Miami Beach Shines at eMerge Americas 2025 Tech Conference

The expo hall at eMerge Americas 2025 bustled with activity as thousands of attendees explored cutting-edge technology exhibits. Held on March 27–28 at the Miami Beach Convention Center, this year’s eMerge conference drew a record crowd of over 20,000 attendees from 60+ countries, the largest turnout in the event’s history. The two-day gathering showcased South Florida’s growing stature as a global tech hub, bringing together innovators, investors, and business leaders to exchange ideas and forge new partnerships. Amid the excitement, the City of Miami Beach played a prominent role, using the conference to promote its forward-thinking, business-friendly climate and commitment to innovation.

Star-Studded Keynotes Inspire Attendees

The eMerge Americas 2025 main stage featured an array of high-profile speakers who shared insights and inspiration with the audience. Keynote highlights included:

Daymond John – The Shark Tank investor and FUBU founder kicked off Day 1 with an engaging conversation about entrepreneurship and perseverance
Dave Portnoy – The founder of Barstool Sports discussed his journey building a digital media empire, in a fireside chat with Miami Mayor Francis Suarez that offered candid lessons on risk-taking and resilience.
Palmer Luckey – The Oculus VR wunderkind turned defense tech entrepreneur (founder of Anduril Industries) delivered a keynote on the future of dual-use technology and innovation in national defense
Armando “Pitbull” Pérez – The Grammy-winning artist-turned-entrepreneur returned to eMerge, energizing the crowd with insights on how emerging digital technologies are fueling new opportunities in business and education

These visionary talks – alongside other notable speakers like tech pioneer Martine Rothblatt and celebrity chef-entrepreneur Jacques Torres – sparked excitement and “big idea” conversations throughout the conference halls.

Major Announcement: Building South Florida’s Next-Gen Economy

One of the biggest headlines from eMerge 2025 came courtesy of Stephen Ross, the billionaire developer and Miami Dolphins owner. Ross used the eMerge stage to unveil a new initiative aimed at attracting more companies and investors to South Florida. In a Friday keynote, he announced a strategic partnership (alongside eMerge Americas co-founder Melissa Medina and Florida Council of 100 CEO Michael Simas) designed to position Florida as a prime destination for global business expansion

The plan will support fast-growing industries – including finance and fintech, health care and medical technology, aerospace and logistics, and clean technology – that are key to the region’s future

Ross noted that South Florida is “already poised to become an innovation hub,” and emphasized the importance of linking local resources to foster growth. “With initiatives like this, we can link educational institutions, entrepreneurial programs, and sources of capital to create a new environment for American businesses,” Ross said during his remarks

This bold commitment, backed by Ross’s Related Companies and partners, underscores the region’s momentum and the public-private collaboration driving South Florida’s next-generation economy.

Miami Beach Showcases Its Tech-Friendly Climate

Throughout eMerge Americas, Miami Beach’s presence was strongly felt on the expo floor. The city’s Economic Development and Information Technology departments jointly hosted a booth showcasing Miami Beach’s tech-friendly business climate, its range of economic development incentives, and its unwavering commitment to innovation. City representatives engaged conference-goers with information about Miami Beach’s pro-business offerings, from lease subsidy grants and job creation incentives to streamlined permitting, all underscoring that the city is serious about attracting and nurturing high-growth companies.

Mayor Steven Meiner also took the stage during the conference, reinforcing the city’s vision to build a year-round economy centered on innovation, inclusion, and smart growth. His participation reflected Miami Beach’s leadership-level commitment to partnering with entrepreneurs, investors, and tech leaders shaping the future.

Crucially, Miami Beach made it clear that it welcomes businesses in sectors like technology, finance, art, culture, and healthcare. These industries, well represented at eMerge, align with the city’s strategic focus to diversify beyond tourism and hospitality. With a supportive local government and competitive incentive programs, Miami Beach positioned itself as an ideal landing spot for companies looking to expand or relocate in South Florida. The conference provided a perfect platform for the city to tell its story: that Miami Beach is open for business and ready to innovate alongside the world’s best.

Championing Startups and Innovation

Startups took center stage at eMerge 2025 through the conference’s signature Startup Showcase & Accelerator competition – and Miami Beach played an active role here as well. More than 100 promising startups from around the world pitched their ideas over the two days, vying for a game-changing $125,000 investment prize put up by event partners. In the end, the final spotlight belonged to SmArT, an early-stage agriculture-tech startup based in Miami, which won this year’s Startup Showcase and secured the $125K funding to accelerate its growth

Notably, one of the judges for the startup pitch finals was Miami Beach Commissioner Joseph “Joe” Magazine. Commissioner Magazine’s participation on the judging panel reflects the city’s hands-on engagement in nurturing the startup ecosystem and aligning its economic development efforts with innovation trends. By embedding city leadership directly into events like the Startup Showcase and Accelerator, Miami Beach signals to entrepreneurs that their ideas and businesses are valued and supported here. It’s a powerful message that the city’s commitment to innovation isn’t just talk, it’s actively investing time and resources to help new ventures succeed.

A Forward-Thinking Community Poised for Growth

As eMerge Americas 2025 wrapped up, one message was clear: Miami Beach has cemented its status as a forward-thinking, business-ready city at the heart of South Florida’s tech boom. The city’s high-profile involvement in the conference – from hosting a bustling booth to weighing in on startup pitches – demonstrated Miami Beach’s determination to be more than just a venue for tech events, but a true partner in the innovation ecosystem.

City officials are capitalizing on this momentum to attract the next wave of companies and talent to Miami Beach, ensuring the local economy remains dynamic and diversified. The enthusiastic response at eMerge affirmed that Miami Beach’s pro-innovation stance is resonating with the global tech community. Interested in being part of Miami Beach’s growth story? To learn more about the city’s business attraction initiatives and incentives, visit mbbiz.com and see how Miami Beach is ready to support your success.

This Month in Miami Beach: Opening of The Bass Museum of Art (April 7, 1964)

On April 7, 1964, Miami Beach celebrated the grand opening of The Bass Museum of Art, a milestone marking the establishment of the first municipally operated art museum in South Florida. Founded with the generous donation of more than 500 works by collectors John and Johanna Bass, the museum has since blossomed into a cornerstone of cultural enrichment and artistic expression for both residents and visitors.

The Bass Museum, located in the historic Art Deco district, initially showcased European Renaissance and Baroque art, but has since evolved to feature contemporary pieces, reflecting Miami Beach's dynamic and diverse identity. The museum continues to host innovative exhibitions, educational programs, and community events.

This month, we celebrate over half a century of The Bass Museum’s ongoing contribution to the artistic landscape of Miami Beach, a legacy that continues to inspire creativity and appreciation for the arts. Visitors can explore the museum's stunning architecture and curated collections, capturing the vibrant spirit of Miami Beach.

Wanahat: Providing Sustainable Fashion and Positive Human Impact

In January 1969, a massive oil spill, in Santa Barbara, California, caused major destruction to the Southern California environment. The tragedy captured the attention of Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson, who leveraged student passion and energy for anti-war protests, for ecological activism, particularly regarding air and water pollution, to spur national attention to environmental issues, galvanized an environmental movement, and led to the creation of Earth Day on April 4, 1970. The first Earth Day attracted 20 million people who participated in teach-ins and gatherings across the U.S., leading to the creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the passage of the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Engendered Species Act.

By 1990, Earth Day went global, with events and activities taking place worldwide, marking the beginning of Earth Month, attracting 200 million participants from 141 countries. By 1992, the United Nations became actively involved a further enhanced the United Nation’s visibility. Today, Earth Month is widely recognized as one of the most important month-long observances in the world. In honor of Earth Month in Miami Beach, we are highlighting Wanahat, a sustainable stylish millinery located on Lincoln Road, in the heart of Miami Beach. “Wana” means weave in Ecuador’s indigenous language, Quechua, and entwines tradition, community values and culture with environmentally friendly fashion.

Wanahat began in Quito, Ecuador where, two childhood friends, Cristina Dalmau and Maria Rosa Troya, spent their early years together. From playing by the riverbanks, to helping their mothers in weaving shops, they formed a friendship and shared heritage. The women in their family shared the art of weaving with each thread telling a story of their culture, resilience, and craftsmanship.

Cristina and Rose grew up watching their grandmothers weave intricate patterns into straw hats, an ancient skill they were taught watching their maternal ancestors. The fine, hand-woven hats, known as sombreros de paja toquilla, are renowned for their beauty and durability. The hats were more than accessories; the hats are symbols of rich Ecuadorian heritage and on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

Cristina and Rose dreamed of opening a store that would share the beautiful Ecuadorian hats and tell the story of their family weavers, culture, and history. The ladies sought to build a business that would serve as a bridge to Ecuador, create a community that connects women, and could be a catalyst for opportunity.

In 2015, Wanahat opened in Upper Beuna Vista. The shop was small, full of character, and filled with a variety of hats.

The process of making a Toquilla Straw Hat, known worldwide as Panama Hat, is long and involved, and Cristina and Rosa respect every step. The iconic Panama Hat originated in Ecuador, dating back to the 16th century, and are woven from fibers from a toquilla palm tree characteristic of the Ecuadorian cost. Costal farmers cultivate the toquillas and harvest the stems before separating the fiber from the green outer skin. This is boiled to remove chlorophyll and dried for subsequent bleaching over a wood fire. Weavers take this raw material and begin weaving the crown and the brim of the hat; a process that may take from one day to eight months to complete. The WANAhat celebrates a tradition of style and ethical craftsmanship, making every hat a fashion statement and a symbol of heritage and sustainability.

The Wanahat owners spend long days educating customers about the history and production of the Wanahat hats and have found that Greater Miami community is intrigued by the culture crafting, resulting in a loyal following of customers who valued the craftsmanship and the commitment to traditional millinery. So they are growing their business slowly, ensuring they stay true to the foundation of their business, the weavers, and partners, and maintaining an authentic process that is respectful, equitable and fair.

Visit Wanahat, located at 811 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach, FL 33139 and check out their Instagram at @Wanahat.

This Month in Miami Beach History: The Beatles’ Iconic Performance at the Deauville Hotel

In February 1964, the Beatles performed their second live U.S. television appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show and Miami Beach became the epicenter of Beatlemania. The February 16 broadcast attracted an estimated 70 million viewers, cementing the Beatles' place in music history and worldwide attention to Miami Beach.

The broadcast took place in the iconic Deauville Hotel, a glamorous symbol of the city's mid-century architecture, and, played a pivotal role in showcasing Miami Beach as a global destination for entertainment and culture. The Beatles were more than a moment in pop culture; the performance demonstrated the power of large-scale entertainment to drive economic development. The influx of fans to the city had a significant economic impact on the Miami Beach brand as a hub for glamour and innovation, and the ripple effect of this performance extended far beyond the music and stimulated unexpected local business performance.

This historic milestone is a lasting example of the enduring synergy between culture and business in Miami Beach. The Beatles' performance helped solidify the Miami Beach’s image as a premier hospitality community and destination for art and culture and may have been a catalyst for events such as Art Basel, South Beach Wine & Food Festival, and more, that continue to fuel the Miami Beach economy, attract global audiences, and cement Miami Beach’s best-in-class reputation.

Art Basel Miami Beach 2024: Art, Culture, and Global Connections

Art Basel Miami Beach 2024, America’s premier art show, is a major local economic driver and an international cultural platform for renowned artists and galleries. Held December 2- 8, 2024, the global art fair stimulated hospitality and continues to evolve into a cultural experience known as Art Week Miami Beach.

Economic Impact

With over 75,000 attendees, the 22nd edition of Art Basel Miami Beach generated an estimated impressive $547 million in economic activity—an increase of nearly 10% from the previous year. This economic infusion was felt across multiple sectors, including:

Hospitality: Hotels reported near-total occupancy during the fair, with many establishments reaching premium rate levels.
Retail and Dining: Restaurants, clubs, and luxury retailers experienced significant increases in patronage, further emphasizing the fair's economic ripple effect.
Transportation: Private jet arrivals and luxury vehicle rentals surged, underscoring Miami Beach's appeal to high-net-worth individuals.

Building Global Relationships

Art Basel Miami Beach provides a platform for fostering international relationships that enhance Miami Beach’s cultural and economic significance. During Art Week Miami Beach 2024, the City of Miami Beach welcomed a delegation from Basel, Switzerland, and members of the Swiss diplomatic and business communities.

The Swiss delegation met with Mayor Steven Meiner, City Commission members, and local businesses to celebrate the Sister City relationship between Miami Beach and Basel, Switzerland. Discussions focused on fostering deeper cultural and economic exchanges to benefit both cities.

“Our enduring partnership with Basel, Switzerland, is invaluable,” said Mayor Steven Meiner. “This alliance ignites boundless opportunities, driving bold, visionary endeavors that push the frontiers of artistic innovation and global cultural impact.”

Honorary Consul of Switzerland in Miami René Riedi added, “The Sister City relationship between Basel and Miami Beach is a vital link that continues to deepen our cultural and economic exchange. We are thrilled to expand this meaningful connection.”

Cultural Milestone

Art Basel has solidified Miami Beach as a cultural epicenter, drawing international art enthusiasts, collectors, celebrities, and industry leaders. The 2024 show featured 286 galleries and showcased works from globally renowned and emerging artists . Major sales, such as David Hammons’ "Untitled (2014)" for $4.75 million, underscored the fair’s role as a marketplace for high-caliber contemporary art.

The event extends beyond the art world, positioning Miami Beach as a premier destination for creativity and innovation. Local institutions including the Greater Miami Convention and Visitor Bureau (GMCVB), Bass Museum, Miami Beach Botanical Garden and local and countywide hospitality and cultural organizations amplified the city’s reputation as a hub for art and culture, tourism, and economic vitality. Beyond the canvas, public-private partnerships and investments in cultural infrastructure, including galleries, museums, and public art programs, are transforming Miami Beach into a year-round destination for art lovers and creatives.

Looking Ahead

As Miami Beach continues to host Art Basel, the city reaffirms its commitment to fostering an environment where art and commerce thrive together.

Art Basel Miami Beach is a shining example of how a single event can redefine a city’s identity, proving that art is not only a celebration of creativity but also a cornerstone of economic development.

This Month in Miami Beach History: The Day It Snowed in Paradise

Miami Beach is synonymous with sunshine and tropical vibes, and on January 19, 1977, the city experienced something entirely unexpected……snow! For the first, and only, time in recorded history, South Florida saw flurries, turning our sunny paradise into a fleeting winter wonderland.

While the snow did not last, it did capture the imagination of locals and visitors. Businesses embraced the unusual weather, showcasing creativity, resilience, and humor that define Miami Beach. From warm drink specials at cafes to impromptu “winter in paradise” photo ops, the city adapted in style and with a smile.

This rare moment reminds us that even in the face of the unexpected, Miami Beach is a place where challenges spark imagination, innovation and fun.

Take a closer look at this fascinating piece of Miami Beach history—and check out photos from the snowy day.

41st STREET BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY: Improving the Gateway to Miami Beach

January 2025 begins with possibilities and new beginnings. A time to reflect on the past, set goals and strategies, and implement, activate and embrace a fresh ideas, projects and programs. To get a snapshot of the 2025 plans, Amy Mehu, the Executive Director of the 41^st Street Business Improvement District shared the past and future goals for 41^st Street.

What brought you to the 41^st Street Business Improvement District?

I think the opportunity to leverage my decade of experience in government affairs, economic development, community advocacy, and passion to foster collaboration with stakeholders and valuable partnerships, by creating platforms where we can enhance the presence of the 41^st Street corridor through networking and opportunities was appealing. As a former Interim Director of Miami Beach Economic Development Department, as well as my tenure in the City Manager’s Office, I am enthusiastic about creating resources that support business development, including a start-up ecosystem, and increasing the visibility and engagement of 41^st Street locally and beyond.

Tell us about the 41^st Street BID. A Business Improvement District (BID) is a public-private partnership that uses special assessments to fund local improvements in a defined geographic area.

Purpose

BIDs supplement public services and create economic benefits for their members. They can provide services that go beyond what the city offers, such as special events, marketing, and security.

Structure

BIDs are created by the city and managed by public or nonprofit boards. These Board of Directors include local business representatives, residents, and local government officials.

Funding

Commercial property owners elect to self-impose assessments to fund projects and services beyond those provided by the city. This collective investment aims to enhance the district’s attractiveness, boost economic activity, and improve property values, benefiting businesses and the community alike.

The 41st Street Business Improvement District (BID) was established over a two-year period beginning in early 2021 and initiated by the Mayor’s Blue-Ribbon Committee – a group of passionate neighborhood business advocates. This group of dedicated property owners created a BID Steering Committee. Led by Ira Giller, current BID President, the Steering Committee advocated for the district's formation. Their collaborative efforts culminated in a successful creation of the BID in 2023. Currently the Board of Directors includes Ira Giller, Ricki London, Andrew Resnick, Alex Fryd, Michael Goldberg, Aaron Haimov, Judy Schottenstein, Seth Gadinsky and Orli Teitelbaum.

The mission of the 41st Street BID is to enhance the corridor's economic vitality, aesthetic appeal, and overall experience for residents and visitors. The vision is to support the transformation of 41st Street into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly area that enhances the Miami Beach gateway for the next ten years.

Board Members Alex Fryd, Ira Giller and Michael Goldberg with State Representative Fabian Basabe

Tell us about how collaboration is essential to the success of the BID? The City of Miami Beach provides essential services, and the BID enables property owners and business owners to directly influence, and fund specific enhancements uniquely tailored to the 41st Street corridor needs. This collaborative approach ensures that improvements align closely with the community's vision and priorities.

Currently, efforts are concentrated on engaging with property owners and businesses to develop long-term strategies and advocating for their short-term and long-term needs. As the BID evolves, the plan is to implement visible projects that showcase the potential and attract more visitors and encourage investments. Additional services include, but not limited to, enhanced street cleaning, enhanced public safety enhancements, marketing and events, beautification, and business development.

What are the main challenges in the next few years? One of the key challenges is ensuring that, as new opportunities and projects emerge, the priority of the district remains aligned with the community. Property owners play an essential role in this success, as is recognizing the perspectives of residents and businesses. While all viewpoints may differ, the shared vision is clear to make 41st Street a thriving and vibrant community.

The BID focuses on supporting property owners by fostering open communication, offering insights into evolving opportunities, and advocating for solutions that balance growth with the needs of the broader community. When initiatives like redevelopment, new amenities, or improvements arise, addressing concerns early and providing clear explanations of the benefits are essential.

Five years from now, what changes are expected on 41st Street commercial area? With the anticipated completion of the City’s General Obligation Bond (G.O. Bond) project, which will revitalize the 41^st Street corridor with neighborhood landscaping and infrastructure improvements, in spring 2028, the corridor will have improved walkability and flow, making it easier and more enjoyable to explore. in five years, 41st Street corridor redevelopment will be a gamechanger. The corridor will be a central hub—a place where people can pick up fresh produce, shop for local goods, and feel connected to their community. There will be a mix of dining options and retailers that create energy and activity, offering something for everyone. Parking, guided by the BID’s vision, will be more practical and accessible, addressing a need that has long been discussed and reimagined workforce housing seamlessly integrated, supporting the people who contribute to the vitality of the street.

The future vision of 41^st Street is to be a locally, regionally, and potential nationally known destination where businesses thrive, neighbors gather, and visitors are drawn to its charm and convenience.

The BID meetings are open to the public, when are the meetings and how can the public observe and/or participate?

Members of the community can stay informed about the BID, and receive updates on meeting times and details by joining our mailing list at: www.tinyurl.com/Join41st.

New Businesses on 41^st Street

SAB Biotherapeutics (SAB Bio) 777 W 41st Street, Suite 401 | Spring 2024 | Office Size: 1,300 sq. ft.

SAB BIO is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company. Led by Chairman and CEO Samuel J. Reich, a longtime Miami resident, SAB BIO focuses on developing groundbreaking therapies for immune and autoimmune disorders. Their lead clinical trial isSAB-142, which targets Type 1 Diabetes, aiming to delay and potentially prevent disease progression.

“Florida offers the right mix of a strong business climate and growing biotech presence, and we are excited to grow within the Miami area and to open an office on 41st Street,” shared Reich.

The SAB BIO opening highlights 41st Street’s growing appeal for innovative businesses and emerging industries.

Bagel Boss 740 W 41st Street | Fall 2024

Hailing from New York, Bagel Boss has quickly made a name for itself on 41st Street. Known for its freshly baked bagels, hand-crafted spreads, and classic deli sandwiches, Bagel Boss offers locals and visitors a taste of New York tradition. It’s already becoming a neighborhood staple for a quick breakfast or lunch on the go.

David Wrubel, Alfredo Gonzalez, County Commissioner Micky Steinberg, Commissioner Alex Fernandez, Brittnie Bassant, Daniel Baratz, Michael Goldberg, Mayor Steven Meiner, Robin Jacobs and State Representative Fabian Basabe

Royal Veterinary Center 453 Arthur Godfrey Road, Miami Beach | Just Opened

The Royal Veterinary Center brings premium pet care to Miami Beach with a focus on both routine and urgent care services. Open 7 days a week and offering extended hours, Royal Vet Center provides wellness checkups, dental care, diagnostics, and treatments for dogs, cats, and exotic pets. With convenient rear parking and a compassionate team of professionals. Pets just get more than good care, they get great treatment.

What does the future hold? The priority of the 41st Street BID is to bring the Vision Plan to life, transforming the corridor into a vibrant live-work-play (pray + learn) destination that serves the community by attracting and supporting new strategic opportunities. The BID is dedicated to aiding property owners and businesses in fostering a welcoming, pedestrian-friendly environment that balances local charm with broader appeal. Central to our vision, is attracting a mix of high-quality offerings, including upscale restaurants, unique boutiques, and essential workforce housing. The BID will continue to ensure that enhancements from the GOB project, like expanded sidewalks, lush shade canopies; and future BID projects such as centralized valet services to improve accessibility and reduce congestion, are realized for a safer, more enjoyable, more accessible 41st street.

Residents Right to Know for December 11, 2024

Pagio’s & Associates, LLC: Pioneers of Change

Hispanic Heritage Month is a celebration of Hispanic and Latino history and culture. While we celebrate Hispanic and Latino communities throughout the year, from September 15 to October 15, we give extra recognition to the many contributions made to the history and culture of the United States, including important advocacy work, vibrant art, popular and traditional foods, and much more. The theme for 2024 is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together.” In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, this business spotlight focuses on Pagio’s & Associates, a Hispanic-owned business.

Once upon a time, in the vibrant city of Lima, Peru, two sisters named Paola and Giovanna Guerra, dreamed of a future filled with opportunity and success. Despite facing obstacles and challenges along the way, their determination never wavered. With a shared passion for numbers and a deep sense of ambition, they decided to embark on a new adventure together. In 2008, Paola and Giovanna made a bold decision to leave their homeland and pursue their dreams in Miami Beach, Florida. With nothing but a suitcase with a few possessions and full of hopes and aspirations, they set out to establish their own accounting firm. The journey was not easy, as they encountered language barriers and cultural differences, but their strong bond and unwavering belief in each other propelled them forward. Founded in 2009, their business blossomed from a humble endeavor into a thriving hub for immigration, tax, and accounting services.

With over 15 years of experience and counting, together they have developed clientele who can trust them to provide exceptional service. “Opening a business as a Hispanic entrepreneur can be daunting, but our strong sense of community and family support helps us navigate through the toughest challenges with grace and perseverance,” states Paola. Their mission is to meet the current and future needs of their clients and help them to cultivate long-term success. They strive to provide incomparable services while maintaining the highest levels of integrity and professionalism, and to respect their staff and those they serve as professionals and individuals. Their ultimate goal is to maintain an environment that encourages giving back to their community. Through hard work and perseverance, Paola’s and Giovana’s accounting firm began to flourish.Their dedication to providing top-notch services and building lasting relationships with clients earned them a stellar reputation in the business community. As the years went by, their client base grew, and their business expanded beyond their wildest dreams. They specialize in divorces, marriages, pre-nuptial agreements, notarizations, power of attorney, wills, travel permits and translations.

Now, sixteen years later, Paola’s and Giovanna’s accounting firm stands as a testament to their tenacity and resilience. From humble beginnings in Peru to a thriving business in Miami Beach, they have proven that with sisterly love and steadfast resolve, anything is possible. With a dedicated team of 11, they expanded to a second office in Sunny Isles Beach in 2021, continuing to serve their community with integrity and expertise. Their story inspires others to reach for the stars and never give up on their dreams. As the sun sets over the sandy shores of Miami Beach, Paola and Giovanna look back on their journey with gratitude and pride. Together, they have built a legacy that will stand the test of time, showing the world that two Hispanic sisters from Peru can conquer any challenge, achieve greatness, and give back to the country that gave them this opportunity.

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A Sparkling Gem in the Heart of South Beach: Chandelier Shelley

Black Business Month is celebrated in the month of August, and it is a time to acknowledge and celebrate Black-owned businesses. Creating a diverse economy is how Miami Beach maintains a dynamic and resilient community, and why it is important to share the accomplishments of Chandelier Shelley and other Black business owners and entrepreneurs and their contribution to the economy of Miami Beach.

Cory and Ashley Nelson opened Chandelier Shelley, in the heart of South Beach, in January 2024. By embracing the symbolic meaning of what a chandelier represents: abundance, enlightenment, and beauty, Chandelier Shelley’s design mesmerizes and draws patrons into a trendy and chic bar and lounge, in the lobby of The Hotel Shelly, a popular South Beach boutique hotel.

“Hospitality has been our passion for years. We have opened restaurants and eateries, in New York, and creating innovative and creative dining experiences comes naturally to us”, says Cory. “Our move to Miami Beach, is an extension of our appetite to transform culinary experiences, and we love the idea of opening a light and luxurious bar/lounge concept in one of the best vacation destinations in the world.”

The Nelsons’ journey to Miami Beach had its peaks and valleys, and the chandelier and quest to be unique concept drove the voyage. Inspired by their travels and desire to create a space that is more than aesthetic appealing but is a place they want to spend time, the young couple installed sixteen (16) chandeliers, that captivate diners with sparkling and intricately detailed crystals surrounding an elegantly designed lounge. The result is a beautiful space that is warm, relaxing, inviting and sophisticated.

“When I saw how the chandeliers added a dash of drama and created a welcoming atmosphere, I knew we created something special,” shared Cory. “Prior to the transformation of the space, like every entrepreneur, we had doubts, but now we are excited to join the illuminating and iconic South Beach libation scene.”

Serving a host of unique and innovative potions that mix traditional liqueurs with a variety of flavors such as elderflower, mint, lemon-lime, pumpkin spice, caramel, Reese’s Peanut Butter and expresso, coupled with cool music, Chandelier Shelley has become one of the highest rated bar and lounge in South Beach. Honored as the top Miami Beach expresso martini, the Nelsons have created a new vibe on the beach.

Check out Chandelier Shelley at 844 Collins Avenue and follow them on Instagram @chandeliershelley!

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