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by Mayi de la Vega

ONE on ONE

by Mayi de la Vega

Luxe Landscaping

By Art, Florida Finds

Create the garden of your dreams with these top talents along Florida’s East Coast.

Springtime makes me think of flowering gardens and the talented visionaries who create them. We’re lucky that so many premier landscape architects and designers call Florida home. Their touch affects every facets of our lives—our residences, whether single family or high rises, our state’s famous resort culture, and our welcoming public spaces and commercial centers. Here’s a short list of some top names.

Raymond Jungles

It’s impossible to escape the prolific Raymond Jungles’s contribution to the local landscape. His signature design schemes—modern, yet lush with native plants that attract pollinators and other fauna—are ubiquitous. His firm, which launched in the early Eighties and is currently located in Coconut Grove, specializes in both residential and commercial projects. Among the latter, a few are 1111 Lincoln Road (a direct homage to his mentor, the famous Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx), Miami Beach Botanical Garden and Pharrell Williams’s new hospitality venture. It’s always delightful to stay at one of the many Florida and Caribbean resorts whose grounds he’s designed, too, like Casa Morada in the Keys.

Fernando Wong

Panama City-born landscape designer Fernando Wong founded his namesake firm with his business and life partner Tim Johnson in 2005. Their partnership has blossomed into offices in Miami, Palm Beach and the Hamptons for numerous residential and commercial projects including Four Seasons properties in Surfside, Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach. Town & Country recently featured Wong’s gorgeous garden makeover for a John L. Volk-designed home; among many feats, it required relocating a century-old, 90-foot kapok tree.

Enzo Enea

Landscape architect Enzo Enea’s headquarters are based in his native Switzerland, but he opened a Miami office to accommodate all the work he has here. I’m especially proud of his design for One Thousand Museum, a mindful mix of swaying grasses, palms and mangroves that links Zaha Hadid’s futuristic architecture with its natural setting along Biscayne Bay. Though he’s completed many other luxury residential towers like Park Grove, Apogee, the Setai and Oceana, Bal Harbour, he also designs landscapes for private homes. When you’re in Zurich, I suggest visiting his curated arboretum, the Enea Tree Museum.

Nievera Williams

After working solo and collaborating for years, Mario Nievera and Keith Williams went into business together as Nievera Williams in 2011. Their Palm Beach firm with offices in Miami and the Hamptons is behind luxe residential and commercials properties from Shanghai to the Caribbean to their home base like the beautifully restored Royal Poinciana Plaza shopping center. They’ve also dived into other creative areas including outdoor furniture design and garden books. Williams just published his first title, “The Graphic Garden,” which features select estates around the island. Nievera is active in nonprofits, too, including the Cultural Landscape Foundation and the Horticultural Society of New York.

Hayslip Landscape

Heathcote Botanical Gardens board member Sam Comer founded the acclaimed Hayslip Landscape in the 1970s. The recent retiree sold his firm to powerhouse landscape and irrigation company Down to Earth, whose name is often associated with golf courses. Comer’s signature elegance and attention to detail continue with the changing of the guard. For Windsor, the new urbanism, luxury residential community in Vero Beach, Hayslip created much of the common areas including its olive orchard, oak allée and new beach club vegetation, as well as landscaping for many of its private homes. The firm’s work can be seen at other exclusive enclaves such as John’s Island, among its large footprint up and down the Treasure Coast.

Raymond Jungles

https://raymondjungles.com/project_categories/cultural-educational/https://raymondjungles.com/project_categories/single-family-residential/

Fernando Wong
Enzo Enea
tree museum
Nievera Williams

Get in the Golf Game

By Florida Finds, Sports

Tee off at one of Florida’s incredible courses and watch the Honda Classic.

With the stunning weather and the Honda Classic underway, I can’t help but think about golf now. If you haven’t attended the PGA tournament at PGA Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, it’s really worth your time. The beautiful, relaxing setting, fun vendors (don’t miss Lilly Pulitzer’s Print with Purpose limited-edition collection to benefit Honda Classic Cares), and incredibly talented golfers make for a dream day. In the tournament’s first round alone, Matt Jones, an Australian player who’s ranked 83rd in the world, came out of nowhere to tie the course record with a 9-under 61. It’s also your chance to see defending champ Sungjae Im, Shane Lowry, Adam Scott, Phil Mickelson, Rickie Fowler and Brooks Koepka, among so many top players competing through March 21.

If you can’t swing it, I suggest at least playing a round of golf on one of our spectacular courses. It’s no secret that Florida is famous for its number of golf courses. There are so many private and public options to choose from, and it’s the reason why many executives and professionals live and retire here. I’ve created a quick guide for some of my golfing clients’ favorite courses.

Seminole Golf Club

Located on the Atlantic Ocean in Juno Beach, the Donald Ross-designed Seminole Golf Club debuted in 1929. The 18-hole, par-72 course ranks 12th on Golf Digest’s “America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses” and is compared to Royal Dornoch in Ross’s native Scotland. Though sitting on a compact 140 acres, the course boasts enough challenges and variety to host the 2021 Walker Cup on May 8-9. The competition, which is being played in the U.S. during spring for the first time, will give most spectators their first peek at the ultra-private club.

Riviera Country Club

Ross also designed the 18-hole, par-71 course at Riviera Country Club in Coral Gables that dates to 1924. Kipp Schulties, whose firm has done a ton of work in Florida, redesigned the course five years ago. The $10 million project was coupled with a new, nearly $40 million clubhouse. With a great pool scene and tennis facility, it’s very popular with families who reside in the surrounding neighborhoods.

Indian Creek Country Club

Indian Creek Country Club is one of the main attractions for residents of the ultra-exclusive Indian Creek Island that’s been getting a lot of press lately for several famous newcomers. But one doesn’t have to live on the island to be a member of Indian Creek Country Club. William Flynn, the visionary behind other iconic golf clubs like Shinnecock Hills and Cherry Hills, designed its 18-hole, par-72 classic layout in 1930.

The Dye Preserve

Named for Pete Dye, the Dye Preserve Golf Club in Jupiter is known for its natural beauty. Old Florida vegetation and wildlife add to the appeal of Dye’s 2002 redesign for his original, 18-hole, 72-par course dating to the Eighties. Though relatively new compared to other courses in South Florida, it has a very strong following and tops many golfers’ lists.

However long your time here, I hope you can get out and enjoy a day on the golf course to see what it’s all about.

A Woman’s Work Is Never Done

By Culture, Holiday

Why I’m celebrating International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month

As far as women have come, from the right to vote to the #MeToo movement, there’s still much work to be done. Hence, there’s always good reason to celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, which falls during Women’s History Month. Founded more than a century ago, the global day recognizes women’s achievements in all aspects of life; raises funds for female-focused charities, and accelerates women’s equality in human rights and economics through its mission involving a call to action, collaboration, philanthropy and uplifting women. The 2021 campaign’s theme is #ChooseToChallenge. It’s a rally for true change.

I’m elated to see how many famous faces, household brands and media outlets are getting behind International Women’s Day. No institution is too big or too small to participate. Like most of you, my inbox has been flooded with virtual events and initiatives to support women-owned companies and women-supporting nonprofits. Amazon Live hosted one of the biggest celebrations, a panel discussion with Priyanka Chopra, Mindy Kaling and Diane von Furstenberg, whose new book “Own It:  The Secret to Life” should be on everyone’s reading list.   

The U.S. government also stepped up to the plate today by signing two executive orders to promote gender equality here and abroad. The first establishes an inclusive Gender Policy Council within the White House. Its staff includes a special assistant dedicated to advancing the equity of women and girls of color. As a Latin American woman who lives in the Gateway to Latin America, I’m especially proud that a Dominican-American woman who’s the former ambassador to Uruguay serves as co-chair.

Women’s History Month has only been around since the late Eighties. To honor it, Google’s charitable arm established a new female-focused program. “Google.org Impact Challenge for Women and Girls” donates $25 million to support economic prosperity by inviting nonprofits worldwide to submit proposals through April 9 to receive grants and mentorship. Now’s your chance to apply! There are too many other initiatives to list, but a couple that caught my eye are Pinterest’s retail showcase of women-owned small businesses during March, and Netflix’s $5 million pledge to foster emerging female talent worldwide including training programs for Latinx women.

Some virtual events are the WOW Foundation’s Women of the World festival through March 21. Led by famous experts and authors, WOW’s webinars touch on a range of topics from managing finances to being a grandmother (something I can certainly relate to). I also encourage you to visit womenshistorymonth.gov for lectures, films and other insight throughout the month and year. Think how you can make a difference locally, too. Learn about women’s charities in your community, direct your dollars to women-owned companies, and call your mom, sister, daughter and bestie to tell them how much they mean to you. We women need to stick together.             

Moving to Miami

By Art, Beauty, Culture, Dining, Events, Fashion, Florida Finds, Interior Design

Here are some of my local tips for new residents.

Being in real estate, I’m often the first person someone meets when moving to Miami. It’s only natural that they want to know everything about their exciting new town and ask for local tips. Since so many people are in the process of relocating here, I thought I’d put together a quick guide to some of my favorite places, services and events. I hope you enjoy discovering them, as well as cultivating your own gems over time.

Shopping

Miami is a shopper’s paradise. I can’t get over how many incredible stores keep opening here. For a local lifestyle boutique, I recommend the Showroom. The owner has been in retail for decades and knows the market. The South Miami location is geared more toward homewares including Tina Frey’s handmade resin pieces, while Coconut Grove carries more denim. For home, I also shop the extensive collections at Luminaire and Artefacto. Both have huge showrooms in Coral Gables, among many locations, if you’re pressed for time.

For fashion, you can’t go wrong with Neiman Marcus’s two stores here. They cater to the stylish side of Miami with more runway looks and interesting designers. I can always count on their personal shoppers, too. The Miami Design District has really taken off in the last few years. It’s become a major worldwide destination for designer brands like Dior and Hermès, as well as contemporary labels. Recent openings include Alexander McQueen and Stone Island, and there are rumors that Chanel’s coming.

Beauty

I can’t say enough good things about Gee Beauty. I wrote about this family-owned spa and boutique’s 15th anniversary in my blog last year. The Gee women constantly amaze me with their knowledge and service. Their facials are the ultimate luxury, and I love loading up on skin care, cosmetics and supplements on my way out.

If you’re from New York or Los Angeles, chances are you’re already familiar with IGK Hair. The partners behind the salon’s initials actually opened their first location here. They’re also known for their inhouse line of healthy hair products like Good Behavior Blowout Balm, the perfect protection for Miami elements.

Fitness

Miami has a serious wellness scene. There are many state-of-the-art gyms like Anatomy, but I trained one-on-one with Faheem Mujahid. Beyond being a master personal trainer, whose practices extend to yoga, meditation and breathwork, he’s a licensed life coach, mental conditioning expert and mindfulness speaker who’s helped moguls to corporate teams from major brands get on the right track. Check out his podcast and website for upcoming workshops. https://www.faheemmujahid.com/about

Dining

I like to eat light without missing out on flavorful ingredients and beautiful settings. Located on the bay in Brickell, Cipriani has one of the most gorgeous dining rooms in the city. It works on so many levels from power lunches to special occasions. Old World details and authentic cuisine instantly transport me to Italy. Milos in Miami Beach offers a similar vacation vibe. I feel like I’m in the Greek Isles with its airy décor and fresh Mediterranean seafood like whole, salt-encrusted fish and charred octopus. Its homey, private dining room is often booked, and the three-course, prix-fixe lunch is super popular.

Annual Events

Miami is as famous for its nonstop events as its moonrises. Many tourists time their holidays here around them, and locals never get any rest during season. Attending the Miami International Boat Show is a must. But of all of the events, December’s Art Basel fair is tops. Not only did it permanently transform Miami in remarkable ways, but the exchange of ideas and the people you meet during art week can’t be compared to anything else here. It feeds my soul, and I learn so much. I always come away with new inspirations and friends.

 

Miami, Mi Amor

By Art, Culture, Events, Fashion, Florida Finds, Interior Design, Real Estate, Travel

An ode to our vibrant city’s many charms and its new chapter.

Miami is my home. It’s where I grew up, received my education, discovered my career, built my business, raised my family and invested my time and energy into the community. I’m not alone. People have been seduced by its charms going back to early settlers at the turn of the 20th century. They love to vacation here, too, and attend tony events like Art Basel, but many are just discovering our best-kept secret—that it’s also a great place to live and work. Florida has been one of the fastest-growing states for years, and the pandemic has compounded the trend, especially in South Florida.

Every day I hear about a new company, celebrity or mogul relocating to Miami, or at least strongly considering it. Mayor Francis Suarez has been very vocal about collaborating with big tech and startups to establish headquarters or open satellite offices here. He even exchanged words with Elon Musk, who’s already put down roots in the Sunshine State with his SpaceX program.

Goldman Sachs is also scouting South Florida to potentially relocate its asset management arm. The firm’s openness to leaving Manhattan makes sense with the shift to WFH, which should continue post-pandemic for reasons beyond saving significant costs in leasing office space. Other factors for saying, “Yes,” to Florida are our residents’ tremendous wealth; tax incentives including no state taxes, and gorgeous weather to cater to clients on the golf course. It’s really kind of a dream situation for Goldman Sachs.

As an entrepreneur, I can also vouch that Florida offers a favorable climate for businesses of all kinds. Miami attracts a lot of people who are company founders and work for themselves. I always enjoy hearing my clients’ stories about how they worked hard and would like to enjoy the good life now but still stay in the game. The city was built on this independent spirit from visionary developers to the large population of Cubans who came here to be free and flourish.

Besides Miami’s professional opportunities, people are pleasantly surprised about how family-friendly it has become. There are numerous private schools to nurture every child’s personal needs and interests, and several of our neighborhoods offer coveted, A-rated public schools that parents strive to enroll their children.

Local institutions foster our young minds, too. In addition to the new Frost Museum of Science, our plentiful art museums, botanical gardens and even shopping districts provide regular kids’ programming. Sports and an all-around active lifestyle are very accessible to all ages. Indoor and outdoor soccer fields, skating rinks, private and public clubs for sailing, swimming, rowing, tennis and golf, and abundant parks and nature preserves are available to our kids.

Healing nature is just one key element in our growing wellness scene. New residents soon learn that Miami shed its party stereotype a while ago. They partake in yoga and meditation classes and dine on plant-based cuisine at stunningly beautiful wellness centers like The Sacred Space in Wynwood; run and bike Miami Beach’s lengthy beach path, and grab paddle boards and kayaks for a day on the water. Being outdoors is rejuvenating, especially now, and Miami excels in this advantage.

These are only some of my brief initial thoughts on why we’re a hot spot now. And I didn’t even touch on all of our incredible culture. There’s so much to love.

 

Happy New Year

By Uncategorized

A note on our fresh start and what I’ve learned.

To let you settle into the new year, I’m just getting around to my first post of 2021. I’ve read many insightful thoughts on this new beginning like no other in our lifetimes from some of the most brilliant minds. There’s a lot to chew on, yet it’s difficult to put into words our unprecedented experience of a pandemic and how we got there in the first place. Let’s just say, we were living on the edge in so many ways. I’m treating it like a priceless lesson, an ultimate wake-up call if you will, in how to balance life, always see the silver lining and make the most of our time here on this beautiful planet. Among many life-changing epiphanies, I’d like to share some themes that have been on my mind.

Wanderlust vs. Homebody
Travel is part of my profession. It was how I built my brand and got to make so many friendships all over the world. It was a big deal for my personal growth, too, such as learning about incredibly talented architects, artists and entrepreneurs whose enriching knowledge I shared with my clients and team members in the spirit of “pay it forward.” It’s one of my main passions, so not being able to travel was disheartening to say the least.
Without much choice, I did a 180 and turned the journey inward instead of outward. Then something magical happened. As is the case with most things in life, we often overlook what’s right in front of us. I started to enjoy my home, which I had worked so hard for and never really had the time to appreciate. I nested with my fiancé Rich and actually looked around for once at our good fortune, our sanctuary in a booming city. We cooked, read and watched movies, and I even started baking again to the delight of my grandkids. After so many years on the road, it feels good to reconnect with my home life and recharge for when travel resumes. I’ll be ready to take on the world again without taking my home for granted.

Loneliness is Real
The modern condition of loneliness has been well-documented. Caused by a number of reasons including our addiction to technology, demanding work schedules, and the breakdown of traditional families, loneliness is only going to keep growing unless we do something about it. Despite Rich’s invaluable companionship, I felt lonely in the first few months of the pandemic when I didn’t see anyone else. It made me realize how we’re naturally wired to be social creatures who need each other. Let’s put an end to loneliness by investing in our relationships from our immediate friends and families to our communities at large.

Leadership in Tough Times
I’ve always believed in leading by example, and covid put me to the test. In the beginning of the shutdown when there were so many unknowns, I had to keep the troops together and motivated with a positive outlook and proactive strategy for the shift in spirit—I never doubted the strength of Florida’s real estate market for a second and knew we’d come out on top. We stayed connected from our in-house team to our clients, and this constant checking in got us through dark days. Because we stayed super focused on work, we were prepared when a flood of new buyers showed up on our doorstep. They came from all over and were relieved to work with helpful experts to find their dream homes in a safe haven.

Everlasting Empathy
Covid humbled all of us. No one could escape the fear, and it truly leveled the playing field. We began to see ourselves in our fellow mankind and that we’re all in this together. It showed me that creating a win-win for all of us was the only way to go. I believe that we all developed more empathy for those around us, and hope that this remains long after we’re vaccinated and move on with our lives. Please remember those in need when this trial passes. Just because we have a vaccine doesn’t make problems go away. Consider making a donation, whether your time or resources, to a charity. Even the simple act of being kind goes a long way.

Turn Distress into Destress

By Uncategorized, Wellness

We’re already been through enough stress this year. Take a deep breath with these tips.

This time of the year can be a particularly stressful time. I know it’s hard to take your mind off of your endless to-do list —the planning, decorations, special meals, entertaining children home from school and trying to get some work done—but self-care should be a priority. We hear this term a lot these days. Maybe it took the pandemic for us to realize how thinly we were stretched and that we need to take a step back and reassess what living the good life truly means. I’ve put together some methods that I use to destress, and I hope that this talk of self-care continues in 2021.

Tammy Fender

Long before organic this and that, wellness pioneer Tammy Fender launched her namesake, holistic spa in West Palm Beach in 2002. It led to her line of plant-based, skin-care products made with all-natural ingredients. Beyond their fantastic results—beauty editors rave about the Epi-Peel micro-exfoliator and facial mask with kaolin clay, spearmint and rosemary—their aromatherapy element like Bulgarian Rose Water tonic is heavenly.

https://www.tammyfender.com/

Gardens

Nature soothes our nerves, even something as simple as a walk around the neighborhood. I also enjoy visiting Miami’s many gorgeous green spaces. World-class gardens like Fairchild, the Kampong and Miami Beach Botanical Garden are perfect for safe outings with fresh air and social distancing. They’re also great for families when you need somewhere to take the kids and let them run around.

https://fairchildgarden.org/

https://ntbg.org/gardens/kampong/

http://mbgarden.org/

Calm App

I’m a huge fan of Calm, a wellness app for meditation and other health benefits. Many of us are having trouble sleeping these days, so its ambient music, breathing exercises and nature sounds like soft rain are very helpful in shutting off the noise in our heads at bedtime. You can also relax by watching tranquil videos of nature scenes and instructions for how to stretch, as well as listen to expert-led masterclass programs. Try its complimentary trial and see for yourself.

https://www.calm.com/

Cashmere Travel Set

Speaking of sleep, sometimes it’s nice to take a cat nap. Some people consider it a must during their day. Even if you’re not the napping type, you can still get good use out of Maison de Papillon NY’s Alana cashmere blanket and eye mask set in a convenient travel pouch. Made from pure Mongolian cashmere, it comes in cafe or pewter. It’s the ideal gift for any occasion and travel accessory to take on the plane.

https://www.maisondepapillon.com/product/alana-cashmere-blanket-pouch-set/

ESPA Candles + dōTERRA Essential Oils & Diffusers

No matter where I am, I can turn any setting into a sanctuary with aromatherapy. ESPA’s hand-poured, natural soy wax candles are so soothing that they named one exactly that; its blissful fragrance blends sandalwood, rose geranium and frankincense. If you’re looking for something seasonal, their Winter Spice candle combines classic Christmas scents. Wafting the finest essential oils throughout your home or office is at the heart dōTERRA’s home line. I load up on a variety of their scents to supply their chic room diffusers in onyx and marble.

https://us.espaskincare.com/home/candles.list

https://www.doterra.com/US/en

 

Giving Feels Good

By Holiday

We have so much to celebrate from our health to a new home. Why limit gift giving to the holidays?

We could all use a little extra holiday cheer to lift our spirits this year. Channel your inner-Oprah to go big with gifts for friends and family, neighbors, colleagues, clients and anyone else who brightens your day. In case you’re stumped for ideas, here are some timeless gifts to make it a year-round habit.

Wine & Champagne

Holiday festivities and major celebrations like home closings require popping a good bottle of wine or champagne. Online shop 305 Wines recently opened a brick-and-mortar store in Miami. Its founders also run Florida Wine Academy, so they’ll know exactly what to select for any occasion. They join other premier sources like Fort Lauderdale’s Wine Watch and Palm Beach’s Virginia Philip.

https://305wines.com/

https://www.winewatch.com/

https://virginiaphilipwineandspirits.com/

Haute Housewares

We’re also blessed with endless options for luxury home items here, and the diverse selection accommodates every look from minimalism to beach chic. Here are a few of my favorite boutiques including Mrs. Mandolin in Buena Vista, Violetas in Coral Gables and Brickell, and Matilda’s Home in Stuart. You can’t go wrong with this classic decanter from Tiffany’s either.

https://mrsmandolin.com/

https://violetashomedesign.com/

http://www.matildaslifestyle.com/

https://www.tiffany.com/accessories/barware/diamond-point-conical-decanter-69328466/

Flower Power

A touch of green goes a long way, especially as the days grow shorter. Modern floral design has moved beyond traditional arrangements, such as House of Lilac mompreneur’s Melanie Fernandez’s penchant for interesting blooms like ranunculus and lavender latte-hued Koko Loko roses as well as fillers from exotic grasses to berries. She also offers dried flowers, wreaths, spa gift baskets and tucked-in treats.

https://www.houseoflilac.com/

Beautiful Books

Like the late Karl Lagerfeld, I can never have enough books. I love to leaf through them for inspiration and am always adding to my shelves or buying them as gifts. Premier publishers release buzzy titles around the holidays, and we’re lucky that many of them like Taschen and Assouline have South Florida stores to browse in-person. Books & Books does an outstanding job too.

https://www.assouline.com/

https://www.taschen.com/

https://booksandbooks.com/

Gift Baskets & Boxes

Discovering what’s inside a gift basket or box makes me feel like a kid again, and I love to share that joy. Among the dizzying choices, I tend to support businesses with local ties like the artisanal-geared Sparrow Box Co. founded by two mompreneurs in Jupiter. Sant Ambroeus’s and Amici Market’s holiday assortments are to die for, and Countryside Citrus highlights Indian River’s famed fruit.

https://sparrowboxco.com/collections/corporate-client

https://www.santambroeus.com/holiday-products/

https://www.countrysidecitrus.com/

https://www.amicimarket.com/

 

Giving Thanks

By Holiday

In an unusual year, there’s still so much to be thankful for this holiday.

Thanksgiving grows more meaningful to me each year. Yes, things are a lot different this time. But no matter our difficult circumstances, I appreciate the holiday’s downtime and being around loved ones—even if it’s just for a day, and even if it’s just an intimate gathering. I’m looking on the bright side of things this holiday season and taking stock of what I’m thankful for.

 

MY FAMILY

I raised my children here, and now they’re raising their children here. Until you live in Miami, you don’t realize what a great place it can be for families. I’m grateful that we’re able to live near each other and not to have to get on a plane or drive for hours to visit. I’m so happy that my children have been able to join me in growing our firm, too. They bring such innovative ideas to the table, and I’m always learning from them. I treasure my time with my grandkids. To watch them grow up is a true luxury. I’m also thankful for my love Rich, who’s my rock and biggest cheerleader.

MY FRIENDS

I’ve made so many friends over the years, and they really keep me going. One of the fascinating things about Miami is that it’s an international crossroads where people come and go for holidays, second homes, stints for work and major annual events like Art Basel and the Wine & Food Festival. Some settle down here for good, too, like my wonderful friends who live in cool areas all over Miami. I also have dear friends across the U.S. and abroad thanks to being part of the Sotheby’s global network. My friends have opened up the world to me, and I look forward to seeing them again in safer times.

MY HEALTH

I’m grateful that we’re living in the grand era of wellness. So much has changed in my lifetime in how we eat, exercise and other self-care routines. We’re living longer and staying active far later into our elderly years. I never take my health for granted and am always striving to push myself from not cheating on my diet to working out regularly with my trainer. We’re so lucky here in Miami to be able to get outside during the winter for a walk, yoga, tennis, paddle boarding and more. It makes fitness fun.

MY CAREER

Setting out as a young woman, I never imagined where I’d be standing today. Whereas some people look at real estate as a job, I’ve worked hard to make it a full-blown career that’s constantly evolving and meeting new challenges. I love its mix of business and people—a balancing act that forces me to see all sides of real estate, whether for a home buyer or seller, developer, architect or colleague. Real estate is incredibly fast-paced and exciting, and Miami is one of the ultimate markets. It’s an honor to be able to contribute.

MY “ONE” TEAM

ONE Sotheby’s couldn’t have achieved year after year of growth and commitment without our team. They’re truly invaluable, and I’m forever grateful for having such dedicated associates, executives and all of the support team members from the marketing department to my right-hand woman, my administrative assistant. As we enter new markets and acquire other firms, we’ve added so many new members over the years. I welcome them to our brand and community and am fascinated by their talents and local insight. They’re an endless source of knowledge and strengthen our network, so we can all be better for our clients.

MY HOMETOWN

Since moving to Miami as a little kid, I have put down roots here. I stayed for college, founded my firm and raised my family here, and have gotten more involved in the community each year through professional and philanthropic engagement. I’ve watched Miami evolve from a small resort city to a major international destination with serious education, architecture and design, arts and culture and innovation from tech to medicine. The city has so much going for it—the blend of nationalities, the gorgeous weather, the natural beauty, the beaches and boating, the sunsets and moonrises. It’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with it and move here.

I AM GRATEFUL FOR ALL OF YOU!

Home Runs

By Sports

Women like new Miami Marlins general manager Kim Ng are scoring unprecedented positions this year.

Can you hear the roar? From the election to higher education, 2020 is the year of the woman. My heart can’t help but swell up with pride when I hear yet another woman smashing through the glass ceiling. We’ve got U.S. Vice President-elect Kamala Harris heading to the White House, Madeline Pumariega starting her new gig as president of Miami Dade College in January as well, and Daniella Levine Cava being sworn in as the Mayor of Miami-Dade County on November 17. These achievements are all firsts for women, and I have to hand it to Miami for its progress when it comes to inclusion.

There was one other big announcement this year that really hits home for me. As some of you know, my father was an umpire in Cuba. His passion for baseball was very much a part of my childhood, so I’m beyond thrilled that the Miami Marlins just tapped Kim Ng to be the team’s general manager. This is a huge leap for Major League Baseball, as she’s the first woman to hold the position in its history.

Ng, who turned 52 on Tuesday, has spent much of her life involved with the sport. She began her baseball career as an intern with the Chicago White Sox, close to her alma mater, the University of Chicago. Over the next three decades, she’d also work for the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers, and make it all the way to the role of assistant general manager twice. She spent some time in-house, too, as M.L.B.’s senior vice president of baseball operations.

Passed over time and again for the main managerial position, she never gave up. Her unwavering tenacity, especially in the face of sexism and racism, is what really impresses me and so many others. Michelle Obama to famous female athletes have sent congratulatory messages, among the overwhelming response pouring in from around the world. I love Ng’s statement about achieving this milestone, not only for herself, but for all women with big dreams:

“You can’t be it if you can’t see it. Now you can see it. And so I look forward to hearing all of their stories and just how inspired they are to now pursue a job in sports, a job in baseball and to reach for the stars.”

I also commend Miami Marlins chief executive and part owner Derek Jeter for making team diversity part of his mission. He and Ng already know they work well together during their concurrent time with the Yankees. She’ll also be reunited with other previous colleagues from the Yankees and Dodgers, which will make the transition all the smoother. I look forward to the Marlins home opener on April 1, 2021. Welcome to Miami Kim!