And it’s a wrap! The fifth annual VJMedia Mixology is in the bag and we showed out for Miami this time around! First off, let me say thank you to each and everyone who attended this year’s soiree. When I created this concept event in 2012, it was with the single goal of connecting the incredible brands that I work with Miami’s most influential entrepreneurs and creators. Who knew that it would quickly turn into THE signature event for connection and a collision point for collaboration where creators not only network but also build together.
As the world is changing quicker than we can keep up with it, I felt that it was important to salute the people who continue to infuse positivity, creativity and innovation into our community. They help to serve as building blocks that make our beloved city of Miami move and grow. The creators who aren’t afraid to take risks and stand out from the crowd, the innovators who aren’t worried about how their going to fund their game changing ideas and do it anyway; these are the very individuals that VJMedia Mixology aims to honor and celebrate each year!
This year’s theme of saluting Innovators, Creators and Disruptors was much more than a thought, it was a mission. Our premiere brand Nissan was the perfect partner to bring this mission to life as we each celebrated our inner “Rogue” and risk taker in all of us. The brand was on hand to showcase their 2018 Nissan Rogue and Rogue Sport as well where guests got the opportunity to get up close and personal with the most popular SUV on the road today.
YES- WE’RE PRETTY EXCITED ABOUT THE ROGUE!
THE NISSAN LOUNGE GAVE GUESTS A CHANCE TO GET UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH THE TALA AGENCY’S JOCELYN ALLEN AND AIDA PHILLIPS FOR ONE ON ONES.
The ‘Mixology’ portion of the evening couldn’t be complete without supporting spirits brands Cointreau and Barefoot Wine and Bubbly. To celebrate the Art of Entertaining, Cointreau showcased their latest cocktail creations while giving guests a chance to create their own (testing out their inner Mixologist skills).
The Barefoot Wine and Bubbly Brand has been a VJMedia partner since our first Media Mixology- the continue to innovate every year!
Barefoot Brand Manager Taralyn Long serving up the new Refreshers for the crowd.
Our Technology partner DELL gave guests a virtual realty experience into their world as well as showcasing their creator’s canvas.
THE DELL VIRTUAL REALITY EXPERIENCE TOOK GUESTS BY SURPRISE AS THEY TOOK A LOOK INSIDE THE TECH GIANT.
Lux Cakery brought the sweetness to #VJMM17 as Chef Mimi concocted handmade treats that were the talk of the evening. Chef Mimi was recently featured on the Cooking Channel and has a new book coming out in 2018- be on the lookout for this entrepreneur!
A benchmark of the event, the Spirit of Excellence Awards went to six deserving creators and innovators who set the standard for excellence in their fields. It was my honor to be able to celebrate for their dedication to elevating our community and culture through their work! Follow their journeys as they will be the innovators we see on the national stage soon if not already!
Pictured: Gil Green, Janet Jones, Lamont Howard, Vanessa James, Neki Mohan, Carla Hill and Max Pierre.
FOR MORE ON THE HONOREES, SEE THE LATEST PRESS RELEASE HERE
And finally our winners of our two trips at this year’s event! Our travel partners The Loews Miami Beach along with Moon Palace Jamaica gifted two creators with weekend getaways this year because even creators need a break for the madness.
- Congrats to Miami Podcasters: The Anti-Socialites, winners of the staycation for two at the Loews Miami Beach.
- Congrats to #VJMM17’s Social Superstar of the evening Janie Flores, who won the 4Day/3 night stay for two to Moon Palace Jamaica. Janie lit up her social platforms at this year’s event and now she’ll enjoy a well deserved getaway!
- Congrats to both winners and to everyone who participated in our social media contests during the event!
JANIE FLORES AND OTHER LATINA INFLUENCERS BROUGHT THE PACHANGA TO THIS YEARS VJMEDIA MIXOLOGY.
Budding Creators ‘The AntiSocialites’ took home the Creators Staycation getaway to the Loews Miami Beach!
I can’t close this post out without thanking each of you who continue to support the Vanessa James Media brand. Your continuous encouragement and interest in events of this kind is why myself along with Team VJMedia continue to create events like these. Cheers to 2018 and to pushing the envelope even further!
With gratitude and a warm virtual hug, I thank you,
~Vanessa
We would love your feedback on how we can elevate the experienced for 2018. Please drop Vanessa a line and share your thoughts: vanessajamesmedia@gmail.comFor a look back at previous years of VJMedia Mixology, click here!
For more on Vanessa James, click here!