: Jungle Island • 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail • Miami, FL 33132
COST: General Admission

BLOCK PARTY
WHAT: A family friendly block party filled with non-scary costumes, games, music, raffles and great food.
WHEN: Oct. 30, 7 – 9p & Oct. 31, 3p – 5:30p
WHERE: Christ Journey Church • Gables & Kendall Campus
COST: Free!

LIGHT THE NIGHT FALL FESTIVAL
WHAT: 1st Annual “Light The Night” event filled with rides, games, petting zoo, food, and fun for all!
WHEN: Oct. 30 • 4-8p
WHERE: Key Biscayne Community Church • 355 Glenridge Rd • Key Biscayne, Florida 33149
COST: $20

HOUSE OF HORROR AMUSEMENT PART
WHAT: South Florida’s largest Haunted House with over 30 spine-chilling rooms.
WHEN: Sep. 24 – Nov. 1
WHERE: Miami International Mall • 1455 NW 107th Ave • Doral, FL 33172
COST: Adults $30 • Kids $15

THRILLER ON THE BAY
WHAT: An MJ-inspired party, “Thriller on the Bay,” featuring tunes by DJ YNOT and Ras Adonia.
WHEN: Oct. 31 • 9p.- 2a
WHERE: Mondrian South Beach • 1100 West Avenue • Miami Beach, FL 33141
COST: Free!

WALKING DEAD AT WHISKEY BLUE
WHAT: A Walking Dead-themed party. All guests 21 and over are welcome to join — whether dressed as zombies or princesses – enjoy signature cocktails and music by DJ Mark Gallo and DJ Richie Rich..
WHEN: Oct. 31 • 9p
WHERE: Whiskey Blue & Living Room • W FTL. •401 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd. • Fort Lauderdale, FL 3304
COST: Free!

Image Source: Brand Thunder

By Vannia Enriquez October 26, 2015 in All, Food, News

CHIA PUDDING RECIPE

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day… Well, I almost always skip it. Unless I’ve planned ahead and made my favorite chia pudding recipe.

As much as I love a good hearty brunch (especially on Sunday mornings) I loathe making breakfast during the week. I will gladly cook an elaborate lunch or dinner, but breakfast? Meh. Let’s just say I am not a morning person and precious sleep trumps all hunger.

That’s why on-the-go easy breakfast options like overnight raw-oatmeals and chia puddings are my go-to staples. Chia seeds have been around for centuries and I love their tapioca-like texture. They support a healthy digestive system and offer a great source of protein, antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids.

To make my chia pudding I normally use regular organic chia seeds, but this time I wanted to change things up a bit and I tried kunachia’s chia+probiotics food blend – which combines a prebiotic with a probiotic.

The pudding came out a little less thicker than usual but it was full of extra goodness. You can try the recipe with either regular seeds or with the blended option, either way it will give you a natural energy boost to start your day. Just what I need!

Prep time: 10 minutes
Yields: 8-10 servings

Ingredients

2 cup unsweetened almond milk
2 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons of 100% pure organic maple syrup
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup Kunachia chia seeds or chia + probiotic blend
1 pint strawberries, rinsed, hulled and chopped
1 pint blueberries, rinsed
1 pint raspberries, rinsed
1/2 cup sliced almonds

Directions:

In a medium bowl, gently whisk the almond milk, yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla and blend until the mixture is perfectly distributed and slightly thickened.

2. Slowly whisk-in the chia seeds and distribute evenly.
3. Refrigerate mixture for 30 minutes.

4. After mixture has settled, mix the pudding with a spoon to evenly distribute the seeds.

5. At this point, you may spoon-in the mixture into mason jars or bowls, for serving. (FYI -I usually let the mixture sit overnight. This allows the seeds to settle and all the flavors to fully blend. But after 30 minutes it is technically ready for serving.)

6. Top with berries, almonds or honey if desired.

7. Enjoy! (To mix things up during the week, play with your toppings. I rotate between granola, dark chocolate chips, or shredded coconut. And of course, any and all fruits — the options are endless!)

8. If you have leftovers, cover and refrigerate them for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Best if consumed between 2-3 days.

By Vannia Enriquez October 16, 2015 in All, Fun, News

6 EASY DIY HALLOWEEN COSTUMES

It’s been a while since I’ve gotten excited over Halloween. The thought of trying to figure out a costume stresses me out. In fact, if I am not mistaken I haven’t really dressed up in over two years.

Store-bought Halloween costumes are not really my thing. Not only are they over-priced but they all feel the need to be sexy. Sexy Elsa, sexy lady bug, even sexy Spongebob?!?! Seriously? No thanks. I’ll pass…

I’m more into lazy costumes. You know, you browse around the house see what you have and muster-up something cool?

This year, I decided that there is no need to scour the internet or sketchy Halloween pop-up shops. Instead, I made a few inspiration boards showing you 6 easy DIY Halloween costumes with everyday items. Who knows, you may get lucky and not even have to buy anything. (But if you must, you can always pay a visit to your local Goodwill or see my links below.)

Enjoy!

Frida Kahlo

Alex Vause | Orange Is The New Black

Ariel | The Little Mermaid

Minions | Despicable Me

Waldo | Where’s Waldo?

Donald Trump | 2016 Presidential Candidate

Note: Colors shown on the images below may vary, but they do come in the color needed to match the costume.

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By Vannia Enriquez October 14, 2015 in All, Fashion, Fun, News

10 REASONS WHY I LOVE BEING LATINA

From time to time my heart skips a beat when I hear a good Spanish song. I don’t often listen to Spanish music, but when I do it warms my soul.

Play me a good Carlos Vives, Juan Luis Guerra or Oreja de Van Gogh and pour me a glass of wine — I am a happy woman! A few sips later, I may even start to shimmy. (But really, who am I kidding I was probably dancing or swaying with the first note.)

I moved to the U.S when I was 8 years old. I remember so vividly being embarrassed at the fact that I didn’t properly speak English till the 3rd grade. I hated telling people where I was from because half of them had no clue where Bolivia even was. One time, someone asked me, “what language do they speak there?” And they were confused at the fact that I “wasn’t brown”! Seriously!?!

I had no choice but to laugh…

NORDSTROM tank
NORDSTROM BP necklace and bracelet
FOREVER 21 pants
Images: Katie Lopez Photography

As a Latina millennial, I’m proud to live in America and thankful for the opportunities this country has given me. But I also love and embrace my Latin culture. I love my roots, I love my people and I love our food. Maybe that’s why I love Miami so much because we’re the heartbeat of this city!

Well, in honor of Hispanic Heritage month, here are 10 reasons why I love being Latina:

English is optional, but Spanish is necessary. In an ideal world, your children will definitely be bilingual. If your parent’s taught you well, you speak both English and Spanish. And that’s huge!
Being loud is perfectly normal. And so is yelling someone’s name accross the halls. Whisper? What does that even mean? If the house is quiet, then you know something is wrong.
There are no secrets, ever. If you told abuela something… Well, she told your mom, tía, sister and cousins. Pero, don’t worry. Todo se queda entre familia, mi hija. And if you didn’t tell her, she most likely was snooping through your stuff and already read about it in your journal.
Rice is served in every meal. Yes, even breakfast! Nuestros amigos de Centro América lo comen hasta en su desayuno, y con una cremita deliciosa. Mmmm. It’s quite scrumptious!
We work for what we have. Cubans are the epitome of this example. They’re not afraid to persevere. Sweat, tears and a little blood — you gotta do what you gotta do! Latinos dream big dreams but we also fight to make them a reality.
We’re all related. No, but really… If you meet a fellow Latino or Latina you like them that much more just because they are Latin. They speak your native tongue and understand your antics.
We genuinely enjoy seeing each other prosper and we’re willing to help one another. We’re all hermanos y hermanas remember? So how could we not help each other? We create communities within communities, we celebrate the accomplishments of others and share our secrets to success.
We drink coffee like Germans drink beer. Cafecito, cortadito, colada… Que Starbucks, ni que Starbucks! Oh and we drink it right before bed because we’re pretty much immune to caffeine. (Well, at least most of us!)
Any reason is a good reason for a pachanga. Bad day? Good day? Sad day? Let’s make it better with a few friends, drinks and some dancing.
We value and nurture relationships. Our passion, excitement and contagious zeal comes from doing life with others. We’re thankful for every day and the lessons they bring. But even more, we’re thankful for the bond between family and friends.

Me falto algo? Feel free to chime in and add to my list in the comments section below.

As of 2014, the Latino population reached an all-time-high of 55.4 million, that’s 17.4% of the total U.S. population. So, whether the Trumps of the world admit it or not, Hispanics have helped make and shape this country. Don’t you agree?

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month, mi gente!

PS: If the pictures above look familiar to you it’s because I had them as banners in my old site, but I never actually did a post with them. So I figured, why not? ;) PSS: I had a really hard time finding similar items as the ones pictured. (All those pieces are so old). Oh well, I tried.

SHOP A SIMILAR LOOK:

By Vannia Enriquez October 9, 2015 in All, Fun, News

WHAT TO DO IN MIAMI • OCT. 2015

It’s been a while since I’ve done a What to do in Miami post…

And since it’s still too early for Halloween (at least in my eyes), here are a few fun events happening around the city this month.

PS: If you follow Flair on Twitter, you may even get to win some free VIP tickets to some of the events. Enter below for a chance to win.

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH CELEBRATION
What: A Latin celebration in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.
You can expect music, carnival rides and much more.
When: Oct. 9 • 6-9pm
Where: 501 72nd St • Miami Beach, FL 33141
Cost: Free!

MIAMI BEACH SOUNDSCAPE CINEMA SERIES
What: Enjoy outdoor movies with the Soundscape Cinema Series at the New World Symphony wall
When: Wednesdays • Oct. 7 – May 25 (see movie schedule here)
Where: 500 17th St • Miami Beach, FL 33139
Cost: Free!

KOMEN RACE FOR THE CURE
What: 5K Race for the cure against breast cancer. Celebrating the women and men who inspire us all.
When: Oct. 17
Where: Bayfront Park • 301 Biscayne Blvd • Miami, FL 33132
Cost: $35

SOUTH BEACH SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
What: Foodies unite for a taste of Miami’s best seafood. Chef showdowns, cocktails and more!
When: Oct. 21 – 24
Where: Locations throughout Miami Beach
Cost: $35+
Discount: Use the code FLAIRMIAMI at checkout and get 20% off. Want to win a pair of VIP tickets to the festival? Enter below for a chance to savor goodies and enjoy an open bar!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

GOSPEL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
What: Christian leaders around Miami gather for some healthy conversations about how the Gospel impacts work, relationships, and culture.
When: Oct 24 • 9a-5p
Where: 500 NE 1st Ave • Miami, FL
Cost: $50 • Enter below for a chance to win 2 free tickets!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

DARK DINNING THE EVE OF PROHIBITION
What: Renowned Chef Adrianne hosts The Eve of Prohibition Charity Ball benefiting the Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida. Expect signature hors d’oeuvres and dessert stations and unique entertainment. If you purchase the Bacardi Maestro/Black ticket it includes a luxurious restaurant setting for the ultimate Dark Dining experience.
When: Oct. 23
Where: Westin Colonnade Coral Gables • 180 Aragon Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134
Cost: $150+
Discount: Interested in an exclusive $50 off coupon code? Contact me for more details.

BAY SKATE MIAMI 2
What: An old school throwback! Think roller-skating, food, friends and freestyle jams with a waterfront view.
When: Oct. 30
Session 1: 5pm-7pm (Family Skate)
Session 2: 7pm-12am (Adult Skate)
Where: Bayfront Park • 301 N. Biscayne Boulevard • Miami, Florida 33132
Cost: Free!

Let me know which events you checkout. Hope to see you around!

By Vannia Enriquez October 7, 2015 in All, Fashion, News

HOW TO WEAR OVERALLS

Wearing overalls and looking like a grown-up can seem like a bit of an oxymoron.

In fact, if you grew up in the 90’s chances are you had a few of these denim digs. You probably paired them with your favorite tee/tank and matching scrunchies. You jammed to the Spice Girls and walked around like you were the coolest kid in town. No? Was I the only one?

As a true 90’s child, I loved wearing overalls, I remember having some super awesome dark-denim bell-bottomed pair that I adored. Thinking back on them actually makes me sad that I got rid of them. I bet I would still fit into them.

Luckily, these retro trends are slowly making their way back into our wardrobes. Today, scrunchies, overalls, berry lips, mom jeans, chokers, bandannas and even jelly shoes are totally a thing!

Though some still think that these denim “onesies” are better left in your giveaway pile. I am here to convince you otherwise. Not sure how to wear overalls? Here are five ways to style your dungarees.

Avoid wearing plaid. The goal is to look clean and crisp not like a farmer. Opt for neutrals and ditch anything that may resemble the Little House on the Prairie.
Find the right fit. The silhouette and fit of overalls are key, this can make or break your look. Play with your style and see what you feel comfortable in. If you go with the boyfriend fit, try not to have an overly loose crotch area. I prefer slim cuts rather than baggy, but it’s your call.
Add some flair. When you were 12, you probably paired your overalls with a Hello Kitty tee and good ol’ jellies. But here is your chance to finally look like an adult, pair them with your favorite strappy heels. For a more comfortable look pull out the classic white Keds or Adidas. You can also mix and match the boyish feel with some feminine fabrics — like this lace off-the-shoulder top.
Layer like a pro. Layer your overalls with your favorite knit sweater, wearing them either under or over your knit is perfectly acceptable. Also, pairing the denim with different textures is a-okay. For example, you can drape a leather jacket over your shoulders or even add pop of your favorite faux fur.
Accessorize like a lady. For a more sophisticated feel, add some structure to your look. Pair your overalls with a either bold bauble or a dainty necklace. Add a structured bag and you’re all set!

SHE IN off-the-shoulder top (similar)
O’ NEILL overalls
KEDS sneakers
BLOOMINGDALES bag c/o Glory House (similar)
necklace c/o TAUDREY

Still not sure about overalls? You can also ditch the denim look all together. For an even more grown-up feel you can play with different fabrics and colors. Here are a few other options.

How will you style your overalls?

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By Vannia Enriquez October 2, 2015 in All, Fun, News

BROWS THAT WOW

Whether you realize it or not, eyebrows play a pivotal role in beauty. They frame the eyes, nose and overall face structure. While some brows are less exciting than others (ahem, mine are normally pretty lame). I’ve realized just how a simple shaping can give you a whole new look. Say hello to brows that wow!

I consider myself to be a beauty minimalist, maybe even an amateur. I’m not the girl with flawless make-up or perfect brows. On a regular basis, I throw on some mascara, blush and then out the door I go. But Miami’s eyebrow shaping expert, Mayra Artze Mata of Mayra’a Art Beauty may slowly be changing my ways.

I visited Mayra at her new Coral Gables location inside Zen Hair. I had heard wonders about Mayra. In fact, a ton of Miami fashion bloggers have brows that wow because of her. But since I wasn’t blessed with bushy arches. (Yes, I think bushy brows are a blessing, have you seen Cara Delevingne?) I normally opt to keep my few strands, let’s just say I had yet to find someone I could trust with my brows.
Mayra is a brow expert and has been in the industry for over 15 years. She is very enthusiastic about her work and finds it rewarding to see her clients looking and feeling their best. Her arch-shaping technique helped give my brows some dimension and even appeared to lift my eyes a bit.

Wondering how much it costs? You can expect to pay $35 or $45. ($45 for the brow guru herself, or $35 for a technician trained by her.) Shaping technique lasts 4-6 weeks, which is twice as long as regular waxing.

The subtle change will not only enhance your look, but it will also add a youthful glow. Give it a try. Your eyes will love it, and your face will thank you for it!

Images: A Head Over Heels

By Vannia Enriquez September 28, 2015 in All, Fashion, Fun, News

NO SHAVE NOVEMBER?

It’s inevitable! For most women, hair removal is part of our everyday routine. Tweezing, shaving, waxing, the methods may actually vary for different areas of our body.

But does no shave November also apply to women? Okay, okay… Maybe it sounds like I’m about to cause an upheaval and empower women to embrace their fur. Trust me, that’s not my plan. Ew!

But I must admit, I’ve always been a little envious of the fact that men don’t have to shave their legs. I guess as a girl, society expects you to always be hair free. And while shaving your legs seemed like the coolest thing ever in sixth grade, nowadays I dread it. The reality is that the older you get the less exciting it becomes. Now I see it as more of a chore. Don’t you?

For a really long time, I contemplated the idea of laser hair removal. But I was too cheap to go to a spa and commit to buying a package, so instead I tried an at-home-equipment. I researched these gadgets like a mad woman and after finally committing to one and using it a few times, I wasn’t impressed.

Having already embarked on a mission to be hair-free, I jumped on the bandwagon and finally committed to an actual package at Touch Laser Med Spa. I started with my full bikini and then decided to also include my legs. After just one session, I saw about 70% less hair growth.
Touch uses The Candela GentleYAG® laser system which is top-of-the-line equipment. It requires no gel and is safe for all skin types. According to experts, “The infrared laser delivers invisible energy deep into the skin. By heating its targets slowly, it is very effective and safe. This is especially true for darker skinned individuals who would not normally be candidates for laser procedures.”

So far, I’ve only had two session and it has proven to be extremely effective. I’m a fan. No-shave November, I’m ready for you!

Ready to give laser hair removal a try? If you live in Miami or even Peru, give Touch Laser Med Spa a call and book your appointment. Use the code FLAIRMIAMI and get 20% off any procedure.

Before your visit, make sure to limit plucking and waxing for about 5-6 weeks before the treatment. Waxing and plucking temporarily removes the root of the hair, which is something to avoid since the laser actually targets the root. Also avoid sun exposure both before and after the treatment — sun exposure makes the process less effective.

Does it hurt? Hmmm. The pain varies but I’d describe it as small flicks on your skin. It’s not bad and it sure beats waxing. (That hurts like hell.) The first session is a little more painful than the rest, but afterward it’s smooth sailing.

ZARA tank
OLD NAVY shorts (sold out)
MANGO sandals (similar below)
RAY BAN aviators

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