South Beach, Bringing the Heat

Did anyone else sing that title in their best Will Smith voice? Or maybe that was just me. Two words, South Beach.  It was definitely a place in Miami that I have wanted to visit for a while; mainly for the art, the food, and well...the beach.  I wanted to treat my Mom so I booked a night start at the Beacon South Beach, located right on Ocean Drive. This Art-Deco inspired hotel was the perfect location to take it all in.

We arrived early Wednesday afternoon and after having our car Valet'd, because that's the only way to do it, we dropped off our bags, put on our suits, and headed to catch some rays.  It was 78° that day and we found the perfect spot in the sand to kick back and relax. The water felt pretty good too.  The sea is always calling my name, no matter the temperature.  After our beach time, we made our way back to our super cool room to get ready for dinner.  A night on the town; which actually meant walking a block to one restaurant, having a cocktail and sharing a meal before landing back at our hotel, and repeating.  What can I say? We were still hungry.

The next morning we dined on the patio for breakfast before heading downtown to the district of Brickell to meet up with my friend and travelling gal, Nichole.  She greeted us with shots of Cuban Coffee, which by the way was some of the most delicious I have ever had, then showed us some really cool spots around the area.  The architecture here is something to see.  We made a quick ride back to our hotel and since we had a late checkout, had a bit of time to take another stroll along the beach before heading home.  It was the perfect overnight get-a-way.

By the way; here is a quick review of the Beacon South Beach.

• Friendly staff and Valet parking! Worth the $35, trust me!
• Colorful rooms with an Ocean View...throw down the extra cash for this, you won't be disappointed!
• Beach chairs and towels in every room just for you!
• Breakfast served on the patio and if you are an early riser, they have a self-serve coffee and tea bar located on the second floor!
• Right across from the beach!
• Art-Deco style hotel!
• Perfect location on Ocean Drive!
• Bike Rentals close by!
• Affordable pricing, but look for deals! I was able to get a night that included breakfast and an ocean front view on Black Friday that couldn't be beat! 

Until Next Time Miami!
Shona

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The Deco Ball and Gala at the Mayo Hotel ~ Tulsa

Recently, I had the pleasure of attending The Deco Ball and Gala at The Mayo Hotel in Tulsa which benefits the Tulsa Art Deco Museum.  Think jazz bands, dinner, drinks, silent auction, fashion from the 1920's, 30's and 40's and endless dancing.  It was fancy and meant I was able to dress up and wear heels...besides, I knew I would have the best dressed date there.

Let's talk fashion.  My dress was designed by Betsy and Adam and Shoes by Michael.  This dress has a story...I bought it 8 months ago for a possible New Year's Eve Party...I didn't wear it, was told to keep it for a future date and I can admit that was a good decision because it was the perfect dress for this occasion.  He was dressed in a Navy Michael Kors Jacket, one of my favorite designers, Shirt by Banana Republic, Tie by Calvin Klein, Vest by Perry Ellis, Chinos by Banana Republic, and Shoes by Dune of London. One word, dapper.

The Mayo Hotel is stunning, if you haven't been, go.  Plan a weekend to visit this Stylish Historical Landmark. It first opened in 1925 and hosted many prominent guests and oil tycoons but sadly closed it's doors in 1981. It remained vacant until December of 2009 and at this time a cool 42 million was spent to re-open this beautiful space. Can I just move in? This hotel is gorgeous and a must-see in Tulsa. Be sure to visit the Roof-top bar, but get there early to avoid the crowds that flock there.

Another adventure in the books.

Shona