May Mina Maven Lorena Rodriguez

 

 Where are you from originally?

 

I was born in Puerto Rico and my father was Cuban.  I came to Miami when I was a baby and have been raised here ever since. I am grateful to have been raised in a city with such a strong Spanish influence, so I never lost touch with my roots.  

 

 

What are you working on currently?

 

I'm working on making a name for myself and breaking into the fashion industry. I have been working with some great Miami based clothing companies and jewelry lines as a spokes model and I just can't wait to see it take off.  

 

 

What is your goal in the next few years?

 

The skies the limit! I would love to see myself in Vogue, Harper Bazaar, or any other high fashion magazine as a spokes model for a major fashion house.

 

 

What is your favorite item in your closet?

 

I can't just choose one! Between my snake skin white and black Christian Louboutins that match with absolutely everything or my high waisted ripped white shorts that are perfect for Miami weather.

 

 

Who inspires your sense of style?

 

Nicole Richie without a doubt. From her hippie, bohemian everyday look to her stunning red carpet gowns, she can do no wrong by me!

 

 

Tell us a little about being a young mom in Miami?

 

Being a young mother, no matter where in the world, is a difficult yet rewarding experience. My son is the reason I push myself to move forward and accomplish everything I set my mind to.  I am blessed to have a very large family that I can depend on and that supports me in any way possible and for that reason I am able to pursue my dreams and goals.

 

What advice would you give to young woman that want to break into the modeling world?

 

If this is your passion, don't ever give up and don't become discouraged. There's always going to be some one "prettier or skinner or taller" than you, but that's the opinion of that particular client. And the most important advice I can give anyone is don't ever burn a bridge, you never know when you may have the opportunity to work with someone again or how people in this very small world are connected. 

 

 

How long have you known you wanted to start modeling?

 

Since I was 16. As most girls in high school were starting to come into their woman bodies, I was still very skinny and a little insecure. But all I kept hearing from my family and even strangers in the street was how I should pursue modeling. My brother in law in particular would always compliment me on how photogenic I was and not to let that go to waste. After I had my son I decided it was time to take his advice and run with it. 

 

 

 

How do you go about booking jobs? 

 

You have to network to get work! There's always something going on in Miami, so you just have to put yourself out there and talk to people. You never know who you're going to meet that can be beneficial to your career.

 

 

 Leave us with your favorite quote.

 

Life is too short to be anything but happy.

Photography by: www.gabegraphics.com

To contact Lorena for a booking please email lorenarodriguez1010@gmail.com

April Mina Maven Katrina Fumagali

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in the beautiful Miami, Florida.


Tell me a little about what school you go to and what you are studying.

 I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture from Florida International University in 2010 and am now excited to be graduating from Clemson University (South Carolina) this May with a Master’s Degree in Architecture.

 

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan on moving back to Miami to pursue my career as a successful Architect. Miami is the perfect place to be; it was this city that has made me fall in love with architecture, design and fashion.

 

Who inspires your fashion sense?

 I’d have to say Kate Middleton. She dresses appropriately for any occasion … and is just flawless. I love that she has created her own style and that every girl who sees her as a fashion icon can put their outfits together to dress just like her. Not to mention, her confidence makes her look extra spectacular no matter what outfit she wears.

 

Describe your sense of style to me.

 My friends often say, “that’s such a Katrina outfit.” I love bright and trendy colors. I always like to have a pop of color no matter what I wear, even if it’s just an accessory or some lipstick. Being stylish does not mean your bank account has to suffer; it’s all about how you put your outfit together and accessorize.

 

 

What is your one must have item in your closet?

Wedges! Wedges make you look long and lean without trying too hard. These shoes give you the option of making your outfit dressy or casual; and the best part is... they are comfortable!

 Whas been your favorite college memory?

 My favorite college memory has to be when I won Homecoming Queen in 2009 at Florida International University. I had so much support from my family, friends and sorority sisters. It was great to network and get to know so many people. It was such a proud moment and was honored to represent such a wonderful university.

 

What do you think is the most challenging part of being a college student?

Balance. Balancing studying, having a social life and keeping in touch with family are extremely tough. I’ve learned to prioritize and to take things one day at a time; my true family and friends will always be there to support me no matter what. Becoming an Architect has always been a dream of mine, and going away to graduate school was a sacrifice itself, but one of the best choices I’ve ever made.

 

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I see myself being a successful Architect and happily married. I do want a family of my own and hope to one day be as happy as my parents are.

 

 

What advice would you give to young girls that want to follow in your footsteps?

You can honestly do anything you set your mind to! If I hadn’t challenged myself, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

 

Leave us with your favorite Quote.

 “Always look your best; you never know when you’re going to meet your future husband” – my mom

 

 

 

March Mina Maven Jenny Ortiz

1. Tell us a little bit about growing up in Miami?

I love this town! I grew up in the suburbs and had the typical high school experience. Now I live on the beach and, for the time being, can’t imagine living anywhere else.

 

2. How has the Latin culture impacted your career move and choices?

 

Being a Latina gives me a natural confidence and pizzazz which translates into my career and choices. But really I am just a happy person overall and no matter the culture influence that is the most important aspect I bring to the table whenever I am working on something that I am passionate about. 

 

 

3. What is one article of clothing in your closet that you can not live without?

 

Right now I am obsessed with this new invention I came up with. It’s called the FER, which is a convertible fashion accessory that can be worn many different ways. It is a cozy mix between a scarf and a light sweater but you can also wear it on beach days and will be available to the public in time for Fall. I wear mine all the time and can't live without it :)

 

4. Tell me a little bit about interviewHer and what your position in the company is?

 

Interviewher.com is an online magazine, social network, and Executive recruiting firm. Initially, the idea behind the entire website was only to highlight and promote successful individuals with a core focus on women. Fast-forward four years and it has become a platform for the ladies we interview for the magazine, the executives we interview and place in corporate companies, and it has also become a platform for ourselves.

All of the hard work we have put into Interviewher.com has allowed us to extend our vision in helping entrepreneurs and giving our readers something more tangible. Last June, we launched Her City Card (www.hercitycard.com), a club for women in-the-know who love to shop, play, network and discover the magic their city has to offer. Our cardholders get the exclusive deals featured on HerCityCard.com & our printed magazine.

The website, magazine and events provide a platform for our select member companies to receive exposure to new customers. Our model also helps create a cult following and repeat business for our Member Companies. The fun continues at our fabulous events!

I founded and run both companies with the help of some really talented and supportive people.

 

 

5. How do you locate the woman that you interview for InterviewHer.com and what is some criteria these woman would have to meet?

 

We look for community influences who have unique and inspirational stories about how they got to where they are now. I especially like to interview women who are candid and proud about the challenges they have faced and overcome as they built careers and businesses.

6. You host some of the most fun fashion events in Miami, tell us about them?

 

Thank you! :) We're so happy you like them. The formula to our events is to bring women in South Florida access to discounts and special offerings from the most amazing companies in the area. Whether it is a fashion brand, beauty experience, or delicious food, we want the women who attend our events to be able to have fun as they “play, shop, network and discover.”

 

 

7. Who has inspired your fashion sense?

I have always had my own fashion sense, so there isn’t any one celebrity or designer in particular. I will admit I get inspired when watching movies that feature great fashion.

 

 

 

8. If we wanted to read any of your articles or be invited to the next Her City event where would we go?

 

Always check out www.interviewher.com and www.hercitycard.com. Also, follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates!

 

 

 

 9. Have you always known you wanted to work in the fashion world?

 

I haven’t. I always loved fashion but wasn’t sure how to turn that love into a part of my career. As you can tell, I have incorporated it in many different ways into my businesses. Each way is totally unique and gives me a way to experience fashion on a day-to-day basis.

10. Any beauty secrets?

 

Yes! I get regular facials with Gigi’s Soul Garden. She is extremely talented and always makes me glow! Her City Card members can actually get a discount on her services.

 

 

11. What is your favorite part about shopping at Mina Miami Beach?

 

The selection is incredible. You carry the best options I know I can go in with no clue what to wear and walk out with tons of options I am excited to wear. Sometimes I like it all too much and can’t help myself!

12. What advice would you give to any young girl today that would like to follow in your footsteps?

 

Trust yourself and listen to your instincts. If you have a gut feeling that a business decision you are making is wrong, don’t ignore it.

 

13. Leave us with your favorite quote.

 

Everything happens for a reason!

 

 

Photos by:

Patty Nash

www.pattynash.com

 

Makeup by:

Cleo Jorge

http://www.facebook.com/Cleomakeup

Wanna be a Maven?

If you would like to be featured as a Mina Maven please email minamiamibeach@gmail.com with a image and a short bio of yourself. To see previous Mina Mavens go to www.minamiamibeach.com.

*please note your information will remain private*

February Mina Maven Katia Quinteros

Where are you from and where do you live now?

I was born and raised in Miami Florida, where I have had the pleasure of living for 29 years :)

How long have you been working as a stylist and hair dresser?

I enrolled in beauty school in 2006, I started working at a salon as an assistant on my first day of beauty school. Within a year I went from being a receptionist soon after a shampoo girl and than finally a hairdresser with my own chair. I wasted no time.

What are three of your favorite styling products right now and why?

Wow narrowing it down to just three is going to be hard because there so many....
I cannot live without Kerastase leave in conditioner. It's extremely moisturizing and leaves your soft, shiny and even helps tame the frizz. Another amazing product by Kerastase that every woman living in this lovely humid weather should own is Elixer Kultime. It is a light oil serum that tames frizz and also smells amazing. And my third favorite product of all time is volumizing tonic by Aveda. If you are looking for some major volume and body at the root then this is a must have.


If a woman is bored with her hair, what's your advice for a quick and easy style switch to get her out of that rut?

Trying out a new haircut is always a good idea.. For those who do not want anything drastic perhaps a bang trim. If you are not ready to chop chop then I always recommend trying out a new style .. Maybe investing in a curling iron and add some waves or fun curls.. You can also lighten a few strands at the bottom of your hair to give you a little sun kissed Victoria's Secret feel. It's very low maintenance and gives you a subtle change.

What is you favorite look that you have created?

Just recently I styled my clients hair with finger waves and a deep side part.. I was slightly obsessed!! Very simple and understated but always timeless.

 

 

 

You have recently been featured in a few magazines, tell us a little bit about that?

I was featured in Allures January issue of Rising stars.. It's such an honor because there are so many talented hairdressers in South Florida. I was also featured in Refinery 29 for best blow dries in Miami.. It's great to be recognized for something that I take so much pride in. I love what I do. My favorite part about my job is making people feel happy and good about themselves..

 

If I were interested in having come you to my house to have my hair done is that possible or do we have to go to you?

I work at Bliss Intoxicating Beauty at 5829 SW 73rd St South Miami (305) 662-2944 Tuesday-Saturday... But if you call with at least two weeks notice I can arrange to go to you. I work a lot of weddings on the weekends so booking in advanced is key.

 

Is there a certain time period or style icon you look to for inspiration?

I love love love volume and texture so a few of my favorite style icons are Bridgette Bardot, Marylin Monroe, Madonna, Farrah Fawcett, the list can go on and on... I also look at celebrities that always have impeccable hair that's effortless, sexy and current such as Kate Bekingsale and Blake Lively.

What are some tips for single moms trying to balance a full time career and being a full time mom?

It's definitely very hard at times but the best advise I can give is HUSTLE!!! Make the most if your time because time is scarce and very precious. Having a good support system is also so important when trying to juggle a very demanding job and a family.

Some clients fly you around the world to do their hair, what has been your favorite experience?

Paris has been my favorite thus far. And not just because it's such a beautiful
city but because of the work I did. Everyday was a new theme and event.. I was able to create beautiful hair styles that I don't get to do on a daily basis. the Bahamas has also been One of my favorite job sites.

Any beauty secrets?

less is more !!!!

What is your favorite part about shopping at Mina Miami Beach?

Marianne Minagorri is my number one favorite part!  Then it's the clothes !!!!! The Minagorri girls always have a store full of amazing clothes that's young ,different and edgy. It's also kinda become the local hangout for all the girls!

 

 

What advice you you give to young girls today that want to follow in your footsteps?

A good education is so vital in this industry. Taking classes and just watching and learning from your peers whenever you can is so important. And just going for it.. Take risks and make mistakes!!!!!

 

Leave us with your favorite quote

 

A girl knows her limits... But a wise girl knows she has none.  - Marylin Monroe

 

 

 

Photo Credit:
Mayleen Gonzalez
Website: www.photoboutiqueince.com
Email: photoboutiqueinc@gmail.com

Makeup:
Melissa Valenzuela
Email: melvalenzuela@rocketmail.com
 

Mina Miami Beach is moving on up.....

It's a New Year & that means... New Beginnings! MINA has been keeping a secret, but it's time to share! We've relocated!!!! MINA has opened a Showroom at 300 71 St. Suite306, Miami Beach. We are still selling to our VIP customers - YES, that means you! But we are also laying the groudwork to launch an exclusive MINA line & begin wholesaling to stores around the nation. MINA has gone MOBILE & we couldn't be happier!!!! We are eager to show you the new place & all the great new merchandise we just received. Looking forward to seeing all of you!

 

 

xoxo MINA

 

 

for more info please call (305)987-3711

 

 

 

January Mina Maven Anna Taylor

Tell me a little about where you were born and what brought you to live in Miami?

I was born in Nicosia Cyprus a small island in the Mediterranean. I lived there until I was 15 soon after my parents shipped me to Texas so I can go to school and be with my brother and sisters. After living in Houston for 15 years I decided that I needed a change and that change had to consist of living somewhere artsy,fun and definitely a location that had great climate and a beautiful beach. I was contemplating between L.A or Miami but that decision was quickly made due to a very determined close friend named Lauren..she was your October Maven (aka Dj Cry Baby) who told me Miami is the better option and surely it was. Thanks to her I loved every minute of living in Miami and it was the best move I made for myself.

 

You were recently married in a beautiful ceremony in Jamaica. What advice would you give to brides to be about hosting a destination wedding?

 

 

HIRE a WEDDING PLANNER...Lol Yes it was a gorgeous wedding and I decided to try the "Do It Yourself" wedding and planned the entire Ceremony and Reception myself along with fun filled events for 3 days. It was very hard to do as you are planning it from one country to the next...all via email,phone calls and one trip there prior to the wedding. With the help of mine and my husbands family and friends I was able to get it done. It turned out to be a fabulous wedding with some of my closest friends flying in from all over to Negril Jamaica.I would definitely say keep it small around 65 people max, create a free wedding website that gives guests all the information they need and try to relax because in the end everything will turn out perfect!

 

 Tell me about the non profit work you have done in the past.

 

 

For the longest time I have always had it in the back of my mind to help children that are in need and was in pursuit of a great organization. After moving to Miami I decided that Voices for Children Foundation was my best choice and became a child advocate for children that have been abused and placed in foster care. Going to visit the children at their place of care was hard to witness especially when some of the cases were just new born babies that have been abused. Helping the children get therapy with their families or get adopted was the most heartbreaking yet rewarding act I have done to this day! There are many organizations to choose from you just have to go with what your heart tells you.

 

 

You moved from Miami to the Bahamas, was going from city life to island life a big transition for you?

 

 

After meeting the love of my life nothing was too difficult to do. I must say that I love the city and enjoy it very much but I also came from an island so it was very much exciting to go back to one. The funny thing is I always said I would end up back on an island and use to say maybe "Bahamas" one day...well it came true so be careful what you wish for! The first year took some adjusting, everything is slower and where I live it's considered to be a developing nation so it was difficult at first. I definitely miss the freeways I am the kind of girl that likes to put the pedal to the metal and living on an island that's 21 miles long hitting 50 is the highlight of my driving. There are many things I miss about city life but at heart I am a true island Gal.

 

 

 

Living in the Islands and working with Havaianas and Sun Bum! Two of Mina's favorite lines. Tell us what you do with them?

 

 

My husband moved to Bahamas in 2010 to open up a retail concept store on Bay Street (main shopping area in Nassau) and also has the distribution rights to Havaianas and Sun Bum Suncare products in the Caribbean. I myself help with all the social media, Marketing/Advertising and Events. Marketing on an island is a little different than the states it seems Social Media is the #1 form of Advertising to locals in Bahamas. Majority of our clients that come to the store are tourists from Cruise ships and Atlantis. You have to be very creative and work with what you got. The best part is traveling to the outer islands to set up wholesale clients and visit with the locals. Havaianas has been around since 1962 and is known around the world as the #1 flip flop line out there.

Sun Bum Suncare has been around for 2 years and we are so happy to have this new product distributed around the Caribbean, it has cool packaging with a very catchy slogan "Protect Your Lazy Ass" it doesn't get better than that. We love what we do here and have involved ourselves in donating many pairs of Havaianas and SunBum products to different fundraisers around Bahamas,Jamaica and Cayman Islands. We look forward to the future and hope to get another catchy product.

 

 

 

You are also making a name for yourself in the islands as the go to person to plan the perfect party! How did you get started with that?

 

Lol..Words spread quickly on any island but as long as it's good stuff I am all for it. Basically planning certain events/parties is what I enjoy doing. I have made friends with some fun adventurous people in Bahamas and after planning a very exciting out island trip to Long island Bahamas with a group of 10 friends which turned out to be a fantastic, I guess word spread and you become the #1 go to person to plan anything. I have helped put together a first Middle Eastern Party at a restaurant that consisted of Belly Dancer, Hookas (shishas) and Mediterranean food with Moroccan style seating/decorations. This party was a huge success and I definitely can say I am very proud of that event.I get a rush out of the excitement and stress of putting any party together, I can only hope to do many more in the near future.

 

 

 

What is the average day in the islands for you?

 

 

For over two months now I have been working out like never before. By 8am every morning I have started the Insanity work out program with a friend (it's always good to work out with someone it keeps you motivated). To begin my day with a work out I feel so much better and turning 34 this past year was a big reason why I am pushing harder. My day varies but I love the spontaneous moments that come up throughout my day...island hopping or running errands around Nassau on a DIY project.

 

 

What is your favorite hobby/passion? 

 

 

My dream is to one day build a house under water... I am a mermaid at heart and live love everything ocean! I did a Scuba Diving Course and got a certificate in Open Water Diver. I truly am fascinated with what lives beneath our sea and the rush I get while diving, there is no explaining it. Recently I was able to swim with around 40 sharks surrounding me and watched the instructor feed them it was exhilarating. Next stop cage shark diving. I recommend this to anyone with an adventurous spirit.

 

 

What is your favorite thing about Mina Miami Beach?

 

 

I love that I can walk into Mina and get styled from head to toe and walk out feeling like I got unique items that won't be on every other girl I see in the streets. It's great to have a selection of fashion jewelry, clothes, bikinis and more it's a one stop shop. It also does not hurt to have 3 gorgeous sisters helping you at times, it's like having your own personal stylist right when you walk in their door.

 

 

Tell us your favorite beauty secret.

 

Hmmm sleep 8 hours a day...it is very important, drink plenty of water and laugh a lot.

 

 

 

 

What advice would you give to young girls today?

Believe in yourself, never settle for anything less than what you deserve. Read books that inspire you, explore and live life to the fullest. Choose your thoughts carefully .. you are a masterpiece of your life!

 Leave us with your favorite quote!

 

Oh man I have so many... but here are two of my favs.

"Always trust your inner sparkle"

"I wanna know what you're thinking so I can get you to think what I'm thinking" - Ari Gold

 

 

Photo by:

PAUL HAGE-CHAHINE

http://phc.photoshelter.com/

Location:
Palm Cay http://www.palmcay.com/Palm_Cay/Welcome.html

 

PLEASE LIKE:

Sun Bum Caribbean FaceBook Link:

SUN BUM CARIBBEAN - https://www.facebook.com/SunBumCaribbean

 

Havaianas Caribbean FaceBook Link

HAVAIANAS - https://www.facebook.com/walkgoodbahamadistribution