Meet Jose, a Real Estate Agent in Miami Florida

Jose is an enthusiastic and dependable real-estate broker in the southern region of Florida. His top priority is customer service, adeptly and skillfully guiding clients through the process of purchasing or selling a property. In his words: "My ultimate goal is the client's complete satisfaction. To accomplish that, I carefully listen to their needs and desires for their new property and tirelessly search the market to find their ideal home at the best price." Jose is committed to his clients and will give a high level of dedication and support until the transaction is completed.

He is currently working with the builders of Aria on the Bay, a 53-story building located in South Beach across from the breathtaking Biscayne Bay with unobstructed water views.

1. What do you enjoy about working as a realtor in Miami, Florida?

Working from the sunshine state, it's a true joy to wake up and seeing the sun shining, and the warmth of the weather brings families from across the globe. As a real-estate broker, you have the tools and resources to help clients achieve their goals. Whether you are purchasing your first home or an investment property, it's one of the biggest investments most Americans make in their lives. This is very fulfilling to see clients have a true sense of security, and trust in your ability to deliver results is key. Working with all the different cultures from Canada to Asia and South America is always an added bonus because you grow through diversity of cultures and beliefs.

2. When you think about the condos in the new Aria on the Bay building, what are some details that make these homes extra special?

There are various properties that are in the pre-construction phase in Miami, but Aria oy the Bay is a true gem that stands out from the rest, and the reason is its LOCATION. The condo sits in the downtown area of Miami that is off the main strip or Biscayne Blvd and is located on North Bay Shore Drive which is an parallel street to Biscayne. The property is within a 2-mile radius of 95 Interstate, so you don't have to cross the hustle and bustle traffic of downtown.

3. I noticed that Aria on the Bay has condos available in many different sizes, offering from 1000 to 6000 square feet of space--plus over 21,00 square feet of amenities. Are you seeing a lot of interest in this building so far?

The building has many different sizes to fit everyone's budget: the studio and the smaller units that are 815 sqft are selling in the mid 400's. If a client would like a more spacious unit and more bedrooms in the condo, the 3-4 bedrooms are priced from 1.5 Million to 2 Million depending on the floor and the view. The association fees are very reasonable, and they start at .75 cents a sqft There is a tremendous amount of interest in this building, and investors are pouring hundreds of thousands of dollars into escrow accounts in many different brokerage firms across the city.

4. What are some of your favorite things about the building in terms of its design and amenities?

All of the 21,000 finishing touches are going to be spectacular, with European touches throughout the property. The building will have high ceilings, Italian kitchens, a gym, a spa, a children's play room, a business conference center, tennis courts, a volleyball court, and an outdoor fire pit with seating for all of your family. The building also has its own beauty salon located inside the complex, so you don’t even have to hop in the car for a quick trim or blow dry for work or any special event. Aria oy the Bay is is the place to be and be seen here in South Florida.

5. Where in Miami is Aria on the Bay located, and why do you think this particular area is a desirable one, especially for buyers in search of luxury condo living?

Aria by the Bay over looks a beautiful park and the blue waters of Biscayne Bay: this is its true unique quality, and I say this because if you were to purchase a property over looking Central Park in NYC/Manhattan, you would be paying several thousand per sqft along with higher association fees, not to mention the frigid winters of New York. The city protects the park, so the property owners are guaranteed unobstructed views of the water. With the units' creators Melo Group in conjunction with world famous Arquitectonica International Corporation, led by Bernardo Fort-Brescia and Faia, the condo is going to be a huge hit when it's finished in 2018. The building has its own private elevators for its clients and home owners. Arquitectonica has been building master pieces since 1977 and has been exhibiting his work from across the globe.

Thanks, Jose!

Meet Ian Filippini, Travel Writer

Ian Filippini is a travel writer based out of Santa Barbara where he is also an active member of the business community. Filippini is highly lauded for being one of the city's biggest advocates and is known as a local expert. Filippini has recently launched a series of digital travel magazines with Santa Barbara recommendations as well as extensively documenting his travels around the world.

1. What first attracted you to Santa Barbara?

I was interested in Santa Barbara from my first visit. It is a sleepy beach community unlike any other, and they have a large city just off the coast that invites me. They have a lovely food scene, and I love the way to city looks when I am staring at the ocean. I feel at peace in Santa Barbara, and I believe other travelers will feel the same.

2. Why did you decide to create a web resource with information about Santa Barbara destinations?

I wanted all travelers to feel a sense of connection with the city. They may read the site I created to learn about the city, and I believe they will feel something about the city as they browse. They will learn how the city will serve them, and they may begin making an itinerary that will take them across the city. I want everyone visiting to have the same adventure I did.

3. When you only have time for a short travel getaway (say, three nights maximum), what do you like to do?

I prefer coming to the city to see the beach, and I plan my trips around the beach. I enjoy sitting on the beach, and I will make my way from the beach to other parts of the city during my trip. I will find my favorite lunch spot, and I plan a lovely place for dinner. I will shop downtown, and I quite enjoy coming down to the pier for an evening of fun.

4. From your own travel experience, do you have any favorite tips you'd like to share?

I ask all my travel readers to bring plenty of cash on their trips. Santa Barbara is a lovely beach community with many street vendors who take cash, and you will find a number of attractions that require cash. You may tip your valet or jump on the shuttle with a bit of cash in your pocket. You must ensure you are using your cash wisely, but you must have it in your pocket.

I ask everyone to try local food. There are many beautiful restaurants in the city that you will prefer, and you will find places that are run by up-and-coming chefs. They are making news in the food world, and you may find yourself in a place that has been featured on TV in the past. You may find it interesting to visit food carts, and you will enjoy local joints that serve specialty drinks.

The final step in any trip is choosing a local hotel that plants you in the heart of the city. Traveling to chain hotels is not as much fun as being among the locals, and you will have a nice time in a place that serves breakfast, puts out dessert wine at night, and does not allow you out the door without a friendly goodbye.

5. What, in your opinion, takes a restaurant or hotel or other spot out of the ordinary and makes it a place you want to return to again and again?

The service is the most important thing in any establishment. The personal service I receive on trips will lead me to return. I want to meet the nice people I saw the first time, and I want to send more people to visit. I am in love with certain places where I know the staff, and they call me by name. They got me with their service, and it is the same on every return trip to Santa Barbara.

Thanks, Ian!

Meet Mark Coppens, Sarasota Florida Realtor

Mark Coppens is a real estate agent based in Sarasota, Florida who specializes in helping people buy and sell coastal properties. He and Jamie Murdick are known as The SRQ Duo, and they offer all-inclusive residential real estate services to those interested in buying, leasing, or selling in the Sarasota area.

1. How did you first become interested in a career in real estate?

After college I spent some time in the U.S. Army as an Infantry Officer. Among others, the Army afforded me an opportunity to get an MBA, which introduced me to the world of marketing and advertising. I fell in love with negotiating deals and launching sales campaigns around the world. After serving my nation, I became very successful in closing transactions for several Fortune 500 companies at the executive level. During that time, I had bought and sold many personal properties, and for the most part, was extremely disappointed with real estate agents. Let's face it--most agents are lazy. It's true. There's a reason why real estate agents are respected less than lawyers and car salesmen, according to surveys. Generally, agents will do the minimal amount of effort in order to get a sale or close a deal. They say that 10% of licensed agents close 90% of all transactions. So I saw an opportunity. I'm an outgoing type "A" personality, with an education in marketing & advertising, and proven track record of negotiating successful high dollar / high stress contracts. If I could take my unique background, add the advantage of looks and charm, and put in 110% effort--I could really crush it. Plus, I love design and homes. I really do. I'm an HGTV addict.

2. You are half of your agent team, The SRQ Duo. Would you tell us about your other half?

My partner and fiancé Jamie Murdick is an Emmy® Award winning graduate of the Walter E. Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University. Jamie brings our team expertise on modern multimedia combined with years of experience in advertising, marketing, and sales. Like me, Jamie worked in corporate America and has led successful campaigns globally. She is a connoisseur of elegance, style, and sophistication--which lend to her success in luxury real estate, and complements my design skills. She distracts you with her stunning looks while expertly negotiating for her clients with cunning determination. When you choose The SRQ Duo as your agents, you will get the services of us both, each having strengths in differing yet complementary areas. Jamie and I are engaged to be married next April, in 2017, at the Ca D'Zan Mansion on the grounds of the Ringling Museum in Sarasota.

3. What are some of the qualities that draw people to the Sarasota area?

Sarasota (airport code SRQ) is one of the most desired year-round resort communities in the world. A perfect blend of world-renowned beaches, arts and entertainment, championship golf, award-winning dining, and beautiful weather; Sarasota Real Estate is comparable to destinations like Scottsdale, Palm Springs, and Miami all in one. Properties are in high demand, with the neighborhoods of Longboat Key, Lido Key, Siesta Key, Downtown, West of Trail, and Bird Key among some of the most desirable in the nation.

Situated on the sparkling blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Sarasota's beauty was noted by John Ringling, of the famed Ringling Circus. Mr. Ringling brought cultural influences and visitors from around the world, and in doing so, left his permanent mark on the composition of the city.  

With professional theatres, ballet, opera, and an orchestra, the city boasts more refined entertainment choices than most large-scale metropolitan areas. Boutique shopping downtown, in Saint Armand's Circle, and on Siesta Key provides unique finds for the most avid of consumers.

The area boasts some of the nation's best golf courses, with challenging options at a range of prices. If you're into other sports, SRQ is within an hour of professional soccer, hockey, football, and baseball--with two spring training facilities within a fifteen-minute drive. The marina and beach complexes provide ample watersports, fishing, and boating opportunities, with international yachting on par with our neighbors on the east coast of the state. The weather favors outdoor activities year-round. From running and biking the Legacy Trail, to crew at the world-class rowing complex at Benderson Park, Sarasota offers numerous choices for even the bravest of adventurers. We love Sarasota!

4. In keeping your agency team smaller and more tightly focused than many others, what unique benefits do you offer your clients?

Our brokerage, Merrick Damon Real Estate, is a top rated boutique real estate agency in the southeastern United States. Because we're agents with a regional boutique firm, we can focus on a select number of clients, offering personalized full-service that is responsive and focused. Quite simply, we out-hustle the large and slow nationwide firms and deliver superior results. Unlike bigger firms, you will not have to deal with field agents, assistants, transaction coordinators, closing agents or other parties in between. The SRQ Duo will be your sole point of contact throughout the entire process to help you buy or sell homes in Sarasota, Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Lido Key, Bird Key, Lakewood Ranch and West of Trail.

5. What else would you like our readers to know about your agency and the services you provide?

Jamie and I met in Abu Dhabi, and had our first dinner in London and our first date in Dubai. We literally travel the world in order to connect with buyers and investors of our clients' properties. From Hong Kong to Paris, and Ottawa to Rio De Janeiro, The SRQ Duo goes above and beyond to sell our listed properties.

We also represent buyers and annual renters. We will meet with you in person, or over the phone for long distance clients, and do an in-depth analysis of your wants and needs. Based on your detailed criteria, we will canvas multiple sources of listed and unlisted properties to narrow your search down to a manageable number of homes. These homes will be presented to you for consideration and potential showing. We understand that your time is very valuable, and will only show properties that you want to see. Once you have found the new home and lifestyle that you've dreamed of, we will begin the difficult task of negotiating the best price.  

Jamie and I take pride in our work and in getting our clients the best deal--as a buyer or seller. We are extremely responsive, pay great attention to details, and understand that buying or selling a home, particularly a luxury home, should be a low-stress, enjoyable occasion. We treat our clients with great respect & care, and pledge that our service will be the best real estate experience you've ever had.

If you're thinking of buying or selling a home or condo in the Sarasota or Lakewood Ranch areas on Florida, please contact Jamie & Mark "The SRQ Duo":

Jamie & Mark Coppens
The SRQ Duo | Merrick Damon Real Estate
Phone: (941) 444-0436
info@thesrqduo.com
http://www.thesrqduo.com

Thanks, Mark!

Meet Leigha Pittard, CEO of Fierce Simplicity, a Designer Swimwear Company

Fierce Simplicity is a luxury women's designer swimwear company that specializes in well-fitting swimsuits, sexy bikinis, and cut out monokinis. Based in Florida, Fierce Simplicity capitalizes on the year-round beach weather and has perfected its craft of unique bathing suits for jet-setting travelers, sun bathers, and pool party attendees.

Our interview below is with Leigha Pittard, CEO of Fierce Simplicity.

1. Would you tell us how Fierce Simplicity Swimwear got its start?

I moved to Miami after graduating, and in February of 2013 I launched my online swimwear boutique, Fierce Simplicity, specializing in women's designer swimwear. Growing up in Massachusetts, I always had a love for the beach but could only truly enjoy it during the three months of summer. Moving to sunny South Florida, I enjoy the beach year round, and this is where I decided to focus my business on luxe swimwear. There is nothing like sunbathing on the beach in a super-cute Brazilian bikini with a cold margarita in hand.

As a fairly new company, Fierce Simplicity has seen much success. We are an internationally recognized swimwear brand with sales in over 35 countries. With the encouragement of my customers and supporters via social media, I realized I had a knack for curating retro swimsuits, sexy bikinis, and unique cut out monokinis from luxury designers around the world such as Pily Q and Maaji and discovering small lesser-known brands with one of a kind designs.

2. How do you choose the designs to feature in your shop?

I have always used social media as a conversational tool to gain honest feedback from our customers and supporters. With the use of Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram I found that the swimwear market lacks swimsuits for women with large DD cups and bigger chests along with flattering plus-size swimsuits. I also have noted many companies still do not offer bikini sets in mix and match sizes.

When choosing designs to feature on Fiercesimplicity.com, I look for versatile pieces that are figure flattering for all body types. I make sure our collection is unique, sexy, and classy, and addresses all types of swimwear preferences from micro bikinis and sheer thong swimsuits, to sexy yet modest one piece bathing suits. I also place polls on our Instagram account @fiercesimplicity to gauge our customers' opinions on potential items to add to our store. Most importantly, I look for design and quality in the swimsuits I add. I believe swimwear should be timeless in design, so I select pieces that can be worn for every type of event whether it's a pool party, a honeymoon, or a vacation to an exotic location like Tahiti. I believe all women should feel confident and sexy when they put on a swimsuit whether they prefer a vintage 1950s style high waist bikini or a video vixen cut out monokini.

3. When it comes to choosing swimwear and finding something "just right" for them, many women find the experience a bit challenging. Do you have any advice to share?

Often we see a cute bikini on a friend, and it becomes an instant must-have. This is the wrong approach to finding the right bathing suit, unless you and your friend have a similar body build. Choosing the right swimsuit for your body type is essential to look sexy and feel great in your swimwear. The art of finding the ideal swimsuit is all about enhancing your body's best assets.

1. The first step is to know your body type (body shape). The four most common are the pear shape (hips wider then your waist and chest); the apple shape (your waist is wider then your hips and equal to your bust); the hour glass (your bust and hips are proportional with a smaller waist); or the straight figure (thin all around with relatively no curves).

2. The next step is to choose swimwear cuts and styles that accentuate the type of figure you have.

   a. One-piece swimsuits will hide your waist, especially ones win a dark, solid color with shirred paneling. High-waisted bikinis are also a nice alternative. Tankinis are also a classic option.

   b. High-cut bikini bottoms and one-piece swimsuits can make your legs look longer and your torso more fit.

   c. Bandeau tops are great for pear-shaped women as this style makes the bust appear wider and will balance out a figure with wide hips.

   d. Underwire bikinis are a girl's best friend with a large bust size. Thicker strapped bikini tops also offer more support and comfort.

3. The third step is to also choose colors and fabrics that accentuate your appearance and downplay the areas you are less fond of.

   a. To accentuate a feature you love, choose swimsuits with bright colors or patterns. To hide a feature you do not like, use a solid color.

   b. If you have pale skin, choose black or deep jewel tones such as maroon, navy, and dark purple. For dark skin, bright colors are very flattering.

   c. To make an area look bigger--say, for example, you want to accentuate your bust or hips--add ruffled swimwear pieces. To make an area look smaller, choose a swimsuit with shirred or ruched fabric.

   d. Buying separates will be your best friend.

4. It is also important to select a swimsuit that matches what you want to use it for. For example, if you are playing volleyball, a crop top bikini or rash guard swimsuit may be the best options as this type of bikini has optimal support without the worry of boob slippage.

Check out the Fierce Simplicity Swimwear Fit Guide to learn exactly how to accentuate your best features and minimize the less flattering ones while in a swimsuit: http://fiercesimplicity.com/swimwear-fit-guide.

4. Along with swimwear, what are some other items you sell?

In addition to luxe bikinis and unique one-piece swimsuits, Fierce Simplicity offers a wide variety of resort wear and beach accessories. You can find Bohemian lace cover-ups, crochet maxi dresses, barefoot sandals perfect for beach weddings, and body and belly chains. I am also working on a nail polish collection to expand the business into cosmetics. Nail polish and bikinis do go hand in hand, after all.

5. What swimwear fashions do you think will be most popular this summer?

For the Summer 2015 swimwear trend, you can expect to see:

• Strappy bottoms and caged bikini tops
• Animal print swimwear (the classic leopard print re-imagined)
• Crop top and sporty bikinis
• The classic sexy black swimsuit
• Bralette bikini tops
• High-waist pin-up bikinis with cut outs.

For more style tips, advice, and vacation travel guides, follow us and check out our blog:

fiercesimplicity.com/blog

Facebook.com/fiercesimplicity

Instagram.com/fiercesimplicity

Thanks, Leigha!

Excerpt from Broken Shells by Elizabeth Curcio

In her book, Broken Shells: let adversity create beauty in you, Elizabeth Curcio presents a collection of photographs she took of broken shells that she found, published alongside inspirational words of wisdom, including quotes from Scripture.

The photos and text below are copyright Elizabeth Curcio, 2009.

As I was walking along the shore one day, I asked the Lord if I could find a pearl in a shell. Instead, He gave me words of wisdom and broken shells. --- When you are broken, a mosaic I can use. Your adversities are My universities. Think of your weaknesses as gifts.--- I love finding shells but I rarely find one that is not broken. So I started looking for broken shells and found many. Broken shells worn down by adversity, pounded by waves and weather; rounded edges and beautiful. Let adversity create beauty in you.

My grace is sufficient for thee, for my strength is made perfect in weakness. 2 Cor. 12:9

No mention shall be made of coral, or of pearl, for the price of wisdom is above rubies. Job. 28:18

Broken Shells is available for purchase in paperback format on Amazon.