Interview: Loren Ridinger shares her thoughts on Success, Charities and Miami!

Success can be achieved through hard work and dedication. That is exactly what I learned after hearing Loren Ridinger speak at an event hosted by the University of Miami's Launch Pad on Tuesday, April 4th. After speaking to an auditorium full of future entrepreneurs, Loren's message was loud and clear: "believe in your dreams." Loren Ridinger is the Senior Vice President of the internet giants MarketAmerica.com and SHOP.com. Loren is also the Creator of the award winning cosmetic line Motives® by Loren Ridinger, the luxurious skincare line Cellular Laboratories™, the solution-oriented product line Fixx, and Founder of the exquisite jewelry collection, Loren Jewels®. Talk about a business mogul! During her speech at UM, Loren spoke about the struggles and the successes she has encountered over the years. Although Loren is definitely a strong woman, she did create her success alongside her business partner and husband, JR Ridinger (pictured on the right), President of MarketAmerica.com. If you haven't had the opportunity to meet Loren, then read my interview with the internet icon who has been named one of Vogue’s Top 100 most influential women. Loren is an innovator, a philanthropist and a trendsetter. At the end of the day, Loren's passion is to give back to others. Therefore, Loren is involved with many charitable causes including Rally for Kids with Cancer, which she co-Chairs with Eva Longoria, American Heart Association, from whom she received the 2010 Big Heart Humanitarian award, the Make-a-Wish Foundation, the Jennifer Lopez Foundation, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and many others.MBS: Can you share your favorite beauty secret with my readers?
LOREN: I think it’s more of a daily regimen than a beauty secret. I use Matraskin, a liquid serum collagen that has changed my skin completely. Never go to sleep with make-up on and make sure you get an early start on your skin care regimen. Most people start to take care of their skin when they're in their 30’s. It is important for women to begin this regimen early in life [even in your teens].

MBS: How can consumers learn about your various personal brands?
LOREN: Consumer can access my brands through MarketAmerica.com and individual websites like MotivesCosmetics.com & LorenJewels.com. I’m a social media addict so I’m constantly promoting my products through the social networks such as Facebook, Twitter and my own personal blogs like MyFashionCents.com and LorensWorld.com. But, most important than all mentioned is through people power, Market America has 180,000 distributors that are knowledgeable of the product and are constantly promoting and educating others on my brands and with this you can’t compete in the stores.
MBS: What is the best advice you constantly give your celebrity friends? (Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, Eva Longoria, etc.)
LOREN: It’s not so much about the advice for us. Instead, it’s about reminding each to take time for ourselves. We all have similar personalities and we are workaholics so it’s important to communicate with one another and be supportive.

MBS: What is the most recent product you have launched?
LOREN: Fixx solution oriented products, they are products that actually “fix” stuff. We have Fixx Argan Oil Shampoo which contains Moroccan argan oil [one of the rarest and most sought-after ingredients in the personal care industry]. Fixx Thick Hair Shampoo & Conditioner with stinging nettle extract that cleans and stimulates the scalp hair to make it look thicker and fuller. Fixx Lash Extend which provides you with thicker, longer looking lashes and brows in just two weeks.
MBS: Why did you become involved with the American Heart Association and why is it an important cause?
LOREN: Because my mother passed away at the young age of 42 so I feel it's important for everyone to know how heart disease can change your life. It's important for women to identify the risk associated and it’s proven that women are more at risk with heart failure than men.

MBS: Since this year's Rally for Kids event is quickly approaching (April 29 & 30), is there anything in particular that you're looking forward to?
LOREN: Yes! There is nothing more rewarding than putting a smile on a kids face. This charity is fun, and fulfilling and you get to have a great time. I can’t wait to watch my husband JR and Eva win lol… This charity is all about competing, having fun all while benefiting the children.
MBS: After living in Miami, what are your top 5 hot spots?
LOREN: Casa Tua we get to eat and dance at the same place with amazing food and an amazing host like Mickey; The Forge it’s a Miami institution and Shareef Malnik is the ultimate host and friend; W Hotel because I think it’s so beautiful with a chic and hot bar; Soho House without a question is the place to be seen but not everyone can get in; Sugarcane in the Design District is great for a casual dinner; and Mandarin Oriental for its spa.

I hope my interview has inspired you to dream BIG like Loren! Make sure to follow Loren Ridinger on Twitter and check out the video from her presentation at the University of Miami.

Listen up Ladies! Designer Fashion Sale to benefit Women's Cancer Research in Miami

To my diva-status-fashionistas: shop like you mean it and shop for a great cause! On Sunday, March 21st, there will be a Designer Fashion Sale to benefit Women's Cancer Research at UM's Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. The event will be hosted at the Miami Beach Convention Center (Hall C) and it will run from 10:00 a.m. till 7:00 p.m. This sale honors the memory of fashion retailer and designer Jody Katz who lost her life to cancer in 2009. There will be thousands of featured items including: donated outfits (new-with-tags), like-new women's, men's and children's clothing, shoes and accessories from from the trendiest closets in South Florida. Bring your girlfriends and find fabulous couture clothing at deeply discounted prices! Advanced tickets are on sale for $10 and may be purchased by calling 305-323-7288 (you may also call to make clothing donations). Help raise awareness and funds for women’s cancer research this weekend: SHOP, SHOP, SHOP!

The 42nd Annual Miami Heart & Stroke Ball

On March 6th, the American Heart Association hosted the 42nd Annual Miami Heart and Stroke Ball at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Brickell Key. This prestigious charity event celebrated the American Heart Association's success and widespread impact within our community. The theme of the night was “Life’s Lasting Love.” Miami's most influential leaders and celebrities gathered to support this wonderful cause while honoring award recipients and notable donors. The gala began with an amazing cocktail hour where guests participated in a silent auction as well as a live auction.

After the reception, guests headed into the ballroom to honor the award recipients of the night. Here are some of the awards that were presented during the gala: Big Heart in Arts to Dennis Scholl of The Knight Foundation; Big Heart in Goodwill to Dr. Sanford L. Ziff, Founder, Sunglass Hut of America; Big Heart- Go Red For Women to Loren Ridinger of Market America; Cor Vitae Awards for Heart Disease and Stroke, Heart to Dr. Barry Katzen of Baptist Cardiac and Vascular Institute. These outstanding individuals help make a difference in the fight against heart disease within their respective fields. Congratulations to all of the 2010 award recipients!

Latin Pop Artist Paulina Rubio (pictured above with award recipient, Loren Ridinger, of Market America) attended this year’s Ball along with her husband, Nicolas Colate Vallejo-Najera. In 2009, the American Heart Association recognized Paulina with a Big Heart Humanitarian Award in Music.

Joey Natoli along with his father, Joe Natoli, Chairman of the 42nd Annual Heart and Stroke Ball. Joe Natoli also serves as the Senior Vice President for Business & Finance and Chief Financial Officer at the University of Miami. GO CANES!

Ronald Gup, Dr. Linda J. Kaplan and Dr. Sanford L. Ziff. In 1994, Sunglass Hut founder, Dr. Sanford L. Ziff, provided a gift to the Graduate Career Services Center at the University of Miami's School of Business Administration. The building now bears his name.
Left: Joanna Palmer & Maria Hunt. Right: John Agnetti & Lucy Morillo

Left: Master of Ceremonies for the gala, Erika Von Tiehl, CBS4 News Anchor along with yours truly!

The very beautiful: Raquel Perera, Loren Ridinger and Paulina Rubio. These women were so sweet and kind. I can see why they support such a great organization. Overall, it was a wonderful night in Miami to celebrate the accomplishments of the American Heart Association. To find more information about this organization, visit www.americanheart.org/. Cheers to a healthy heart and lifestyle!

Dear Readers: Meet the Aston Martin Rapide!

Do you find yourself lusting over this beautiful car? I sure do! Introducing the all new Aston Martin Rapide which is now available at The Collection in Coral Gables. The world's most luxurious four-door sports sedan has arrived in Miami and I had the pleasure of test driving this baby! From the moment I saw the crystal key, I knew it would be a great ride. To help guide me through this experience, Mimmo Falanga, Aston Martin expert from The Collection, joined me on an exhilarating drive through the streets of Coral Gables. I mostly drove around the University of Miami because I wanted to wave "hello" to some of my former professors! GO CANES!

According to Mr. Falanga, this is one of The Collection's most exclusive vehicles. Every year, the dealership only receives about four cars from the manufacturer (with a starting price of $200,000). Mr. Falanga says that most clients know exactly what they want and don't tend to ask too many questions when they walk through his door. As far as the Rapide's interior, it is completely covered in leather and suede. All occupants will be glad to find an exquisitely hand crafted and spacious cabin.

You may be surprised to learn that Aston Martin has been around for 95 years. This explains why the company has developed a vehicle that is pure perfection. My favorite feature: the four ‘swan wing’ doors which open at a 70 degree angle to avoid scuffs and scratches when parked next to a raised walkway. That's what I call genius!

Aston Martin engineers have spent thousands of hours tuning suspension, brakes and steering to create a car that, while practical, also provides an engaging drive. For those who wouldn't mind sitting in the back seat: check out the optional Aston Martin rear entertainment system: two LCD screens integrated into the back of the front seat headrests!
Overall, it was a beautiful day in Coral Gables and my ride made it even better! To find out more information about the Aston Martin Rapide, visit http://www.astonmartin.com/ or http://www.thecollection.com/. Even though this vehicle may exceed the average car budget, it does spark an intense desire to one day be the lucky owner of a Rapide.

MUST SEE: The Westar returns to Miami!

Speaking from experience, I highly recommend you check out TheWestar! Formerly known as Vic Kingsley, the band is playing in Miami after spending some months in Los Angeles, California. If you're looking for a breath of fresh air, then get acquainted with prolific songwriter, singer and guitarist Vic Garcia and award-winning engineer/producer & guitarist, Ethan Carlson. Both artists met during their college years at the University of Miami. After becoming friends, they quickly began playing the music scene circuit alongside the best bands in town. As Vic Kinsley, they produced a critically acclaimed independent release titled, "These Frequencies." Today, TheWestar is working on debuting their latest EP titled, "Turn On The Dark." To enjoy their melodic vibes, attend their live show on Thursday, March 4rth at Bardot (3456 North Miami Avenue; Design District). Admission is free and the performance begins at 10:30 p.m. For more information on these groove-based alternative rockers, visit www.thewestar.com. ROCK ON!!!

Vic Garcia during a previous performance at Bardot in Miami

Donate to Support Haiti Rescue Efforts

As January continues to bring weird weather, I'd like to share an awareness campaign that aims to help those who have been affected by the earthquakes in Haiti. "Save Haiti Saturday" benefits Project Medishare for Haiti, Inc., a nonprofit organization founded in 1995 by Drs. Barth Green and Arthur Fournier from the University of Miami School of Medicine. Several business, teams and individuals from the entertainment and sports industry have lent their names to this national effort, including the Miami Heat, Alonzo Mourning, Alex Rodriguez, Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, Ryan Seacrest and Lenny Kravitz. “Save Haiti Saturday” allows organizations to contribute part of their revenues toward Haiti initiatives. Individuals may also donate by following the instructions on the campaign's website. It's time to take action and make a difference in the world. The money raised will support the teams of doctors, nurses and rescue workers who are working around the clock, performing surgeries and taking care of the sick and wounded during this devastating time in Haiti. If you haven't donated anything, it is never too late! For more information about this campaign or to donate online: http://savehaitisaturday.com/.

Pooches: Get Ready for Pawpurrazzi 2010!

Pawpurrazzi is an annual event that benefits the Humane Society of Greater Miami Adopt-A-Pet. On January 22nd (7 p.m.), pooches of all shapes and sizes will invade Jungle Island for a night of fun, food, fashion and music. At Pawpurrazzi, dogs roll in style and they dress to impress! Each dog enjoys pampering, doggie make-overs and even an ice cream bar. The night's highlight has to be the “Great Pets Who Walk in Front of Great People” show. This runway show features the community’s most influential pet owners alongside their dogs. For your entertainment, The University of Miami's Theatre Arts Department will also be performing a scene from....CATS! For more information please call Laurie Hoffman at 305-749-1815 or email laurie@humanesocietymiami.org. Support a great cause and make it a date night with your dog!