Owners of Queen, Marion To Open Lafayette Steakhouse in Brickell

Lafayette Steakhouse, the latest addition to Miami's vibrant dining scene, is set to open its doors this Friday, promising an unparalleled culinary experience in the bustling Brickell district. Spearheaded by Mr. Hospitality Miami, the owners of Queen Miami Beach and Marion, Lafayette combines the allure of speakeasy culture with European elegance, offering discerning diners a sophisticated retreat amidst the city's dynamic energy.

Formerly known as El Tucán, Lafayette occupies an iconic space that reflects the evolution of sophistication in Miami's culinary landscape. With a focus on epicurean mastery, exemplary hospitality, and unmatched design standards, Lafayette aims to set new standards for luxury dining.

"At Lafayette Steakhouse, every detail is meticulously crafted to exude opulence and refinement, creating an unforgettable dining experience from the moment guests step through our doors," says Mathieu Massa, owner and founder of Mr. Hospitality Miami.

Catering to visionaries, artists, and socialites, Lafayette offers a haven of luxury and worldly sophistication. Inspired by Major General Marquis de Lafayette, the venue celebrates the enduring bond between France and America, blending speakeasy allure with European glamour.

The menu at Lafayette Steakhouse is curated by esteemed French Chef, Kylian Goussot, whose pedigree includes Michelin-starred restaurants and five-star hotels. Drawing inspiration from ingredient-driven cuisine, Chef Goussot presents a selection of premium meats, fresh seafood, and intricately flavored dishes, expertly prepared over a wood charcoal Josper oven.

Complementing the stellar cuisine is an extensive selection of hand-selected wines, spirits, and cocktails curated by Head Sommelier Gabrielle Neuberg. Pastry Chef Nelson Mendonca adds the final flourish with his creative and decadent desserts, leaving a lasting impression on guests' palates.

Lafayette's artistic legacy is further enhanced by acclaimed artist Octave Marsal, whose intricate menu illustrations add a unique dimension to the dining experience. Meanwhile, the interior design, led by Carlos Rodriguez of Escala Forma Studio, reflects a harmonious blend of European charm and contemporary elegance.

Through meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to curating an environment that transcends conventional luxury, Lafayette Steakhouse emerges as more than just a dining destination—it's a vibrant cultural nexus that celebrates Miami's rich heritage and culinary diversity.

Lafayette Steakhouse is located at 1111 SW 1st Ave, Miami, FL 33130.

A First Look Inside Mercedes-Benz Places Revealed at the Concours Club

Mercedes-Benz Places in Miami, the inaugural North American branded residential project, has unveiled its first look inside, marking a significant milestone in luxury living in Brickell. Developed by JDS Development Group in partnership with Mercedes-Benz, this mixed-use development merges modern living spaces with innovative mobility concepts, setting new standards for urban living.

The project, announced on February 26, 2024, has already seen remarkable success, with record sales of over 100 condominiums sold within the first four days on the market. The launch event, held at The Concours Club before the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix, offered guests an exclusive preview of the residences' interiors, along with a unique conversation hosted by Toto Wolff, Team Principal & CEO of Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, and Michael Stern, Founder and CEO of JDS Development Group. Test drives in Mercedes-AMG GTR cars on the racetrack with professional drivers from Mercedes-Benz USA completed the unique experience of lifestyle in Miami.

Designed to offer a seamless mobility journey, Mercedes-Benz Places in Miami features a private porte cochere and panoramic rooftop pool, providing residents with breathtaking views of the skyline and cityscape beyond. Each residence, ranging from studios to three-bedrooms, is meticulously crafted to reflect modernity and luxury, with floor-to-ceiling windows, deep terraces, and spectacular views of Miami, Biscayne Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Interior designs, created by the experts at Woods Bagot in collaboration with the Mercedes-Benz design team, showcase crisp blacks and whites, warm woods, and significant graphic elements, reflecting the brand's commitment to automotive-detailing, precision, and quality. Custom-designed kitchens and principal baths offer light and dark finish options, integrated Miele appliances, and luxurious marble countertops.

The architectural design, created by award-winning SHoP Architects, embodies Mercedes-Benz's design philosophy of Sensual Purity, combining intelligence and emotion to create clear forms and sensuous surfaces. The cube-shaped mixed-use tower features technical silver, classic black and white elements, and undulating curves, creating distinctive highlights and stimulating contrasts.

Gregg Pasquarelli, Founding Principal of SHoP Architects, highlights the project's investment in the Brickell community, stating, "Mercedes-Benz Places will revitalize public space in the neighborhood of Southside Park while making a statement with its superior quality in design."

Mercedes-Benz Places in Miami represents more than just a development; it embodies a vision for the future of urban living, offering residents a luxurious and connected lifestyle in the heart of Miami's vibrant Brickell district.

Royal Palm Companies Secure $86 Million Financing for Tuscany Village

In a significant stride towards expanding quality residential options in Orlando, Royal Palm Companies led by Dan Kodsi and the Mattoni Group proudly announce the securing of an $86 million construction financing loan and the launch of Tuscany Village, a sprawling 420-unit multifamily complex set to enhance the Sanford area.

Strategically located at the southwest corner of State Road 46 and Upsala Road, Tuscany Village is poised to become a cornerstone community within Sanford, spanning 21 acres with seven four-story buildings. With construction slated to commence in the coming weeks and phased completion expected by 2026, the project is primed to transform the local residential landscape.

The acquisition of the development site at 4201 West First Street in June for $12.7 million laid the foundation for this ambitious venture. Financing for Tuscany Village has been secured through a partnership with City National Bank and Abanca USA, contributing $68 million in loans, and Origin Investments, providing $18 million in preferred equity. Notably, these financial arrangements feature floating interest rates without a rate cap, reflecting confidence in the project despite current economic uncertainties.

Royal Palm Companies, renowned for its innovative approach to real estate development since its inception in 1978, boasts a portfolio of $4.7 billion in developed, repositioned, and under-construction projects, including over 9,500 completed residential units. The collaboration with the Mattoni Group underscores the significance of Tuscany Village, leveraging their combined expertise to ensure the delivery of a top-tier residential community.

Despite challenges such as elevated interest rates, insurance premiums, and regional specifics like high concrete costs in South Florida, the decision to proceed with Tuscany Village reflects the unwavering commitment of Royal Palm and Mattoni Group to innovation, quality, and meeting the evolving needs of Florida's residents.

More than just a development project, Tuscany Village represents a future home for hundreds of families and individuals, meticulously designed to foster a vibrant and connected community. Royal Palm Companies and Mattoni Group are dedicated to bringing this vision to life, positively impacting the Sanford region and the broader Florida housing market.

The Bazaar for Good Returns to the Miami Design District May 10th

The Miami Design District is set to welcome back The Bazaar for Good on May 10th and 11th, marking its fifth consecutive year of philanthropic endeavors. Sponsored by Lancome, Schutz, Babor, MarcCain, and Stitch Lab, the event promises an exclusive shopping experience, engaging events, and a silent auction, all aimed at raising funds for various nonprofit organizations worldwide.

Founded in 2018 by Martha Graeff and Danie Gomez-Ortigoza, The Bazaar for Good is not just about shopping; it's about making a positive impact. Bringing together a diverse group of over 30 influential women with strong social media presence, the event channels their collective efforts towards meaningful change and support for underserved communities globally.

This year, The Bazaar for Good continues its partnership with Style Saves, a beloved local nonprofit organization in Miami. Together, they aim to raise funds for Style Saves' annual back-to-school event, providing uniforms and school supplies to over 10,000 students in Miami-Dade and beyond. Attendees can look forward to snagging designer brands like Veronica Beard, Illesteva, Devon Windsor, Tropic of C, a selection of luxury items from CURIO at Faena Bazaar, and more at discounted prices, with proceeds directly benefiting Style Saves and Camila Coelho's hometown health organization.

Returning to its roots at Paradise Plaza in the heart of the Miami Design District, The Bazaar for Good promises a weekend of giving back and celebration. Alongside the shopping extravaganza, guests can enjoy engaging conversations led by Valeria Lipovetsky, acoustic concerts, yoga sessions, and an online auction featuring exclusive experiences from The Standard Hotel & Spa and The Cliff Jamaica.

The network of entrepreneurial women supporting The Bazaar For Good includes Ines Andrea Minski, Angie Landaburu, Camila Canabal, Camila Coelho, Camila Straschnoy, Candice Swanepoel, Claudia Vergara, Catalina Maya, Ines Sheero, Dafne Evangelista, Danie Gomez-Ortigoza, Daniela Botero, Deborah Bello, Devon Windsor, Eglantina Zingg, Gabriela Medina, Irma Martinez, Isabela Rangel Grutman, Jenny Lopez, Karen Martinez, Martha Graeff, Nane Miller, Pam Arias, Rachael Russell Saiger, Sharon Fonseca, Valeria Lipovetsky, Vita Sidorkina, and more, all dedicated to making a difference in children's lives worldwide.

Tickets for The Bazaar for Good shopping event are available on www.thebazaarforgood.org.

Reimagining History: The Moore in Miami Design District Unveils Elastika Restaurant

WoodHouse, the visionary development company, has announced the highly-anticipated reopening of The Moore in the Miami Design District, marking the beginning of a new chapter for this iconic landmark. Stepping into its next century, The Moore emerges as a vibrant lifestyle and cultural destination, featuring a private members club, boutique hotel, executive offices, gallery space, and the exciting addition of Elastika, a modern-American restaurant set to open its doors to the public this weekend.

Elastika, nestled on the first floor, introduces a fresh culinary experience under the guidance of acclaimed Executive Chef Joe Anthony. Designed to be more than just a restaurant, Elastika aims to become the heartbeat of the Miami Design District—a place where people gather, dine, and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of art and culture that defines the area.

Drawing inspiration from Miami’s diverse international community and The Moore’s storied legacy of art and design, Elastika embodies a culinary canvas where carefully curated ingredients and heartfelt cooking techniques converge. The restaurant's namesake pays homage to the iconic Zaha Hadid sculpture, Elastika, suspended majestically throughout the four-story atrium above the dining room—a stunning testament to Miami's boundless creativity.

Brady Wood, Founder & CEO of WoodHouse, shared that “Our vision for Elastika extends beyond the menu. We've transformed the first floor of The Moore into the lobby of the Miami Design District—an inviting destination where people can gather, dine, and enjoy the landmark building and Zaha Hadid's iconic sculpture.”

Elastika’s menu reflects a commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients and close collaboration with local farmers, including Tiny Farm, French Farms, Swank Specialty Produce, and others. Executive Chef Joe Anthony expressed his culinary philosophy, saying, “Our culinary vision is to create vibrant food that is original and thoughtful, yet humble in its roots. By being conscientious about sourcing regenerative and sustainable ingredients whenever possible, we are able to create a distinct style of cuisine while still pushing flavor to the forefront.”

The menu features a range of globally eclectic dishes including the Heirloom Tomato Gazpacho with pickled tomatillos, avocado and fennel pollen focaccia; the Citrus Cured Kingfish Crudo with fermented farro, local kohlrabi and cucumber “aguachile;” a Grass-Fed Bison Tartare, with escabeche aioli, umami crumble and house-made country loaf; Eggplant and Sheep’s Milk Ravioli Serviettes, with spring fricassee, local mushrooms and pine nut froth; Grilled Heritage Pork "Ribeye" with tiny farm's turnips, grilled broccoli rabe and red verjus-cardamom sauce; and the Miso Marinated Beef Tenderloin, with Castle Valley Mill's farro, local herb coulis and carrot "hot sauce."

The design ethos of Elastika seamlessly blends modern sophistication with the building's original architectural elements, creating an ambiance that is both inviting and elegant. Curated by Miami-based art advisor Monica Kalpakian, the restaurant features a collection of contemporary art, including Rob Pruitt’s US (2013) on loan from the late Rosa de la Cruz’s esteemed collection.

Collaborating with hospitality design firm ICRAVE, WoodHouse has transformed the historic atrium into a culinary haven, complete with an expansive bar, plush velvet seating, and a semi-private dining room. The addition of a new skylight floods the space with natural light, while the sidewalk patio offers a charming al fresco dining experience amidst lush greenery.

The history of The Moore, dating back to the 1920s Florida Land Boom, adds another layer of intrigue to Elastika's narrative. Once a furniture showroom and warehouse, The Moore has played a pivotal role in shaping Miami's landscape, hosting numerous high-profile events and exhibitions over the years.

Elastika will be open for dinner from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Lunch service will commence from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday starting May 3, 2024. For reservations and to learn more visit www.elastikamiami.com.

Inside PROFILE Collectors Club: Chronographs & Caviar at Sabal Development's $15 Million Brickell Penthouse

On March 12, 2024 PROFILEmiami and Sabal Development hosted PROFILE Collectors Club: Chronographs & Caviar, an invite-only sunset caviar tasting and watch showcase, revealing Sabal Developments newly completed $15 million Brickell Penthouse; in collaboration with leading luxury watch retailer Timepiece Trading and ArtLife, the first truly online bluechip art gallery.

The invite-only caviar tasting and sunset cocktail overlooking Biscayne Bay revealed Sabal Development’s 6,500 SF TOGU-designed Brickell Penthouse and featured a lavish caviar tasting by Altima Caviar; an exotic timepiece showcase featuring Richard Mille, Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet curated by @NeelTPT of Timepiece Trading; and a bluechip art showcase featuring works by Jeff Koons, Andy Warhol, Banksy, Keith Haring, Kenny Scharf, Kaws, Alec Monopoly, curated by Avery Andon’s ArtLife.

Chronographs & Caviar was attended by leading real estate developers Pascal Nicolai, Lionel Nicolai and Dev Motwani, spec home architect Ralph Choeff, celebrity art dealer Avery Andon, watch specialist Sean McLaren, and real estate power brokers Dora Puig, David Rocca, Mike Martirena and Ivan Chorney; amongst others.

Where passion and opulence intersect. PROFILE Collectors Club is an ultra-luxury bespoke experience bringing together today's hottest brands and rarest collector's items with Miami's most active real estate and business professionals to connect and learn about their passions outside of a business setting.

Want to give Altima Caviar a try? Use discount code “Katya20” to save 20% off thru March 31 and 15% off April forward exclusively when shopping altimacaviar.com.

March 12, 2024: PROFILE Collectors Club: Chronographs & Caviar

PROFILEmiami has teamed up with Sabal Development, Timepiece Trading and ArtLife to kick-off Miami Music Week with PROFILE Collectors Club: Chronographs & Caviar, an invite-only caviar tasting and sunset cocktail overlooking Biscayne Bay revealing Sabal Development’s 6,500 SF TOGU-designed $15 million Brickell Penthouse on March 12 at 6 PM. Experience a caviar tasting by Altima Caviar, an exotic timepiece showcase featuring Richard Mille, Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet curated by @NeelTPT of Timepiece Trading and a bluechip art showcase featuring works by Jeff Koons, Andy Warhol, Banksy, Keith Haring, Kenny Scharf, Kaws, Alec Monopoly, curated by Avery Andon’s ArtLife with rooftop champagne and cocktails. The event will be limited to 30 guests.

Where passion and opulence intersect. PROFILE Collectors Club is an ultra-luxury bespoke experience bringing together today's hottest brands and rarest collector's items with Miami's most active real estate and business professionals to connect and learn about their passions outside of a business setting.

Date: March 12, 2024 | 6 - 9 PM

Location: SABAL Penthouse, Brickell House, 1300 Brickell Bay Drive, PH4401

Parking: Limited Valet, Ride Share Preferred

Sponsors:

Inquire:

PROFILE Exclusive Podcast W/ Neel Alwani @NeelTPT of TimePiece Trading [Full YouTube Interview]

PROFILEmiami had the exclusive opportunity to sit down with Neel Alwani, the CEO of Timepiece Trading to learn about his experience as an entrepreneur in the watch industry and get some insight into some of his favorite timepieces which include the Richard Mille RM35-02 Black TPT, which he actually named TimePieceTrading after the watch.

Founded in 2018, Timepiece Trading is a leading luxury watch retailer, specializing in the sale of high-end timepieces from some of the world's most renowned brands including Richard Mille, Audemars Piguet, Patek Philippe and Rolex, amongst others. With a focus on providing exceptional customer service and a wide selection of the latest and most sought-after models, we have quickly become the destination of choice for discerning watch collectors and enthusiasts.

Indulge in Luxury: PROFILEmiami's Valentine's Day Gift Selection

This Valentine's Day, immerse yourself in pure luxury with our handpicked selection, designed to infuse every moment with warmth and romance. Picture this: soft candlelight flickering, a glass of fine wine in hand, and the air filled with the intoxicating scents of Diptyque. From the timeless charm of Brunello Cucinelli to the impeccable craftsmanship of Bottega Veneta, our collection is a testament to elegance and refinement.

Whether you're searching for the perfect token of love for that special someone or treating yourself to a moment of indulgence, let us be your compass in the world of luxury. And why not take it up a notch by basking in the opulence of the Diplomat Hotel? Let this Valentine's Day be a celebration of love, passion, and the finer things in life.

From leading Miami-based timepiece curators, Time Piece Trading, comes this ruby and diamond Graff Halo watch. It comes in white gold and features a mother-of-pearl dial, inlaid with pave diamonds. The perfect way to say, “I love you.”

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The Diplomat Beach Resort, the largest hotel and beach resort in the greater Fort Lauderdale vicinity, boasts expansive oceanfront views, two sun-drenched pools, 26 poolside cabanas, and two fitness centers. The Diplomat Spa + Salon is offering three Valentine’s Day spa packages, that will ensure a day of pure bliss and self-care, and are available throughout the month of February. Diplomat Prime, the award-winning luxury boutique steakhouse inside The Diplomat Beach Resort, will be serving a special Valentine's Day menu on Wednesday, February 14. Romantic Room Packages are also available for suite bookings, offering 100 faux rose petals in a heart pattern, 6 red heart balloons, neon sign of choice, disposable camera (pack of 2) & easel hand painting activity, room walkway of faux candles & choice of "I Love You" light-up bags.

Our choice? The Oceanfront Couples Massage with rose petals, chocolate strawberries and champagne.This 2-hour experience includes 30 minutes in their exclusive and private Oceanfront Lounge to enjoy fruit, chocolate, and champagne plus an 80-minute Signature Couples Massage with direct ocean views. 

To book, click the button above or call 954-602-6000.

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A bouquet of fresh flowers, blooming in deepest winter. For the first time, the Rose scented candle is available in a large format. Its porcelain vessel, stamped with the oval of the Maison, is an invitation to make this luminous ritual last. Gradually, the air fills with fresh, flowery notes. A tribute to a timeless emblem.

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A classic top handle bag by Bottega Veneta with a soft rounded shape and signature knot realized with Intrecciato craftsmanship with a contrasting woven heart shape for an added romantic touch. 100% lambskin and 100% love.

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Made from Monogram Vernis leather, the gorgeous Louis Vuitton Keep My Heart bag with its heart-shape features a delicate removable and adjustable golden chain embellished with a LV Circle charm. The pink leather features the Monogram motif embossed onto the shiny surface.

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House details add a logo touch to this signature pair of sandals by Gucci. Inspired by the origins of the brand, the emblematic Horsebit defines the shoe. Presented in a romantic lilac leather, this pair of sandals is completed by an ankle buckle closure, perfect for day or night.

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Luxurious yarns elevate the rustic feel of this Dazzling Stripe cardigan by Brunello Cucinelli. With a distinct dry, cool appearance, jute and cotton threads are embroidered to create a striped pattern in the season’s colors. This precious, feminine texture is the result of meticulous workmanship carried out by expert artisans in numerous steps that require the utmost precision and skill.

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Bottega Veneta card case in signature Intrecciato nappa leather with black and white contrast stitching. Made in Italy.

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The excellence of Brunello Cucinelli materials enriches the casual, timeless style of these loafers in suede, a thin, velvety leather that enhances the season’s colors. The upper’s classic shape is enriched by the horse-bit detail and the thin leather and lightweight rubber outsole.

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The 90s was a glorious era, characterized by rawness, radicalism, sexiness, loudness, and extra fun. It marked the beginning of Blu Scarpa’s journey and brand, initially focusing on the 80s but now transitioning to the next chapter in the 90s. Building upon the foundation laid by the 80s runner, a key element in the brand's evolution, Blu Scarpa just introduced a limited release of the 90s runner. This new addition reflects the progressive nature of sneakerhead culture, hip hop, and all things 90s.

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Sporty inspirations define the style of this baseball cap. The base is made of twisted cotton gabardine, a classic casual fabric tinged with the season’s colors. The accessory features a lightweight cotton lining and is complemented by a practical adjustable back closure.

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From Matthew Chevallard’s Blu Scarpa, the Signature Tennis Racket Corda Necklace is a dazzling fusion of sporting grace and refined elegance. Crafted in luxurious 14k Yellow gold, this 2mm necklace boasts a meticulously detailed tennis racket pendant adorned with a radiant blu sapphire.

The exquisite sapphire nestled within the tennis racket pendant adds a touch of opulence and sophistication to this iconic piece. The sleek corda chain complements the pendant's intricate design, creating a harmonious blend of sporty allure and timeless luxury.

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This GG Duffle Bag by Gucci is crafted in soft, brown suede and is the perfect travel bag. Two archival design elements - the Double G and the Web, complete the silhouette with a nod to the House founder.

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Impress this Valentine’s Day with an original Jeff Koons Dom Pérignon Balloon Venus, investment grade art that can hold your champagne for the special holiday celebration. Curated by Avery Andon of ArtLife, the piece is crafted of lacquered polyurethane resin and comes with champagne bottle and original box. The Dom Pérignon Balloon Venus is an edition of 650 + 40 AP.

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From leading Miami-based timepiece curators TimePiece Trading comes the Richard Mille RM011 "Ghost" White Ceramic x Black NTPT Sides. This Richard Mille RM011 has a 50mm white ceramic case that surrounds a skeletonized dial with white Arabic numerals.

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Inside PROFILE Collectors Club: The Evolution of Hypercars Event at Prestige Imports

On January 25, PROFILEmiami and Prestige Imports hosted the sold-out PROFILE Collector’s Club: Evolution of Hypercars event at the Prestige Imports flagship dealership featuring some of the most well-known names in South Florida’s car industry. Attendees came out in record numbers to hear from Brett David (Prestige Imports), John Temerian (Curated), Gil Dezer (Dezer Development) and Avery Andon (Art Life) as they discussed car collecting trends, the history behind unique car brands, which are the most coveted vintage and modern collectors cars, how they have curated their personal collections and stories about how they acquired some of the rarest and most elusive automobiles. The lavish Bespoke Networking cocktail was held amongst a custom curated collection of vintage to modern hypercars featuring a two Gunther Werks including the Turbo Touring Edition, several Pagani hypercars including Utopia, Huayra and Zonda models, a Hennessey Venom F5, two SLR McLaren Roadsters, a Bugatti Veyron and Gil Dezer’s personal Bugatti Chiron.

In addition to the engaging panel, Prestige Imports, Curated and Gil Dezer presented a custom curated collection of coveted vintage and modern hypercars were from brands such as Gunther Werks, Bugatti, Pagani, Ferrari, McClaren and Lamborghini; guests got to try on and view a custom curated collection of over 60+ rare timepieces including watches by Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Richard Mille and Rolex, presented by Timepiece Trading; a custom curated art installation presented by celebrity art dealer Avery Andon of ArtLife featuring works by Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Jeff Koons and Alec Monopoly; jewelry by Susan Blake, lab-grown diamonds by Novo Diamond Lab; clothing and accessories from Blu Scarpa.

The high-energy Bespoke Networking atmosphere was powered with sounds by Miami-based DJ DAKAP with light bites by Pura Vida and Zeroe Plant Based Caviar and drinks by E11EVEN Vodka, Bennati Wine, VIP Hard Seltzer and KOPU Water.

Watch the full panel live on YouTube: