MINA MIAMI BEACH

Monday, January 23, 2012

January's Mina Maven Cristy Ayala

We couldn't be happier with our selection for this months Mina Maven, Cristy Ayala. From being a top producer at one of the world largest cruise liners to helping raise over $35,000.00 for the Toys for Tot's foundation, Cristy keeps it cool and classy the whole way through. She's an amazing friend, sister and colleague and a role model to any young lady aspiring to succeed in her career and personal life and keep it all in balance. Check out our awesome interview with the very down to earth and lovely, Miss Cristy Ayala.

1. Tell us a little bit of your background. Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in beautiful sunny South Florida. I am half Cuban and half Ecuadorean but with my strawberry blonde hair and freckles I am often confused for a "gringa". I'm a happy-go-lucky energetic person who always has a smile on her face. I have a huge family (seriously, I meet a new cousin that just came from Cuba at every family function) and a large circle of friends. I'm always on the go.

I have been working for Carnival Cruise line for the past 9 years in their consumer sales department. I go with the flow and don't take my life to serious. You only live once, live it up and have fun.

2. If you can describe Miami in 5 words or less what would you say?

"Others vacation here, we play here."

3. I know you have raised money and helped organize great events for the Toys for Tots foundation for several years. Can you tell us more about that?

I love to do whatever I can to help out others. I feel I have been very blessed in my life and I like to give back. At my office, I serve on the Toys for Tot's committee and help organize two months of fundraising events. It's no easy task. There are bake sales, poker tournaments, happy hours, lunches and trunk shows. Any way that we can think of to try and raise funds for the foundation, we are doing. This year we raised over $35,000.00 and provided over 300 bikes to the organization.

As a kid Christmas was my favorite day, and knowing that I did something to help bring a smile to someone less fortunate is always the best gift I can receive each year.

4. What is your dream job?

Dream job would be to be a stay at home mom living off my Powerball winnings. LOL. One can dream right?

I would LOVE to be an event planner. I get a rush out of the excitement and stress of putting any party together. All of the details that go into a wedding, baby shower or birthday, you need to have an eye to take an empty space or blank canvas and transform it into the venue and event of someone’s dreams.

5. Could your dream job become a reality?

Maybe one day, my mother is always talking about wanting to start a business together and I get my creative eye and ideas from her. I am hoping one day we can start our own event planning company together.

6. Who inspires your style?

Right now, I love Kate Middleton. She has this classic down to earth style. She is effortless with her looks. She is not afraid to wear the same piece twice, She just styles it different.

Also, my Mina girls. Three amazing girls, with 3 unique styles. They aren't scared to try all the different looks that you see in a magazine and wonder "who would wear this?!?". Well, they can wear just about anything and rock it. I love that about them.

7. Trying to balance a full time job and a healthy social life can get tricky. What are some of your tips to balance them?

It's not easy, that's for sure. I'm actually writing this at the gym and it's 7:30 in the morning. I sometime’s wish I had a clone or more hours in the day. I like to keep a healthy balance of things.

While I'm at work, I work hard and make sure to take care of things while I am there. You work to live, not live to work. My family is very important to me. I will make sure to always to go to my mother’s house at least twice a week. Even if it's for 5 minutes, you need that love to stay sane.

My friends also help keep me grounded. I get together with my girls at least once a week to vent and laugh about the crazy things that go on in our lives. But the most important is my Cristy time. As long as you don't overdo any one area, you are golden. Moderation is KEY, in everything in life.

8. What is your favorite article of clothing hanging in your closet?

OMG! What kind of a question is this? I love everything I own!!!

Truthfully, I don’t think I have just one thing I love and can’t live without but if I had to pick one, I would say my plain, white v neck tee’s. You can dress it up or dress it down. You can basically wear it with anything and wear it anywhere!

I can't go without mentioning some of my other favorite pieces, my cut off jean shorts, my black platform pumps, my Gucci Boston bag and my diamond hoop earrings.

10. What do you love about shopping at Mina Miami Beach?

It’s a one stop shop. You can get a whole amazing look and not break the bank. I always love that they have a great eye and know how to style you. I can just go there, walk in and tell them “DRESS ME” and I know I will come out with amazing outfits. They don’t lie to you. They will be honest and tell you what looks good and what doesn’t work.

11. What advice would you give to young girls today?

Learn to laugh at yourself. We all make mistakes in life, but we live and learn. Life is a journey. It’s not about the destination but it’s all about the ride there. Enjoy it!

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Mina Miami Beach News!

MINA MIAMI BEACH is recognized from Trade Show Magazine as top boutique in the US!

http://www.apparelnews.net/PDF/specialsections/TRADESHOWS111118.pdf

www.apparelnews.net

Thursday, December 15, 2011

December Mina Maven Allison Freidin

Meet December's Mina Maven Allison Freidin. Mina was delighted to have Allison as this month's Mina Maven. She is not only beautiful but smart... the whole package. This fierce Miami native, makes strolling into the court room in stilettos look easy. Take a look at her Q & A and get a little insight on how to keep it stylish and professional.

Tell us a little about your background. Where did you grow up?

I'm a 3rd generation Miamian!! My grandparents came here in the 1930's, which is super rare because there was no air conditioning at the time. Ew. Seriously though, I take so much pride in being from Miami because it's such a sexy city, but is also becoming more and more culturally in tune every day.

What made you want to become an attorney?

In law school I discovered it wasn't about the money, and that lawyers have the unique ability to fight for those who cannot fight for themselves. I also love an intellectual challenge and thinking on my feet.

How do you incorporate the latest trends at the office while still looking professional?

Silk, silk, and more silk! It is so important for professional girls to know that your clothes don't have to be ultra tight, low cut, or short to look fierce. I love pairing a silk blouse with just about anything. With a silk top, you can rock this season's colors and patterns, and still have people taking you seriously during a big deal negotiation. I also try to always wear one thing per day that makes me stand out -- something that I know no one else has. For instance, if I'm wearing all neutral colors, I'll be sure to pair it with bright and sparkly earrings, just to make sure I don't blend in with the other suits.

What kind of law do you practice? Do you ever plan on running for office?

Right now, I'm a criminal prosecutor. I spend most of my day in the courtroom. I love the dramatic element of being a lawyer and putting together a case for a jury. I try to appreciate that few attorneys my age get to go to trial like I do. I'm not sure what my next step in life is, but I definitely plan to ride this wave a little longer.

Tell us a little about some charity/ non-profit work you have done?

I recently joined the Miami Art Museum contemporaries. Its a group of young art enthusiasts. It's an awesome way to be philanthropic while staying in touch with my artistic side.

Who inspires your style?

My mom and I inspire each other. She's always been a high powered attorney, but raised me in Coconut Grove which is filled with hippies. I help my mom keep her style young, and she helps me keep it classy. My mom is the first to tell me the truth when one of my outfits goes too far.

When your not busy working you always seem to be doing something sporty. What is your favorite way to stay in shape?

I love walking my dog, Tyler, in Coconut Grove. Tyler and I have recently been scoping out some prime real estate availabilities in the Grove for the next Mina location.

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

Work hard! Even if you don't know what you want to do with your life, pick something and work hard at it for the time being. Strongly focusing and investing your all in a project is invaluable experience no matter what you decide to do with your future. The most rewarding moments of my life were when I got something I worked really hard for.

If you were to create awareness on one subject what would it be?

Skin cancer. I am fair skinned and I've lived in the tropics my whole life. I wish I was more careful growing up and protected my skin. Wrinkles and moles suck.

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

The owners! Monica, Marianna, and Michelle each have their own point of view that they bring to the store. I started shopping with the Mina girls before a store front even existed. I feel so honored to watch the Mina empire evolve over the years and even more honored to be on their blog this December.

Monday, November 21, 2011

November's Mina Maven Annie Goldman

Mina Miami Beach chose this month’s Mina Maven for her exceptional taste. Annie Goldman is well known around Miami for her ability to transform any home, club, office or room to her client’s dream hangout. This beautiful Miami native can win you over rather quickly with her bubbly personality. Recently engaged to her longtime boyfriend Sean, she is ready to take on opening her own business and planning a wedding all while smiling and wearing the latest trends. Mina is so happy to have sat with Annie and asked her a few questions.

1. Tell me a little bit about your background.
I was born and raised here in Miami. I went to Palmetto High School, and for college I went to mostly UF in the beginning and then ended up in New York City, where I graduated from Parson's School of Design. I then lived in NY for about 5 years in total, and almost five years ago in January I moved back to Miami. I now live in South Miami, with my fiance Sean and our two doggies, Lola and Biggie Smalls.

2. Who inspires your wardrobe?
Jacqueline Kennedy,Axl Rose, and Kate Moss... I know that is all super random, but I kind of just keep it classic, but I funk it up a bit with a rock n roll edge... I always dress comfortably since my day always ends up having some aspect of manual labor or I walk a million miles. Plus Miami is such an amazing place since it is nice all year round, and we are in the tropics, so there is no need for a heavy or somber wardrobe.

3. How would you describe your personal interior design style?
I am like to say I am elegantly bohemian, but honestly I love all styles from supper traditional to ultra modern. I feel that it is my job as an Interior Designer to help my clients achieve their design aspirations thru my knowledge of decorative history and the trends that are really of the moment.

4. What is your favorite part about shopping at Mina Miami Beach?
I love the feeling that I am in a boutique that is filled with all essential go-to pieces of clothing. I honestly have so many life saving, staples in my wardrobe now since Mina opened. I also love that every time I wear something from Mina, I am bound to get compliments... I mean what girl doesn't love that!!!

5. What does someone starting as an interior designer career need to know?
That you are going to have to really maintain budgets and really accurate records. I never realized how much "business" there actually is in my business. I thought it was all colors and textures... it is that, but it is also a lot of meticulous record keeping.

6. What do you like most about an interior designer career?
Shopping!!! I actually get paid to shop. I also love the feeling that my clients get when they love their homes again, or that their office looks like they always wanted.

7. Do you think that being an interior designer can be seen in your fashion sense?
I think so. I once had a client tell me that she felt that I was the perfect designer for her since she loved the way I dressed. I thought that was such an amazing compliment.

8. What is your favorite item in your closet right now?
Well I am wearing my YSL Tributes all the time since they are the sexiest and most comfortable shoe, and I can't get enough of leopard print.

9. You are a bride to be! How did you go about chossing the dresses for bridemaids and picking you own wedding dress?
It was really important for me to look original yet classic, so my dress is being custom made. I can't tell you too much because I still need to surprise my fiance, but let's just say it is going to be supper sexy and supper classic. It was also really important to me to have my bridesmaids look like they are wearing dresses that you find in a boutique, not at a bridal store so I am having my dress maker copy a dress that my girlfriend once wore to an event where she looked amazing!

10. Starting your own company, planning a wedding and working as an interior designer must get a little difficult to handle. How do you unwind?
Laughter... I laugh with my fiance, my friends, my family, man I even laugh at my own self sometimes :)

11. If you could give a little advice to young ladies today that want to follow in your footsteps what would it be.
Make sure you intern or work for a few people before you go off on your own. You will learn so many valuable things about our business, about handling clients, and how to put out fires all the while smiling.

12. What is your prized possession?
My books...I find so much inspiration in books, and they look so beautiful on shelves and on coffee tables.

13. Leave us with your favorite quote.
It is not happy people that are thankful, it is thankful people that are happy.

Visit Annie's website: http://anniegoldmaninteriors.com/

Follow Annie on Twitter: @AnnieGStyle

Email Annie: anniegoldmaninteriors@gmail.com

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

October's Mina Maven Tiana Martinez

Mina was so excited with all the nominees for this month's Mina Maven contest. Each of them was beautiful, smart and talented in her own way. We couldn't be more excited with this month's chosen Maven, Tiana Martinez. This 15 year old Miami Native focuses mostly on dancing and school. Her effortless beauty and confidence is transparent. She instantly becomes best friends with everyone in the room. It's no wonder she brought in over 600 votes. Below enjoy her photos taken by the boys over at Digital Twist Photography and a little insight into Tiana's day to day.

1. Describe a typical school day in your life.
My mornings start at 6:30am at my schools pavilion with most of my friends. We all gather to talk, laugh and copy what ever homework we did not do the night before. lol Once the bell rings at 7:00am the fooling around stops & work begins... As an IB Student a lot of work is expected but my teachers are all pretty cool and make our days worth while.

2. Where do you like to hang out?
Usually with my friends at each others houses or at parties.

3. What activities are you involved in inside and outside of school? Sports? Hobbies? Socializing?
I'm in a dance team called "Gablettes" which is a prestigious performance group of the high school I'm in. We've won Nationals twice and this year we're planning on keeping the title. :D

4. Whats your favorite TV show or Movie?
My favorite movies are Death Race & Step Up. DEATH RACE because not only is my sister in it but i love the action and STEP UP because its all about dance.

5. What are your plans after high school? Job? College?
Once I graduate from High School I'm going away to college. I'm hoping to be accepted in one of the two colleges of my dreams, PRINCETON or UCLA.

6. Describe your favorite outfit?
I dont have any preferences, depends on the location and event.

7. Whats your favorite subject in school?
I love Biology & Chemistry. Luckily they come easily so I hardly have to study for them. (:

8. High School isnt easy, what advice would you give to young girls that deal with bullies in school?
Always keep your head up high, don't let their insecurites become yours and last but not least, don't be afraid of speaking up and defending yourself !!

9. What is your proudest accomplishment?
When I started High School being the only Freshmen that made it to my dance team "Gablettes & Co."

10. If you could donate a million dollars to any charity what would it be and why?
St.Jude because all of those children suffering from cancer ... my heart & prayers go out to all of them and their families. ♥

11. How long have you been dancing? Whats your favorite type of dance to perform?
I've been dancing Ballet since I was 3 yrs old till 13 which is when I stopped after being in points.
During all those years I also danced Tap, Flamenco, Jazz, & my favorite Hip Hop. Now as a Gablette I'm also dancing Lyrical along with other types of dances such as modern and kick.

12. Does beauty just run in the family?
My family is not big at all, its just a few of us. However, we're all beautiful in our own special way.

13. What is your favorite part about shopping at Mina Miami Beach?
The staff is extremely loving & helpful. I always find what I'm looking for.

14. Got any dating advice for teenage girls?
I believe that everything happens for a reason. People change so that you can learn to let go. Things go wrong so you can learn to appreciate them when they are right. You believe lies so that you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself. And sometimes good things fall apart so that better things may fall together. So, don't cry for a guy who has left you, be happy because the next one may fall for your smile. (;

15. What general advice would you give young girls today?
Go confidently in the direction of your dreams!!
Live the life you've always imagined ...

"kiss slowly, laugh insanely, love truly & forgive quickly! ♥"

Monday, September 12, 2011

September Mina Maven Nat Perez

Mina Miami Beach searches for the perfect candidate for Mina Maven once a month, they have to be successful woman that have made a difference in their community and that Mina believes other young ladies should look up to. The perfect combination of beauty, smarts and ambition. This is why it was a no brainer too chose Nat Perez as September's Mina Maven. This talented Miami Native makes jumping from country to country in stilettos look easy. Mina was able to catch Nat Perez in between flights and ask her some questions. Take notes ladies.

1. Why did you decide to study fashion?

I spent ALOT of time in my grandmothers closet as a little girl; playing dress up and acting out, it was my favorite passed time. Later on as a teen I discovered my ability to reinvent my wardrobe in a matter of minutes without spending a dime.

I have always loved to and still shop at goodwill's, consignment stores and vintage boutiques. However, I always saw fasion as a hobby instead of profession. It wasn’t until I was in college that I realized it was something I could take seriously and dedicate myself. I have immense respect for Fashion, I consider it a form of art and expression.

2. What’s your background? Where do you live now?

I am product of a Cuban father and Colombian mother, born and raised in Miami, Florida. Right now I live... between hotels, airplanes, tour buses, and recently I got to stay on a beautiful yacht. I’m constantly moving from place to place so basically you can label me a Nomad :)

3. We heard you were into the performing arts tell us a little bit more about that...

Yeah I was one of those artsy kids, between dance, acting, singing and modeling, hardly a dull childhood and adolescence. I loved it (T.V Shows, commericials, Print ad's and dance competitions), it gave me fundamentals I use to this day, discipline and the courage to perform in front of whoever, whenever.

4. How has it been working with the multi Grammy winning singer and composer Alejandro Sanz?

It's amazing; I am Alejandro's personal assistant and stylist. The truth is it is a very demanding job, especially at first when you have no idea who and what you’re dealing with. What most people don't realize is that being the assistant to a person like Alejandro is more than just interaction with him. I also work closely with his family, friends (including fellow artists), his company Gazul, management RLM, record label Universal and of course his fans that are international! You really have to position yourself in the middle of all those people and make sure everyone has the correct access and attention they deserve. Aside from his entourage and following, he is the most down to earth individual. He is super talented and centered, much more than just the musician everyone knows. He is a smart business man, painter, writer, photographer, among his many hobbies the man is a genius constantly creating and sharing his visions. "Estar rodeada de tanto arte" Being surrounded by all this art, is incredible I have learned sooooo much from Alejandro it feels like I went back to school and got a Masters...haha seriously though in order to succeed next to Alejandro or someone of his caliber, you ALWAYS have to be on point. Since the first day I started with the Sanz group they have pushed me to excellence and because of that I have discovered things about myself I never imagined I could do. My favorite part of the job without a doubt has to be styling him, I love shopping and creating looks for him that later on get analyzed and critiqued by many, via photo shoots, red carpets, editorials, directors and producers worldwide. Oh wait one more! Watching him perform live! The way he transcends to millions of people at the same time, each word lyric and verse is pure love. I am always very close onstage at all performances, my view of the audience is ever-changing but the effect is always stunning!

5. I know your job sends you to a lot different locations, tell me a little bit about your travels and what’s your favorite destination?

It's crazy! In the past 2 years I have been to so many countries it’s hard to compare and remember. LOL To name a few the majority of Spain, South America, Central America, Mexico, and the US. My favorite... whoa that's tough! Could be Rio de Janeiro, Brazil or Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Barcelona, Spain or Lima, Peru of course Los Angeles ... can't decide sorry!

6. What is it like being on tour?

It's a huge experience kind of chaotic, extremely fun, and tiring. You have to imagine being on the road with approximately 50 people who eventually become a big weird family, and although you are surrounded by many; everyone is doing their own thing so technically you are alone. This is by far the emotional challenge, spending time with your family and loved one is sacrificed and accommodated to vacations, emails and Skype! On a brighter note it is very interesting to watch & learn the logistics of big tour, especially the responsibilities of each member and the importance of working as a unit. Emphasizing on the professionalism everyone must carry out on an international level. Without a doubt adventuresome and before you know it you done been everywhere and back.

7. Currently what are some of your favorite designers out of Miami?

There are a couple... Maya swimwear, amazing shoes by Alejandro Inglemo, everything Gold Saturn by David Jon Acosta, jewels by Mar y Soul, NK designs, two sisters making the cutest jewelry, and Priscilla Jade Lingerie.

Check them out... @Maya_Swimwear @InglemoShoes @Gold_Saturn @NKDesignsOnline www.lingeriebypj.com

8. How did you hear about Mina Miami Beach?

Well I've know the Minagorri sisters since high school, they have always been very fashionable and beautiful girls, naturally I always kept up with their projects. When it came to Mina, Facebook played a huge roll; friends of ours would constantly brag and post hot pics with clothes and looks of their pieces. Since we all love to be fabulous on a budget it was a no brainer for me to check it out their boutique and fashion shows.

9. Do you speak Spanish fluently? How has this helped you career wise?

Claro que si! Of course I do, ever since I was little, but you know what? I swore I was fully bilingual until the day I arrived in Spain and quickly noticed my "Spanish" was substantially different to the REAL deal. After various embarrassing moments, I encouraged people to correct me. The language has definitely helped my work since I am constantly in communication with Spain, Mexico and Latin America; the benefits of being bilingual are priceless.

10. What is you fashion pet peeve?

When girls wear clear bra straps and VPL (visible panty lines). Guys please keep your sneakers crispy clean, and NO more baggy pants with no belt and your underwear all out, can’t even take two steps before you got to pull up... mess!

11. Where do you get your fashion inspiration from? What tips do you have for us?

Depends what I'm in the mood for... perhaps a combination of some of my favorite artists Audrey Hepburn, Janis Joplin, Marilyn Monroe, Gwen Stefani and Jennifer Lopez. Plus it’s nice to have a great group of fashionable girlfriends. Every time we get together its fun to see what each is wearing and how they made it their own.

As for the tip, I'd like to go straight to the beauty department; I think it is essential when completing a look. My 3 musts are... Hair that is nicely cut and styled, a fresh mani pedi, and for the face a good moisturizer is key also daily makeup = less is more :)

12. Tell me about the fashion designers and fashion shows you have worked on?

Back when I was on the fashion grind, I worked production on runway shows (i.e.: Miami Fashion Week, Oscar de la Renta, Zac Posen) and PA to celebrity wardrobe stylists, as well as assisting Venezuelan haute couture designer Nicolas Felizola. I really wanted to learn different angles of the game having one thing clear I did NOT want to sit behind a desk all day. Some people love the daily routine thing, and that's awesome for them but I need constant change. I love the challenge of trying new things just to see how eclectic I can be.

13. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I've got dreams and things of that nature, but at this moment, I can only see the now.

14. You just came out of a worldwide tour, what are you working on now?

I am currently in Mexico D.F. styling Alejandro for the TV show La Voz Mexico, where he participates as one of the coaches alongside Alex Syntek, Lucero and Espinoza Paz. This show was recently in the states as The Voice with Christina Aguilera, Adam Levine, Ceelo Green and Blake Shelton as coaches. I am also working on a very cool emerging clothing line as a designer; unfortunately I cannot release more info, but stay tuned we are hoping to launch fall 2012.

15. What general advice would you give young girls today?

The same words I tell my younger sister...

*Treat others how you want to be treated; Karma can be your BEST friend.

*Capitalize on your natural talents.

*Don't be lazy! If you are not satisfied with anything in your life YOU have the power to change it, formulate a plan and EXECUTE it. Don't wait for any handouts if you want something you MUST work hard for it!

*Once you graduate school DON'T stop learning! Whenever you’re bored go to a Barnes & Noble’s or whatever bookstore and walk the isles... you will discover interests in subjects you never imagined.

*Independence is a virtue. Being alone at times is not scary, uncool or boring... Get to know you, just you without anyone around, this can also help you appreciate the ones who surround you. The most efficient, creative and mentally evolving moments of my life thus far have been when no one is around.

Dream on...