Trying economic times are tough on the psyche and on the wallet but there are little things we can all do to make a difference right here in South Miami. Buy local. Sustainability in action starts on Sunset Drive. So never mind if you can save a dime or a quarter by driving those extra miles to the Big Box super store or by rifling through a million useless items to find the one designer special on sale. Buy local. Local businesses listen. Try going to Wal Mart or CVS and asking the manager to order a specialty item for you. Forget that, try going into one of these stores and asking a question period. There is nothing like the service and attention you receive in SoMi when the owner of the business is on hand and has an immediate vested interest in making you happy. The Red Sunset Merchant Association offers an excellent website to guide any shopper around town. Check it out at rsmasm.com and do your research before heading out the door. Happy Holiday Shopping!
International eyewear purveyor and designer Edward Beiner likens his boutique presentation to that of a local farmer offering fresh produce to his immediate community. “What we do is similar to the farmer who is in the neighborhood market providing fresh and organic tomatoes and vegetables except we do it on a retail scale. People are looking for that, a unique and different locally grown retail experience that you cannot find in the big box malls.”
The Edward Beiner Group
A South Miami destination for over 30 years now, Edward Beiner Fine Eyewear offers his own exclusive frame designs in addition to a wide selection from designers like IC Berlin, Oliver Peoples, Chanel, Miu Miu and The Row. They also offer state of the art lenses with a patented eye point technology that simulates the human eye to recreate perfect vision. “I not only speak for myself but also for my colleagues when I say we go to pleasurable trouble to bring a unique and original retail experience to our community. Yes we go to New York, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and around the world to particular shows to provide original merchandise and the interested and engaged client service to match.” Call 305-661-1205 for more information or visit edwardbeiner.com.
Veronica’s Dollhouse
Miami sisters Veronica and Andrea Gonzalez created the life sized dollhouse of their dreams when they opened their inimitable boutique and teahouse. Lavish furniture, elegant fireplace, exquisite teas, candles and chocolate abound in their Rococo meets Victorian designed boutique. In addition to their famous vintage treasures, and classic dresses and shoes, there are gift possibilities for every room in the house and fine pet accessories as well. Holiday themed tea parties with decorated rooms and special menus are available for a one of a kind celebration. Reserve your weekend festivities early as they tend to book quickly. Call 305-662- 2966 for more information or visit veronicasdollhouseboutique.com.
Footworks
Footworks has become the unofficial South Florida runner’s headquarters since they opened as an Earth shoe store back in 1973. For over 20 years now owners Hans and Laurie have been an integral part of the growth of the local running scene. Check out the new models of running gear and winter apparel available now at their South Miami headquarters store. The hot new item which is a must for any exerciser is the Runcuf. Velcro it around your wrist and it has plenty of pocket space for phone, license, credit cards and keys and stays dry as you work up a sweat. Complimentary gift wrapping is available for all purchases. Mark your calendar to drop in on Black Friday for the Blow Out Sale.
Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa
Husband and wife team Rick Griffiths and Wendy Mendes were looking to get into the business of making people happy by providing a positive impact in the lives of their clients. They found the answer in Hand and Stone. The aim is to be able to provide a luxurious spa experience on a more affordable scale. Specializing in hot smooth basalt stone, this signature massage treatment relaxes muscles and invigorates the skin. Try a peppermint oil scalp rub or eucalyptus and lavender aromatherapy massage so you can feel like “your stress has disappeared and you died and went straight to heaven” according to Mendes. Customized combination gift packages are available. The Grand Opening i s November 2 1 . Cal l 305-662-2222 or visit handandstone.com.
Town Kitchen and Bar
One of the favorite area choices for a vibrant happy hour and late night cocktail scene, Town has developed a well earned reputation of catering to the local community. Offering local produce whenever available, locally baked breads and pastries, and a flexible menu specializing in “world comfort food” Town makes a great stop for shoppers on the go or for a nice gift certificate any foodie will enjoy. Everything is made from scratch at Town and there are lots of varieties of appetizers, vegetarian options and six different fish menu choices on an average. Town also offers indoor or outdoor seating to match their midtown Miami feel. Private party room is available to book for your holiday celebration and management will work with guests to develop their own unique menu. Call John Janette at 305-740-8118 or visit townkitchenbar.com.
Have a safe holiday season. Remember to visit your local business friends and neighbors for unique gifts your loved ones are sure to treasure while the business owners will treasure you for frequenting their stores.
Check out Red Sunset Merchant Association retail businesses at rsmasm.com and click on directory to find a listing of local merchants of South Miami and their accompanying website.
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