0526 Doral

From Runway to Real Life

SWIMWEAR TAKES ITS PLACE IN THE SUN

MORE ROOM FOR WHAT MATTERS™

In nite inspiration, right on the sand.

DESIGNED TO MOVE YOU

Andare is more than a residence, it’s an experience. Rising above Fort Lauderdale’s skyline, this Pininfarina-designed tower blends fluid, wave-inspired architecture with seamless indoor-outdoor living and uninterrupted views of the ocean, river, and city. With over 35,000 square feet of unrivaled amenities, Andare offers a lifestyle of elegance and ease. Located at the intersection of Las Olas Boulevard’s vibrant energy and the serenity of the Atlantic Ocean, Andare invites you to embrace the future of luxury living.

ROOFTOP RESORT • ON-SITE RESTAURANT • WORLD-CLASS SPA EXPANSIVE FITNESS CENTER • 24/7 CONCIERGE & VALET LUSH GARDENS & OUTDOOR SPACES

Where Luxury Living Meets Local Expertise

Alan Mendelsohn M.D., F.A.C.S.

Nathan Klein O.D.

We are honored to have been selected as South Florida's premier practice for eye surgery, being renowned for laser cataract surgery!

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THE FRONT

EDITOR’S LETTER 26

LIFE & STYLE 29

What’s new & next: Modern heritage, kinetic jewelry, and spaces built to serve.

FLAVOR FILES 35

From Greek coastal to steakhouse classics, farm-fresh fare and modern Chinese dishes.

COVER STORY 40

Miami Swim Week - The Shows, returns as a cultural movement shaped by fashion, wellness and global design.

THE MIDDLE

MOTHER’S DAY RETREATS 46

Four easy escapes that let Mom truly check out.

THE NEXT WAVE 62

The mother-daughter duo reshaping Deerfield dining.

THE BACK

THE STORIES WE CARRY 64

Author Dara Levan discusses her new novel, Shaken to the Core.

GOOD PRESS 82

The Royal Dames of Cancer Research host a record-breaking Spring luncheon.

I am THE real estate agent to help you with your purchase of a mountain home! I have lived in sunny South Florida most of my life, but I also longed for the crisp mountain air. I took the leap years ago and purchased a second home in the Asheville area so I have the best of both worlds! My lifelong knowledge of Florida combined with my expertise in Western North Carolina makes me the perfect realtor to help you achieve your dreams too!

TM PUBLISHER MICHELLE SIMON

GROUP EDITOR IN CHIEF JESSICA GRAVES

CREATIVE DIRECTOR MELANIE GERONEMUS SMIT

ART DIRECTORS

ALEXANDER HERNANDEZ

EVELYN SUAREZ

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

JOSEPH A. MANN JR., JESSE SCOTT

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

DREAM FOCUS PHOTOGRAPHY, DOWNTOWN PHOTO

ADVERTISING MARKET MANAGERS

BEN HAMILTON, STEVE LEDERMAN, KIM SARNI

EVENTS JUSTINE ROBB

OPERATIONS MANAGER MONICA ST. OMER

SUNDIAL LIFESTYLE

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GARY PRESS PARTNERS

ANDY HILL AND GREG BABIJ

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©2025 Lifestyle Magazines are published by Lifestyle Media Group, all rights reserved. Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly. All contents are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced without written consent from the publisher. The advertiser is solely responsible for ad content and holds publisher harmless from any error.

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LUXE

Editor’s LETTER

The Mother Load

Motherhood, as it turns out, is a long game of becoming someone you once swore you wouldn’t be.

Not in the big, cinematic ways, but in the small, almost imperceptible moments that catch you o guard: tissues and granola bars in your purse, a jacket brought along ‘just in case’, and the impulse to end any debate with “because I said so.” These are the tells, the quiet reveals that somewhere along the way, you’ve become your mother.

And then, just as quickly, you understand why.

Being a mother is equal parts instinct and improv. Some days feel e ortless, when the rhythm clicks and you think, I’ve got this. Other days, nothing lands and your patience runs thin.

What no one quite prepares you for is how much being a mother reshapes your understanding of being a daughter. You begin to see how much of parenting is built on love wrapped in worry, how much is done without recognition, and how o en your mother got it right in ways you didn’t understand at the time. Because at every stage, there’s a version of you guring it out, just like she was.

And somewhere in that realization, it begins to make sense. You can miss who you were while loving who you’ve become. You can feel ercely protective and entirely unquali ed, sometimes within the same moment. Somewhere in that evolution, you nd your own version of motherhood: imperfect, personal, and entirely your own.

This month, as we celebrate Mother’s Day, it’s a chance to re ect on the women who raised us, shaped us, and still managed to love us, even when we weren’t always easy.

Because if motherhood teaches you anything, it’s that love endures, even when patience doesn’t. And somewhere along the way, the voice you once pushed back against becomes the one you carry forward. And that’s pretty cool, too.

I love you, momma. Happy Mother’s Day.

Love, Jessica Graves

Jessica Graves Group Editor, Lifestyle Media Group jgraves@lmg .com

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For Every Care in the World

Skincare from the Inside Out

Beauty is more than skin deep. In the world of aesthetic and integrative/functional medicine – it’s an intricate balance of health, artistry, and attention to detail. At Icon Aesthetics & Wellness in Pompano Beach, Florida, Chad Van Horn, PA-C, embodies this philosophy by redefining beauty standards with a holistic approach.”

LIFE&STYLE

Discover what’s new & next MAY 2026

DIVINE INTERVENTION

A life-size reimagining of Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel arrives at Galleria Fort Lauderdale, o ering a rare, unhurried encounter with one of history’s most revered masterpieces Fort Lauderdale has no shortage of cultural imports, but few arrive with the quiet gravitas of Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. This spring, that sense of scale and reverence takes on a new form as Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition® transforms Galleria Fort Lauderdale into something far more transportive than a traditional gallery experience.

Running now through June 14, the globally touring exhibition o ers a rare kind of proximity to one of history’s most studied masterpieces. Using licensed, high-resolution reproductions, all 34 frescoes from the Sistine Chapel ceiling and altar wall are presented at life-size scale, allowing visitors to encounter works like The Creation of Adam and

The Last Judgment with an intimacy that even the Vatican itself can't provide.

What distinguishes the experience is not simply its technical precision, but its pacing. There are no crowds pressing forward, no craned necks or rushed glances upward. Instead, the exhibition invites a slower kind of looking, where color, composition, and gesture reveal themselves gradually. Informational displays and optional audio guides deepen that engagement, turning what could be spectacle into something more re ective.

houseo ive.com/sistine-chapel- l

LIFE&STYLE

STRUCTURE, SIGNATURE, AND STAYING POWER

LV refines a house classic, balancing monogram heritage with elevated detailing and everyday versatility

Few silhouettes carry as much recognition as a Louis Vuitton top-handle, and this latest iteration leans into that legacy with restraint. The monogram canvas remains the foundation, instantly familiar, while smooth leather trim and polished gold hardware sharpen the overall pro le. A delicate chain detail introduces a subtle shi , adding texture without disrupting the bag’s clean, architectural lines.

What sets this piece apart is its sense of proportion. Compact yet structured, it feels intentional in scale, designed to move easily from day to evening without losing its presence.

The top handles maintain a traditional elegance, while the optional strap o ers a more relaxed approach, allowing it to adapt depending on how it’s carried.

Rather than reinventing the icon, Louis Vuitton re nes it. The result is a bag that feels grounded in the house’s history but aligned with how people dress now, where versatility matters and statement pieces are de ned less by excess and more by precision.

For more information, visit louisvuitton.com

LIFE&STYLE

BEYOND THE QUICK FIX

With clinically backed Manuka honey at its core, AUNA reframes skincare as a ritual of repair, resilience, and long-term results

For anyone cycling through products that promise quick xes but deliver eeting results, AUNA o ers a more considered alternative—one rooted in repair, resilience, and long-term skin health. Rather than chasing trends or surface-level solutions, the brand approaches skincare as a daily ritual, designed to restore balance and strengthen the skin over time. At the center of every formula is Comvita™ Medihoney® medical-grade Mānuka honey, introduced through an exclusive partnership that sets AUNA apart. Widely used in clinical settings as the base of an FDA-cleared woundhealing device, this powerful ingredient has been reimagined in luxurious, clinically backed formulations. Naturally rich in antioxidants, it helps defend against free radicals while supporting the skin’s ability to heal, hydrate, and renew— bringing a level of e cacy that feels both immediate and enduring. That same level of intention carries through to sourcing and sustainability. Ingredients are traceable, o en harvested from regenerative environments, and selected to work in harmony with the skin rather than disrupt it. Packaging is equally thoughtful, with re llable systems and recyclable materials that re ect a broader commitment to reducing waste. The experience itself is quietly indulgent. Textures, scents, and application rituals encourage a slower, more mindful approach to self-care—one that feels less like a routine and more like a return to balance. aunubeauty.com

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CONFERENCE

WEDNESDAY, MAY 27 & THURSDAY, MAY 28, 2026

FLAVORfilesFLAVORfiles

Global Plates

A GLOBAL MIX OF RESTAURANTS, FROM HERITAGE-DRIVEN KITCHENS TO POLISHED NEWCOMERS SHAPING THE LOCAL DINING SCENE

Feel Good, Done Right

At Farmer’s Table, clean ingredients and thoughtful sourcing come together in a dining experience where wellness and flavor align

At Farmer’s Table, eating well feels e ortless. It’s the kind of place you wander into for a relaxed meal and leave noticing you feel lighter, clearer, better than when you arrived. That sense of ease is intentional, grounded in a “feel good food” philosophy built around clean, thoughtfully sourced ingredients and a kitchen that understands restraint can be just as powerful as indulgence. Dishes are designed to nourish without losing their edge, striking a balance between health-conscious and genuinely satisfying.

A de ning element is the “neverever” menu, where every protein is sourced without chemicals, hormones, pesticides, or antibiotics. It reads like a standard, not a slogan, and it shows up in the way the food tastes. Clean, focused, and consistent, it is the kind of detail that earns trust over time. The experience moves seamlessly from morning to night, with breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner all carrying the same clarity of purpose, while cocktails and wellnessdriven elixirs are built with fresh ingredients that complement rather than compete.

That philosophy extends beyond the kitchen through partnerships with eco-conscious purveyors and sustainable practices that reinforce a larger commitment to both personal wellness and the environment.

The next chapter of that approach takes shape at Red Pine, located just minutes away, where the same principles are reinterpreted through a re ned, shareable take on Chinese cuisine. dinefarmerstable.com

FLAVORFILES

A Table Meant to Be Shared

Red Pine delivers a refined, modern take on Chinese cuisine in Boca Raton

At Red Pine, the focus lands exactly where it should: on the food and the way it’s meant to be experienced. The menu is built for sharing, encouraging the kind of back-and-forth that turns dinner into something more interactive and layered.

The approach is rooted in traditional Chinese cuisine, handled with a lighter, more deliberate touch. Recipes pulled from kitchens around the world are re ned through seasonal ingredients and clean preparation, allowing avors to come through with clarity rather than excess. Nothing feels overworked. Each dish is balanced, precise, and quietly con dent.

The Peking duck sets the tone, served in two courses with a sense of timing that makes the experience feel considered. Dim sum is made fresh daily, o ering delicate, bite-sized moments that contrast with the depth of wok- red dishes, noodles, and fried rice that follow. It’s a rhythm that moves naturally from light to rich, from subtle to bold.

What ties it together is the sense of intention. Cocktails and mocktails are curated to complement rather than compete, while traditional tea service adds another layer to the table. By the time dessert arrives, the experience feels complete, not just a series of dishes, but a meal that unfolds exactly as it should. redpineboca.com

FLAVORFILES

Greek, From the Heart

Chef Nikol Zarbalas brings family tradition and home cooking to Hellenic’s new Coral Springs home

Chef Nikol Zarbalas has never believed in shortcuts. At Hellenic, her Greek and Mediterranean restaurant now open in a larger Coral Springs space, everything is made from scratch, just as she learned growing up in a family where the kitchen was the center of daily life.

A er a so opening earlier this year, the restaurant is stepping into its full grand opening with an expanded bar program and more room for the warm, high-energy hospitality Zarbalas is known for. The original Hellenic, rst opened in 2019, quickly built a loyal following and earned national attention, including appearances on Diners, DriveIns and Dives and Guy’s Grocery Games.

Now located at 10436 West Atlantic Boulevard, the new restaurant allows Zarbalas to showcase a menu that blends traditional Greek avors with her own bold style, from moussaka and house-made dips to katai shrimp, Greek Heat Wings, and scratch-made baklava. Her son Dimitrios works beside her as executive sous chef, continuing a family tradition rooted in hospitality.

Designed by Zarbalas herself, the space balances industrial details with inviting touches, including a communal table from the original location and a small free library that encourages guests to linger. At Hellenic, the goal is simple: cook with pride, serve with heart, and make every guest feel at home. orderhellenic.com

The Moon Rises in Wynwood

A steakhouse with Italian influence and a live piano soundtrack, designed for nights that linger

Wynwood has never lacked for energy, but The Moon Steakhouse & Piano Bar o ers a di erent tempo. Tucked inside the Pink Building, the space trades chaos for control, where the night unfolds with intention and the atmosphere leans toward anticipation rather than spectacle.

The interiors strike a careful balance. Jungle murals, leopard accents, and golden drapery create a sense of drama without tipping into excess, giving the room a transportive quality that still feels grounded in Wynwood’s visual language.

From IK Hospitality, the group behind Astra Roo op and Sette Osteria, the concept centers as much on mood as it does on food. The menu follows suit. Prime cuts like tomahawk ribeye, let mignon, and dry-aged selections anchor the experience, while Italian in uences bring contrast. A bright salmon carpaccio, burrata with pesto crème fraîche, and a restrained cacio e pepe keep things focused and balanced.

The de ning moment, though, comes from the piano. Live music shapes the rhythm of the evening, building gradually and carrying the room from dinner into something more uid. In a neighborhood known for constant movement, The Moon invites guests to stay, settle in, and let the night unfold. themoonmiami.com

MIAMISWIM WEEK–THESHOWS: BEYONDTHE RUNWAY

SWIM WEEK EXPANDS INTO A CULTURAL MOMENT SHAPED BY FASHION, WELLNESS, AND GLOBAL DESIGN

BY JESSE SCOTT

n its earliest incarnation, Miami Swim Week – The Shows was exactly what it promised: a procession of bikinis, runway lights, and industry insiders packed shoulder to shoulder. In 2026, that definition has shifted. Under new leadership, the long-running showcase at Mondrian South Beach is evolving into something far more reflective of how people live, travel, and dress—especially in South Florida, where swimwear rarely stays poolside for long. That next chapter unfolds with CEO Sean Rashid and

Fashion Event Director Elizabeth Claros at the helm, while the foundation remains rooted in the multifaceted vision of late founder Moh Ducis. After relocating from Washington, D.C., Ducis built the platform into a globally recognized showcase in just a few years. His sudden passing in late 2025 left a noticeable void across the industry, but his imprint on the event—and the city’s fashion identity—remains unmistakable.

Rashid speaks about that legacy with clarity. “It was a big

loss for us that he left, but he worked very hard to start this event,” he says. “One man who could do all of this with a dream…was remarkable.” Picking up where Ducis left off was anything but casual. “If I can take it to the next level and elevate the show, that will be the biggest honor to him,” Rashid adds, framing the 2026 edition as both continuation and tribute.

That intention carries through the production itself. This year introduces the largest LED screen ever used at a fashion

show in the United States, alongside immersive lighting, laser design, and sound engineering that borrows from live concerts. Rashid, whose background includes producing major events in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is channeling decades of experience into the format. “What I’m trying to do is collect all of those experiences and put them into the show…so someone who comes in takes away something totally different and appealing,” he says. The evolution is also visible in how designers are

"SWIMWEAR IS BECOMING MORE OF ADAY-TO-DAYTHING,YOU’REUSINGIT MOREINYOURDAILYLIFETHAN PEOPLEDID10OR15YEARSAGO"

approaching swimwear. “Swimwear is becoming more of a day-to-day thing,” Rashid explains. “You’re using it more in your daily life than people did 10 or 15 years ago.” In South Florida, where a beach stop can follow a morning coffee, that shift feels entirely natural. The designer roster reinforces the event’s global pull. More than 40 brands from across Europe, Latin America, Asia, and Australia will present collections, with local designer Ema Savahl opening a key showcase tied to the Little Lighthouse Foundation. Emerging names from Turkey and the U.K. join returning labels, while resort wear continues to gain ground as a category to watch. “Resort wear is a big deal,” Rashid notes, pointing to its expanding presence in destinations like Dubai and the South of France.

Programming extends well beyond the runway. Wellness activations— including SwimFit classes, beauty lounges, facials, and massages—are scheduled alongside citywide events on Lincoln Road and collaborations at destinations like Eden Roc

and Nobu. The goal is to create multiple entry points into the week, whether through fashion, fitness, or social gatherings.

Entertainment remains a key layer. Influencer and DJ Charlie Jordan is set to perform, with additional artists and live elements rounding out the schedule. “We have plans to add even more people to our show to make it, again, an experience,” Rashid says. There is also a sharper focus on industry access.

The debut of the Casa Hammock showroom inside the Mondrian’s tower suites gives buyers, editors, and stylists a direct line to collections, shortening the path from runway debut to retail conversation.

Still, amid the expanded scope, the week makes space to honor its origins. A tribute to Ducis—featuring a short film and live violinist—will open select evening showcases, offering a quiet moment within an otherwise packed schedule. For Rashid, the mission is clear. “This show means a lot to us…this is a big test after Mo, so we want to do something we will all remember.”

INSIDER ACCESS

BREAKFAST WITH GIRAFFES IN NAIROBI.

PRIVATE JETS TO SPAIN AND MOROCCO. SWISS RIVIERA CHARM WITHOUT THE CROWDS. TRAVEL LIKE NEVER BEFORE WITH THESE OUT-OF-THE-ORDINARY EXPERIENCES.

BY ANGELA CARAWAY-CARLTON

SAFARI SOJOURN

GIRAFFE MANOR DELIVERS THE GOODS

or travelers seeking wildlife encounters with a touch of whimsy, Gira e Manor, part of The Safari Collection, remains one of Africa’s most enchanting stays. Set within an indigenous forest in Nairobi’s Langata suburb, the estate is home to resident gira es who roam freely and have been known to poke their heads through open windows in greeting.

The lodge recently reopened with thoughtful additions, including the Finch Hatton Family Suite, which features two en-suite bedrooms and a balcony designed for close-up encounters with its long-necked neighbors. Breakfast unfolds in the redesigned Garden Manor, where three-sided panoramic views set the stage for early-morning gira e visits. The Orchid House, home to 150 orchids, o ers a serene setting for reading, meditation, or candlelit private dinners.

Elsewhere, a walk-in wine cellar highlights Africa’s nest vintages with guided tastings, while The Garden Coffee Experience immerses guests in Kenya’s rich co ee culture. Access to The Retreat, a wellness sanctuary with a heated in nity pool overlooking the sanctuary, rounds out the stay. Spa treatments here are as restorative as the setting itself. ✽

JETSET CROWD I

ABERCROMBIE & KENT

nner circles, private jets, and access that feels genuinely rare ed. Abercrombie & Kent set the gold standard in African safaris more than 60 years ago, and today it brings that same expertise to the skies with its Small Jet Journeys around the world. By chartering private aircraft, A&K travelers bypass the usual airport grind and move seamlessly between destinations that would otherwise require complicated connections. The experience is intimate by design and led by guides who know the cultural and historical nuance of each stop. Our pick: Spain and Morocco. In

Spain, guests receive privileged access to the Alhambra, including specially arranged entry into areas typically closed to the public. From there, a private ight to Morocco leads to a camel arrival at A&K’s desert camp, where lantern light ickers across the dunes. Days unfold in the labyrinthine souks with an insider who knows which treasures to seek out and how to negotiate, or via a sidecar adventure through cinematic landscapes. Throughout, the itinerary traces the cultural throughlines connecting the two countries, creating a narrative as compelling as the scenery. ✽

BOLD NEW COURSE

ORIENT EXPRESS ' FIRST SAILING YACHT

he storied glamour of Orient Express has long been synonymous with elegant rail journeys. In summer 2026, the legend goes to sea. Orient Express Corinthian, the inaugural vessel from Orient Express Sailing Yachts, will debut as the world’s largest sailing yacht, stretching 722 feet. With just 54 expansive suites, the ship maintains the privacy and exclusivity for which the brand is known. Culinary expectations are equally high, with Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno overseeing five restaurants. A sophisticated cabaret, a Guerlain spa, and twin swimming pools add to the onboard allure. The Corinthian will sail Mediterranean and Adriatic itineraries before embarking on a transatlantic crossing to the Caribbean, o ering a new chapter in slow travel, now written in salt air.

CASTLE CORE

leeping in a castle in Ireland borders on a rite of passage, and Dromoland Castle delivers the full, ve-star fairytale. The winding approach reveals the 16th-century gray stone façade rising above manicured grounds, an entrance worthy of cinematic comparison. Inside, polished suits of armor, chandeliers, replaces, and gilded accents lend a sense of theatrical grandeur without sacri cing warmth. Guests can try falconry or archery, wander the 500-acre estate and its walled garden, or row across the lake at dusk. More intimate experiences include Gaelic lessons or private sessions with a genealogist to trace family roots.

The castle also serves as an ideal base for visiting the Cli s of Moher and the lively pubs of Galway. It is heritage rendered tangible, with just enough indulgence to make you feel, if only brie y, like royalty.

In Full Bloom

AT NEW RIVER FLORAL, ARRANGEMENTS MOVE BEYOND THE EXPECTED, TRANSFORMING INTO IMMERSIVE EXPRESSIONS

BY JESSICA GRAVES

t New River Floral, owner Aynsley Geramanis approaches each arrangement with a quiet balance of feeling and form. In South Florida, where excess is o en the default, her work feels measured and rooted in place. Born and raised in Fort Lauderdale, she draws instinctively from the landscape that shaped her. “I start with the feeling,” she says. “What emotion should the space evoke?”

That instinct has always been there. Geramanis has long been drawn to texture, color, and movement, with oral design becoming her medium. But it really came into focus in 2017 at her own wedding. “I hand built and designed every vignette for the day,” she recalls. “When my photographer saw the nished results, she purchased all the furniture and furnishings, then asked me to be her exclusive wedding planner on the spot.”

At the time, she was working out of her garage, a setup that quickly outgrew itself as demand followed, eventually leading her into a commercial space. Rather than scaling too quickly, she took a more deliberate approach, spending a year volunteering with a local orist to learn the technical foundations of the cra before formally launching New River Floral, with a clear understanding that orals alone were never the end goal.

Over time, her work has evolved beyond simple arrangements into something more layered and immersive. “My vision has evolved from simple arrangements to creating complete environments,” she says. “It’s a fusion of South Florida nature, bohemian textures, and sophisticated structure.” She describes the aesthetic as Elevated Tropical Boho, a phrase that suggests ease but requires precision. Proteas, orchids, and layered greenery are paired with hand-built arbors, macramé backdrops, vintage lounge elements, and a signature ower cart she brings on-site. These days, she has a little extra help from her daughter, Maryn. “She brings a level of joy and whimsy,” Geramanis says, “that only a ve-year-old can o er.” There’s even a miniature version of the cart she made for Maryn, a re ection of how hands-on the work is.

“I don’t just place owers. I consider the entire bones of the event,” she says. “Because I understand the build, I can design oral installations that feel like a seamless part of the architecture.” That approach becomes especially clear in more complex settings such as yachts and waterfront homes, where movement, scale, and spatial limitations introduce constant variables. “Working within tight spaces and designing for movement requires a blend of engineering and artistry,” she says.

Her process, while technical, remains rooted in instinct. “From there, I consider the environment, the light, the scale, the palette, and the natural movement of the room or vessel,” she says. The result is work that does more than decorate a moment. It shapes it, with clients responding not only to the visual impact but to the sense that their vision has been fully understood and elevated.

“I want them to feel a sense of intentional wonder,” she says. “I want the work to feel permanent and purposeful, yet organically beautiful.”

Looking ahead, Geramanis isn’t focused on getting bigger just for the sake of it. She’s building on what already works. “We’re continuing to lean into the full-service model,” she says, expanding her collection of custom-built structures, lounge pieces, and design elements so she can shape the entire environment, not just the orals. That can mean anything from hand-built ceremony arches and layered lounge vignettes to styling tabletops, framing the space, and overseeing how everything comes together on site. It’s a more immersive, start-to- nish approach, with her involved from the rst conversation through the nal installation, ensuring the space feels cohesive and intentional.

It’s also shaping what comes next. “Mentoring the next generation of designers, including my daughter, who remains the biggest inspiration behind the legacy I’m building,” she says. For Geramanis, the work may be created for a moment, but it’s built to last a little longer than that. newriver oral.com

The Next Wave

THE MOTHER-DAUGHTER DUO BRINGING FRESH ENERGY, HARD-EARNED PERSPECTIVE, AND A DISTINCTLY LOCAL SENSIBILITY TO DEERFIELD BEACH’S DINING SCENE

BY JESSE SCOTT

n a stretch of sand long de ned by familiarity, Danielle Rosse has spent decades quietly reshaping what Deer eld Beach dining can be. Now, with her daughter Kali Williams by her side, that evolution has taken on new energy—and a distinctly personal edge. Their latest venture, The Break House Kitchen + Beach Bar, is more than the city’s rst roo op bar; it’s a multi-layered expression of a partnership rooted in instinct, experience, and inherited grit.

Rosse’s story in South Florida began, improbably, with a bus stop. “I moved down here literally on my 18th birthday,” she says. “One of the stops was in front of The Ranch House, and they hired me as a cocktail waitress because they were like, ‘Oh, we’re going to be busy for 4th of July.’ And that’s how I started here.” That “Ranch House” would become Oceans 234, the beachfront institution Rosse would eventually own, operate, and transform through a multimillion-dollar renovation. But her path wasn’t linear. Widowed in her early twenties, she rebuilt her life and career simultaneously, turning adversity into a long-game vision rooted in operational excellence and community.

Williams, by contrast, grew up in that world. “I don’t know if I got involved or I was just kind of pushed into it,” she says with a laugh. “I grew up in the restaurant my whole life.” A er stints with the Miami Dolphins and the Miami Open, and earning an MBA from Florida Atlantic University, Williams returned to the family business with a sharper lens on branding, partnerships, and experience design. Since rejoining in late 2023, she has helped translate her mother’s decades of know-how into something contemporary, social, and scalable. That duality—numbers and nuance, systems and soul—is the engine behind their success.

“She has a unique gi for connecting with people,” Rosse says of her daughter. “Where I’m more analytical, she brings that human component… she brings all our ideas to life.” Williams returns the praise with equal clarity. “She’s truly the smartest person that I know,” she says. “The way that she looks at trends… and then takes an idea and says, how do we make this come to life?” Together, they describe their dynamic in one word:

synergistic.

On paper, The Break House is a three-in-one concept: a counter-service restaurant, café, and roo op bar. Every detail, from the all-day menu to the ocean-facing seating, was designed to ll gaps they identi ed in the local market. “We didn’t ask what we wanted to do,” Rosse explains. “We asked what the destination needed.” The answer was a space as comfortable at sunrise as it is at sunset. “Whether you’re stopping in for a co ee or coming in for a cocktail watching the sunset, you can really come here morning to night and experience a di erent vibe each hour,” Williams says.

That “come as you are” ethos extends beyond the guest experience; it de nes how they work together and how they live. “People always talk about work-life balance,” Williams says. “Mom’s coined the term work-life integration.” It’s not uncommon for the two to pivot from a yoga class to a nancial review over dinner, or to turn a casual idea into a full- edged activation, like the Break House run club, which now boasts more than 200 members and regular community events.

Even their biggest challenges have reinforced that alignment. Securing the bid for The Break House came with public scrutiny and skepticism, but the duo stayed focused. “We had so much noise,” Rosse says. “And we just put our blinders on… we know this market, and we’re really clear on what we’re building here.” The result is a concept that complements Oceans 234 while expanding the de nition of what beachfront dining can look like in Broward County.

Today, their combined operations employ more than 150 people, many of whom have been with the company for over a decade. That longevity, Williams notes, is no accident. “It goes to show how much Danielle cares about the people in her organization,” she says. As for what’s next, Rosse remains characteristically measured. “I always think I’m going to take a break,” she says. “But something always comes up.” Expansion may be on the table, but not at the expense of intention. For now, the focus is on re ning what they’ve built and continuing to evolve alongside the community that shaped them.

THE STORIES WE CARRY

DARA LEVAN

DARA LEVAN’S NEW NOVEL TURNS INWARD, EXPLORING GRIEF, MEMORY, AND THE QUIET MOMENTS THAT SHAPE A LIFE

Dara Levan has been collecting stories for as long as she can remember. Not in the abstract, but in the most literal sense, visiting her grandmother in a North Miami Beach nursing home at age 12, asking questions, listening carefully, and writing down what she heard. Early on, it became second nature to translate emotion into language.

Years later, a er earning degrees in English and journalism from Indiana University, Levan found herself immersed in formative experiences that shape a writer’s voice. A reporting stint at a daily newspaper pushed her beyond the expected. Assigned to cover an attempted murder, she confronted a level of gravity that lingers long a er the byline fades. It was a lesson in narrative, but also in proximity to real lives at their most fragile. Her path, however, was

anything but linear. Levan returned to South Florida and pivoted toward a career in communication sciences and disorders, earning her master’s degree at Nova Southeastern University. As a pediatric speechlanguage pathologist, her work centered on helping others nd their voice, a natural extension of what had long guided her. Alongside that, she edited non ction books while her own remained, for the moment, unwritten. By 2017, the shi became more intentional. What began as a blog, Every Soul Has a Story® , expanded into something broader. A platform, then a podcast, and eventually a guiding philosophy rooted in one central belief: everyone has a story worth telling. The challenge lies in how we choose to tell it and whether we are willing to share the ways it shapes us. Her rst two books, It Could Be Worse and Being Jewish Now (Zibby Publishing), re ect that ethos. The latter, a collaborative work to which Levan contributed, has remained a xture on the USA Today Best Sellers list, marking 28 weeks on the list at press time. Levan is among a group of voices shaping contemporary

conversations around identity, resilience, and cultural experience, which underscores her status as a USA Today Bestselling author.

In Shaken to the Core , out June 23 from Regalo Press (distributed by Simon & Schuster), that focus deepens. The novel follows a woman navigating loss, marriage, and the terrain of reinvention. Early praise for the novel from New York Times bestselling author Jill Santopolo: “Dara Levan's exploration of grief and the small moments that can change our world is heartfelt and lovingly celebrates the power and beauty of summer camp.” Though it stands on its own, the story quietly connects to a familiar character from her rst novel, extending a narrative thread without requiring the reader to retrace it. There are no sweeping declarations or easy resolutions. Instead, the story unfolds in quiet, recognizably human moments. A rediscovered diary that collapses time. A marriage sustained by love but marked by devastating news. It’s ultimately an upli ing story about chosen family that explores how motherhood and mothering transcend biology. A central question lingers throughout. What do we do with the time we have le ?

Levan resists o ering a de nitive answer. The

narrative settles instead into the in-between, where memory comforts as much as it unsettles, and where the future reveals itself in steps rather than clear direction. It is a space she navigates with precision, attuned to the tension between joy and sorrow. Her work is anchored in a broader philosophy. Authenticity, in her view, is a practice. Living truthfully requires a willingness to confront discomfort, to sit with uncertainty, and to trust that meaning can emerge from both. For all its introspection, her writing remains grounded in the everyday. Family, nature, eeting conversations with strangers. These are the details that animate her work, small but never insigni cant.

“I believe that radiance emerges from our breaking points. None of us are immune to loss. I learned that just six months before my wedding, when my husband’s mother died suddenly,” Levan said.

She does not position herself as having all the answers. Levan’s stories are layered with empathy, curiosity, and hope.

Shaken to the Core is available for pre-order now through major online retailers and local bookstores ahead of its June 23 release. For more, visit DaraLevan.com or follow her on Instagram @ Dara.Levan

A GROWN WOMAN’S GUIDE TO HORMONES, WEIGHT LOSS, AND FEELING LIKE YOURSELF AGAIN

There is a particular con dence that settles in during a woman’s forties. It isn’t loud, but it is undeniable, shaped by years of managing careers, households, friendships, crises, and expectations. It comes from knowing what matters— and what doesn’t.

And then, just as that clarity takes root, our bodies decide to renegotiate the terms.

Sleep grows elusive. Metabolism slows. A glass of wine feels di erent. Heat rises in board meetings. Brain fog interrupts sentences mid-thought, and the scale resists even the most disciplined routine.

Welcome to your forties, baby.

No one quite explains this chapter— the one where capability is at its peak, yet hormones begin their quiet shi . It can feel unfair. A er everything accomplished, this?

The truth is far less dramatic and far more biological.

Chad Van Horn, a board-certi ed physician assistant accredited by the NCCPA and recognized among the Top 100 “Best Aesthetic Providers in America,” works with women navigating this recalibration every day. Trained at Barry University in Miami, he approaches hormone and metabolic health with precision rather than panic.

“The biggest misconception,” he says, “is that hormone therapy and weight loss are all or nothing.”

Smart women know better. Hormone replacement therapy, when thoughtfully prescribed, is not about chasing youth. It is about restoring equilibrium as estrogen and testosterone decline. Sleep shi s.

Mood uctuates. Libido changes. Metabolism slows. These are measurable transitions, not personal failures.

“Many don’t realize the real reasons and bene ts of HRT and just how life-changing it can be for the right person,” Van Horn explains. His patients commonly report improved energy, better sleep, sharper mental

clarity, improved libido, and a steadier emotional state. Not the frantic energy of twenty- ve, but the grounded stamina that carries through a full day without crashing by early evening.

Determining candidacy is deliberate. Van Horn begins with a lifestyle assessment, medical history, and baseline labs. Hormone therapy is typically reserved for midlife and beyond. Weight-loss medications are considered for women who want assistance leaning out, have no medical contraindications, and have not reached their goals through traditional e orts alone.

Then there is the weight conversation—the one happening everywhere and nowhere at the same time. The slimmer friend insists she’s “just walking more.” Someone mentions cutting sugar. No one quite admits what’s actually helping. For decades, the directive was simple: eat less, move more.

Yet behind the green juices and Pilates reformers, GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide are reshaping the conversation by addressing appetite regulation and glucose metabolism at the hormonal level. These medications reduce cravings and excess sugar absorption while improving metabolic e ciency, acknowledging that willpower was never the entire equation.

“It can actually be highly customized to the person and their situation and goals,” Van Horn says. These medications are not shortcuts; they are metabolic tools administered under supervision.

When hormone optimization is combined with GLP-1 therapy, results can accelerate. “If metabolism is like having a more e cient processing warehouse, GLP-1 is like having additional workers in the warehouse,” he explains. Balanced hormones improve metabolic e ciency, while GLP-1 medications assist with appetite and glucose control.

Discernment is essential. Hormone therapy once carried sweeping

warnings about cancer and heart disease, though evolving research has challenged earlier assumptions. Van Horn remains cautious with women who have strong genetic cancer histories or markers such as BRCA or HER2, emphasizing informed consent. He would also refer out patients with insulin-managed type 2 diabetes, pancreatic issues, or a history of alcoholism.

Supervision matters. In a marketplace crowded with pop-up med spas o ering suspiciously low prices and cookie-cutter injections, red ags include lack of proper licensing, salesdriven consultations, and one-size- tsall protocols.

Stopping GLP-1 medications without adjusting habits can result in weight regain. “If you remove the agent of change, and go right back to the same habits that caused the weight gain in the rst place, you will gain the weight again,” he says. The goal is not lifelong dependency. Some women cycle o and return if needed, while others remain on a low maintenance or “micro” dose to preserve results strategically.

Beyond aesthetics, the implications are signi cant. Heart disease remains the leading cause of mortality in the United States, and risks climb with diabetes and metabolic dysfunction.

“These GLP-1 medications are doing a lot more good than harm,” Van Horn says. Looking ahead, he sees peptides as the next frontier, noting that researchers are beginning to better understand their role in metabolism and gene regulation.

The forties bring sharper instincts and a refreshing intolerance for mediocrity—in relationships, careers, skincare, and self-care alike. The hormonal shi s are not betrayals; they are signals that our chemistry is evolving and deserves modern support. Forty is not a crisis. It is a recalibration—with better information, better medicine, and far less apology. Hot, unquestionably. Unbothered, entirely. icon-wellness.com

POMPANOBEACH

The Property

W Pompano Beach Hotel & Residences

WHERE: 20 North Ocean Blvd, Pompano Beach FL 33062

DETAILS: W Pompano Beach Hotel & Residences debuts one of the rst co-located W Hotel & Residences concepts in the Western Hemisphere, seamlessly pairing a W Hotel with branded residences in one landmark destination. While the project channels the bold, irreverent spirit long associated with the W brand, it also signals a thoughtful evolution — introducing a more re ned sensibility shaped by elevated design, curated experiences, and a stronger emphasis on residential living.

Spanning nearly four acres along the Atlantic coastline in northern Broward County, the property occupies a prominent address at the intersection of Atlantic Boulevard and State Road A1A, serving as both a physical and symbolic gateway to Pompano Beach’s continued growth.

Designed by Nichols Architects in collaboration with KORA, the sculptural tower will rise as a de ning silhouette along Pompano Beach’s waterfront, while interiors by Meyer Davis and landscape design by Enea Landscape bring a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments, reinforcing a cohesive, design-forward interpretation of the W’s signature lifestyle. Residences range from two- to four-bedroom condominium homes spanning approximately 2,400 to 3,400 square feet, alongside studio, one- and two-bedroom suites from 580 to 1,860 square feet, all thoughtfully designed with luxury nishes and attention to detail. Occupying the highest levels of the iconic 24-story tower, the Penthouse Collection o ers an even more elevated lifestyle, with spectacular panoramic views, seamless indoor-outdoor living and expansive layouts inspired by single-family estates. Floor plans range from 3,250 to over 6,200 square feet, with select residences featuring double master suites and ceilings soaring up to 11 feet. Grand east-to-west windows and sweeping terraces bathe these homes in natural light, delivering an unparalleled sense of oating above South Florida’s coastline.

STANDOUT AMENITIES: The property’s amenity package is

designed as an extension of W Hotels’ signature lifestyle, blending private beachfront living with the vibrant energy of a ve-star hotel. At its center, a 60,000-square-foot WET Pool Deck anchors the outdoor experience, complete with private cabanas, a bar and grill, pickleball and padel courts, and a resort-style pool and jacuzzi set against sweeping waterfront views. Indoors, W’s signature Living Room serves as a dynamic social hub, hosting live music, art exhibitions, wine tastings, cultural events, alongside a hidden speakeasy lounge for more intimate evenings. Fitness and wellness thrive at the FIT center and yoga studio, with a full schedule of energizing classes and state-of-the-art equipment. The AWAY Spa completes the experience, providing bespoke treatments, a cold plunge, jacuzzi, sauna, steam rooms, and indulgent hair-and-nail services for total rejuvenation. In addition, condominium residents bene t from an additional layer of privacy, with exclusive access to a private pool and deck, outdoor barbecue area, a club lounge, co-working spaces, a private tness center, and a grand entertaining space complete with individual wine lockers

WHY IT’S SPECIAL: As Related Group’s fourth development in Pompano Beach, this project re ects the company’s sustained and strategic commitment to the city’s growth and evolution. By introducing a mix of luxury residences and hotel-branded amenities, it positions Pompano Beach as one of South Florida’s most compelling residential destinations, attracting buyers seeking an elevated coastal lifestyle at a price point that’s exceptionally rare compared with Miami. With its highly anticipated 2029 completion, the development signals Related Group’s vision of shaping the city’s skyline while delivering a sophisticated, full-service living experience that rivals more established luxury markets in the region.

PRICING INFORMATION: Initial pricing for The Residences starts at $3.1 million, with The Suites starting at $800,000. The Penthouse Collection ranges from $6.5 million to more than $15 million.

The Property

LAS OLAS ISLES, FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA

WHERE: 441 Isle of Palms Dr.

DETAILS: 10,500 sq. . • 7 beds / 9 baths • 2026 construction • 100’ deepwater. This exceptional waterfront estate in the coveted Las Olas Isles o ers a rare combination of scale, privacy, and architectural presence. Spanning more than 10,500 square feet across three levels, the residence is designed with a modern sensibility, blending re ned nishes with expansive, light- lled interiors. A grand foyer with soaring ceilings and Italian tile ooring introduces a series of open living spaces, where walls of glass and oversized terraces create a seamless connection to the waterfront setting. Ideally positioned just minutes from Fort Lauderdale Beach, Las Olas Boulevard, and downtown, the home balances quiet exclusivity with immediate access to the city’s most desirable destinations.

STANDOUT AMENITIES: Three wet bars, a commercial-grade elevator, clubroom, gym, and a four-car garage with capacity for up to eight vehicles. Additional features include two replaces, smart home integration, a fully equipped catering kitchen, and triple-insulated energy-e cient construction. The home o ers seven bedrooms and nine bathrooms, along

with a private o ce and a dedicated wellness center complete with a gym and sauna. A bespoke chef’s kitchen anchors the main living level, out tted with top-tier appliances, custom cabinetry, and an oversized island. Further highlights include a media room, game room, and a third- oor lounge with sweeping Intracoastal views. Outdoors, more than 6,600 square feet of covered terraces surround a heated pool and spa, complemented by a private 100foot concrete dock with direct ocean access.

WHY IT’S SPECIAL: Walled and gated for privacy, the property features two summer kitchens on the rst and third oors. Properties of this scale and con guration are increasingly rare in Las Olas Isles. With its expansive footprint, eight-car air-conditioned garage, and seamless indoor-outdoor design, the estate delivers a level of waterfront living that feels both elevated and highly livable. It is a home designed for both grand entertaining and everyday ease, set within one of Fort Lauderdale’s most sought-a er enclaves.

PRICING INFORMATION: $16,900,000.00

Meet Zachary Press: Your South Florida Real Estate Insider

For more than 25 years, South Florida has been home to Zachary Press—a place where he grew up, built his life, and developed a deep connection to the vibrant communities stretching from Palm Beach to Broward County and beyond. With over a decade of experience in the real estate industry, Zachary has become known for his unmatched local knowledge, sharp market instincts, and his genuine passion for helping people navigate one of life’s biggest decisions.

Whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or simply curious about the market, Zachary’s clients describe him as the person you can call for anything and everything real estate. He blends professionalism with a personable, down-to-earth approach, making every interaction effortless and enjoyable. His commitment goes beyond transactions—Zachary prides himself on building long-term relationships and being the trusted advisor, you can rely on long after the closing table.

Driven, dedicated, and deeply rooted in the community, Zachary Press isn’t just an agent—he’s your friendly neighborhood expert, here to guide, support, and elevate your real estate journey with confidence and care.

JULIE TALENFELD

President of BoardroomPR

1776 N. Pine Island Road, Suite 320 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33322

954.370.8999

jtalenfeld@boardroompr.com. BoardroomPR.com

THE GROUP CHAT IS THE NEW BOARDROOM

There was a time when decisions were made in boardrooms. Now they’re made in group chats.

Before a restaurant is booked, a school is toured, a candidate is hired, or a brand is trusted, there’s often a quiet thread lighting up somewhere in the background:

“Has anyone worked with them?”

“Wait. I’ve heard mixed things.”

“I love it there! Sending you the info now.”

The real decision-making table? It

feedback is often more candid, more specific, and more decisive.

There’s no algorithm to crack. No paid placement. No spin. Just real opinions, shared in real time, among people who trust each other enough to be honest, and influential enough to make it matter.

Which brings us to the part many businesses miss: your reputation isn’t just what shows up on Google. It’s what gets said when you’re not in the chat.

lives in our cell phones.

From text threads to WhatsApp circles to mom groups to Slack channels that function with the efficiency of a Fortune 500 company, these micro-networks have become one of the most powerful forces shaping reputation today. And while it may sound like traditional wordof-mouth marketing, it’s something far more accelerated—and far more influential.

This is word-of-mouth on overdrive. It’s faster: One question can yield ten opinions before you’ve even finished your morning coffee.

It’s curated: These aren’t strangers on the internet—these are trusted, like-minded circles.

And it’s private: This means that the

And from a PR POV, that changes the game.

You can’t pitch your way into these conversations, but you can earn your way in. If you deliver consistently excellent experiences, stay responsive, thoughtful, and easy to work with, and give people something worth talking about and worth recommending, your chances of access are higher.

In this oversaturated environment, the brands and consultants that win aren’t always the loudest. They’re the ones that come up instantly when someone asks, “Do you know anyone who…?”—whether that’s a lastminute dinner reservation in Miami or the name of a consultant everyone suddenly has to use.

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NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN

The Apogee Awards is a unique awards program created by South Florida Business & Wealth (SFBW) magazine to recognize distinguished C-Suite leaders whose dedication to their industries and communities deserves particular recognition.

NOMINATE NOW Scan QR Code

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Good PRESS

The Royal Dames of Cancer Research hosted a record-breaking spring luncheon. Event Co-Chairs Carol Kalagher, Becky Irvine, and Cassie Pagan delivered an inspiring multigenerational program, rea rming a shared commitment to advancing cancer research.

1. Back row: Shannon Wayte, Stephanie Toothaker, Sophia Mylona, Maureen Bennett. Front row: Mary Kate Wood, Bailey Brooks Mashburn, Lisa Kasten, Cathy Callard, Beliza Bermudez-Lashofer, Emily Rae, Katina Paese, Margaret Meldeau

2. Royal Dames President, Sophia Mylona, Carole Nugent and Dr. Candice Sareli, VP, Associate Dean of Research at NSU

3. Patrick Patel, Ladan Patel, Becky Irvine, Lance Irvine

4. Event Co-chair Becky Irvine, Royal Dames President, Sophia Mylona, Co-chairs Carol Kalagher and Cassie Pagan

5. Linda Von Allmen, Helena Kolenda, Carmen Hotchkiss, Connie Chaney, Kathy Davis

6. Ladan Patel, Rita Case, Carol Kalagher, Bailey Brooks Mashburn