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Tuesday, March 19, 2024

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Shake It Up With Mocktails

Mocktails, or non-alcoholic cocktails, have been growing in popularity in recent years. Not only are they a healthier alternative to alcoholic drinks, but they can also be just as delicious and refreshing. 

If you are living in Boca Raton or the South Florida area or considering making a move here we have sooo many wonderful establishments to try in regard to food and beverages, including mocktails!

Mocktails

Trending

Dry January, a popular trend where people give up alcohol for the first month of the year, has become a common New Year’s resolution. However, some people have adopted this trend as a lifestyle change and choose to participate in a “dry” lifestyle all year round.

With the growing popularity of mocktails and non-alcoholic drinks, it’s easier than ever to maintain a “dry” lifestyle and still enjoy delicious and refreshing drinks. 

Mocktail Vibes

One thing I have noticed as well, is that at the real estate conferences I attend, the popularity of non-alcoholic drinks, mocktails and delicious cold beverages is definitely on the rise and I am very happy to see these options being made available.

This is a wonderful option to offer at events and parties especially for those that are sober and do not drink.

5 Fun Mocktails To Pair With Food and Offer At Parties

1.Virgin Mojito: This classic mocktail is a refreshing blend of lime, mint, and soda water. It pairs well with light and fresh dishes such as salads, ceviche, and grilled seafood. It’s perfect for warm weather and outdoor gatherings.

2.Shirley Temple: The Shirley Temple is a sweet and fruity mocktail that’s been around since the 1930s. It pairs well with savory snacks such as popcorn, chips, and pretzels. It’s also a hit with kids and adults alike.

3.Cranberry Sparkler: This festive mocktail is perfect for holidays and special occasions. It’s a fruity blend of cranberry juice, apple cider, and sparkling water. It pairs well with holiday-themed appetizers and dishes such as roasted turkey, glazed ham, and stuffing.

4.Pina Colada Mocktail: This tropical mocktail is a delicious blend of pineapple juice and coconut cream. It pairs well with grilled or roasted chicken, fish, or shrimp. It’s perfect for pool parties and tropical-themed events.

5.Virgin Margarita: The Margarita is a classic cocktail that’s perfect for a summer day, and this non-alcoholic version is just as tasty. It pairs well with Mexican-inspired dishes such as tacos, fajitas, and quesadillas.

Popularity Is Powerful

Mocktails have become so popular that many bars and restaurants now offer a selection of non-alcoholic drinks on their menu.

They recognize that not everyone wants to drink alcohol, but they still want to enjoy a flavorful and refreshing drink. Offering mocktails is a great way to cater to a wider audience and ensure that everyone can have a good time.

Local Mocktail Finds

Kapow Restaurant and Noodles

Kapow – Boca Raton | West Palm Beach

Chak-Tails Alcohol-free Mocktails to Align the Chakras Heart that has Floral Limeade with a Crunch, House Makrut Limeade, Rose, Basil Seeds, Lindon, and Bubbles

Farmers Table – Boca Raton | Palm Beach Gardens -A variety of elixirs like What’s Up Doc and Pineapple X-press along with craft sodas and Farmer’s lemonade!

Elisabettas – Delray Beach – Try a Limonata Fresca, sounds sooo refreshing or a Cherry Basil Smash!

South Florida Embraces The Mocktail Culture

Forbes has a fabulous article that highlights even more restaurants and bars that offer a variety of non-alcoholic beverages and mocktails!

Click here —Forbes has highlighted 15 South Florida Spots for Mocktails

Brands To Check Out

There are several mocktail brands available that are perfect for enjoying on the go. Here are a few popular ones to consider:

Seedlip Brand of spiritis
Photo Credit – Seedlip

Seedlip: Seedlip is a non-alcoholic spirit brand that offers a variety of flavors, including Spice 94, Garden 108, and Grove 42. These spirits can be mixed with tonic water or soda for a refreshing and flavorful drink.

Curious Elixirs: Curious Elixirs offers a line of alcohol-free, bottled cocktails that are perfect for on-the-go. Their flavors range from spicy and complex to fruity and refreshing, so there’s something for everyone.

Lyre’s: Lyre’s is a premium non-alcoholic spirit brand that offers a wide range of flavors, including rum, gin, whiskey, and more. These spirits can be mixed with soda or tonic water to create a delicious mocktail.

Kin Euphorics: Kin Euphorics offers a line of non-alcoholic, adaptogenic beverages that are designed to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Their flavors range from spicy to floral and can be mixed with tonic water or soda for a refreshing drink.

Monday Distillery: Monday Distillery offers a range of non-alcoholic spirits, including gin, tequila, and rum. These spirits can be mixed with tonic water or soda for a delicious mocktail.

These brands are perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious and satisfying drink on the go without the worry of consuming alcohol.

They are also a great option for those who want to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create their own unique mocktails.

Amazon Finds You Might Enjoy

From glassware to blenders check out some great items to create your own custom mocktails and serve them to you and your guests!

Kate Aspen Beaded Amber Drinking Glasses Set of 6-10 oz Vintage Glassware Set Jupiter Glasses
Kate Aspen Beaded Amber Drinking Glasses Set of 6-10 oz Vintage Glassware Set Jupiter Glasses
Ninja BN701 Professional Plus Blender, 1
Ninja BN701 Professional Plus Blender, 1400 Peak Watts, 3 Functions for Smoothies, Frozen Drinks & Ice Cream

Mocktails Are Here To Stay

In conclusion, mocktails are a growing trend that’s here to stay. They’re perfect for parties and special events, and they pair well with a variety of foods.

Pink Icy Mocktail

So next time you’re planning an event, consider offering a selection of mocktails to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

Ready to Rock Boca Raton Where Ever You Go?

Rep Boca Raton wherever you go with some #SoooBoca Merch!

Michele Bellisari

About Michele Bellisari

Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

Start Your Home Search Here

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Disclosure: This post contains Amazon and other retail affiliate links. If you purchase I will earn a small commission from these companies. Shopping through these links helps support my business. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

Empowering Women: Reflections on International Women’s Day

Women Supporting Women

As a Realtor, mother, friend, and wife, I wanted to take a moment to talk about the importance of International Women’s Day and what it means to me in this blog post. Lets start with what this year’s theme:

As per the International Women’s Day 2024 website, the campaign theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is Inspire Inclusion.

“When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment.

Organizations, groups, and individuals worldwide can all play a part – in the community, at work, at home, and beyond. To truly include women means to openly embrace their diversity of race, age, ability, faith, body image, and how they identify. Worldwide, women must be included in all fields of endeavour.”

You can read more about the 2024 theme regarding inclusion here.

Let’s Lift Each Other Up

As a Realtor and entrepreneur, I have seen the power of women in the workforce.

I work alongside so many strong and capable women who are making their mark in the real estate industry. But I also know that there is still work to be done.

Women are still underrepresented in leadership positions, and gender bias can still be a barrier to success. International Women’s Day is a reminder that we need to continue to push for gender equality in all industries, including real estate.

Mother In Law Sally Watern
Sally Watern

Celebrating Women’s Multifaceted Roles

As a mother, International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate the wonderful women I have met throughout the different seasons of my life, especially my mother-in-law, Sally Watern, who has inspired me and encouraged me through both good and bad times and those women in my family and my world who have been role models to me. 

Roberta Muir Kendall

From my own mother to the teachers and mentors who have guided me, I am grateful for the women who have been there for me and shown me what it means to be strong, resilient, and compassionate.

I also want to use this day to continue learning from my daughters, Kylie and Alle, who have helped me be more aware of the importance of gender equality and inclusion and who have encouraged me to fight for women’s rights. 

Kyle Alle and Michele
Halle Alessia and Kylie Bellisari

The Power of Sisterhood on International Women’s Day

As a friend, International Women’s Day is a time to honor the friendships in our lives and support each other in good times and bad, and to celebrate the accomplishments of the women in our lives.

I am blessed to have had some of my girlfriends for over 45 years in my life. This is a true blessing.

PS…You know who you are.

Today is about supporting each other through the highs and lows, and reminding each other of our own strength and worth.

It’s also about challenging each other to be our best selves and to live up to our full potential. To my newer girlfriends…you rock and I appreciate you! 

Wife Life

As a wife, International Women’s Day is a reminder of the importance of equality in our relationships. Being in a marriage or a relationship is a balancing act. 

And, it’s about recognizing that both partners have valuable contributions to make, and that we should support each other in our personal and professional pursuits.

It’s also a day to celebrate the love and respect that we have for each other as equals.

Age is Just a Number: Challenging Ageism on International Women’s Day

Lastly, ageism is a form of discrimination that affects women, particularly those who are older.

International Women’s Day is an opportune time to speak out and speak up against ageism and stand up to those who continue to discriminate against women of a more mature age.

Age inclusion is important as a company culture long term, not just as a one-off.

It’s about recognizing the value and wisdom that come with age, and rejecting the harmful stereotypes and prejudices that can hold older women back.

We need to continue to push for age diversity and representation in all areas of life, including in the media, in the workplace, and in our communities.

Let’s celebrate the achievements of women of all ages on this International Women’s Day, and work towards a future where every woman is valued and respected, regardless of her age.

The Importance of Allies on International Women’s Day

In all of these roles, the vibe of International Women’s Day is one of celebration, empowerment, and determination.

It’s a day to recognize the progress that has been made, but also to recommit ourselves to the work that still needs to be done.

It’s a day to stand up for gender equality, stand up to ageism, stand up for inclusion and to lift each other up, and create a better future for all women.

Michele Bellisari

About Michele Bellisari

Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

Start Your Home Search Here

Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

Shamrockin’ South Florida: Where to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Style

From Green Beer to Irish Jigs

3 girls celebrating St. Patrick's Day

On any given day, you can usually find me blogging, listing and selling real estate, and hanging out with my family, however, every March, I get my “green on” for one of my favorite holidays, St. Patrick’s Day! I switch off my Realtor hat and pop on my shamrock headband to embrace the festive spirit.

I’m here to share the best places in South Florida where you can be Irish for the day, from lively pubs to family-friendly events.

St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and excitement throughout the United States, and South Florida and Boca Raton is no exception. We love getting dressed up and heading out to the different festivities and pubs around South Florida.

The day is dedicated to the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick, and is celebrated on the 17th of March every year. In South Florida, the day is celebrated with parades, cultural events, and celebrations that showcase the rich Irish heritage and culture.

Parades and Bagpipers 

A popular St. Patrick’s Day parade in South Florida is the Fort Lauderdale St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival. The parade takes place in downtown Fort Lauderdale and is a family-friendly event.

The parade features marching bands, bagpipers, dancers, and plenty of floats that showcase the Irish culture. Another favorite is the Delray Beach St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival along Atlantic Ave! Enjoy these parades along with live music, food, and drinks!

Kapow Mizner Park with Girl Bar Tender

Celebrations 

In addition to parades, several other St. Patrick’s Day celebrations take place in South Florida.

Get ready to experience Miami’s ultimate St. Patrick’s Day celebration, as the city prepares to roll out the green carpet once again for a fun-filled day of Irish-inspired festivities and cheer.

There are plenty of places to celebrate from Miami to the Palm Beaches! Here are a few fun things you can add to your St. Patrick’s Day calendar:

Hollywood St. Patricks Day Parade – Hollywood, Florida

Luck of the Irish! | St. Patrick’s Wynwood Bar Crawl

St.Patrick’s Day Riverfront Festival at The Wharf FTL!

St. Patrick’s 5k/10k Race Pompano Beach

St. Patricks Day Events – Downtown West Palm Beach

St. Patrick's Day Cookies

Irish Pubs We Love 

For those looking for a more low-key celebration, there are plenty of pubs and restaurants in South Florida that offer St. Patrick’s Day specials and events. Many of these establishments offer traditional Irish dishes like corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and Irish stew.

They also serve Irish drinks like Guinness, Irish whiskey, and Irish coffee. The atmosphere in these pubs and restaurants is lively and festive, and they are a great place to meet friends and celebrate!

Mizner Park – Proper St. Paddy’s Day Celebration

Irishmen – Boca Raton

O’Brians Irish Pub – Boca Raton

Tim Finnegans Irish Pub – Delray Beach

St. Pats Irish Pub – Deerfield Beach

Flanigan’s South Florida

Throw Social St. Patricks Day 2024

Throw Social

It’s South Florida’s THIRSTIEST, LUCKIEST ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARTY!

SATURDAY, MARCH 16th; starting @ 11am *same day as the Delray Parade!

  • *$20 Cover Charge starting @ 3pm
  • *Ages 21+ only – ALL DAY!

🍀 Drink Specials: $5 Green Beer, $6 Green Tea Shots, Baby Guinness Shots, Irish Car Bombs & Seasonal St. Patty’s ‘Pot Of Gold’ Cocktail

🍀 LIVE Irish Rock Band: Clover’s Revenge @ 6pm & 9pm

🍀 LIVE Music: DJs & Bands from 12pm-2am

🍀 Leprechaun Axe Throwing: Test your aim against the luck of the Irish!

💚 St.Patty’s Day Brunch: Sunday, March 17th; starting @ 10am! *no reservation needed

Bennie The Rescue Dog

St. Patrick’s Day is a day of celebration and festivities in South Florida. The parades, festivals, and events that take place throughout the area showcase the rich Irish culture and heritage.

Join the St. Patrick’s Day festivities in South Florida as local breweries bring out their best Irish and green beer, offering a unique taste of the Emerald Isle for all to enjoy.

Whether you are looking for a family-friendly event or a night out with friends, there are plenty of options available in South Florida.

So, put on your green attire and join the celebrations to experience the joy and excitement of St. Patrick’s Day in South Florida.

PS…You can now take the Brightline from West Palm Beach to Boca Raton, To Fort Lauderdale, Aventura and Miami!

Michele Bellisari

About Michele Bellisari

Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home?

Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

Start Your Home Search Here

Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

16 Pros and Cons of Moving To Boca Raton

Thinking of Moving To Boca Raton?

Contemplating a relocation to Boca Raton? As you explore our city online and seek insights from locals, uncover the 16 pros and cons of moving to Boca Raton Florida! From gorgeous beaches to diverse culture, luxury living to job prospects, we’ve got you covered.

Now you are probably searching Google, Facebook groups and asking friends why they love or maybe don’t love about Boca…am I right? Of course I am LOL! (Okay with that being said, you might be thinking Delray Beach, Highland Beach or even Deerfield Beach which are all just minutes from Boca)

As a long time resident here, I met my husband here, raised my kids here and moved here in high school, I think I can give you, without a doubt, a great perspective on living in Boca! Yup, we Boca locals call it just that…Boca.

 

Make sure to grab your Relocation Guide, just click here!

 

How Do You Say Boca Raton?

First off lets get the pronunciation of Boca Raton right!

Boca Resort and Club
The Boca Resort

BO-KUH RA-TONE is how we locals pronounce our beautiful town. Not “rattan” or “ra-tawn”. But to be safe just say Boca and you are good to go!

Okay…lets get down to it and start with the 16 pros and cons of Moving To Boca Raton Florida PS…if you subscribe to my YouTube channel you will get notified each week when I upload a local vlog about living in Boca Raton and sunny South Florida!

Boca Raton Pros 

Boca Raton Beaches

Boca Raton Beaches

  1. Boca Raton is perfectly situation on the border of Broward and Palm Beach counties which means, you are about 30 minutes from Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach and only about an 45 minutes from Miami. You can live in East Boca, West Boca or Central Boca by the way. Lots of choices and different styles and types of communities here.

2. The weather is pretty much amazing all year long. As I write this blog post it is breezy, sunny and about 85 degrees. Now that doesn’t suck! The annual average temperature in Boca does vary as we are in a tropical environment. So think of it as warm and hot with a dash of humidity from about May through early December. Summers are hot here but you get used to that!

3. Parks and rec…not just a show on Netflix! When I tell you we have the most amazing parks and recreation that would be an understatement. From waterfront parks, ball fields, tennis, pickle ball, sports activities, picnic areas, playgrounds, beach front and beyond we are well situated when it comes to parks. My kids played sports at and enjoyed birthday parties at Patch Reef Park, Sugar Sand Park, Red Reef Park and Spanish River Park (over by the beach).

Parks and Beaches in Boca Raton
Parks and Beaches

4. Another great reason to move to Boca Raton is… the Beaches! Boca has some of the most gorgeous beaches in the state of Florida hands down. You can visit my blog on local beaches and options throughout the state of Florida. The city back in the day had some major vision in regard to keeping our beaches pristine, easy to access and literally our crowing gem to our beautiful city. Two miles of sandy, salty and sensational beaches are right here in beautiful Boca Raton!

Moving to Boca Raton Enjoy the Dog Park and Dog Beach
Dog Park and Dog Beach

5. Dog beach and dog park! Yup…Boca is pretty dog friendly! I have two dogs myself and my neighborhood is full of dog walkers…which I see all over the city throughout the communities when I am driving around. Check out the city link to get your permit to take your pup to Bark Beach and Mizner Bark Park

6. How about airports! Dude…we have our very own Boca Raton Airport right in the heart of Boca. Fly private or fly your own plane to Boca Raton! We are close to three airports…Fort Lauderdale International Airport, Palm Beach International Airport and Miami International Airport. If you are traveling for business or pleasure it is great to have these options! PS…

7. I get asked frequently about schools in Boca Raton and Palm Beach County. You can see all of the school ratings for our area schools at greatschools.org. My husband and I went to public schools here and sent our kids to the same ones we went to. There are many options for your to choose from including private schools all around Boca Raton.

Florida Atlantic University
Florida Atlantic University

8. Lets talk higher education in regard to colleges and universities. So lucky to have Florida Atlantic University (Go Owls), Lynn University, Everglades University and Palm Beach State College right here in Boca.

Did you know that FAU has a medical school and a nursing program? Being that we are well located in South Florida we are in close proximity to the University of Miami, Nova and FIU.

One thing we did when our daughters went to college was set up Florida Prepaid which was fantastic for our family. I myself am a University of Florida gator and proud of it!

9. Calling all foodies! We are bigtime food fanatics in our family and we love trying new restaurants and spots around Boca Raton and South Florida. The selection is vast and diverse.

From traditional American fare to sushi, Peruvian, Cuban, Greek, Italian, seafood, pizza and more. You will find both high end and dives that have great food. If you need suggestions reach out via email or on Instagram for my suggestions! PS…if coffee is your jam check out our post on 17 Coffee Spots in Boca/Delray

Pizza and Great Restaurants
Great Restaurants

10. Sports…youth sports programs here in Boca Raton are plentiful from SABR Soccer, Boca Hoops Basketball, Boca Jets Football, Lacrosse, Softball and more! Plus a skate park and shuffleboard courts! Youth sports are near and dear to my heart. My kids played Boca Hoops and softball when they were younger.

11. Lifestyle! The quality of life in Boca Raton is exceptional. Mainly due to the weather, options of things to do, places to go, coastal living vibe, beaches and overall management of the city itself.

12. No State Income Tax – enough said. Plus Homestead Exemption if you are making your property your primary home.

World Class Shopping

13. Shop Until Ya Drop! What can I say about shopping in Boca! World class, designer, fun, boutiques, big box, strip malls, outdoor malls and stand alone stores are a huge part of the Boca Raton landscape (sans neon signs…they are not allowed, nor are car dealerships in the city…fun fact I bet you didn’t know).

Let me also add, some of the best thrift store shopping you will find anywhere! Boca has some serious shoppers, who also like new things pretty frequently, so, many times a day thrifting and shopping at consignment stores

14. Art and culture surround us! From the Boca Museum to a new venture called Zero Empty Spaces at Boca Center. Head up to Delray Beach too and their arts district to check out different galleries and murals!

Not to mention that during season, when it cools down a bit, we have some fantastic outside art shows around Boca.

Boca has a great vibe, under 100K people, but…has a smaller town feel, especially in East Boca.

Boca Raton Beaches

Start your home search here.

Boca Raton Cons

  1. Traffic is busy…just like any city. Certain times of the day or specific roads can get pretty backed up during season. Reach out to me for some of my favorite short cuts (wink wink)
Hurricane Season
Hurricane Season

2. Hurricane Season…hey from June 1 – Nov 30th…we are in the bubble…I have a great article on the blog that will give you tips and strategies on how to get through and handle the storms that occasionally come through. Our motto is just be prepared in regard to your home, your insurance, your supplies and whether or not you want to stick around or leave.

3. The heat! Yup, it gets pretty hot here especially from May until about December! Boca Raton boasts a delightful subtropical climate, maintaining a yearly average temperature of around 77°F. Winters treat us to warm daytime temperatures of about 75°F and comfortable 56°F evenings.

Don’t forget to pack a light sweater for those rare chilly spells. Summer paints a picture of humidity and heat, reaching highs around 90°F and lows of 75-80°F. It’s the season of rain and radiant sun!

Boca Raton Real Estate For Sale

Housing Market 

The housing market has changed a bit over the last year but Boca Raton and the surrounding South Florida cities remain in high demand. What that means is that prices are high and getting higher as of this post.

If you are thinking of making move, even though interest rates are higher than during the pandemic, we are still in a lower inventory situation and prices are going up. South Florida remains very popular for businesses, second homes and relocations.

There are plenty of non gated communities around Boca in case you were wondering and if you are looking for gated or membership communities that typically have clubhouses, golf courses and amenities Boca Raton has a multitude to choose from including new construction communities. Now if a single family home is not your jam or in your budget condos, townhomes and villas are plentiful all over Boca Raton.

As a matter of fact, the inventory levels for these types of properties are better as of the writing of this post vs single family homes so…if you are thinking you want to move here and you don’t “need” a single family home, consider the more plentiful arena currently of the condo market.

I have been selling real estate in Boca Raton and the surrounding cities since 2003 so if you have any questions about moving to Boca Raton just send them my way!

 

We Love Where We Live

So now you have it… 16 Pros and Cons of Moving To Boca Raton Florida! Now with that being said, I know there are more pros and cons so this is just a short list for you to review!

Living, working and playing in Boca Raton has been one of the best gifts I have been given in my life. My dad moved our family here in 1978 and frankly, I have loved every minute of it. It’s the kind of place you love to share with the world and the kind of place you are grateful to live in.

If you are thinking about moving to Boca Raton, reach out to someone who really knows Boca…like me…I love it sooo much I started a blog called #SoooBoca Lifestyle. You can read and watch more about the town I love so much right there.

Boca Raton Podcast
Boca Raton Podcast

About Michele

Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

Start Your Home Search Here

Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

15 Best Pizza Places in Boca Raton and Delray Beach

“Where is the best pizza by me?” “Who has the best pizza in Boca?” “Where can I find a vegan pizza?”.

Where are the best pizza places in Boca Raton and Delray Beach?

Those of us at #SoooBoca cannot tell you how many times this question has been asked. Lucky for us…..and you, there are a host of delicious pizza restaurants nearby.

Unofficial Facebook Poll

With that being said, there are sooo many types of pizza to choose from in Boca Raton and Delray Beach, AND pizza styles that people love from deep-dish to thin crust, to New York style to Neapolitan and California style I reached out to my Facebook peeps for suggestions on their best pizza places in Boca Raton and Delray Beach and of course they delivered!

Question of the Day

Is it okay to put pineapple on a pizza? Inquiring minds want to know!  Leave your comments below!

Slice of Pizza
Prezzo Restaurant

As with almost anything, opinions vary greatly when it comes to pizza. People have STRONG beliefs both on where to eat and what to eat. We’ve done a bit of research (and eaten a LOT) and are happy to share 15 of our favorite local Boca and Delray Beach pizza spots.

 

Let’s Get Started

Coal Fired Pizza
Coal Fired Pizza

Anthonys Coal Fired Pizza

A polished casual pizza dining experience that serves up award-winning (USA TODAY), authentic coal-fired pizza, oven-roasted chicken wings, homemade meatballs, Eggplant Marino (named after partner and NFL hall of famer Dan Marino), Paulie’s pizza, an amazing white pizza(one of our faves) named after our friend Paul Castronovo, and Anthony’s Classic Italian Salad. There is one in Boca right by Trader Joe’s on Federal Highway.

Augy’s Restaurant and Pizza

NW 2nd Street in Boca is home to one of the area’s favorite restaurants. Since opening in 1977, Augy’s has become synonymous with pizza in Boca. Whether you are a fan of traditional, thin crust or Sicilian, Augy’s comes through.

Fans love their crust and the fact that they are generous with their toppings, especially the cheese. They offer dine-in, take-out, delivery, and catering…meeting your every need. PS…love their lasagna! (TEMP CLOSED)

Cheese Pizza with veggies

Bambini’s Garden Pizzeria

If you love New York-style Pizza, then Bambini’s is perfect for you! Owned by the same people who own The Boys Farmers Market, this spot has been a fixture in Delray for years.

All of their delicious pizzas are available for curbside pick up during this trying time, including their sausage, peppers and onions pizza and the incredible caprese salad pizza. Their menu is huge….and everything is always so good!

Blaze Pizza

Fresh made! Real ingredients! Eco friendly packaging! No chemicals! No additives! Get fired up with Fast-Fire’d Pizzas from Blaze! Made just the way you want. PS…Did ya know that the head food gGuy Brad Kent is known as “the pizza whisperer”? Well he is! Order online for delivery or pickup. In East Boca and West Boca.

Veggie Pizza

California Pizza Kitchen

Located a Town Center Mall in the heart of Boca, this has been a “mall” staple like forever! CPK uses fresh high-quality ingredients to create innovative, hearth-baked pizzas such as The Original BBQ Chicken, Thai Chicken, and Jamaican Jerk Chicken, cooked in an open kitchen. They offer soups and salads and even Take and Bake pizza.

Cannoli Kitchen

With three locations in Boca Raton, this well-known restaurant consistently serves some of the best pizza we have ever had. Their specialty pies offer the most creative, and delicious, combinations in South Florida.

We love the eggplant parm pie and Grandma’s square. And, for those days when you cannot decide if you want pizza or pasta, order the baked ziti pie. Who says you can’t have it all?

Big City Pizza 

My husband swings by and picks up pizza from this restaurants frequently! They have pizza, subs, calzones, strombolis and salads! You can get a slice or a whole pie!  You definitely need to try the Carnivore – Pepperoni, Sausage, Meatball, Bacon. Simply delish!

Cheese and meat pizza

Nick’s New Haven Style Pizzeria and Bar

If you have never indulged in “New Haven” style pizza, run — don’t walk — to Nick’s. There is something special about their thin, crispy, coal-fired crust. Pizza cooked in their brick oven is spectacular.

For the true New Haven experience, indulge in Nick’s fresh Rhode Island clam pizza. You’ll thank us later! In Boca and Coral Springs!

Papa Giuseppe’s Cafe

Located on Linton in Delray, this restaurant’s history has deep and authentic roots….. in Italy. It only takes one bite of their delightful pizza to appreciate this restaurant’s storied background.

They are “passionate” about pizza! The “pizza” section of the menu is diverse…diners have to make some tough decisions….margarita, meat lovers, traditional….so many from which to choose! All pizzas are available in 3 sizes. If you can’t make up your mind, order a few!

Pizza Time

If you’re a sauce lover, then Pizza Time in Boca is the place for you! Their sauce is, in a word, perfection! Pizzas come in medium, large, extra large and Sicilian.

And, if you’re eating lightly, consider one of their “minis”. While this spot provides all of the traditional toppings, they also offer an array of gourmet options including, but not limited to, broccoli rabe, kalamata olives, artichokes and roasted peppers. Pick your favorites and enjoy! PS…the hubs frequently buzzes by for a slice on the way home from work!

Tomasso’s Pizza and Subs

We always feel like one of the fam when we drop by Tomasso’s! This family-owned and operated spot has been a fixture in Boca Raton (on Palmetto, just east of 95) since 1981.

An active member of the community, they also provide Boca with some fabulous pizza! They use only the highest quality ingredients and everything is made fresh, in house! Tomasso’s invites you to become a regular, offering a rewards program where you can earn free food.

Bonus, if you are looking to just “grab a slice”, Tomasso’s is your place.

Chicken Wings

Tucci’s Pizza

When Tucci’s claims “The Char is Flavor”, they are telling the truth. There is something irresistible about their crust. At #SoooBoca we can’t pass up their white pizza….and we always enjoy the fresh house salad AND an order of “Tucci’s wings”. (Does that sound like too much food? We don’t think so!)

The combination of the rosemary and garlic spiced wings topped with caramelized onions and parmesan makes our mouths water.

Dessert Pizza
Windy City Pizza

Windy City Pizza

Thin crust Chicago pizza? We have to admit, we didn’t know this was even a thing. But, according to the owners of Windy City Pizza, it’s not only real, it’s a tradition. They shared: “according to Chicago locals, deep dish is for tourists”.

Their claims are as bold as their pizza. A visit to this Delray shop includes dining on a thin, crispy crust pizza covered in the toppings of your choice.

Order one of their specialty pies or create your own. And, don’t forget to check out the rest of the menu; it’s filled with yummy Chicago favorites. PS…they have S’mores pizza! To die for!

Mister 01 Pizza

 

Okay! I have heard raves about this new pizza joint across from Mizner Park! IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT! Here are the deets! From their website: Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza was born from the idea that an extraordinary pizza requires the utmost attention to detail and the finest ingredients, the necessary tools for an artist to produce a masterpiece.

Chef Renato Viola came to settle in Miami Beach under the O1 Visa category, reserved for those with “Extraordinary Artistic Ability” of internationally acclaimed fame. Recognizing that his talent would be the foundation of a revolutionary pizza joint, he opened Mister O1 with the intention of creating something truly extraordinary. 

Sicilian Oven

Sicilian Oven

In the Boca Raton – Live, Work, Play Facebook group, several people have raved about Sicilian Oven so we knew we needed to add this to our list!

According to their website, Sicilian Oven offers a new way of dining.  Many of these recipes have been handed down from generations through the DiSalvo and Garavuso families. We do this because we love it. You will not only love the taste, you will taste the love.

Detroit Style Pizza

Stoners Pizza Joint

An old Boca Raton High School friend, Grant Averill and his wife Teresa, have recently opened Stoner’s Pizza Joint, with only 5 franchises in Florida and this is the first in Palm Beach County. Everything is handmade, nothing frozen.

They make the best homemade Ranch dressing, special recipe for our marinara and they smoke their own wings. PS…try their Stoner’s Half-Baked chocolate chip cookies for dessert!

Pepperoni pizza

Lastly, shout out to the new on-the-block pizza joint HowYaDough’n– grab a slice or a pie! 

There You Have It

Lastly, if you want to have a pizza party at home, you can get fresh pizza dough at Fresh Market! We did this recently and had a blast! 

If you are looking for the best pizza places in Boca Raton and Delray Beach we have a great list for you! If you couldn’t tell, we love our pizza! Did we miss something spectacular when compiling our list of favorites?

If so, please comment and let us know. We are always willing to “take one for the team” and try a new restaurant. And, we would love to share your favorite with our friends and neighbors!

PS…

As always, please reach out to the establishments listed for pricing, updates and details. Trust with readers is very important to me and I strive to only recommend products and restaurants with the best information I can share with my reader’s interest in mind.

Michele Bellisari

About Michele Bellisari

Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home?

Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

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Boca Raton’s Charcuterie Scene: A Flavorful Journey

Charcuterie Boards – When Trendy Is Delicious

Charcuterie Boards.  What can we say? They are, in a word, fabulous. And, in recent months their popularity has soared. It’s easy to understand why.

What Is a Charcuterie Board

Traditionally, if you ordered a charcuterie board in a restaurant your waiter or waitress would deliver a platter of meats and cheeses along with some dried or fresh fruits.

They have been around forever. In fact, D’Artagnan has been creating and delivering them for “more than 30 years”. 

Perhaps because we were spending more time at home, at some point mid-pandemic the popularity of these boards skyrocketed. In fact, a host of these boards are available online; they were a go-to holiday gift this past year! 

Smirly Cheesboard

SMIRLY Charcuterie Boards Gift Set: Large Charcuterie Board Set, Bamboo Cheese Board Set 

Charcuterie Board Offerings

One of the best things about a charcuterie board is its versatility, it’s not just a meat and cheese platter anymore.

In fact, these boards have become a vehicle for delivering a broad range of delicious treats.

The displays can be elegant or whimsical, depending on the items included. In the past few months, we have seen some amazing boards and are excited to share these creative ideas with you.

Traditional Charcuterie Board

A selection of meats and cheeses is the focal point of a traditional charcuterie board. The beauty is that you can customize them to include your favorites.

We have enjoyed charcuterie boards in a number of excellent restaurants and today there are local shops and small home businesses who prepare them to go! 

Grazing Table

Bee.CheesyMiami Charcuterie Boards, Grazing Tables, & Corporate Orders | Miami

Italian Charcuterie Board

Perhaps the most similar to the original intent, Italian charcuterie boards are the perfect appetizer for brunch or dinner, or can even stand alone as an elegant lunch entree for friends to share. 

If you are creating an Italian Charcuterie Board, consider including a variety of Italian meats and cheeses like Genoa salami, pepperoni, and even capicola.

Cheese can include fresh mozzarella and parmesan. Accessorize with olives, roasted peppers, and marinated artichoke hearts.

Consider adding a small bowl of bruschetta as well as some crostini.  Doris’ Market on Yamato or Josephs’s Marketplace on Military are both great places to shop for ingredients for your Italian charcuterie board.

Fruits and Veggie Boards

Popular over the holidays and for family gatherings, these boards are delicious and healthy! 

Whether you go sweet, with fruit or savory, with veggies, you are offering your guests the opportunity to graze guilt-free. 

The key to these boards, in addition to incorporating items of a variety of colors and shapes, is to make sure you purchase the most delicious and fresh produce.

Check out The Boys in Delray for an incredible selection of fruits and vegetables.

Dessert Charcuterie

What could be better than a board filled with sweets?  Honestly, not much. And, dessert charcuterie has become the “it” thing to serve.  The best part is that you have the opportunity to be incredibly creative. 

Candy boards are super fun.  You can choose to go all chocolate (and will likely not have any complaints) or incorporate tons of color with an array of gummy candies. It’s Sugar, in Delray, has an awesome candy selection.  

Outdoor entertaining is trendy (and necessary) and some boards fit perfectly with the theme.

Do you have a fire pit? If so, consider a S’Mores board.  And be creative.  Of course, you’ll include marshmallows, graham crackers, and Hershey bars….but add a variety of candies and cookies (think peanut butter cups and fudge stripes) to make it even more decadent. 

And, for those random chilly Boca nights, a hot cocoa board is the way to go. Don’t say you heard it from us, but placing some yummy spirits (like peppermint schnapps) next to your board is always a treat!

Charcuterie Dessert Board
The Charcuterie Chic Charcuterie Boards, Boxes Boca Raton, FL

Serve Charcuterie Board at Your Next Party

Clearly, the opportunities are endless when designing a charcuterie board. At #SoooBoca we love them because they allow us to offer a variety of yummy food to our guests, but not actually cook!  

The next time you have people over, consider ordering one from a local business or create one yourself! And, send us a picture so we can share it with our friends. We’d love a little inspiration.

Charcuterie Board
Grazing Joy Charcuterie – Deerfield Beach, Florida

Dining Out


When it comes to planning a delightful happy hour or a memorable girls’ night out or in, in Boca Raton, the search for great charcuterie options is an absolute must.

Fortunately, this vibrant South Florida city boasts a thriving culinary scene, and you’ll find an array of restaurants, wine bars, and bistros that serve up some of the finest charcuterie platters around.

Whether you’re in the mood for expertly crafted cured meats, artisanal cheeses, or an assortment of delectable accompaniments, Boca Raton has you covered.

Explore charming venues with inviting atmospheres that offer carefully curated charcuterie boards, perfect for sharing and pairing with your favorite wines or cocktails.

Savoring these delectable bites with friends amidst the lively ambiance of Boca Raton is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Here are a few of some popular hot spots for charcuterie:

Sixty Vines – Boca Center – Boca Raton

Gormetphile – East Palmetto Park Road – Boca Raton

Gourmet Market – Boca Raton

Vino Wine Bar & Kitchen – Mizner Plaza

Boca Beach

About Michele Bellisari

Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home?

Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

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Boca Raton’s Pickleball Craze: Your Ultimate Guide to Joining the Fun!

Discovering the Buzz

In the sun-drenched city of Boca Raton, I’ve discovered a new passion: pickleball! This lively sport, blending elements of badminton, table tennis, and tennis, has quickly become a local craze. It’s the perfect mix of fun, social interaction, and physical activity for all ages.

As a Realtor, I realized I was sitting at my computer and simply not moving enough daily…something many entrepreneurs deal with.

I am also an empty nester and in the 60th chapter of my life…it is important according to The Blue Zones Secrets To Living Longer to move, to eat better and healthier, and have community to live a longer and healthier life. So I decided to change that stat!

Thus, after some research, I decided that pickleball might just be perfect for me. So stay tuned and join me on my pickleball journey as I take my first swings and learn the ropes of this engaging sport.

Ready to dive in too, or thinking about it? Let’s dive into this fun-filled adventure together! DM me on Instagram if you are new too or ready to learn!

Get Your Boca Raton Relocation Guide here!

Prime Locations: Beaches and Parks District

Courtesy of Patch Reef Park

Boca Raton’s beaches and parks are the hubs of its thriving pickleball community. The Boca Raton Beach and Parks District offers numerous courts, some with breathtaking ocean views. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these parks welcome everyone:

Additional locations to take lessons and play pickleball in the area:

East Boca Raton
Beautiful Boca Raton, Florida

Joining Pickleball Groups

One of the best ways to dive into Boca Raton’s pickleball scene is by joining a group. These groups range from casual gatherings to more structured clubs. They’re a fantastic way to learn, play, and socialize:

  • Boca Raton Pickleball Club: Offers organized games, events, and tournaments.
  • Groups: Sites like Meetup.com list local pickleball meet-ups for various skill levels.
  • Community Center Leagues: Check with local community centers for league information.

Events, Tournaments, and Socials

The city buzzes with regular tournaments, socials, and league play, making it easy to immerse yourself in the community. These events are great for making friends, improving your game, and enjoying the sport’s social aspect.

Click here for the 2024 Boca Raton Masters Pickleball Tournament details!

Getting Started: Classes and Equipment

For beginners, Boca Raton offers a plethora of classes taught by experienced instructors. Equipment-wise, pickleball requires a paddle and balls, available for rent or purchase at local sports stores, niche companies or Amazon.

Franklin Sports Outdoor Pickleballs – X-40 Pickleball Balls – USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved – Official US Open Ball – 3 Packs, 12 Packs, 36 Pickleball

Disclosure: This post contains Amazon and other retail affiliate links. If you purchase I will earn a small commission from these companies. Shopping through these links helps support my business. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

Embrace the Pickleball Lifestyle!

Boca Raton’s pickleball craze is a blend of sport, community, and fun under the Florida sun. Grab a paddle, join a group, and be part of this growing phenomenon. It’s a fantastic way to stay active, meet new people, and enjoy a lively and engaging hobby!

Michele Bellisari

About Michele Bellisari

Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.


If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home?

Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!


You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.


Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed.

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17 Coffee Shops in Boca Raton & Delray Beach To Love

Coffee Lovers Unite

When it comes to coffee in Boca Raton and Delray Beach, I’ve got you covered. Imagine sipping your latte while strolling to nearby homes for sale, discussing listings over cappuccinos, or even sealing deals with a coffee meetup.

Whether you’re a potential buyer or seller, these charming coffee shops offer a taste of the vibrant local lifestyle and a great opportunity to explore the neighborhoods you’re interested in. PS…ready to start your search just click here to begin!

Ready to blend your love for coffee with your passion for real estate? Let’s get brewing!

Coffee and Conversations

I don’t know about you but the #SoooBoca gals love their coffee and as busy on the go entrepreneurs “coffee” is a main food staple for us! Coffee in Boca Raton is plentiful and there are all kinds of styles and recipes to enjoy!

 

As gals on the go, I am a Realtor, Halle is a photographer and Kylie is a flight attendant/Foodie Influencer, we love to enjoy a great cup of coffee throughout our day especially when we are together!  

Check out our list of where to get coffee in Boca Raton and Delray Beach, to start off your day or get a midday moment to relax and unwind!  

Coffee Delray Beach

Boca is a mecca for small business owners — this city takes pride in buying local and supporting our neighborhood shops. 

Of course we enjoy the occasional Starbucks or a quick pit stop at Dunkin’ Donuts, but what we really love is the home town brewed stuff. The slow roasted, cozy sitting cup of coffee. 

Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

The Seed

First on the list, is the sweet, quaint shop right off of Palmetto Park Road ‘The Seed.’ This spot popped up over night and since its curation has been a hometown favorite!

Not only is the coffee toasty and amazing but the atmosphere is what elevates this café to the next level.

The community tables are great for a large meet up and each seat has access to an outlet! If that doesn’t scream business meeting don’t know what does!

Saquellas 

For a more traditional coffee experience stop by ‘Saquellas.’ Located in the heart of downtown Boca this long standing Italian café is known for their creamy cappuccinos, lattes and all around smooth coffee.

Pair it with any of the bakery items and you are sure to be drifting off into mid-morning heaven.

Don’t worry about getting lost in the plaza, just keep an eye out for Saquellas signature red chairs and you will be one sip closer to our favorite iced latte.

Cote France Cafe 

There is nothing more french than cake and coffee. ‘Cote France Cafe’ is known for their authentic French pastries and steamy cups of caffeine goodness.

Much like the sweet avenues of France this café is located on a cozy corner in the midst of Royal Palm Plaza — if you blink you may miss it. It is the perfect place for an after lunch pick me up or a feel good sweet.

Mane Coffee

coffee boca raton

We  recently visited Mane Coffee and it was simply delightful! Boca Raton native Daniel Karram has opened his shop just off of Spanish River Blvd and Federal Highway and it has both indoor and outdoor seating. 

They select coffee from world class roasters around the United States and they also taste and try each coffee they offer.

Specializing in pour overs: a single serve, made-to-order cup of coffee and customers can choose from 10+ coffees + new options from time to time!

Cosa Duci

A true sweet treat that happens to be located by some of our fave boutiques and thrift stores is on 20th Street near Florida Atlantic University.

Cosa Duci Bakery and Cafe is simply as salute to all things delicious and the coffee is off the charts good.

My personal fave is the cappuccino and a mini quiche! Their menu is diverse and they are open for breakfast, lunch and early dinner as they close at 6pm.

Tulipe Cafe 

tulipe cafe
Courtesy Tulipe Cafe

Another addition to our #SoooBoca list is Tulipe Cafe, a Parisian style spot for you to visit just on Powerline Road.

Who doesn’t love a melt in your mouth chocolate croissant or tasty macaron or a French biscotti to dip in your coffee or cup of espresso!

Mizner Park

Boca Raton Coffee Spots To Try 

Subculture Coffee Mizner Park 

La Boulangerie Boul’Mich at Town Center Boca Raton

Le Macaron French Pastries at Mizner Park 

Gourmet Market just south of Spanish River 

Bakery of France

Delray Beach Coffee Shops To Experience

Subculture

Coffee District 

Columbian Coffee House

Restore Coffee

Carmela Coffee

Gizzis

Over The Bridge Cafe 

The Cozy Coffee (Getting Global)

Morning Coffee
Photo Credit David Dewitt

If you have not yet done so, check out this fantastic coffee resource online called The Cozy Coffee.  From gear, to guides, to reviews, you will love this site for all your coffee loving needs!   

Remember The Coffee Roaster?

If you are “old Boca” I want to pay tribute to a throw back spot called the Coffee Roaster out at Glades Plaza…oh my it was lovely. Remember those sandwiches and the outdoor garden? It was one of my faves to go to with my mom.

Just to name a few! So if you are looking for a great cup of coffee in Boca Raton or Delray Beach, now you have a great list to check out! 

Please DM is your favorites on our #SoooBoca Instagram or on Facebook at #SoooBoca! 

Looking for fun events and what is happening around Boca after you have that cuppa joe? Click here to see a variety of local calendars

Michele Bellisari Realtor

About Michele Bellisari

Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

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Lilly Pulitzer For The Florida Fashion Win

Lilly Pulitzer for the All Ages

Lilly Pulitzer shops throughout South Florida are the perfect place to go to, to outfit your entire family, office, and home! At #SoooBoca we are Lilly regulars; we love the bright cheerful patterns, the easy-to-wear clothes, and simply fabulous accessories.

No matter what the occasion, Lilly seems to always be my go-to staple in my Boca Raton closet!

Lilly Skort Dress Woman with Dog
Photo Credit: Halle Alessia Photography

Disclosure: This post contains Amazon and other retail affiliate links. If you purchase I will earn a small commission from these companies. Shopping through these links helps support my business. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

The Story of Lilly Pulitzer

Today, the brightly colored floral apparel that signifies the designs by Lilly Pulitzer has become synonymous with South Florida. The socialite was living in Palm Beach when she leveraged her husband’s ownership of citrus groves and began selling freshly squeezed juice.

Her dressmaker designed a “uniform” for her to wear while she worked; something to hide the stains resulting from splattering citrus. 

The brightly colored dress was such a hit with her juice clients that she transitioned her efforts and the “Lilly Pulitzer” brand was born.

Now in operation for sixty years, this iconic resort wear brand has certainly stood the test of time. 

Lilly for Everyone

While the brand initially produced women’s “shift dresses” it has grown and diversified over the years and now serves people of all ages.

Women’s apparel has expanded from simple dresses to include tops and bottoms, loungewear, activewear, rompers, shoes, and swimsuits. 

Lilly Pulitzer Romper

The line for girls encompasses everything from dresses and rompers to swimwear. There is also a large selection of “matching items”, perfect for those mother/daughter photo ops!

If you were hoping to include your husband and sons in your family picture, you are all set. The brand now provides matching swimwear for men and boys.

Lilly Pulitzer Accessories Are Everything

Lilly Pulitzer Pink Gown

As the company grew it also began to produce classic yet trendy accessories, many of which (including scarves, notebooks, and agendas)  feature the iconic “Lilly Pulitzer” prints.

The brand also shares a line of sunglasses, jewelry, bags, and travel accessories. PS…love their earrings and bracelets!

And yes, even a gown! I wore Lilly Pulitzer at my daughter Kylie’s wedding Labor Day Weekend 2023. I wore a skort dress for the rehearsal dinner and one for the Sunday BBQ!

Get the gown! It fit beautifully, was elegant for an afternoon wedding and frankly was a mother-of-the-bride gown hit! PS…Kylie picked it out for me!

Get the Carlynn Maxi Satin Bow Dress here.

Palm Beach Look Anytime Of The Year

Palm Beach was home to Lilly Pulitzer and her influence remains strong today. The stores are located throughout South Florida and, when traveling the area you are sure to see her timeless fashions well represented.

Lilly Pulitzer Shorts

At #SoooBoca we LOVE our Lilly!  Her styles are perfect for all of the things we love to do and there is a store conveniently located in the Town Center mall here in Boca. 

I was gifted this cool cooler for my birthday a few years ago and it is truly one of my favorite Lilly Pulitzer items! Functional and fabulous! Click on the pic for deets via Amazon.

Lilly Pulitzer Blue/Green Insulated Soft Beach Cooler with Adjustable/Removable Strap and Double Zipper Close, Aqua La Vista

Sunshine Sale

A favorite time of year for me is when Lilly Pulitzer has their “sunshine sale”.

I save gift cards from my birthdays and holidays that my family has given to me to get extra discounts on Lilly clothes and accessories that I love including home decor items!

Casually Elegant Fashion

We can dress casually for a day of window shopping and lunch, don her spectacular swimwear for a visit to the beach or pool, and dress up and accessorize for dinner at one of our favorite local restaurants.

We adore her products; their patterns always make us smile.  And, in keeping with times, Lilly now offers the ultimate accessory,  a line of machine-washable face masks.

Lilly Pulitzer Blanket

Giving Back To The Community

I for one have shopped at Lilly Pulitzer here in Boca at Town Center Mall during one of their shop and share events.

The brand partners up with local non-profits frequently! For example, Lilly Pulitzer was a corporate sponsor of the 2022 Kips Bay Show House Palm Beach which supports Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County and Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club.

Lilly Repurposed

Now y’all know I love to thrift and buy via consignment online and here locally! I have scored amazing Lilly Pulitzer accessories, dresses, skorts, and more via Poshmark! Was thrilled to discover that

Boca Raton Podcast

About Michele Bellisari

Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home?

Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

Start Your Home Search Here

Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

Choosing Your Word of the Year: A Guide to Setting Intentions for Success in 2024


Pick Multiple Words of The Year!

It is that time of the year again…yes…it is the “find your word of the year” time! 

Every year about this time I think about choosing a word to help guide me for the new year.  I think one word can help me define my year and goals based on what I want to achieve.

Now with that being said, and being the Aries girl that I am, I find it hard to pick one word.

So as I did last year, I am going to be choosing a few words to strategically work with in 2024.

I believe this will help me stay focused on myself and allow me to have some flexibility too as opportunities arise in my businesses.

My words this year are: Reset, Scale, Balance, Self and Travel

How I Chose My Words

Those of you who follow my Instagram know that my oldest daughter got married in 2023…it was magical by the way but as a “mob”, mother of the bride, a little stressful as that is to be expected.

I revamped my coaching program that I created for Realtors, which included moving my program to a new platform, creating new modules, streamlining content, and selling it.

We dealt with some health issues in our family, as many of you do.

I traveled almost exclusively for business or the wedding in 2023. Which, other than a few long weekends in the Florida Keys, which is my favorite place to unwind, I truly did not have a vacation at all.

So, moving forward, I am doing a reset of sorts for my health, business, and personal life.

Balance, self, and travel all play into each other regarding putting down a weekend a month where I am traveling for pleasure, moving my body daily including adding more stretching movements daily, which I started about 45 days ago, and self-care in the form of massages and facials along with not doing things anymore that I truly do not embrace or enjoy.

365 New Words-A-Year Page-A-Day Calendar 2024: From the Editors of Merriam-Webster

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Manifest Your Best 2024

Many people we know started new ventures and businesses in 2021 especially as we all had to pivot due to Covid-19.

What we are seeing is a common theme of “I’ve done a ton of planting seeds and now I need to launch and tie up loose ends” or, my current business or occupation is not going to survive or has been eliminated, what is my next career chapter.

We are seeing words like. change, downsize, simplify, convert, monetize, growth, collaborate, invest, and focus.

What have you decided to monetize this coming year? Make sure you write that down where you can see it every day!

Finding a Great Planner

So along with choosing a word or words for 2024 think about adding a planner or journal to complement your online calendar. I like to write thoughts down and not always in my “notes” section on my phone or Trello.

Celebrate The Feeling Of Newness

There is nothing like cracking open a new book or opening up a beautiful bottle of champagne or smelling a new bloom on a rose bush to make you feel inspired, hopeful, and filled with joy… like a glittering New Year ahead of you …your future is filled with opportunity and success!

Disclosure: This post contains Amazon and other retail affiliate links. If you purchase I will earn a small commission from these companies. Shopping through these links helps support my business. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

Word Of The Year Tips

So in the spirit of choosing a word (s) of the year here are 7 tips to help you manifest and showcase the best word or words for you!

1. Reflect on what you imagine your New Year to be like and what words embrace that vision.

    2. Look for inspiration from movies, quotes, the written word, and other areas in your life to help you narrow down your choice or choices.

    3. Think about what brings you joy, growth, happiness and energy!

    4. Meditate or have some quiet time to see what words bubble up.

    5. What do you want more or less of this coming year?

    6. Make sure you write down your word (s) and post them where you can see them!

    7. Where to write them you may be asking? How about on sticky notes, a few pretty note cards, or write that word on your bathroom mirror with your favorite lipstick… yes, I have been known to do that with my MAC St. Germain!  

    8. Make sure to share with someone you trust or your special crew to keep you accountable and frankly to put out into the universe!

    Need Some Word Inspo?

    Here are some words to grab if you are stumped:

    new year word

    PS…we went to the free Wordclouds generator to make our personalized cloud!

    It is the time of year when you can simply breathe in and breathe out and say goodbye to the crap.

    Be thankful for the successes from years past and focus on the endless possibilities of a new and exciting unopened year!

    PS…in my opinion, every Monday is a fresh new start, heck every day is, but even if you don’t achieve your specific goals or you get sidetracked, just know, it happens to all of us!

    Thank You!

    Thank you to all who have supported our #SoooBoca® Lifestyle Blog and my real estate business here in Boca Raton, we wish you the happiest and healthiest upcoming year filled with peace, love, joy, and opportunity!

    Let’s raise a glass of whatever your pleasure is and clink to a fresh New Year with thoughtfulness, patience, understanding, empathy, and joy.

    Don’t forget to share your word of the year with us too as we always are looking for some inspiration and motivation from our friends and followers!

    Love #SoooBoca xo

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    Need some foodie ideas rolling into the New Year? Check out this post!

    Ready for a day-cation after the busy holiday season? You will enjoy our suggestion just click here!

    Don’t forget to check out my Facebook Groups! ReInventher – Women In Real Estate, Today’s Modern Midlife and Boca Raton – Live, Work and Play

    Boca Raton Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

    If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

    Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts, and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty, and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. 

    Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed.

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    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    Island Escapes and Margaritas: The Influence of Jimmy Buffett’s Music

    On September 2nd, this past Labor Day Weekend, I woke up to my phone buzzing with texts about Jimmy Buffett’s passing, and tears welled up as I as I thought about all of the fun times we had had over the years, going to concerts and listening to his music. 

    Ironically, it also happened to be my daughter Kylie and her fiance Nick’s wedding weekend in Pittsburgh, a time of profound joy overshadowed by sudden sadness.

    Jimmy Buffett 2023

    “Parrotheads unite Jimmy Buffett did not disappoint Love the venue Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – Hollywood, FL

    Jimmy Buffett’s music has been an integral part of our lives. I distinctly recall one of the first albums my mom played when we moved to Boca – it was probably “Son of a Son of a Sailor.” Living in South Florida, that Jimmy Buffett vibe naturally blended into our lifestyle.

    “The weather is here I wish you were beautiful~We are the people our parents warned us about~If we couldn’t laugh we will all go insane! Happy Birthday Jimmy Buffett you truly bring joy to the world:) #finstotheleft #finstotheright”

    WODORO Custom Tiki Bar Parrot Tropical Wooden Sign Decor, Tiki Hut Wall Plaque for Backyard Pool Grill Porch Deck Patio Garden Yard Summer Tropical Beach Outdoor Decor, Housewarming Gifts

    Disclosure: This post contains Amazon and other retail affiliate links. If you purchase I will earn a small commission from these companies. Shopping through these links helps support my business. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

    One cherished memory was attending a Jimmy Buffett concert with my husband, in Columbus, Ohio and we had second or third-row seats…someone from the band tossed out a tambourine and two of us leapt to get it…I lost but ended up with almost a broken nose! PS…that tambourine is with my brother-in-law Dave…still in Columbus! We still laugh about that concert! 

    Jimmy Buffett concert on CMT…thanks Sonia…this made Capt. Andy smile:)”

    We attended many concerts over the years including our last one, last minute in February 2023 at The Hard Rock Hotel in Hollywood. It was a great concert, I mean really, really good. But then all of his concerts were memorable and fun. 

    “Take another road to a higher place…disappear without a trace, take another road to another time… on another road in another time, like a novel from a 5 and dime…take another road, another time…take my own sweet time…fortunes on my mind…disappear without a trace “

    Jimmy Buffett On TV

    However, one of my unforgettable moments seeing Jimmy Buffett was the concert I attended with my dad at Fiddlers Green in Denver. 

    It was July 31, 1988 and the Hot Water Tour. My boyfriend at the time, now husband, was a little envious as he was not with me and the amazing Little Feat was the opening act. 

    It was the only live concert I ever saw with my dad…he died 17 months later.

    #jimmybuffett #fgcu good way to start our day:)”

    Jimmy Buffett Concert

    Jimmy Buffett’s music has always had a soothing effect on our family, no matter where we find ourselves. We play his tunes during holidays, on our boat, in the car, whether we’re in Key Largo, Ohio, or anywhere else.

    And to circle back to Kylie and Nick’s wedding, the first thing I did when I saw the band setting up was to ask them to please play at least one Buffett song…thankfully they did and we have a great video of a bunch of wedding guests singing along to Margaritaville in only a manner that JB would have loved! 

    @jimmybuffett I am the strange blonde lol!!”

    Jimmy Buffett’s songs have truly become the soundtrack of our lives, and his memory lives on in the countless moments of happiness and nostalgia he’s provided for my family. 🍔🌴🎶

    We’re deeply saddened by his passing, especially since boating and fishing are such significant parts of our lives. It just doesn’t feel right that the ultimate Parrot Head is no longer with us. As Jimmy Buffett would say, “It’s 5 o’clock somewhere.” Jimmy, may you rest in paradise 🦜🦜🦜 Cheers to all the wonderful memories you’ve given us 💗🦜🙏🍹

    Michele Bellisari

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele Bellisari is the founder of #SoooBoca® Lifestyle & Media based in Boca Raton and a Realtor with Real Broker.

    If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home?

    Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

    You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

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    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    Coastal Christmas Decor: 5 Seaside Ideas for Holiday Inspiration

    0

    Bringing Coastal Bliss to Your Christmas

    As the holiday season approaches, many of us are busy planning our Christmas decorations to infuse our homes with festive cheer. Coastal Christmas decor is very much our holiday vibe here in Boca Raton!

    If you’re a coastal enthusiast or simply love the relaxed vibes of beachside living, why not bring a touch of the seaside to your Christmas decor this year?

    We’ve put together five delightful coastal decor ideas to help you create a beachy Christmas wonderland that will transport you to the shore, even if you’re miles away from the beach.

    Disclosure: This post contains Amazon and other retail affiliate links. If you purchase I will earn a small commission from these companies. Shopping through these links helps support my business. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

    Christmas Ornaments
    Kurt Adler Blue Starfish and Sand Dollar Shells Christmas Holiday Ornaments Set of 2

    Seashell Ornaments

    One of the easiest ways to infuse coastal charm into your Christmas decor is by incorporating seashell ornaments.

    Collect various types of seashells, both large and small, and turn them into beautiful ornaments.

    You can either leave them in their natural state or paint them in festive colors like turquoise, coral, or sandy beige.

    Hang these seashell ornaments on your Christmas tree, wreaths, or garlands for an instant beachy vibe.

    Nautical Tree Skirt

    Upgrade your tree skirt with a nautical twist. Opt for a tree skirt made from jute or burlap, reminiscent of fishing nets or beachy textures.

    Add some coastal flair by embellishing it with seashells, starfish, or small pieces of driftwood.

    This simple addition will give your Christmas tree a coastal makeover that’s both charming and rustic.

    Nautical Tree Skirt
    Sea Turtle Merry Christmas Tree Skirt, Coastal Beach Themed Xmas Decorations, Reusable Festive Holiday Decor, 42 Inches

    Beach-Themed Stockings

    Replace traditional stockings with beach-themed ones. Look for stockings in coastal colors like aqua blue or sandy beige and adorn them with beach-inspired embellishments such as miniature beach umbrellas, seashells, or flip-flops.

    Personalize each stocking with the names of your family members for an extra special touch.

    Mermaid Stockings
    Large Mermaid Tail Christmas Stockings Flip Reversible Sequins (CustomizeColor, Personalized)

    Coastal Wreaths

    Nothing kicks off your curb appeal more during the holidays than decorating your doors and walls with coastal wreaths that capture the essence of the seaside and a coastal Christmas.

    Consider wreaths made from seashells, driftwood, and dried sea grass. You can also add some holiday elements like red bows, starfish, and mini beach balls to make them festive.

    Hang these wreaths on your front door and throughout your home to welcome guests with a coastal Christmas spirit.

    Christmas Wreath
    18 Inch Eucalyptus Leaves Starfish Blue Shatterproof Wreath for Home and Front Door Decoration, Greenery Wreath with White Berries for Home Decoration, Starfish Wreath for Everyday Indoor and Outdoor

    Beachy Centerpieces

    Transform your dining table into a coastal haven by creating beach-inspired centerpieces.

    Fill glass vases or hurricane lanterns with sand, seashells, and beach glass. Place a few white candles or LED lights inside to mimic the gentle glow of beach bonfires.

    Surround these centerpieces with beach-themed tableware, such as seashell-shaped plates, coral-patterned napkins, and beachy placemats, to complete the look.

    Beachy Centerpieces
    Sea Glass Christmas Tree – Handcrafted Mini Christmas Tree with LED Lights, Table Centerpiece – Ideal for Christmas, New Year, Home Decor, Coastal Holiday Decor and More (Blue Gradient)

    Bringing Beach To Christmas

    This holiday season, bring a touch of the coast to your Christmas decor with these five delightful ideas.

    From seashell ornaments to nautical tree skirts and beach-themed stockings, there are countless ways to infuse your home with seaside charm.

    Whether you live by the beach or simply wish you did, these coastal decor ideas will transport you to the shore and make your Christmas celebrations all the more special.

    Embrace the relaxed, breezy vibes of coastal living, and let your holiday decor reflect the beauty of the seaside. Happy decorating!

    Local Ornaments You Will Love

    I love supporting local and this year I am sooo excited to find that the Boca Raton Garden Club has one of the most iconic and fun locales from back in the day, The Wildflower property…call Casa Rosa. Make sure to buy one, here is the link! Support this lovely club!

    Casa Rosa Ornament

    Boca Raton Historical Society and Museum

    If you have not yet visited the updated Museum, it is truly a labor of love and our deep history of Boca Raton is beautifully presented and preserved.

    In addition, every year, I pick up beautiful ornaments from the museum store.

    This year it is Yamato Colony Ornament – “This hand-painted glass ornament illustrates one of Boca Raton’s earliest settlements established in 1905.  Artwork by Boca Raton artist Barbara Montgomery O’Connell. Twenty-second in the limited series, 2023.

    Yamato Colony Ornament

    Holiday Events in Boca Raton and South Florida

    Looking for all things holiday fun? Look no further! Here is our annual guide with 25 Holiday Event Happenings to plan your holiday season!

    Michele Bellisari

    About Michele

    Michele Bellisari is the founder of #SoooBoca® Lifestyle & Media based in Boca Raton and a Realtor with Real Broker.

    If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

    Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

    You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

    Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

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    Start Your Home Search Here

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    25 Holiday Events Happening in Boca Raton & South Florida

    Get Your Holiday Event Calendars Out!

    #SoooBoca has put together a list of holiday events in South Florida and has updated it for 2023. Holiday events and happenings are in full swing this year so check out our big list of things to do in Boca Raton, around the Palm Beaches, and South Florida!

    The Boca Raton
    The Boca Raton

    Links to the websites for each of the events have been included.  Click on them and confirm the locations and times – you know as well as us, sometimes things change.

    Plus scroll down and meet some of my blogger friends who have done a fabulous job putting their fun holiday round-up of events together for you!

    New to our area? Check out the #SoooBoca Youtube channel for more things to do, places to go, and events to attend!

    You can also check out some of my favorite things on my Amazon store. I have trendy and fun lists of items that you might enjoy for friends and family!

    
Thanksgiving cocktails

    Thankgiving Events

    Check out our annual Thanksgiving in South Florida post! At #SoooBoca we love both Friendsgiving and Thanksgiving. We know we are fortunate that we can celebrate at home, dine out or even have a beach Thanksgiving!

    Lilly Pulitzer Christmas Presents

    South Florida Holiday Events

    A great place to find holiday events in South Florida appears to be on Eventbrite. You can click here to see area celebrations for all of the December holidays!

    Discover The Palm Beaches has fun information on the latest events throughout Palm Beach County.

    Love Football?

    ESPN Roofclaim.com Boca Raton Bowl

    December 21st – 8:00 pm – FAU Stadium

    Boca Raton Events

    CP Groups Annual Tree Lighting

    BRIC – Boca Raton Innovation Campus )

    CP Group Announces Its 8th Annual Community Tree Lighting and Holiday Extravaganza Set for Thursday, November 16 at BRiC

    The First Free and Open-To-The-Public Tree Lighting to be Emceed by WPTV’s Steve Weagle
    and Benefits Junior League of Boca Raton and Spirit of Giving

    The “most wonderful time of the year” will officially kick off in Boca Raton when CP Group lights the 40-foot Christmas tree amongst all who live, work, play, and visit the city at the first free and open-to-the-public Community Tree Lighting & Holiday Extravaganza of the 2023 holiday season.

    This year’s event will feature WPTV’s First Alert Chief Meteorologist Steve Weagle as emcee and offers fun for the whole family, complete with a Santa meet and greet and the return of live reindeer.

    The popular yuletide tradition is set for Thursday, November 16, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at its Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRiC) on Yamato Road at 5000 T-Rex Avenue in Boca Raton with free parking (hundreds of spaces).

    Eventgoers will enjoy*:

    • Meet-and-greet with Santa and his live reindeer! Santa’s official photographer will capture the moments and free print out commemorative photos for eventgoers to take home.
    • Festive Countdown to the 2023 Official Christmas Tree Lighting, flipping the switch on
      thousands of twinkling LED lights that showcase hundreds of dazzling ornaments.
    • Santa’s Workshop, a kid-friendly tented area with free holiday-inspired children’s activities led by ArtNEST Studios and letters to Santa organized by Boca Raton Historical Society & The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum.
    • LED Cirque Performers, on-stage and roaming, featuring mesmerizing levels of risk balancing and a Hula Hoop contortionist spinning with over 30 Hula Hoops and juggling.
    • 12-foot-high Holiday Bounce House
    • Family Play at the Farm Animal Petting Zoo features over 20 sheep, goats, chickens, ducks, bunnies, cows, and more.
    • Face Painting 
    • Holiday-themed performances by:
      • West Boca Raton Community High School Choral: CALLIOPE,an auditioned treble ensemble composed of students in grades 10-12 under the direction of Choral Director Catherine Briggs and with support from Nat King Cole Generation Hope, a local nonprofit working to provide access to music education for children with the greatest need.
      • Grandview Preparatory School music students under the direction of Carrie Furman
        • AcaPride, an acapella ensemble of students in grades 6-12 performing holiday pop choir arrangements in three-part harmony.
        • Extensions, an audition-based ensemble consisting of upper school and middle
          school students performing pop, jazz, and classical choir arrangements in
          three- to five-part harmony.
      • Organic Movements Dance School featuringa talented troupe of classically trained ballet students presenting a magical selection from its upcoming seasonal production based on the timeless classic, “The Nutcracker.”
    • Food Truck Lane, offering diverse menu options.
    • Cash and Coffee Bars

    *Scheduled programming subject to change

    General admission is free with an unwrapped new toy or monetary donation to Spirit of Giving (SOG), collected upon drive-through check-in entry to support the nonprofit’s Annual Holiday Gift Drive, which brings holiday cheer to 6,000+ underprivileged children throughout Palm Beach County. The SOG network creates alliances with nonprofit organizations by sharing resources and providing education to strengthen our communities.

    Eventgoers may also celebrate within a ticketed VIP hospitality tent with refreshments and a special Kid’s Zone. VIP tickets are available at $50 per adult and $15 per child (16 years and younger), which includes hospitality tent access; open bar; catered hors d’oeuvres, and other special activations.
    A “Kids Corner” within the tent will serve children’s treats and beverages, face painting, and more. One hundred percent of VIP ticket sales will benefit the Junior League of Boca Raton, an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

    Owned and operated by CP Group, the largest office landlord in the state, BRiC is the largest single-facility office building in Florida at 1.7 million square feet. Designed by iconic Brutalist architect Marcel Breuer, the campus was originally built in 1969 for IBM and is home to the invention of the first personal computer. CP Group acquired the campus in 2018 with the vision of transforming BRiC into a technology and life sciences hub for the Southeastern United States with unparalleled amenities, including two coffee shops, event space seating up to 1,000, an autonomous grab and go, art exhibitions, and more. Tenants include Boca Raton Regional Hospital, Kroger, Modernizing Medicine, and Canon.​

    For event updates and to RSVP for general admission or purchase VIP Tent tickets, visit https://CPGrouptreelighting2023.eventbrite.com

    Holiday Lights Boca Raton

    City of Boca Raton

    MERRY IN MIZNER | Nov 18 – Jan 1 | Nightly – Mizner Park has fun happenings including the holiday tree, virtual visits with Santa Clause and holiday decorations!

    MIZNER IN MIZNER | Nov 18 – Jan 1 | Nightly

    Mizner Park
    Take a stroll through Mizner Park and take in the beauty of our holiday light displays. Frolic with vibrant flamingos or venture under the sea in the heart of Downtown Boca Raton

    MERRY IN MIZNER’S MUSIC SERIES | Various dates 

     7 – 9pm

    Mizner Park
    Get into the holiday spirit with live music by outstanding local performing artists around the Mizner Park Tree! 
    Fri, Dec 8: Morgan Minsk
    Fri, Dec 15: Holden Amory
    Fri, Dec 22: Teddy Sings
    Fri, Dec 29: Gratitude Steel Band 

    MERRY IN MIZNER’S STUFF-A-PLUSH | Sun, Dec 10  

    6 – 8 pm

    Mizner Park, South Gazebo
    Stop by Mizner Park to make your own plush winter critter complete with birth certificate and wishing star. Limited to the first 200 attendees. 

    MERRY IN MIZNER’S MEET THE GRINCH 

    Tues, Dec 12 | 6 – 8pm

    Mizner Park, North Gazebo
    “He’s as cuddly as a cactus and as charming as an eel,” Don’t miss out on a free photo with the green legend in Mizner Park!

    Additional Holiday Fun In Boca Raton

    FAU’s Tuba Christmas

    Enjoy traditional holiday music performed by tubas and euphoniums in this worldwide tradition.

    • Sunday, December 3, 5pm – 6pm

    Visit the FAU’S Tuba Christmas page for details.

    Boca Raton Holiday Street Parade

    The Boca Raton holiday street parade is happening too! Wednesday, December 6th from 7:30 pm – 9 pm. The City of Boca Raton shares the following

    The 51st Annual Holiday Street Parade will feature decorated floats and community groups which will entertain viewers as they bring dancing, lighting, and music to Federal Highway in Downtown Boca. 

    The parade will start at Federal Highway and SE 5th Street, and travel north to the Mizner Park Amphitheater.  This year’s theme will be “Holidays on the Silver Screen.”

    As a reminder, traffic will be congested in the area as Federal Highway will be closed. Parking for attendees at the City lots listed below is free, ample and highly recommended:  

    • City Hall – 201 W. Palmetto Park Road
    • Downtown Library – 400 NW 2nd Avenue
    • Building Administration – 200 NW 2nd Avenue

    And BEFORE the parade, participate in a family-friendly 1 mile “Boca Holiday Mile Run” with the Boca Raton Police Athletic League. Details coming soon…

    See the Holiday Street Parade Rules here.

    Holiday Street Participation Application

    Application Due: November 10, 2023

    Boat Parades In Boca Raton and South Florida

    Boca Raton Holiday Boat Parade

    Saturday, December 16, 2023

    6:30PM – 8:30PM | Intracoastal Waterway

    IMPORTANT NOTICE ❗ 
    As the City gears up for our annual Holiday Boat Paradewe’re facing a shortage of parade participants. To ensure the boat parade’s success this year, we’re reaching out to you for support!

    If you, your friends, or your family have a boat that you’d like to decorate and be a part of this year’s parade – be sure to SIGN UP and register BEFORE November 21 at 5pm. Entry is free.

    – – – – 

    The City of Boca Raton Annual Holiday Boat Parade lights up the waterways of the Intracoastal beginning at C-15 Canal, traveling south to Hillsboro Blvd. Bridge. 

    $1000 awards will be presented for Winners in each category below:

    • Under 25′
    • 26′ to 34′
    • Over 35′

    Holiday Boat Participation Application    DEADLINE to apply: November 21, 2023 at 5pm

    Parks and Rec

    Sugar Sand Park Events for all ages during the holiday season!

    Santa Claus

    ‘Tis the Season for Photos with Santa

    Santa is back at Town Center Mall in Boca Raton on November 16th! Make sure to check out the website for times and to make a reservation!

    Holiday Shopping Ideas

    Did you know the Boca Raton Historical Society has a store? They do and have wonderful Boca Raton-based items including Christmas ornaments that showcase locations and history of Boca!

    Nutcracker Performances in South Florida

    Starting with all the amazing  The Nutcracker performances in South Florida which start in November and go through December. From Miami to the Palm Beaches there is a performance waiting for you! Many are doing “socially distanced” performances so way to get creative during this difficult time!

    Sandi the Tree In West Palm Beach

    West Palm Beach

    The City of West Palm Beach Save the date for the City of West Palm Beach’s holiday tree lighting on Thursday, November 30th, 2023! Sandi, the 35-foot star of the City’s annual Holiday in Paradise campaign will celebrate her 11th birthday with her famed light shows and a cast of supporting characters. Sandi’s Pancake Breakfast with Santa & Ferris, Saturday, December 16th.

    Zoo Lights

    The Palm Beach Zoo –Zoo Lights presented by Florida Power & Light Company is sure to become a Florida holiday tradition for families and friends. For the first time, the Palm Beach Zoo will be illuminated for the holidays with over one million eco-friendly lights. Each evening from 6 – 10pm the Zoo will be aglow with unique themed displays from the entrance through the Florida Wetlands and Tropics of the Americas. The festive holiday fun features photos with Santa, special animal encounters and Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen featuring cookie decorating sponsored by Florida Crystals®.

    Lion Country Safari – Please check for holiday happenings and hours. Lion Country Safari is situated on nearly 600 acres of natural area and home to over 1,000 animals.

    Have you subscribed to #SoooBoca Yet? Click here for insider info!

    santa boca raton

    Delray Beach

    Happy Hours and Pop Ups

    If you love visiting Christmas pop up bars and themed restaurants and more holiday events check out MiamiOnTheCheap and FortLauderdaleOnTheCheap for some great ideas!

    Don’t forget to buzz by the community calendar section we have set up that will have holiday events in South Florida on them! Click here!

    100" Tree Delray Beach
    Credit: DowntownDelrayBeach.com

    Delray Beach has several events including the Delray Beach 100 Ft. Christmas Tree is one of the largest and most celebrated holiday events in Palm Beach County. 100 NW 1st Avenue Delray Beach Florida 33444

    Boynton Beach

    Annual Holiday Boat Parade in Boynton Beach Beautifully decorated boats with travel from the Lantana Bridge to the C-15 Canal in Delray.  The festive parade can be viewed from multiple points along the route. If you are going to watch, please bring an unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots.

    Broward County & Greater Fort Lauderdale

    Fantasy of Lights: This drive through holiday light display is always a favorite.  Pile the kids in the car, grab some cocoa, crank up the holiday music and head on over to Tradewinds Park.  Visit their website for complete details.

    Fort Lauderdale is a ton of fun during the holidays! Check out Sunny.Org for all the holiday activities and fun happening just to the south of beautiful Boca Raton!

    Winterfest Boat Parade

    As always, one of the best events of the holiday season is The Seminole Hardrock Winterfest Boat Parade on the Intracoastal in Fort Lauderdale! There are plenty of places to watch this spectacular holiday event so check out the deets right here!

    Kwanzaa

    For Kwanzaa events around South Florida check out Fort Lauderdale on The Cheap and Eventbrite for scheduled activities!

    Miami Holiday Celebrations

    One of my favorite bloggers, Florida Trippers, has a great list of things happening in the Miami area so check out these festively fun events!

    Happy Hanukkah

    Happy Hanukkah

    Hanukkah Events

    Jewish Federation Calendar of Events – Check in with the Jewish Federation for local Hanukkah events around our community.

    Do You Have Updates For Us?

    If you have any updates for holiday events in South Florida, especially “local” to Boca and the Palm Beaches, please email us directly so we can update this post!

    The #SoooBoca Squad wishes you very Happy and Healthy Holidays! 

    PS…

    Give Your Holiday Tree a “Second Chance”

    Holiday Trees laying in lot to be recycled
    Recycle Your Tree

    Help give your tree a second chance with the City of Boca Raton Holiday Tree Recycling program from December 26 through the 3rd Sunday in January!

    With this program, residents can drop off their “clean” holiday trees at 751 Banyan Trail (east parking lot located adjacent to Mizner Bark Dog Park). The City’s Recreation Services Department will pick up the trees and chip them into mulch to be used at the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. ***Please make sure to remove ALL decorations including lights and tinsel from the tree.***

    For single-family residents who are not able to drop off trees for recycling, please be sure to remove all decorations and place trees in the swale for regular vegetation collection. For additional information please call 561-393-7810.

     As always please confirm all information in this post with the event coordinators.

    Boca Raton Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

    If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home?

    Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

    You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

    Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed.

    .

    Celebrate Thanksgiving In South Florida

    Who Is Ready For The Long Holiday Weekend?

    It’s November, and you know what that means…..Thanksgiving in South Florida has arrived! At #SoooBoca we love both Friendsgiving and Thanksgiving. We know we are fortunate that we can celebrate at home, dine out or even have a beach Thanksgiving!

    Over the years we have done our traditional meals and added different side dishes to spice things up. Captain Andy is a master at deep fried turkey and occasionally defrosting it in the pool…yes, you read that right.

    Thanksgiving Thoughts

    As the season of gratitude approaches, I find myself reflecting on the deeper meanings of ‘home’ and ‘community’.

    This year, amidst challenges of inflation and rising food insecurity, my dedicated colleagues at Real Broker, especially the passionate Women of Real, have initiated the Harvest of Hearts Food Drive.

    Aiming to address these pressing concerns, we’re creating food drives via local food banks in our communities, ensuring that families can celebrate Thanksgiving with full hearts and plates.

    Join us in this mission, for the essence of Thanksgiving lies not just in the feast, but in the shared compassion of our community.

    If you would like to donate to my Women of Real/#SoooBoca Boca Raton Food Drive via Boca Helping Hands Thanksgiving Box Brigade simply email me directly for more information!

    Holiday Traveling

    Now some years we go away, like we did in 2020. My husbands family is quite large, and we all like to travel. For several years we would meet in Hilton Head (and stay in Palmetto Dunes).

    Our trip was not complete without renting bikes, the guys playing golf and of course, watching The Macy’s Day Thanksgiving Parade.

    In recent years we have traveled up to Pittsburgh, where my daughter Kylie and her new husband live and enjoyed a Pennsylvania Thanksgiving and most recently we have enjoyed having Thanksgiving in St. Augustine.

    Turkey Dinner
    Thanksgiving Dinner

    Boca Raton Thanksgiving

    We also know that Thanksgiving getaways are popular and people visit beautiful Boca Raton and South Florida for the holidays.

    We have put together some suggestions for you whether you live here or are simply visiting South Florida. You can celebrate Thanksgiving in South Florida from the Florida Keys to Palm Beach!

    This post contains affiliate links which means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate compensation at no additional cost to you. #SoooBoca is an amazon Associate and earns from qualifying purchases.

    Celebrate Friendsgiving

    “Friendsgiving” celebrations have become increasingly popular in recent years.

    If you have a group of fabulous friends who love a good meal (and cocktails), consider hosting a Friendsgiving this year! Check out Coopers Hawk Winery for their Friendsgiving events or a Thanksgiving Dinner Package!

    One of the great things about celebrating Thanksgiving in South Florida is that your friends from far and wide will probably want to come here!

    There is nothing like hitting the beach on Thanksgiving afternoon before you get into your fantastic meal!

    Thanksgiving in South Florida with Friends
    Friendsgiving

    5 Tips to a Perfect Celebration

    1. Choose a Great Date: Apparently, Friendsgiving is traditionally the Wednesday before or after Thanksgiving. That said, celebrate when you wish! Personally, I love the idea of the Saturday following Thanksgiving. It’s the perfect way to unwind from all that Black Friday shopping!

    2. Send Your Invites Now: The holiday season is a busy one, so invite your friends ASAP. Have them block the day on their calendars!

    3. Plan the Menu:  While some people elect to replicate the typical Thanksgiving meal (think turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce), I prefer something a bit more modern:  a cocktail party with yummy hors d’oeuvres.  Or you can have a potluck and make a turkey (or your special main dish if you are vegetarian, vegan, etc) and all your friends can bring their favorite sides and desserts! 

    4. Include a Signature Cocktail: I truly believe that no party is complete without a signature cocktail; spice up your Friendsgiving with a speciality drink. While our friends up north may be sipping hot mulled cider, let’s face it, that doesn’t work in SoFla but an apple crisp martini or cranberry margarita certainly will.


    5. Keep It Simple: The goal of a Friendsgiving is to relax and spend time with the friends that make your life special. So, plan ahead, cater or pick up pre-made meals if you don’t like to cook!

    Thanksgiving celebrations are personal to to each person. Here are some resources if you want to keep moving over the holiday or need some volunteer ideas!

    Post Thanksgiving Florida Meal Ideas

    Turkey Trots: You know that holidays means tons of great food.  This year consider participating in the  Annual Levis JCC Turkey Trot 5k held on Thanksgiving Day!

    adolph and rose levis jcc turkey tort

    Giving Back

    Don’t forget to go to the Community Calendars here on the blog for South Florida counties and cities, to help you plan your week.


    Giving Back: A fabulous way to celebrate is to give back. Not everyone is able to enjoy a delicious meal for the holiday.  

    Take a look at this list of organizations; they all provide opportunities for you to donate or volunteer. Boca Helping Hands is right in East Boca so see how you can help out this year! Also the Palm Beach County Food Bank could use your help as well!

    There is no shortage of volunteer opportunities this year.

    It’s All About The Food!

    key lime pie
    Key Lime Pie

    Whether you love to cook or prefer to dine in or out we have put together some suggestions for you to make your day great!

    One of the many ways to celebrate Thanksgiving in South Florida is to dine out! Not to mention, if you prefer a traditional South Florida dessert you might like our 10 Best Key Lime Pies in South Florida list!

    Dining Out: While some of us LOVE to cook, others of us LOVE to dine out, and Thanksgiving is no exception. Luck for us, many local restaurants are hosting delicious Thanksgiving meals this year.  

    Want to be by the water? We love Oceans 234  just minutes from Boca in Deerfield Beach. One of our constant faves is of course The Addison Boca Raton!

    In Boca consider some of our favorite spots. Season’s 52, Trattoria RomanaRuth’s Chris, Abe & Louies, Farmer’s Table, Tanzy, Max’s Grille and Prezzo are all serving dinner for the holiday.  Check out Seaspray Inlet Grille at Waterstone Resort and Marina and The Nauti Dawg at Lighthouse Point Marina!

    stone crab
    Stone Crab

    Not to be outdone, several Delray restaurants are also opening their doors this Thanksgiving. Consider dining at Henry’s, Farmhouse Kitchen Delray,  Sundy House, Deck 84 and Johnnie Browns. Avalon Steak and Seafood is having their first Thanksgiving with a special three-course prix fixe offering. and if you want to dine oceanfront then make a reservation at Latitudes Delray!

    For our friends who love Galuppi’s in Pompano Beach check out their awesome Thanksgiving menu and make your reservations now!

    Cranberry Sauce and Sides
    Side Dishes For Thanksgiving

    Catering: Love to host but cooking is not your jam? 

    No worries, you can still serve a delicious dinner by catering in! Both Doris Italian Market and Bakery and Josephs’ Classic Market can cater a full holiday dinner. 

    You can also get a delicious Thanksgiving dinner at Fresh Market, Whole Foods and Publix…where shopping is a pleasure!

    Not to mention the variety of Downtown Boca Restaurants that are open for both traditional and non traditional Thanksgiving Day meals!

    Meal Planning

    thanksgiving turkey
    Herb Brined Thanksgiving Turkey

    Lisa the founder of Garlic and Zest has some amazing Thanksgiving recipes for your to try so buzz by her website and take a peak at some of her delicious ideas for your celebration.

    sausage fennel and apple stuffing
    Sausage Fennel and Apple Stuffing

    Need some appetizer inspiration?

    Baked Camembert, Honey, Rosemary and Thyme

    SuperGoldenBakes has an amazing puff pastry spiral with Baked Camembert, Honey, Rosemary and Thyme recipe for you to share with your guests! We wish would could have a piece of that right now!

    vegan spinach artichoke cups
    Vegan Spinach Artichoke Cups

    VeganHuggs has a lovely appetizer recipe for Vegan Spinach Artichoke Cups one of our favorite combos and you can choose from many recipes to help you plan a vegan Thanksgiving meal!

    Make This Year’s Appetizers With Some Deliciousness

    bellisaris sauces and spreads

    Lastly if you love spreads and sauces you simply must check out some great recipes from my fabulous sister in law Annette and her company Bellisaris Gourmet Convenience to incorporate into your holiday meals!

    You can choose from Blistered Jalapeno & Fig Spread, Blue Cheese, Honey & Shallot Spread, Calabrian Pepper & Sweet Tomato Fennel Spread, Balsamic, Shallot & Black Garlic Spread, Saigon Street Sauce and Barista Sauce all are simply delish!

    Stone crab season is here! Don’t forget to pick up those crab claw from some of our favorite seafood shops likes Flamingo Seafood in Pompano Beach, Pop’s Fish Market in Deerfield Beach, Seafood World in Pompano Beach and Old Dixie Seafood in Boca!

    South Florida Holiday Events Around South Florida

    Holiday Inspiration

    Don’t Forge To Check Out The #SoooBoca Annual Holiday Event Guide – 17 HOLIDAY EVENTS HAPPENING IN BOCA RATON & SOUTH FLORIDA

    Happy Thanksgiving from the #SoooBoca Squad from our family to yours!

    Do you do something unique with your family or friends for Thanksgiving?

    If so, please let us know!  We would love to hear about your plans and traditions – maybe there is something we can incorporate into our celebration this year!

    As always please check the event pages and all links to confirm dates and times of activities and information we share on our blog.

    Michele Bellisari - woman in kitchen

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

    If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

    Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

    You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

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    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    Best Stone Crab Spots in South Florida

    Stone Crab Season Is Here!

    Living in Florida is a gift for many reasons.  Want to know one of my favorite reasons I love living here? It’s two words:  Stone Crabs! 

    Being that they are in season from October 15 to May 15, it seems like the perfect time to share a little bit of my love affair with them.  

    Check out some of my favorite things about stone crabs. PS…I have a short list of some great stone crab spots you might want to try!

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    Disclosure: The links in this post/on this page are affiliate links via Amazon and other companies and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. 

    Joe’s Stone Crab

    Let’s start with Joes! Did you know that when Joe of Joe’s Stone Crab Miami first opened his restaurant in 1913?

    Folks did not know much about stone crabs and they actually did not serve them at the beginning.

    According to the story shared on their website, it was Joe’s meeting with a Harvard scientist who introduced him to this delicacy.

    Together, they realized the claws were delicious when correctly prepared and stone crabs became a hit!

    stone crabs

    A Foodie Fave

    No surprise that Joe’s Stone Crab is one of my favorite places to eat one of my favorite foods.  It’s an institution. So much so that Food & Wine Magazine named them as one of the 40 Most Important Restaurants of the Last 40 Years!

    Don’t be surprised to see someone famous eating at the table next to you.  

    Diners at Joe’s have included presidents, athletes, movie stars, musicians, and social media influencers!  

    You haven’t experienced all that is Florida until you head to South Beach for lunch or dinner at Joe’s.

    Here’s my advice: order the wedge salad, the hash browns, the creamed spinach, AND the stone crab claws.  They come in medium, select, large, and jumbo by the way ( I always go for the large or jumbo personally)

         

    Honestly, my mouth begins to water when the waiter places the bib around my neck!  

    Want to take a sneak peek inside the restaurant and get expert advice on how to eat and crack stone crabs just take a moment to watch this video.

    Visiting the Stone Crab Capital of The World

    Looking for a day trip? Head southwest to Everglades City, also known as the Stone Crab Capital of the World.  This small fishing town is home to stone crab fishermen; in fact, many restaurants receive their crabs from here (including Joe’s).

    There is no shortage of places to enjoy them here either – consider visiting some of these well-known establishments: Triad Seafood Market and Cafe (known for its super casual atmosphere),  Grimm’s Stone Crab (a seafood market well-known for its crabs) and City Seafood (which serves stone crabs right off their boats) as well as Camelia Street Grill

    These are just a few of the several local spots well-known for their super-fresh crabs.

    Everglades City even hosts their famous Seafood Festival annually in February! Curious about what to expect, check out this video.Everglades City Seafood Festival

    Check out even more restaurants we love on our stone crab post on Instagram!

    Shopping at Farmer’s and Green Markets

    There are stone crab claws for sale all around South Florida on the weekends! When I can combine stone crabs and a farmer’s market it’s going to be a good day.

    PS…I love to couple a cool and crisp glass of chardonnay, rose or prosecco with my stone crab meal – it just is a fabulous combonation to bring out all the flavors!

    Watching a Stone Crab Eating Contest

    Yes, this is real!  Keys Fisheries has a fun and fabulous contest right in Marathon, Florida!

    Want to try the claws from the host restaurant? You can take a day trip to Marathon where you can eat in or buy them fresh, or you can order them online and have them shipped to your home. 

    Eating with a Mallet

    Even when they come cracked (which is the perfect way to order them if you are eating them the day they are purchased) a mallet is useful to have on hand!  

    Whole (not cracked) claws can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. (Make sure they are packaged and kept on, not in, ice).  

    Ready to eat?  Wrap them in a towel and hit them with your mallet (or heavy spoon) and dig in. Make sure to get every last bit of yummy meat!

    Indulging in the Meal

    The #SoooBoca gals do not live by stone crab claws alone! 

    The sides, condiments, and dessert are all an important part of the experience.

    We asked some Boca locals about their favorite things to eat with stone crabs.

    Oyster stuffing, hearts of palm salad, and lobster mac and cheese were some of the favorites along with a crisp glass of chardonnay. 

    As for condiments, while some enjoy drawn butter, the mustard sauce was the winner (everyone loves Joe’s recipe). 

    Finally, don’t forget dessert.  Overwhelmingly, props were given to key lime pie.  That combination of tart and sweet makes it the perfect way to end a delicious dinner.

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    More Locations!

    Next time you are wondering what to have for dinner, consider some of Florida’s famous Stone Crab Claws. Eating in or out, they are simply delicious and so much fun to eat!  

    Do you have a favorite place for stone crab claws in South Florida? Here are some of ours in no particular order

    Seafood World in Lighthouse Point

    Chops Lobster Bar

    Old Dixie Seafood,

    Pops Fish Market

    Delaware Chicken Farm

    Catfish Deweys

    City Oyster

    Palm Beach Catch

    Trulucks Ft. Lauderdale

    Don’t forget to keep an eye out for all-you-can-eat stone crab specials at many of the local restaurants!

    Seafood Festivals

    Want to find all types of seafood festivals in Florida? Click right here.

    If you enjoyed this article buzz by another post we did about the fabulous Rustic Inn and of course, 25 Things to Do in the Florida Keys

    As always please make sure you verify all information with events and restaurants directly!

    Michele Bellisari

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

    If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

    Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

    You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney, and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    11 Tailgating Tips & Boca Raton Bars Ready for Kickoff

    Are You Ready For Some Football

    Football season is upon us and so is tailgating! Although we might not have tradition tips in the air that Autumn is upon us, we know for sure, that when football season is upon us so are cooler days and shorter nights!

    We are big football fans in this family and have had a ball tailgating over the years.

    Whether you tailgate at a game or choose to do some “homegating” from your home, #SoooBoca has some great ideas for you!

    Now we enjoy both pro and college football so remember to visit this blog post again to get the latest and most updated NFL and college football schedules. 

    Football and Real Estate

    As a Boca Raton Realtor, I have the unique pleasure of not only helping people find their dream homes in this vibrant South Florida community but also witnessing the excitement of our local football scene.

    From cheering on the Miami Dolphins and Florida Atlantic University, our region is a hotspot for football enthusiasts.

    It’s no surprise that football stars and owners are drawn to the incredible lifestyle South Florida offers, making it a prime destination for real estate investments.

    Disclosure: The links in this post/on this page are affiliate links via Amazon and other companies and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. 

    (For Latest Updates from #SoooBoca Please Subscribe to Our Newsletter)

    Families That Love Football

    tailgate with family
    Family Fun at Ohio State

    As a family we have been fortunate to experience many amazing tailgate experiences at Ohio State over the years and attend bowl games including the Rose Bowl and the Citrus Bowl. Both of my husband’s brothers Steve and Greg played for Ohio State and in the NFL.

    For a family that loves food, fun and football, you can be rest assured that our tailgates are a foodie fiesta typically involving some sort of barbeque item and pork butts!

    We Love Owling

    There is nothing better than tailgating with friends…especially friends from high school at FAU games! We are also lucky to have a Division 1 university right here in Boca Raton!

    We get invited to some fun tailgating events and our friend Jeffery Boyer always pulls it out with fabulous food, drink and fun…and yes, we love watching the games too!

    FAU Football Games
    FAU Football With Friends From Boca High and Boca Raton

    Favorite Football Game Day Foods

    I did a quick poll of my pals on Facebook to find out there favorite foods for game day and we came up with a few front runners.

    The most popular finger foods for game day included chicken wings, seven layer dips, pulled pork sliders, a good hotdog, nachos and anything being grilled or cooked in a crock pot.

    Lets not forget chili, mac and cheese, Pubsubs and some smoked fish dip to round out game day!

    Homegating Ideas

    If you are planning a “homegating” event, like we do frequently, make sure to throw in a great game of corn hole or ping pong to accompany more great appys like a charcuterie board, veggie platter or Old Bay seasoned steamed shrimp.

    Home Decor

    Don’t forget to get your favorite team decorations, caps, shirts, and cups to get into the spirit of football season!

    Add to the mix plates, napkins and table cloths and you are good to go.

    If you are like us you can really annoy the neighbors with your team flag and playing your favorite team fight song over and over again!

    summer salad and wine

    Simple Recipes Score Big Time

    This is also a great time to try something new!

    My daughter Kylie Bellisari has a fantastic TikTok channel with tons of recipes for all types of foodie gatherings and events!

    She has quick recipes and easy ingredients that will inspire your game day menu!

    Don’t forget to check our her baked chicken wing recipe!

    A New Twist On Game Day Bevvies

    Kylie also hits the “ball” out of the park featuring Spain, Greece and end of summer light meals that are easy to prepare, that you will enjoy and that are perfect for any game day!

    Sangria

    Refreshing Sangria Recipe

    If you are thinking something a little different, this fruit soaked sangria is simply refreshing and delish…secret being to soak the fruit in black berry brandy before adding it to the sangria. Cheers!

    2 Bottles – (750 ml) Garnasha Red Wine

    Blackberry Brandy – 1/2 cup (and of course to taste)

    Triple Sec – 1/3 cup

    Orange Juice – 3/4 cup (add more to taste)

    Cut Up Apples, Oranges, Peaches, Strawberries and Limes – you can mix up what you like and the key here is to soak the fruit a day ahead in some blackberry brandy- seriously…it is the jam for your sangria trust me!

    Mix all the liquids together. Add the fruit. Chill for a few hours if you can.

    Pour over ice!

    Tailgating Tips From an Expert

    Putting on a successful game day event needs a little pre planning, organization, team work and coolers!

    Sooo, I reached out to my sister-in law, Annette Johnson, owner of Bellisari’s Gourmet Convenience, for her tailgate party wisdom to ensure if you are having your own game day event it runs smoothly.

    PS…her Fig and Blistered Jalepeno Spreads is my personal fave!

    Sauces and Spreads for recipes
    Bellisari’s Gourmet Convenience

    As Annette says, “It is all about the pre-plan like freezing water bottles for your cooler, food prepping the day before, testing your grill and being prepared”.

    Make sure not to sweat the small stuff and that a roll of paper towel can serve in a variety of ways!

    Michele and Halle Alessia bartending for Junior League at Roccos Tacos
    Roccos Tacos Boca Raton

    Boca Raton Sports Bars & Restaurants

    Sometimes you simply want to watch your favorite team play sitting at a local sports bar, restaurant or your favorite watering hole.

    No worries!

    There are a variety of local restaurants and bars that embrace and make game days a ton of fun. Here are a few of our faves:

    Flanigan’s Seafood Bar and Grill – 45 Federal Highway, Boca Raton and South Florida

    Duffy’s Sports Grill – 21212 St. Andrews Blvd. Boca Raton & Deerfield Beach

    Miller’s Ale House – 1200 Yamato Road. Boca Raton

    Yard House – 201 Plaza Real Suite 1201 – Mizner Park – Boca Raton

    Packys Sports Grill – 11379 W Palmetto Park Rd #F – West Boca and Lighthouse Point

    Whistle Stop – 395 NE Spanish River Blvd. Boca Raton

    Hijinks Sports Grill – 133 SE Mizner Blvd. – Royal Palm Place – Boca Raton

    We would love to know your favorite spot in Boca to watch your sports teams play so make sure to DM us on Instagram @soooboca Here is to another great football season and may all my teams win!

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

    If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

    Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

    You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    >

    Autumn in South Florida: A Tropical Twist on Fall Traditions

    Celebrating The Change of Seasons

    Autumn in South Florida is unlike any other. While we might not have the foliage colors of New England or the cool breezes of the Midwest, we do autumn in our own fabulous way.

    Lets not forget that the change of seasons also indicates it is football season and we are huge football fans…check out our tailgating post right here!

    Picture this: pumpkin spice with a side of palm trees. Intrigued? Let’s dive in!

    pumpkin on the beach with flip flops

    Sip into Fall: The Pumpkin Spice Edition

    Let’s start with what everyone’s talking about—pumpkin spice! While the rest of the country sips their PSLs in scarves and boots, we do it in flip-flops and tank tops.

    Grab your iced pumpkin spice latte from local cafes and coffee shops like Carmela Coffee or The Seed or opt for a pumpkin-smash smoothie from ‘Jamba’ for a lighter touch.

    Pumpkin Muffins

    Tropical Vibes Meet Autumn Hues: Home Decor

    Think your home can’t channel autumn because you’re in the tropics? Think again!

    This season is all about blending cozy autumn colors with tropical elements. Imagine sunsets when picking a color palette—shades of coral, orange, and golden yellows.

    Feature accents like coastal pumpkins decorated with seashells, or toss some fall-inspired cushions onto your patio furniture.

    If you are thinking it is time to get your house on the market to sell it, a little coastal Autumn home decor staging would look marvelous! But just a little splash!

    Home Decor for Autumn

    Staying Chic in Eternal Sunshine: Fall Fashion

    Here in South Florida, layers are out and light fabrics are in. The trick to looking fall-fabulous in warm weather is all about color.

    Boca Raton is globally known for it’s magnificent and luxurious shopping choices, so we are sure you will be able to find whatever look makes you feel Fall fabulous!

    Swap your summer pastels for earth-toned maxi dresses, rust-colored tanks, and even mustard-yellow shorts. Pair these with some stylish sandals and you’re ready to turn heads!

    We have a plethora of boutiques and stores here locally to refresh your wardrobe with some Autumn flair!

    My Fall Wish List

    BTFBM Women Casual Boho Floral Blouse | Jo Malone Orange Blossom Body Creme, 5.9 Ounce | Dream On Deluxe Scented Candle, Luxury Hotel Inspired Big Candle with Hints of Fresh White Tea, Sweet Vanilla, and Earthy Cedar| Needzo White Pumpkin Coastal Light Blue Painted Crab Tabletop Decor | NEST Fragrances Reed Diffuser- Pumpkin Chai , 5.9 fl oz | Coffee Mug with Gold Handle 

    Fall Thrifting Fun

    Don’t forget! Thrift and consignment stores are throughout Boca Raton and South Florida!

    Make sure to visit some of our favorites and also help support some great non profits like Habitat ReStores and Hospice Resale Shops!

    For a full list click here to create a full day of thrifting!

    Festival Season, The Boca Way!

    Finally, no South Florida autumn would be complete without our vibrant festivals. From the Boca Pumpkin Patch Festival to weekend art shows, there’s no shortage of fall-themed fun.

    For a culinary adventure, don’t miss the South Beach Seafood Festival, where you can taste the ocean’s bounty with a fall twist in Miami…make sure to consider taking the Brightline right here from Boca Raton station!

    The Weather Is Cooler Too!

    To wrap it up, South Florida offers a unique and fabulous take on autumn traditions. With our tropical charm and endless sunshine, you can fully embrace the flavors, styles, and festivities that make fall a season to adore.

    Happy Fall, Y’all! 🍁🌴

    Michele Bellisari

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

    If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

    Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

    You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

    Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

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    20 Things To Love About Living In Pompano Beach

    Welcome to Pompano Beach – South Florida’s latest hot spot! If you are considering living in Pompano Beach and love the sun, sand, and fabulous things to do, this lovely town is the perfect spot for you. Pompano Beach is rich with history!

    According to the Pompano Beach Historical Society, Pompano Beach celebrated the 100th anniversary of its incorporation on July 3, 2008. It is the second oldest city in Broward County, and the fifth oldest in all of South Florida. 

    As a local Realtor, that has enjoyed all that Pompano Beach has to offer, I can tell you it is a fun place to live and hang out! Just a few miles down the road from Deerfield Beach and Boca Raton and just north of Fort Lauderdale, it is the perfectly placed city. Close to everything, yet its own little enclave in South Florida!

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    Throwback and Memories of Pompano Beach

    Back in the day my dad had a condo just on the border of Lauderdale by the Sea and Pompano Beach!

    We always were hanging out at the beautiful beaches, spending time at the Pompano Beach Pier and dining out at the restaurants!

    One of our faves, like Bobby Rubino’s Place For Ribs (now closed, but hey, I was there the last night it was open in February 2022 getting my baby back ribs and reminiscing with the bar crew and staff) was one of my dads go to rib joints along with The Purple Pickle at The Pompano Fashion Square (now Pompano Citi Center).

    Click Here For The South Florida Weekend Scoop

    The Weather Is Here


    Now, if you’re planning a move to Florida and living in Pompano Beach, then you already know that the weather can’t be beat!

    It is simply beautiful. But warm temperatures and sunny skies are not the only reason to choose Pompano Beach. Consider some of the fabulous things to do here!

    Get Connected

    If you are new to the area or have a business, consider joining the Greater Pompano Beach Chamber of Commerce!

    As per the website, “Pompano Beach is located on the southeast coast of Florida, midway between Miami and Palm Beach, (approximately 33 miles to both cities). Pompano Beach is in the heart of everything!

    Minutes from Ft. Lauderdale, Pompano Beach is the third largest of Broward County’s 29 municipalities. Conveniently located close to major shopping and attractions, Pompano Beach is only 12 miles from the Ft. Lauderdale / Hollywood International Airport and Port Everglades.

    Pompano Beach provides the lifestyle of a quiet seaside community with the benefits of a major metropolitan area.”

    Pompano Beach Pier

    Pompano Beach Pier

    Lets talk about the Fisher Family Pier in Pompano Beach! As per the city of Pompano Beach Website, “This newly constructed fishing pier is one of a kind!

    It measures almost 900 feet in length with ability for patrons to sight-see and/or fish. The end of the pier is also built in the shape of a Pompano Fish.

    This is a great tourist attraction.” The bait shop is open, you can get annual fishing memberships, and just take a stroll if that is something you enjoy!

    Hillsboro Beach Lighthouse

    Lighthouse

    One of the coolest things about living in Pompano Beach is the proximity to this iconic lighthouse! It truly is a vision!

    We love seeing it from all angles, coming into Hillsboro Inlet on the Belli-Sea, going out to the Atlantic to fish, viewing it from Hillsboro Inlet Park or if you are lucky enough, to view it from your home!

    You can take a tour but you do need to coordinate that as it does involve specific times of the year and a boat ride!

    Beach Front

    Honestly, Pompano Beach has a very cool vibe happening! With 3 miles of beautiful beaches it is a great destination for a long weekend or even a daycation! The sand is soft, the water is clear and it is oh, so relaxing. Bring your chair, an umbrella, and a picnic, and just hang out.

    Pompano Beach Real Estate

    If you are thinking of making a move here or you already live here and want to be up to date on the real estate market, check out this Market Snapshot!

    Pompano Beach Real Estate Market Snapshot

    Chicken Wings Beach House

    Great Restaurants

    OMG, there are so many. We would never be able to mention them all. That said, consider drinks and dinner at Beach House PompanoOceanic on the ocean by the Fisher Family Pier is a great spot for cocktails, conversation and dining!

    Another #SoooBoca fave is Houston’s on the Intracoastal just off of Atlantic Blvd on the west side of the bridge! Take your boat and go for lunch or happy hour!

    If you love diners, check out Lester’s Diner right in Pompano Beach! And if you are a donut peep, like me, you have to grab a coffee and donut at Dandee Donuts!

    Water Sports

    Incredible Water Sports: If you like to snorkel or SCUBA, Pompano doesn’t disappoint. Pompano Beach Drop Off, Suzanne’s Ledge, The Nursery, Copenhagen, Labontee. SS Copenhagen and Lucky Lady Wreck are all a diver’s dream!

    Make sure to check out this website, South Florida Diving for all the information about diving and snorkeling events including “drift diving”. PS…South Florida Diving Headquarters is located at the Sands Harbor Hotel & Marina.  

    Parks and Recreation

    Awesome Parks: Pompano Beach is home to a host of fabulous local parks, more than 50 in total. Some have playgrounds and splashpads (perfect for the kids), others welcome dogs and some even have boat launches. You can visit a different one each week of the year and never repeat!

    Sportfishing

    Sportfishing In The Atlantic Ocean

    Planning a sportfishing trip? Look no further than Pompano Beach! This paradise for water sports is home to a variety of sportfish, including sailfish, tuna, wahoo, marlin, dolphin, and grouper. You can book a fishing charter for a half or full day and enjoy the thrill of the hunt on the Atlantic Ocean.

    With a number of experienced fishing charter companies operating in Pompano Beach, it’s easy to find the perfect trip for your needs. So why wait? Start planning your sportfishing adventure in Pompano Beach today! Check out the Belli-Sea 42′ Post for all your sportfishing chartering needs!

    Water Taxi Tour

    You don’t need a destination to enjoy the Pompano Beach Water Taxi! It runs Friday and Saturday nights and has multiple stops along its route. Take it to dinner or just to see the sights.

    So Much Art

    Check out Pompano Beach Arts where you can find events, art exhibits, classes and workshops! Put it on your must see list. If art galleries are your thing check out this list in Pompano Beach and plan a tour!

    Rich History

    If you are a history buff make sure to plan to spend some time at the Sample-McDougald House. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this lovely colonial home is a great spot for your Instagram photos.

    The site is also host to a broad range of special events including wedding! So plan your special event today right here in Pompano Beach!

    Shop Til You Drop

    While Pompano is quaint and home to a host of small business owners, you still have access to big box stores. Visit the Pompano Citi Center for some open air shopping and dining at some of your favorite spots.

    Learning Opportunities

    In addition to a fabulous local library, Pompano is also home to the Blanch Ely House Museum. Take a trip and learn more about local African American leaders and the work they did.

    This venue is “a thriving venue showcasing the significant social and cultural milestones of Pompano Beach’s Northwest Community, while also serving as active cultural hub offering a variety of artmaking and storytelling workshops.” according to The Pompano Beach Arts site.

    Are You Feeling Lucky?

    Casino

    If so, head on over the Isle Casino Pompano Park for poker, craps, roulette, slots and of course great dining, and more! We have definitely enjoyed their fantastic Sunday brunch with our family and then spent a couple of hours hitting the slots!

    Something Wonderful Is Happening At The AMP

    The Pompano Beach Amphitheatre is an awesome venue that regularly hosts musical guests.

    Check out their schedule and see who is coming! “The Amp, North Broward’s 3,000 seat amphitheater, is once again featuring major concert performances and music-themed festivals on the breathtaking grounds which can accommodate an additional 7,000 patrons.” according to the website!

    This is just a sampling of all that Pompano has to offer. Whether you are single, a couple, or a family, Pompano Beach has something for you – it is the perfect place to call home!

    Live Music

    Michele Bellisari

    #SoooBoca Is Sponsored By Michele Bellisari – Real Broker LLC

    If you’re thinking of buying or selling a home in the Palm Beaches or Broward County, please connect with us so we can help you!

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

    If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

    You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

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    7 Great Yoga Studios in Boca Raton & Delray Beach

    Wellness: Yoga Moves You Use All Year Long

    Are you ready to begin yoga? Maybe you need a new yoga studio? Perhaps you are thinking of building a space at home to practice yoga.

    Yoga in Boca Raton is going strong as ever. We have put together tips and information for you to begin your yoga journey in Boca Raton and South Florida!

    Years ago it was deemed trendy, but today we realize that yoga is more than just a passing fad. It is, in fact, a practice that is here to stay.

    Let’s face it, it’s been around FOREVER; ancient ruins suggest it could be over 5,000 years old. We mention yoga and other types of workouts in this blog post!

    “When you listen to yourself, everything comes naturally. It comes from inside, like a kind of will to do something. Try to be sensitive. That is yoga.” ― Petri Räisänen

    FYI…Beach yoga is very popular in South Florida. Make sure to check The Weekend List as we update events every week and there are many beach yoga classes to choose from!

    Disclosure: The links in this post/on this page are affiliate links via Amazon and other companies and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. 

    Benefits of Yoga

    The health benefits of yoga are well-known. Unlike many other forms of exercise, it can be practiced by just about anyone. (At #SoooBoca we are big fans!) Classes offered often cater to specific levels, and there are plethora available locally for beginners.  

    The popularity of yoga can be associated with the fact that it brings significant value to those who practice.

    Extra Large & Cushioned Yoga Mat with Strap – 10mm & 12mm Thick Yoga Mat, Non-Skid Dual Surface Workout Mat, Eco-Friendly POE Yoga Mats for Women Men Kids, Perfect Exercise Mat for Pilates, Yoga, and Floor Workouts, Includes Carrying Strap Link to purchase this yoga mat

    Health benefits are numerous and include, among others, improved muscle strength, heightened flexibility and enhanced peace of mind.  The mental benefits of yoga are incredible. Yoga has positive effects on your whole self – physical and emotional.

    Women in yoga studio

    Yoga Equipment

    Yoga equipment for beginners is pretty basic. Actually, all you “need” to practice yoga is a mat and some comfortable clothes.  No fancy equipment is required. Yoga mats, which you can purchase on-line (think Amazon) or in many local stores, are available in at variety of prices.

    You can spend less than $10 and be ready to go, or make a substantial investment and purchase a luxurious mat for more than $100.00 (Rest assured, there are plenty in-between!). 

    Mats are available in a range of thicknesses and also in variety of colors and patterns.  (Here’s a #Soooboca tip, a yoga mat is a GREAT holiday gift).

    Yoga mats

    Yoga Fashion

    One of the things we love about yoga is the flexibility we have in terms of clothing.  Comfort is key.

    Think light and breathable; you want to be relaxed and able to move.  Form fitting is good – no baggy pant legs to get in the way. 

    You probably have appropriate clothing in your closet, but a new yoga “outfit” may be just what you need to kick start this exciting workout.

    Yoga pants are available both on-line and in local stores – get ready to make a fashion statement.  And, as an added bonus, they are super-comfy!! Be warned, you WILL be tempted to wear them ALL the time!

    Beach yoga

    Yoga Near Me

    In health conscious communities like South Florida, yoga is a big deal.  Both men and women participate.

    They practice in studios (many of which offer monthly memberships or class bundles), they utilize on-line resources at home AND they take advantage of the many free classes both indoors and in local parks and centers.

    The opportunities are, in a word, remarkable. Whether you are thinking about trying yoga for the first time, or are already a committed “yogi”; consider a visit to some of these locations.

    Deerfield Beach: Yoga Joint Deerfield Beach

    Boca: Yoga Journey, Yoga Joint, Hot Yoga Boca Raton (Enerzy Exchange Yoga)

    Delray Beach: Bikram Yoga, Anuttara Yoga

    Local Yoga Blogs and Social Media Accounts To Follow

    Florida Yoga Mama

    Tova| Yoga Fit South Florida

    Molly Weintraub Yoga

    Mary Ann Morgan-Fried Mat Matterz

    Yoga At Home

    Have you thought of converting a room in your home to a yoga or meditation studio? You are not alone! Take a peek at some of these HGTV yoga sanctuary ideas for you to create at home!

    A few tips include allocating a certain amount of space to your studio and keep it uncluttered. House Beautiful has some great ideas on how to put together your home studio. Grab your friends and start a neighborhood yoga group!

    Hot Yoga Boca Raton

    If hot yoga is your jam, there are numerous options in Boca Raton, Delray Beach and the South Florida tri-county area.

    There are a number of benefits to practicing hot yoga, one being a deeper stretch and also to loosen the muscles.

    Hot yoga isn’t for everyone and you should speak to the instructor or studio before you take a class.

    Try Yoga

    As we enter the holiday season, embarking on a healthy habit, like yoga, is incredibly beneficial.

    It provides physical exercise and mental relaxation during a time of year when we tend to be a bit less healthy. 

    So, take our advice and try a class today.  Do you have a yoga studio, class or instructor you just love?  Let us know. We would love to try something new!

    Michele Bellisari

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

    If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home?

    Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

    Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

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    Pro-Aging Skincare: Safeguarding Your Skin’s Beauty

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    Harnessing the Power of Pro-Aging Skincare

    Welcome to my world of #SoooBoca favorite things! As a Boca Raton Realtor and longtime resident, skin care is a must here in the sunshine and heat! From the fun and fancy to the frugal, I’ve come across a myriad of treasures over the years.

    Now, if you must know, as much as I love selling real estate in Boca Raton, I also love to share my hidden gems around South Florida and I also enjoy sharing products from my Amazon store that y’all might enjoy!

    Today, I’m excited to share a special selection in regard to pro-aging skincare and skin care products that have captured my heart, and my friends’ too!

    While I initially intended this roundup for fabulous 50+ individuals, I must confess, now that I’ve gracefully crossed the 60 milestone, I’m still head over heels for these beauty gems.

    Whether it’s the magic of lotions and potions or the allure of cosmetic enhancements, I’ve always been an advocate for doing what makes you feel amazing—both on the inside and out.

    So, join me on this journey of radiant skin and unapologetic self-love, because, as I always say, “you do you, boo!” and embrace what truly makes your soul shine. Let’s dive into my top picks for age-defying, confidence-boosting, and self-indulgent skin care treats!

    Disclosure: This post contains Amazon and other retail affiliate links. If you purchase I will earn a small commission from these companies. Shopping through these links helps support my business. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

    Living In South Florida and Your Skin

    As the sun-kissed shores of South Florida beckon, 50+ women find themselves drawn to the vibrant lifestyle and warm climate. However, with the beautiful sun also comes the need for diligent skincare, especially for those seeking to age gracefully.

    This blog post is dedicated to empowering confident 50+ women in South Florida and beyond with pro-aging tips and products, ensuring they feel radiant and self-assured as they embrace this new chapter of life.

    Embrace Sun Protection

    Living in the Sunshine State makes sun protection a top priority for 50+ women. Sunscreen is an essential defense against harmful UV rays that can accelerate skin aging and lead to sunspots and wrinkles.

    Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and don’t forget to reapply every two hours when outdoors. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses can provide additional protection, preserving both the skin’s youthful appearance and overall health.

    Obagi Sun Shield

    Click to Purchase: Obagi Sun Shield Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen And Obagi Sun Shield Matte Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen.

    Nourish Your Skin with Antioxidants

    As the years pass, the skin’s natural ability to combat free radicals diminishes. Incorporate antioxidant-rich skincare products into your routine to neutralize these free radicals and promote healthy, glowing skin.

    Look for ingredients like vitamin C, green tea extract, and resveratrol, which help reduce the appearance of fine lines and maintain a radiant complexion.

    Lancome Genifique
    Click to Purchase: Lancôme Advanced Génifique Face Serum – For Fine Lines & Boosts Radiance – With Bifidus Prebiotic, Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin Cg

    Hydration is Key

    South Florida’s tropical climate can be unforgiving on the skin, leading to dehydration and dryness. To maintain plump and supple skin, hydrate both internally and externally.

    Drink plenty of water throughout the day and use a hydrating moisturizer that locks in moisture and improves the skin’s natural barrier.

    Obagi
    Click to Purchase: Obagi Hydro-Drops Face Serum Formulated with Vitamin B3 and Hibiscus Oil, Hypoallergenic and Dermatologist Tested–Anti-Aging Hydrating Moisture Serum Suitable for all Skin Types, 1-FL Oz. Pack-of-1

    Focus on Skincare Ingredients

    As 50+ women focus on pro-aging skincare and aging gracefully, they should consider skincare products with powerful ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, retinol, and peptides.

    Hyaluronic acid hydrates and plumps the skin, while retinol promotes collagen production and reduces the appearance of wrinkles. Peptides help improve skin elasticity, offering a firm and toned complexion.

    La Mer Skincare
    Click to Purchase: La Mer Moisturizing Cream 3.4 Ounce

    Self-Care Rituals

    Incorporate self-care rituals into your daily routine to encourage pro-aging skincare, to reduce stress and promote overall well-being.

    Stress can lead to premature aging, so indulge in activities like meditation, yoga, or even a soothing spa day.

    Taking care of your mental and emotional health can significantly impact how you age, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and more youthful.

    Body Lotion by Hempz
    Click to Purchase: HEMPZ FRUIT COCKTAIL Bundle 1-Blushing Grapefruit & Raspberry Creme 17oz 1-Sweet Pineapple & Honey Melon Herbal Body Moisturizer 17oz 1-Fresh Coconut & Watermelon Body Moisturizer 17oz

    Face Masks Are Fun and Easy

    Revitalizing face masks are an essential part of my pro-aging skincare routine, effortlessly bringing forth a timeless glow.

    Packed with nourishing ingredients and age-defying compounds, they provide hydration, promote elasticity, and combat fine lines, leaving my skin radiant and rejuvenated.

    What’s more, using face masks is a breeze, making it a fun addition to a girls’ night in. I gift these frequently to my daughters, and they have also become my go-to choice for stocking stuffers and birthday gifts, sharing the secret to embracing graceful aging with confidence.

    Fashion for Confidence

    Click to Purchase: Lilly Pulitzer Elin Sleeveless Romper

    Confidence is ageless, and fashion plays a significant role in expressing one’s personal style and flair. Embrace chic and comfortable outfits that suit the tropical climate of South Florida.

    Y’all know I always say, “Lilly for the win” well here is the skort I purchased for my daughter’s bridal shower in Pittsburgh. Lightweight fabrics, flowy dresses, and stylish sun hats can elevate your look while keeping you cool under the sun.

    Don’t be afraid to experiment with colors and patterns to reflect your vibrant spirit. PS…caftans are sooo making a comeback! If you love them, stay tuned, I have a special blog coming soon!

    Women Who Educate and Entertain Us

    As a podcaster myself (Real Estate Reinvention – and Sunshine State Dish) I love listening to great podcasts for business, my well being and just for fun! Here are a few podcasts that are relevant to aging and the over 50 women in our world!

    Hot Flashes and Cool Topics – The weekly podcast that is the voice for women in midlife and beyond. From relationships to careers, health and wellness to amazing interviews with prime time celebrities, we cover it all. Join the conversation! By the way, I was a guest on Episode 15 talking about social media in business!

    Another hilarious podcast you might enjoy, along with their TikToks is I’ve Had It with Jennifer Welch and Angie “Pumps” Sullivan. These two don’t hold back!

    The 50+ Era Of Women Is Here

    In South Florida, as a 50+ woman, I am gracefully caring for my skin, mind, and body. I prioritize sun protection, antioxidant-rich skincare, hydration, and self-care rituals to maintain a youthful and radiant appearance.

    Complementing these routines with powerful skincare ingredients and expressing myself through confident fashion choices, I elevate my pro-aging journey.

    PS…Forbes 50 Over 50 is out for 2023 and it is fantastic! “The women on the third annual Forbes 50 Over 50 are founding brands used by millions, breaking world records and forging technological breakthroughs. They are proof positive that success and innovation can happen at any age.” Check out the article here!

    Michele Bellisari

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

    Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

    Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

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    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

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    10 Exquisite Patio Trends For Boca Raton Outdoor Living Enthusiasts

    Enhance Patio Entertaining and Boost Home Value

    As a Realtor in Boca Raton, you understand the allure of South Florida’s patio living lifestyle. Everyone loves a entertaining on the patio, having barbeques in the backyard and of course pool parties are always in style…oh cabana boy!

    I thought I would share a few thoughts on outdoor spaces whether you are in your forever home or thinking it is time to make a move.

    Let this serve a reminder that not only is it important to stage the inside of your home if you are planning on selling but it is equally important to create an outdoor oasis that a potential buyer will go bananas over!

    In this sunny paradise, where outdoor activities are a year-round affair, homeowners are embracing the idea of turning their outdoor spaces into extensions of their homes.

    It’s no longer just about having a backyard; it’s about creating an oasis for entertaining, relaxation, and play.

    Disclosure: This post contains Amazon and other retail affiliate links. If you purchase I will earn a small commission from these companies. Shopping through these links helps support my business. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

    What Home Buyers Want

    Home buyers in Boca Raton and throughout South Florida are placing increased importance on outdoor spaces when searching for their dream homes.

    They envision a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living, where they can bask in the glorious weather, host unforgettable gatherings, and find solace in the serenity of their own private retreats.

    The patio has become a focal point for homeowners, a canvas upon which they can unleash their creativity and create an environment that reflects their unique lifestyle.

    It’s not just about having a few chairs and a table; it’s about designing an outdoor sanctuary that rivals the comfort and beauty of the interior. From stylish patio furniture to captivating decor, every element is carefully chosen to transform the space into a haven of relaxation and entertainment.

    Florida Lifestyle

    Imagine a tranquil lounge area with plush seating, where family and friends gather to share laughter and conversation under the stars. Envision an outdoor dining area where delicious meals are savored amidst the gentle breeze.

    Picture a fire pit surrounded by cozy seating, creating a cozy ambiance for cozy evenings. In South Florida, the possibilities are endless when it comes to crafting an outdoor space that fulfills every desire.

    As the summer season blooms, it’s the perfect time to transform your patio into a captivating outdoor oasis.

    Whether you’re entertaining guests or seeking solace in nature, keeping up with the latest trends can help you create a stylish and functional patio space.

    In this blog post, we’ll explore the top patio trends of 2023, with a specific focus on patio furniture ideas that will elevate your outdoor living experience.

    To get your started with some ideas you can peruse through the next few sections to inspire you and the patio space or spaces you have! And just a little reminder, don’t ignore your front porch and front yard while you design your backyard space!

    Sustainable Materials

    Environmental consciousness is a growing concern, and it has made its way into the realm of patio furniture. Embrace sustainability by choosing patio furniture crafted from recycled materials, such as recycled plastic or reclaimed wood.

    These eco-friendly options not only reduce environmental impact but also offer durability and versatility, making them a long-lasting addition to your patio.

    Minimalistic Designs

    Clean lines, sleek finishes, and minimalist designs are gaining popularity in patio furniture trends. Opt for furniture pieces with a minimalist aesthetic that seamlessly blend into the natural surroundings.

    Minimalistic furniture not only creates a visually appealing patio but also allows the focus to remain on the beauty of your outdoor space.

    Outdoor Lounge Areas

    Transform your patio into a cozy outdoor lounge area, perfect for relaxation and socializing. Large, comfortable seating options like sectional sofas or deep-seated lounge chairs with plush cushions are ideal for creating a welcoming and luxurious atmosphere

    . Integrate outdoor rugs and side tables to complete the lounge vibe, providing functionality and style.

    Multifunctional Pieces

    Make the most of your patio space with multifunctional furniture that serves multiple purposes. Look for convertible tables that can be used as both coffee tables and dining tables, or ottomans with hidden storage compartments. These versatile pieces maximize functionality and enable you to adapt your patio to different occasions.

    Bold Colors and Patterns

    Add a splash of vibrancy and personality to your patio with bold colors and eye-catching patterns. Consider incorporating brightly colored cushions, pillows, or umbrellas to create focal points and bring life to your outdoor area.

    Experiment with patterns such as geometric designs or tropical prints, making your patio a true reflection of your style.

    Outdoor Dining Delights

    Create an enchanting ambiance for alfresco dining by incorporating an outdoor dining set into your patio design.

    Choose durable materials like wrought iron, teak, or aluminum that can withstand various weather conditions.

    Enhance the atmosphere with soft outdoor lighting, such as string lights or lanterns, and create memorable dining experiences under the stars.

    Fire Pits and Outdoor Heating

    Extend the usability of your patio beyond the summer months with the addition of a fire pit or outdoor heating solution.

    Fire pits not only provide warmth on cool evenings but also create a cozy gathering space for friends and family.

    Explore different styles, such as fire tables or built-in fire pits, and ensure compliance with local fire safety regulations.

    Fabulous Finds Thru Thrift and Consignment Stores

    Creating an outdoor oasis doesn’t have to break the bank. One clever strategy gaining popularity is the utilization of thrift and consignment stores for outdoor furniture and aesthetics.

    These hidden gems offer a treasure trove of unique and affordable pieces that can elevate your patio’s style.

    From vintage patio furniture with timeless charm to eclectic decor items that add personality, thrift and consignment stores provide an opportunity to find hidden gems and create a one-of-a-kind outdoor space.

    By exploring these budget-friendly options, you can not only achieve a stunning patio but also embrace sustainability by giving new life to pre-loved items. It’s a win-win situation, allowing you to unleash your creativity while staying within budget and supporting the local community.

    Enjoying Your Patio Year After Year

    With these top patio trends and furniture ideas for 2023 or frankly any year, you can elevate your outdoor space into a captivating retreat that reflects your personal style while embracing the beauty of nature.

    Remember to choose sustainable materials, prioritize functionality, and experiment with colors and patterns to create a patio that you’ll enjoy for years to come. So, step outside and embrace the outdoors with a patio that offers both comfort and style.

    Local Stores To Check Out

    Your Patio Store

    Sunniland Patio

    Wilde’s Patio Depot, Inc.

    Sklar Furnishings

    Michele Bellisari

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

    Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

    Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

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    🏡Free Guide: How to Sell Your House in a Changing Market!

    Feeling paralyzed by the ever-changing housing market? No matter what uncertainties are at hand, you can still sell your home at a great price. Discover all the steps to set yourself up for home-selling success!

    Click to get this FREE guide now! 🎯

    Discover 5 Fabulous Boca Raton Beaches: Your Ultimate Guide to Sun, Sand, and Real Estate

    Boca Raton Has Beautiful Beaches

    Summer is here, and there’s no better time to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty that is Boca Raton beaches. Lets face it, summer is yearlong here so beachgoing no matter what time of the year is fabulous in Boca Raton! 

    Whether you’re a local who has spent your life enjoying the sun-kissed coasts or a visitor eager to experience the Boca magic, our beaches have something fabulous to offer everyone.

    A Stroll Down Memory Lane: Red Reef and Beyond

    I have a special connection with Boca Raton beaches; Red Reef Park, formerly known as Red Rock, has always been a personal sanctuary for me.

    Even today, the sheer beauty of the local Boca beaches—stretching from Spanish River Park to Red Reef, Palmetto Pavilion, and the county-run South Inlet Beach at Camino Real—never ceases to amaze me.

    Of course there are private beaches that are part of our real estate world here that include condo living and of course when you visit, stay or play at The Boca Raton!

    boca raton beach and resort

    Beachside Living in Boca Raton

    Living by the beach is more than just a dream; it’s a lifestyle that many seek but only a few get to experience. In Boca, single-family homes and condos along the coast are always in high demand.

    The proximity to Boca Raton beaches not only enhances property value but also provides a quality of life that is second to none. 

    If you are in the market to purchase a beachfront condo or residence in Boca Raton, you can grab your relocation guide and also set your search up right here! 

    What To Bring To The Beach

    Heading to one of the fabulous Boca Raton beaches? Make sure you pack these essentials to ensure a perfect beach day:

    • Umbrella and Chairs: A must-have for shade and comfort. Forget laying on a towel; bring your beach umbrella and chairs to truly lounge in style.
    • Sunscreen: Don’t let a sunburn ruin your beach day. Always bring a high-SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
    • Water and Beverages: Stay hydrated under the sun. Bring plenty of water and perhaps some refreshing beverages to quench your thirst.
    • Snacks: A day at the beach is bound to make you hungry. Pack some easy snacks like fruits, nuts, or granola bars to keep your energy up.
    • Reading Materials or Music: Whether you’re in the mood to get lost in a good book or jam out to your favorite tunes, don’t forget to bring some entertainment. A waterproof speaker or a beach read can make your day all the more enjoyable.
    Beach Umbrella
    BEACHBUB Beach Umbrella System – Beach Accessories for Families & Beach Goers, Includes 7.5 foot (50+ UPF) Beach Umbrella, Oversized Bag, Base & Accessory Kit (Caribbean Blue) https://amzn.to/3QZ6gsX

    Boca Raton Beaches: A Diversity of Activities

    The range of activities at Boca Raton beaches is truly staggering. You can dive, snorkel, fish, boat, or simply relax and let the world go by.

    For dog lovers, there’s even a dedicated dog-friendly beach called Bark Beach at Spanish River Park. It’s a paradise not only for humans but our furry friends too!

    A Testament to Community Wisdom

    We are incredibly fortunate that city planners had the foresight to protect our miles of splendid beaches for future generations.

    Nestled alongside parks equipped with BBQ spots, picnic tables, and playgrounds, these beaches are an integral part of our community.

    Just take a drive up A1A, and you’ll find a variety of picturesque beaches waiting to be discovered.

    Red Reef Park Beach
    Compliments of City of Boca Raton Website

    A Melting Pot of Beachgoers

    Boca Raton beaches are a hub of activity all year round. Surfers, sailors, coffee aficionados, and bikers all find common ground here.

    The ocean’s lullaby soothes the soul, as you find yourself captivated by the horizon, watching birds soar, fish leap, and fishing boats venture out to sea or return from their aquatic escapades.

    Personal Favorites

    When asked to pick a favorite, it’s a tough call. South County Park beach, located at A1A and Camino, holds a special place in my heart.

    The jetty, the inlet, and the people fishing there give it a homey feel. But let’s be real, any beach in Boca is pure bliss.

    Useful Resources

    Beach Permits 

    2022-2023 Beach Permits are AVAILABLE NOW for Purchase

    Visit the following pages for more information: 

    boca beach-724328__340

    Check Out All Of Our Beautiful Beaches 

    Interested in exploring more of what Boca has to offer? Check out my curated list of Things To Do In Boca Raton on Pinterest.

    For those who find inspiration in the beauty of water, vibrant colors, and South Florida’s unique charm, don’t forget to follow #SoooBoca on Instagram.

    So, what are you waiting for? Grab that beach towel and come experience the unmatched beauty and rich history of Boca Raton beaches. After all, #SoooBoca beaches are truly fabulous!

    Disclaimer: This blog post reflects my personal opinions. For official information on Boca Raton beaches, including conditions and times, please refer to city links. Please refer to city links for beach information, conditions and times. 

    Michele Bellisari

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

    If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

    Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

    You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

    Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    Pretty in Pink: Discover the Hottest Lipstick Shades for a Stunning Summer Look

    Pink Is Always In Style

    Pink lipstick trends are always evolving! Living if Boca Raton you really kinda have to love the color pink LOL. Where ever I go around town I can see the 26 story, pink, Boca Resort tower (now The Boca Raton) and Addison Mizner pink is splashed around plazas, homes and fountains everywhere.

    One of my favorites and quick “pick me up” item is a fabulous pink lipstick! Lets face it the choices are wonderful and you can choose from a gloss, pastel, matte, satin, sheer and beyond. The pink lipstick options are endless, flirty and fun!

    By the way, you may not know that there is actually a National Lipstick Day every year on July 29th! Gotta love it!

    Disclosure: The links in this post/on this page are affiliate links via Amazon and other companies and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. 

    Lipgloss

    Lipstick Lovers Unite

    For those of us that are makeup fans, a new pink lipstick, whether drugstore brand or department store product, can truly make your day a little more bright and flirty. 

    First and foremost I have been a M.A.C. fan forever. Lets put it this way…when Madonna was wearing it and before it was easily available at Bloomies and Macys I would order my M.A.C. products and especially my favorite pink lipstick from Henri Bendels in Chicago!

    My Current Go To Lip Color Is…

    In the last couple of years I have been wearing a pretty M.A.C color called St. Germain! I simply love it no matter what time of year it is. Recently while running through the Baltimore Airport I quickly stopped at the M.A.C store in the Southwest terminal and loaded up on a couple (I tend to lose them when I change purses…and thankfully find them again!). PS…don’t you love all the shopping available at the airports these days!

    Ageism and Pink Lipstick

    And before you get in a tussle about pink lipstick and age and I am here to tell you that there is a pink lipstick for all ages. Whoever comes up with those ridiculous “stop wearing these clothes and makeup items over 50” can go far, far away. Okay, I really needed to get this out of the way.

    Lastly, it is my personal opinion that a fabulous pink lipstick is an essential vacation and travel product to have on hand in your purse or makeup bag!

    Pink Lipstick Shades We Love

    Talk about fantastic! There is something about a pink lip that just makes you think of summer.  It’s light and bright, feminine and super fun.  We’ve done a bit of research and are excited to share a little bit about some fabulous summer 2022 pink lipstick brands and shades.

    M.A.C Lipstick Shine

    M.A.C. products have always been a favorite of those of us at #SoooBoca.  And, we are in good company. In 2011, an up-and-coming reality star named Kim Kardashian proclaimed this her favorite lipstick shade.

    MAC Lipstick Angel, Soft Pink, Frost
    MAC Lipstick Angel, Soft Pink, Frost

     M.A.C. Candy Yum YUM

    This vibrant neon hot pink color is a “lip glass”.  Available in lip gloss packaging (a tube with a sponge applicator brush) you can apply this shiny gloss on its own or over your favorite lipstick or lip pencil. It contains jojoba oil to smooth and condition your lips while keeping you looking fresh!

    MAC Lipglass Candy Yum Yum
    MAC Lipglass Candy Yum Yum

    M.A.C .Pink Noveau

    This “Satin Lipstick” is a bright pink and best described as luxurious.  It’s creamy feel is heaven on your lips.  It comes in the traditional “bullet” tube, so it’s easy to take with you wherever you may go. 

    Love this quote from Lady Gaga: “MAC has a color called Pink Nouveau – that was the color that made me feel like a star when I was almost famous” – WMagazine

    MAC Satin Lipstick - Pink Nouveau
    MAC Satin Lipstick – Pink Nouveau

    Drugstore Lipsticks

    Covergirl Bombshell Pink

    This popular brand and shade is the best pink lipstick from a drugstore! At #SoooBoca, we love a bargain. And, this lipstick is definitely one worth sharing. Officially known as COVERGIRL Exhibitionist Lipstick Cream, Bombshell Pink 425, it is available on Amazon and at drugstores and big box stores alike.

    Reviewers say it is long lasting and usually priced under $8.00.  If you’re looking for a great product at a great price, get one today!

    COVERGIRL Exhibitionist Lipstick Cream, Bombshell Pink 425, Lipstick Tube 0.123 OZ (3.5 g)
    COVERGIRL Exhibitionist Lipstick Cream, Bombshell Pink 425, Lipstick Tube 0.123 OZ (3.5 g)

    Milani Color Statement Lipstick in Fruit Punch

    This fun pink drugstore cosmetic is one of the best creme lipsticks on the market. Pick up from a local retail shop or have it delivered! This deep pink lipstick comes in a gold bullet dispenser. As an added bonus, this product is made in the USA and is cruelty-free (something us animal lovers appreciate).

    Milani Color Statement Lipstick - Fruit Punch, Cruelty-Free Nourishing Lip Stick in Vibrant Shades, Pink Lipstick, 0.14 Ounce
    Milani Color Statement Lipstick – Fruit Punch

    Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick Makeup, Long Lasting High Impact Color, Up to 16H Wear, Romantic, Vivid Pink

    Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Lip Color, 30 Romantic (Pack of 2)
    Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Lip Color

    Department Store Lipsticks

    Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick Collection

    This collection of lipsticks includes a spectacular range of pinks and plums.  Available in both satin and matte lip tones, with an engravable tube, this collection is something truly special.  If you’re  looking to treat yourself this summer, you must take a look! 

    Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick .13 oz - Le Nu 70 (Dazzling Light Edition)
    Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick .13 oz – Le Nu 70 (Dazzling Light Edition)

    ANNA SUI Lipstick Full Coverage Rose Shaped Lipstick with her rose signature and fashionable tube is a stunner for summer or anytime.

    ANNA SUI Lipstick F, Full Coverage Rose Shaped Lipstick, 3 grams
    ANNA SUI Lipstick

    Celebrity Lipstick Brands We Love

    We adore Rihanna and her makeup line looks amazing! Check out this gorgeous pink lip paint!

    Fenty Beauty by Rihanna - Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip - Unlocked - Vivid Pink
    Fenty Beauty by Rihanna – Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip – Unlocked – Vivid Pink

    Jessica Alba’s Honest brand is a wellness brand with a makeup line including products for your lips like this pretty and summery lip balm.

    Honest Beauty Tinted Lip Balm, Summer Melon | Vegan | 6+ Hours Of Moisture | Paraben Free, Silicone Free, Cruelty Free | 0.141 Oz. (Packaging May Vary)
    Honest Beauty Tinted Lip Balm, Summer Melon | Vegan | 6+ Hours Of Moisture | Paraben Free, Silicone Free, Cruelty Free

    Influencer Brands

    Kylie Cosmetics Cosmetics Koko K Gloss, Pale Pink

    With millennial daughters in my house we used to wait for Kylie Jenner to drop her latest lipkits. Now you can just swing my Amazon and grab some great colors like Kylie Cosmetics Cosmetics Koko K Gloss, Pale Pink

    I have been following Mally forever and just love her Instagram “lives”. She is a celebrity makeup artist that have innovative products for all ages! Love this Goal Digger pink gloss!

    Mally Beauty Liquid Lipstick, Goal Digger, 0.12 Ounce
    Goal Digger Liquid Lipstick

    Brighten Your Day and Shop Away

    Now that we have shared some of our fabulous favorites, we’d love your opinion. Do you have a favorite pink lipstick that just makes your day? Are you a fan of lip stains, matte finishes or liquid lipsticks? There are so many from which to choose! If you have one you love, comment away so we can give it a try!

    PS…you might need to organize all those lipsticks you buy and your makeup so check out this some organizers to keep all those beautiful colors in a special place!

    V-HANVER Multifunctional Acrylic Makeup Organizer Holder Countertop Vanity Storage Stand for Lipstick Eyeshadow Palette Perfume and More
    V-HANVER Multifunctional Acrylic Makeup Organizer Holder Countertop Vanity Storage Stand for Lipstick Eyeshadow Palette Perfume and More

    I hope you enjoyed this fun beauty blog post…I will be doing more of them as we #SoooBoca girls love our makeup products and skin care routines!

    Don’t forget you can shop local at most stores in your city or community too!

    Michele Bellisari

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    27 Atlantic Hurricane Season Tips & Resources | 2023

    Are You Ready?

    The 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season is here and this post of 27 hurricane season tips and resources serves as a reminder that we take hurricanes and tropical storms seriously here in Boca Raton, South Florida and the State of Florida.

    Hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th with the peak period from early August through the end of October. We get asked frequently about hurricane season tips to better weather the storms that do come our way so make sure to print this out or save it for future reference! 

    We saw the devastation that happened with Hurricane Ian. We take these storms very seriously here in South Florida and so should you! 

     

    Disclosure: The links in this post/on this page are affiliate links via Amazon and other companies and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. 

    Check out our YouTube video all on prepping for hurricane season!  

     

    Hurricane Season Tips That Can Help You Feel More Prepared

    NOAA National Hurricane Center 

    Included in this post are links to the Boca Raton, Palm Beach County and State of Florida to help you stay connected and to plan accordingly.

    Division of Emergency Management 

    Don’t forget to be neighborly folks… in a hurricane, everyone is under stress. Check on neighbors on each side of you before and after the storm. If there are any senior citizens in your neighborhood please check on them to make sure they are okay.

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    Community Resources 

    Know who your point person is in your community, condo and neighborhood.

    South Florida, Community and City Calendars 

    Connect with Boca Raton city services at the hurricane information page on the city website and grab the latest hurricane guide.

    Hurricane season tips

    Sign up for Code Red to receive emergency alerts for City residents from the City of Boca Raton.

    Sign up for AlertPBC to receive Palm Beach County alerts that include Boca Raton alerts and other cities you choose.

    Follow the City of Boca Raton on Facebook & Twitter.

    This is a great time to join Nextdoor to stay in touch with and get updates in your neighbors and surrounding communities.

    Official Hurricane News & Information Center is an active group on Facebook you can check out and join. Another popular group on Facebook is Mike’s Weather Page.

    Check out PBC DART, the free Palm Beach County Emergency app for Android and iOS. App Store on iPhone click here or Google Play

    Palm Beach County Hurricane Information 

    Broward County Hurricane Information 

    Miami-Dade County Hurricane Guide 

    Insurance Company Numbers 

    Regional and National Resources 

    Pet Tips and Disaster Preparedness Information and Tips with Ready.Gov.

    Don’t forget to stock up on your pet supplies and prescriptions now vs right before a storm!

    Report price gouging at the State of Florida Price Gouging Hotline

    In the event of a hurricane or serious emergency, the City’s communication team will keep you updated with public safety alerts. Messaging may include information about city services, available resources and evacuations.

    hurricane season tips

    The Citizen’s Information Center (CIC) Boca Raton

    In the event of a hurricane, residents are encouraged to stay tuned to the local media for information regarding evacuations, shelters, and storm information. During an emergency, residents can obtain further information by listening to the City of Boca Raton’s radio station, AM 1650, or by watching the City’s TV channel, Ch 20The City’s Citizen Information Center (CIC) is activated during storm events and can be contacted at 561-982-4900 for storm related information.

    Courtesy: City of Boca Raton Website

    **************************************************************

    Plan and Prepare

    You should always have a plan in place during hurricane season so you can be prepared and to receive important emergency information.

    As part of a hurricane preparedness kit, here are several tips that homeowners and renters can take before a hurricane strikes:

    1. Have a basic emergency kit, which includes battery-powered radios, lanterns, flashlights, water, portable power station, home generator, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit and prescription medications, portable phone batteries (charged), fans and extra cords. Make sure to place any Amazon orders early to ensure you get your supplies in a timely manner. Pick up water and food locally to ensure you have enough supplies to get through a storm and power outages.

    2. Keep a written list in a plastic bag of important phone numbers. This can include numbers of family members in other states, local emergency management and shelters, hospitals, your homeowner’s insurance rep. or for renters, the landlord or property manager.

    3. From very early on, homeowners should verify their property insurance to see how much coverage they have, and if necessary, increase coverage especially for personal property. Renters should obtain renters insurance on their personal belongings.

    4. Know your evacuation route, have alternative living arrangements and keep your car fueled should an evacuation be necessary. Storing extra cans of gasoline in a safe place is also a plus.

    5. Homeowners should make sure that there are storm shutters to cover all windows and sliding glass doors. If you cannot install them, make sure you have someone lined up early who can complete the installation.

    6. Renters should review their lease to verify who is responsible for installing storm shutters. If you are responsible for the installation of the shutters, make sure you know where they are located and verify that there are sufficient shutters to cover all glass windows and doors.

    7. Have surge protectors on all major appliances, televisions, computers and other major electronic equipment. Also, generators are excellent for diminishing the damage that can result from abrupt power outages.

    8. Secure or remove potential wind-borne objects around the home such as garbage cans, barbecue grills, yard furniture and kids’ outdoor toys.

    9. Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed so they are more wind resistant.

    10. Determine how and where to secure your boat, RV, and additional vehicles.

    Hurricane Season Tips

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    PAGE INFO PROVIDED BY TREASURE COAST NEWSPAPERS IN SUPPORT OF THE REALTORS OF ST. LUCIE COUNTY 2016

    This is for information purposes only. Please rely on city, county, state and federal information on official websites for any hurricane related updates. If you have hurricane season tips you want to share with us please email info@soooboca.com so we can add them to our list!

    Boca Raton Podcast

    Boca Raton Podcast 

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    Savoring the Sunshine: A Summer Escape to Boca Raton, Florida

    Memorial Day officially kicks off summer in South Florida! As a local long time resident and Realtor here in Boca Raton, I can tell you that the fun never stop this time of year! Yes it is hot, hot, hot in #SoooBoca but we love this time of year when things slow down a bit and are places are a bit less crowded.

    Summer parties, barbecues and events are happening all over town so here is a curated list for you! Plus, every week we share the latest events happening around the South Florida area so check back every Thursday!

    Start Your Vacay In Boca

    Kick off your summer fun in Boca Raton and then take it on the road and visit beautiful Florida beaches, cities and destinations! In addition, check out our blog post “10 Great Things To Do During Florida Summers”.

    PS…rep Boca Raton where every you go with some #SoooBoca Merch!

    Disclosure: The links in this post/on this page are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission.
    
    Mizner Park

    Don’t forget to buzz by the South Florida cities link in the Tri-County area with events and suggestions of things to do all summer long!

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    Did you know, according to Wikipedia the National Moment of Remembrance was established by Congress in 2000. It asks Americans, wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day, to pause in an act of national unity for a duration of one minute.

    Boca Raton Summer Events

    There are so many things to do in Boca Raton every summer starting with concerts and events at Mizner Park Amphitheater that the city puts on. There are some great tribute bands playing for free, ticked concerts, movies and fun events so scroll down for a quick peak and click on the link to verify dates, times and fees.

    Summer travel is also in high gear so buzz by our travel section for some tips and tricks to help you make your plans. We love to take short trips and pack accordingly so check out some of our faves for your summer long weekends!

    memorial day boca raton
    Memorial Day

    Monday, May 29, 2023

    Both events are FREE and open to the public.

    Ceremony

    • Boca Raton Cemetery | 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
      • 451 SW 4th Avenue, Boca Raton
      • Join us and take part in a ceremony to honor the sacrifice made for our freedoms, featuring community speakers and City officials.
      • Seating provided. Reserved section for Gold Star families. 

    Concert

    • Mizner Park Amphitheater | 7:00-8:30 pm; Doors open 6:00pm
      • 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton

    Join the City for a FREE concert at Mizner Park Amphitheater featuring the high-energy band, Krescendo. Enjoy an evening of patriotic and American favorites from God Bless America to Lee Greenwood’s Proud to Be an American. 

    Led by trumpet player Jeff Kaye, Krescendo features brass, a rhythm section and singers Bill Stafford, Alicia Branch and Joanna Marie Kaye.  Selections will include Neil Diamond’s America, Armed Services Medley and Let There Be Peace on Earth.

    • Chairs and blankets are welcome.
    • Reserved seating for Gold Star families.
    • $5 chair rental. FREE for active military and veterans.
    • Refreshments will also be available for purchase.
    • No coolers or outside alcoholic beverages permitted. 
    • Limited free parking for Veterans in the lot adjacent to the amphitheater.
    • Event is rain or shine. 

    In observance of the Memorial Day holiday, all City offices will be closed on Monday, May 29, 2023.

    Please see the holiday sanitation schedule and amended hours for City recreation facilities.

    Summer in the City Concerts

    Battle of the Bands

    2023 Battle of Bands - NF (516 x 344)

    It’s back and louder than ever! 

    The 3rd Annual Battle of the Bands competition at Mizner Park Amphitheater will take place on August 4, 2023 at 7pm. 

    Bands compete in one of two categories – under 20 AND over 20 yrs. old. $2,500 grand prize in each category! 

    Bands interested in battling it out on stage can apply online  through June 20 at 5pm.

    PLUS, a special Young Entrepreneurs Marketplace, featuring ages 13 – 19, will take place during the competition from 6pm to 9pm. Submissions for the marketplace open through July 10 at 5pmApply online.

    Summer in the City

    Join us under the stars at Mizner Park Amphitheater for Free Music Fridays

    • Fri, June 2  |  The Elvis Presley Experience (tribute)
    • Fri, June 16  |  The Beach Buoys (Beach Boys tribute)
    • Fri, June 30 |  Movie Soundtracks performed by The Symphonia Boca Raton and the FAU Summer Concert Band with Kyle Prescott conducting
    • Fri, July 7  |  Best of Both Worlds (Van Halen tribute)
    • Fri, July 14  |  Purple Madness (Prince tribute)
    • Fri, July 21  |  We Are Yacht Rock (tribute soft rock songs of the late 70’s early 80’s)
    • Fri, July 28  |  Neil Diamond Tribute featuring Rob Garrett
    • Fri, Aug 4  |  Battle of the Bands (and Young Entrepreneurs Marketplace)

    Summer in the City is sponsored by American Social and the Waterstone Resort & Marina.

    Plus… these ticketed performances

    • Sat, May 27  |  Pierce the Veil
    • Sat, June 10  |  Walker Hayes with special guests Ingred Andress and Breland
    • Fri, June 23  |  Brit Floyd Concert
    • Wed, July 26  |  Goo Goo Dolls with O.A.R.
    • Sat, Aug 12  | Jason Mraz
    • Fri, Sept 8  |  Billy Currington
    • Sat, Sept 16  |  3 Doors Down

    Get more details at www.MiznerAmp.com.

    There are a variety of choices of things to do in South Florida in the summer and don’t forget about all the Fourth of July celebrations! Want to check out more events and happenings around Palm Beach, Broward and Dade counties just click here.

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    Summer Entertaining Ideas

    Mocktails

    Delight in the art of summer hosting by exploring a variety of enticing mocktails crafted by talented mixologists at local restaurants and bars. Whether it’s a refreshing citrus-infused concoction or a tropical blend of flavors, these masterful non-alcoholic creations are sure to elevate your summer gatherings at home. Sip on these delectable beverages while savoring the warm weather and relishing the company of loved ones. PS…we have included some recipes and mixers for you too for your summer soirées!

    Michele Bellisari

    Please remember to check with event organizers to confirm dates and times! Information is from the City of Boca Raton and Mizner Park Amphitheater.

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    9 Savory South Florida Barbeque Places You Will Love

    I Love BBQ, You Love BBQ, We All Love BBQ!

    South Florida barbeque restaurants are a #SoooBoca fan fave! Did you know that May is National Barbeque Month? With Memorial Day and July Fourth around the corner we thought this would be a good time to get our South Florida barbeque and grilling thoughts down on the blog for you!

    If you know anything about the #SoooBoca gals and this local Realtor, you must know we live with a family of grillers and we love good barbecue. From grilled veggies to chicken, pork butts, burgers and hotdogs to ribs, steaks, shish kebabs and fish we love it all.

     

    Living in South Florida means we can cook outdoors and fire up the grill at any time of the day or night. Whether you use a gas grill, charcoal or wood the type and style of barbecue varies regionally and globally.

    bbq spareribs

    Toms Ribs

    When my family moved to Boca in the late 70s we had the great opportunity to enjoy many a meal at Tom’s Place. Back then you could get a rib dinner for less than $4 that included cornbread, vegetable of the day, potato salad and rice with gravy. Those tender ribs and the greens were pretty much a weekly meal for many of us.

    PS…if you are thinking of making Boca Raton and South Florida your home start your search here!

    BBQ Shrimp
    BBQ Shrimp

    I can still remember that incredible smoky barbecue smell that would waft around the Glades Road and Dixie Highway area and if the wind was blowing the right way we could even smell those grilled ribs at Boca High.

    BBQ Family Gathering

    BBQ Tips From Travelers

    I was flying recently and got into a great conversation with some gals from Alabama who were heading this way for vacation and I asked them what they loved to grill and they had some amazing suggestions like a country boil in foil with shrimp, potatoes and corn.

    Ready, Set, Grill!

    So, let’s talk about foil for a minute. How much do we love to throw a stick of butter and almost any veggie in foil and throw it on the grill?

    A foil favorite in our house includes regular potatoes cut thinly, with a stick of butter, parmesan cheese and some salt and pepper. Try it. You can do the same thing with sweet potatoes, brown sugar and …oh ya…butter.

    Local Experts Say…

    My good friend Doug Mosley, Executive Director of the Boca Raton Bowl knows a thing or two about barbecue and I asked him if you really need an expensive fancy grill to have good barbecue and his answer was unequivocally No!

    As Mosley says, “I’ve enjoyed great barbecue that was fixed on a homemade contraption that began as a discarded 55-gallon steel drum. The key is to know your grill, in other words, have a complete understanding of how your grill burns, ways to regulate temperature and where the hot and cold spots are on the cooking surface”.

    His personal go-to: Ceasar’s Famous Ribs in Delray Beach.

    Hotdogs on the grill

    Captain Andy Knows His Way Around A Grill

    My husband is another great griller. He has grilled on beaches, boats and in the backyard forever. He’s a fisherman and I can assure you we have had fish prepared many different ways but we all agree that a piece of fresh mahi or snapper grilled in foil with lemon juice, white wine and … yup a stick of butter and seasoned properly is a simple yet absolutely very #SoooBoca dish!

    Bellisaris Gourmet

    Cooks In The Family

    My sister in law Annette is an amazing cook and founder of Bellisari’s Gourmet Convenience (follow her on Instagram) who has amazingly creative recipes that our fam taps into all the time including this one for Barista BBQ Chicken Flat Bread and this refreshing Summer BBQ Corn Salad…oh sooo yummy!

    A few months ago Kylie and I were driving back from a local airport on a mission for takeout and voila…out of nowhere we both saw a little place on the side of the road and pulled a quick U-turn, stood in line and picked up some amazing BBQ for a Friday night girls night in.

    BBQ Places You Have To Try

    A few of our South Florida barbeque faves include: Papa Sauce in Deerfield Beach, Troys BBQ in Boynton Beach, Mississippi Sweets BBQ in East Boca and Lucilles Bad to the Bone . Don’t forget to head out to West Boca for Smoky Bones

    Buzz down to Fort Lauderale to Tom Jenkins, it’s delish! Or head over to Georgia Pig!

    Thinking you want to buzz up to West Palm and Jupiter…check out these great barbeque places while you are there! Starting with Mrs. Smokeys Real Pit Bar-B-Q on Military Trail or drop by Fall Off The Bone in West Palm Beach off of Tamarind!

    We know there are more South Florida barbeque restaurants to check out, so please share your faves with us via a message on our Facebook page!

    Photo Credit: Papa Sauce

    Parks and Rec

    There are plenty of spots to grill around Boca at parks and the beaches so check out some fun spots for you to coordinate your barbeque.

    PS…would love to know your favorite BBQ sauce so we can add to our collection!

    This article first appeared in the Boca/Delray Newspaper.

    You may enjoy some of these other posts:

    South Inlet Beach and Park

    25 Things To Do In West Palm Beach

    Weekly YouTube Real Estate Show

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtFPhqSEjkQ&list=PLZVm02alOMrjjZfLwoGepmTQrjxF4je_n&index=2

    If you are thinking of buying or selling a property in Florida, let our real estate crew help you with that purchase or sale! If we don’t live in your community, we know someone that does and we can refer you to the best agents globally!

    Woman with Dog

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

     

    From Listing to Closing: Unpacking the Expenses of Selling Your House

    Closing Costs For Sellers In Florida

    Are you thinking about selling your fabulous home in Boca Raton, Florida, or the stunning areas of Palm Beach and Broward counties? Perhaps you are a first time home seller? Or have inherited a property? In this article I share tips and information in regard to closing costs for sellers in Florida. As a local South Florida Realtor, I know that understanding the ins and outs of closing costs is crucial when it comes to selling a property. So, let’s break it down #SoooBoca style and talk about what you need to know!

    Homebot

    Delray Beach

    Commissions

    First up, we have commissions. Just like in the world of insurance, entertainment and other sales situations, real estate agents work hard to get your home sold’. Commissions typically range from 5% to 6% of the sale price, can be negotiable (there is no set commission) and they cover both the listing agent and the buyer’s agent. Make sure to negotiate this with your listing agent to ensure a fair deal that aligns with your budget.

    The real estate agent’s commission typically covers services such as marketing, advertising, photography, home tours, and more. This includes promoting your home through various channels, organizing open houses or virtual tours, negotiating offers, handling paperwork, and providing guidance throughout the selling process. Commission rates can vary, so it’s important to discuss and negotiate the terms with your agent upfront to ensure you’re comfortable with the services provided and the commission structure.

    Prorations

    Next, we have prorations. These are adjustments made at closing for expenses that you, as the seller, have prepaid but won’t be responsible for after the sale. Think property taxes, homeowner association fees, and utility bills. Prorations ensure that the buyer reimburses you for the portion of the year you’ve already paid for. Keep in mind that prorations can vary depending on the time of year and the terms of your sale contract.

    Title Insurance and Fees

    Title fees are another cost to consider. These include the cost of a title search, title insurance, and other related expenses. Title insurance is usually required by lenders to protect against any potential legal issues or claims that may arise with the title. It’s important to understand these fees and factor them into your budget. In Palm Beach county the seller chooses the title company vs the buyer choosing in Broward and Miami-Dade. However, this can be a negotiable point.

    Home sold

    Paying Off Your Mortgage

    If you have a mortgage on your home, you’ll need to pay off the remaining balance when you sell. This includes the principal amount of the loan, as well as any accrued interest or fees. Watch out for prepayment penalties or other fees associated with early mortgage payoff, and make sure to account for them in your calculations.

    Buyer Credits

    Don’t forget about credits to the buyer. During negotiations, the buyer may request credits to cover expenses like repairs or closing costs. As the ultimate negotiator, you may agree to provide credits, but keep in mind that this can impact the amount of money you receive at closing. Be strategic and consider the implications of any credits you agree to provide.

    Home Inspection Repairs and Credits

    Home inspection and repairs are also part of the game. The buyer may request a home inspection, and based on the findings, they may ask for repairs or credits towards repairs. This can affect your closing costs, as you may need to cover the cost of repairs or provide credits to the buyer. Stay on top of the inspection process to ensure a smooth transaction.

    Miscellaneous Fees

    Last but not least, there may be miscellaneous fees to account for, such as attorney fees, recording fees, processing fees and courier fees. These can add up, so be sure to include them in your budget calculations.

    Moving Boxes

    Why You Might Consider Selling

    There may be several reasons why someone would choose to sell their home in South Florida in 2023 or anytime frankly. Let’s take a look at some possible scenarios:

    • Upsizing or downsizing due to changes in lifestyle or family dynamics
    • Relocation for job transfers or changes in employment
    • Retirement and desire to downsize or move to a different location
    • Financial reasons, such as taking advantage of favorable market conditions
    • Lifestyle change, such as wanting to live closer to amenities or cultural attractions
    • High maintenance costs and responsibilities of homeownership
    • Investment strategy, such as capitalizing on property appreciation or reinvesting proceeds
    • Life events such as divorce, inheritance, or changes in family dynamics prompting a sale

    Reasons for selling a home in South Florida in 2023 can vary from lifestyle changes, financial considerations, job transfers, retirement plans, investment strategies, high maintenance costs, or life events. It’s important to work with a qualified real estate professional, like myself and The Bellisari Group at Real Broker LLC, to navigate the local market dynamics and make informed decisions.

    Unpacking the Expenses of Selling Your House Conclusion

    In conclusion, selling a home in Boca Raton, Palm Beach, or Broward counties comes with its own set of costs. Understanding and preparing for these expenses, including commissions, prorations, title fees, mortgage payoffs, credits to the buyer, and miscellaneous fees, is essential for a successful home sale transaction. Work with a qualified real estate agent and attorney to ensure you’re fully aware of all the costs involved. Wishing you all the best in your home selling journey! You’ve got this! 

    Michele Bellisari
    Michele Bellisari – Realtor – Real Broker LLC

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots


    15 Best Breweries in South Florida & Boca Raton

    Love Craft Beer, Check Out Our List of Local Breweries

    We are lucky to have some of the best South Florida breweries right here in Boca Raton! We love a tasty beer and decided to put a beginning list together of some of the best breweries in Florida that are near to or in Boca Raton.  They are in no particular order and we would love to hear what your favorite local brewery is so drop us an email!

    Many local bands play at the breweries so check out blog post on live music in South Florida to get dates and times when they will be at your favorite location or streaming on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!

    With so many beer fans out there, many of you love to drink at home! Us included! Make sure to support local and bring your craft beers home! You might want something fun to pour that beer into so check out these cool glasses!

    Want a map of breweries around Florida? Just click on Beer in Florida as they have a comprehensive list ready for you!

    If you like this article? Then buzz by a few more food and drink suggestions at Eat and Drink!

    Disclosure: The links in this post/on this page are affiliate links via Amazon and other companies and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. 

     

    Breweries

     1. Brickyard Microbrewery

    Brickyard Microbrewery is a very popular microbrewery in The Garden Shops here in Boca! Get a taste of  appys, fajitas, flatbread, “burgers in a box” and more plus with over 50 hand-crafted beers on tap. You should try one of the featured beers of the month like  the Green Bench IPA”. 

    They have a delicious and affordable menu with happy hours and live music. Meet your friends and enjoy a casual surrounding with tons of TVs, great food and some of  the best beer in Boca!

     2. Barrel of Monks Brewery *

    Are you ready for a brewery tour? Well check out Boca Raton’s Barrel of Monks Brewery just off of Rogers Circle near Clintmoore Road and Congress.Specializing in Belgium beer this group of friends have created a popular spot with a great choice of beers and food trucks (just check the calendar)! Do you love to chill?

    This is a perfect place for you. We suggest you try their locally made ‘Blood Orange Gose Sour Belgian-Style Blonde with Blood Orange & Sea Salt”…delish! Not to mention you can have a private event here or private meetings…cheers to that!

    3. The Funky Buddha 

    You might have heard of this magical place, but, you’ll never know the magic it holds until you visit it. We are talking about The Funky Buddha Brewery. This brewery gives you excellent service and a huge selection of craft beers from lagers, to bottled, on tap and ales.

    You can drink beer (110 choices by the way) or drink some tea (40 choices), or partake in a choice from 40 different flavors of shishas for the hookahs. If Kava is your thing then you can drink it by the shell here! Sooo many choices sooo little time! You can even take a home brew class. Check out their website for live music and open mic schedules.  

    4. Prosperity Brewers*

    Beers infused with a tropical flair…you have us at hello! These Boca gals are suckers for the tropical and tasty beers like Red Reef and Palm Beach Tart LOL. Not to mention they are right next to the Flamingo House which we do enjoy (hint Art Walks happen frequently).

    This is a nano brewery just north of Spanish River in the warehouse district (yes you turn at the Cumberland Farms to get to this location). Old Boca folks will totally get this reference. Check out their event schedule too…like Sip & Stretch on Saturday.

    5. Yard House *

     If you need to get your “beer” on while the fam is shopping at Mizner Park you can pop into Yard House and try one of their 125 choices of beers and ciders. We love the “Chalkboard Series ” draft beer idea but once posted they go fast! If you want malty, floral, strong, hoppy or something else check out their full menu. Great food and they have gluten free and vegetarian selections too.

    6. SaltWater Brewery *

    Although not “in” Boca it is right across the line in Delray Beach (a sister city). This place is just awesome. Founded in 2013 this is the first local production microbrewery in Delray, with tasting room and beer garden on sight.

    These folks are passionate about their beer and giving back to charities that support our oceans and name their beers accordingly like “Sea Cow Milk Stout” and “Screamin’ Reels IPA.”  The environment should be given an award for creativity due to its unique location…gotta love it!

    There are a great number of year round, seasonal and special release beers to choose from.  The tasting room, appropriately called “The Reef Room” has beers on tap plus Saltwater Brewery has food trucks, craft nights and many a networking and private event at this cool location. You need to buzz on by!

    7. Due South Brewery *

    Due South Brewery a lively, fun and busy place in Boynton Beach, another sister city.  Housed in a large 27,000 square foot location off High Ridge Road…yup you have probably driven right by … sooo now you know! What makes this place amazing?

    This is a veteran owned and operated brewery that supplies beer from Key West to Daytona and Orlando to Tampa on the west coast of FLA! You can take a tour (just check the schedule)

    We love the “Nun With a Chainsaw” IPA cuz we went through Hurricane Irma too. Stouts, ales, drafts and more this is a great spot to meet friends and raise a glass! PS…they have wine selections and events on their calendar weekly so check it out!

    8. Crazy Uncle Mikes *

    We love this place! Crazy Uncle Mikes has a variety of craft beers brewed right on site! Physical Graffiti, Mike Check 2, License to Pils just to name a few! Crazy Uncle Mike’s is a brewery, restaurant, and music venue located in East Boca Raton, Florida. Mike Goodwin is the owner and along with brewmaster Corey Wilson and executive chef Tara Abrams they have created a fun vibe, with live music and good food!

    Visit Breweries in Broward and the Palm Beaches 

    Robot Brewing Company.

    Copperpoint Brewing Company

    Devour Brewing Company

    26 Degree Brewing Company

    Bangin’ Banjo Brewing Company

    LauderAle

    Khoffner 

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    Disclaimer: You must be 21 to legally purchase alcohol and beer. Please refer to each brewery website for up to date information. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and may change without notice. Check with individual establishments to confirm hours of operation, location and details. Please drink responsibly, order Lyft or Uber or taxi.

    Michele Bellisari

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    23 Popular Boat Ramps and Marinas | South Florida

    Fish, Float, Fun in South Florida 

    Hello our #SoooBoca and South Florida friends! We took a quick trip to the Florida Keys to do a little fishing and Keys time stuff and thought that we would pop up a post with a list of marinas and boat ramps in our area that are open to the public!

    Whether fishing, diving or pleasure boating there is a plethora of things to do on the water all over #SoooFlorida. From the beautiful blue Atlantic ocean to the intracoastal and local lakes we enjoy South Floridians love their water activities! Do you have a favorite marina? We would love for you to comment and share!

    Sport Fish Boat

    Belli Sea Sport Fishing
    Sport Fishing Boca Raton

    Love to fish?

     Looking to charter a boat to go sport fishing? Whether fishing local or feeling the Bahamas vibe the Belli-Sea 42′ Post is you go to for South Florida sportfishing. For more information simply send an email and we will get back to you!  Taking reservations for spring and summer fishing!  

    Fun fact…did you know about the  Florida Council of Yacht Clubs a fantastic organization made up of 36 yacht clubs located around the state from the panhandle to the Florida Keys. Check out the boating activities and information about becoming a member of this boating organization.

    Ladies Who Love To Fish

    Since fishing has been a big part of our family we thought we would also add some great organizations that can help you learn how to fish! Yes ladies you can learn from some of the best in our fabulous state of Florida! Check out Ladies, Lets Go Fishing founded by Betty Bauman who says over 8000 women have learned to fish over the last 20 years due to her organization!

    While you are at it check out the International Women’s Fishing Association for some great history on amazing women anglers!

    Fishing Clinics

    Keep in mind the State of Florida has amazing fishing clinics for kids and people of all ages so check out this link for more details Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

    Ready to Dive or Snorkel?

    If diving and snorkeling are your thing you can get with local dive shops and dive boats that are all around South Florida. Looking to get more info on getting started we have a link to Yelp to help you out! Boca has some great shops including Force-E and Dixie Divers that can guide you on all your diving needs. Favorite dive shop? Lets us know in the comments below!

    snorkeling in marina

    Lastly we have included some links to help you find public boat ramps and marinas around South Florida. Just click on the links and remember some require a city permit/sticker so know before you go! Please do you own due diligence and contact cities, counties and marinas for the most up to date information. We also like to travel and usually it involves water of some sort so check out our travel vlogs!

    Thinking of buying a boat or a house that has a dock or slip? Let us know as we can refer you to yacht brokers we know and of course two of the #SoooBoca squad are Realtors (Michele Bee and Kylie Bee are with RE/Max Services) and can help you with buying that waterfront home for your boat…or boats!

    Some Additional Resources:

    Boating Industry News 

    Palm Beach Boat Show  

    Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 

    Silver Palm Park Ramp Boca Raton marina
    Silver Palm Park Ramp Boca Raton

    Florida Public Boat Ramp Finder

    Here are a few in our area please click on the link above for ramps all over Florida:

    Silver Palm Boat Ramp
    600 East Palmetto Road
    Boca Raton, FL 33432

    Mangrove Park Boat Ramp
    1211 South Federal Highway
    Delray Beach, FL 33483

    Harvey Oyer Park/Formerly Boat Club Park Boat Ramp
    2010 North Federal Highway
    Boynton Beach, FL 33435

    Bryant Park North Boat Ramp
    78 2nd Avenue South
    Lake Worth, FL 33460

    Lake Park Marina Boat Ramp
    105 Lake Shore Drive
    Lake Park, FL 33403

    Juno Park Boat Ramp on Eastern Side of Intracoastal
    2090 Juno Road
    Juno Beach, FL 33408

    Jim Barry Light Harbor Park Boat Ramp
    1800 Broadway
    Riviera Beach, FL 33404

    Currie Park Boat Ramp
    26th Street & North Flagler Drive
    West Palm Beach, FL 33407

    Burt Reynolds Park & Boat Ramp
    805 North US1
    Jupiter, FL 33477

    South Florida Marinas
    Florida Keys Fishing and Boating

    Marinas in Palm Beach County 

    Here are a few in our area, for a fuller list click on the above link:

    Marina Delray

    City Marina

    Murrelle Marine

    Boynton Harbor Marina

    Palm Beach Yacht Center

    Gateway Marina

    Suntex Marina

    Marinas In Broward County

    Here are a few in our area, for a fuller list click on the above link:

    Lighthouse Point Marina

    Two Georges at The Cove Marina – Deerfield Beach

    Marina One – Deerfield Beach

    Aquamarine Hidden Harbor – Pompano Beach

    Sands Harbor Resort and Marina

    Lauderdale Marina

    Riverfront Marina – Ft. Lauderdale

    marina safety

    Make Sure To Follow The Rules

    Stay safe on the water, follow the rules and regulations and never drink and drive a boat. Please remember to do your due diligence and refer directly to any organizations or companies linked here for the most up to date information.

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    11 Reasons To Buy A Second Home In South Florida

    South Florida Is A Great Place to Invest In Real Estate

    Thinking you want to make a move, but not permanently quite yet? Consider buying a second home in South Florida! Maybe you want to purchase an investment property that you can rent out part time or even as an annual rental. I have put together a list of 11 reasons to buying a vacation home in here!

    Call me a little biased, but I absolutely love living in Boca Raton and South Florida! Apparently South Florida is the place to be and with our fabulous lifestyle, beaches, warm weather, no state income tax, Miami Vice like vibe and more the real estate market is hot, hot, hot!

    One thing I have learned, is that when people visit South Florida in the winter, the wheels starting moving with that tiny little thought … maybe I should buy a vacation home here!

    Get The Latest Foreclosure List

    In this quick read post, you will find 11 reasons to buy a vacation home Florida. As a longtime Florida resident I can guide you on making a decision in regard to what suits both your personal and business goals real estate wise. I also know all of the best Realtors in Florida, so if you are looking around the state, let me connect you with some of my favorite agent partners!

    Delray Beach Intracoastal
    Delray Beach Florida

    No State Income Tax

    So many people are making a move to the sunshine state for a number of reasons! One big one is no state income tax!

    Several national publications have noted that Boca Raton and South Florida is a great place to be including the lifestyle, the weather, the business community, the events, sports teams, boating, fishing and beyond!

    Another great point is the variety of housing options we have here from single family homes, condos, gated communities, golf communities and mobile home communities.

    Highland Beach Florida
    Highland Beach Florida

    Foodies Flock To Florida

    The food scene is a huge draw here from the South Beach Food and Wine Festival to Art Basel to Boca Bacchannal, Garlic Festival in Lake Worth and Florida Keys Seafood Festival!

    All year long we also have a variety of outdoor activities for everyone at parks, beaches and playgrounds including 5K races, charity walks, biking events, tennis and golf events, pretty much summer activities all year long throughout the South Florida tri-county area from Miami to the Palm Beach and the Florida Keys!

    Corporations flock here to South Florida especially with the emerging tech hub from Miami to the Palm Beaches!

    11 Reasons To Buy A Vacation Property in Florida

    You may not be ready to live here full time, but maybe you want to dip your toe in the sand by purchasing an investment or vacation home to get the ball rolling.

    Beach front pier
    1. Stream of rental income

    2. Tax savings.

    3. No state income tax.

    4. Build equity.

    5. Affordable properties

    6. Use for personal vacations.

    7. Homestead exemption (if you make Florida your permanent residence)

    8. Lower property taxes in many cases.

    9. Three major airports and several executive airports to fly into

    10. South Florida emerging tech hub.

    11. Work from home scenario.

    Airbnb & Short Term Rentals

    AirBnB Property

    Thinking you want to be an Airbnb host? There are many things to know about purchasing a property and promoting it as a STR (Short Term Rental) via one of the many sites that offer properties to rent.

    A few things to keep in mind include the following:

    1. What are the local regulations in the city or county you are thinking of doing this in?
    2. What taxes are involved?
    3. Will your lender allow you to do short term rentals with the property?
    4. How will you advertise and market it? What expenses are involved?
    5. Is it up to code?
    6. Can you afford to carry the property is you have a slow time?
    7. Is there a season for your short term rental?
    8. Talk to other Airbnb owners and find out the pros and the cons
    9. Are you prepared for large repairs like A/C unit repair or replacement, roof issues, things that get broker?
    10. Can you afford the monthly maintenance like pool cleaning, lawn and landscaping services, cleaning and potential assessments or HOA fees.

    Buyer Beware

    Buyer beware is always my motto. Know before you buy. Educate yourself and understand the pros and cons of owning and managing a short term rental property.

    Thinking of making a move to Florida and South Florida? I can help you and also give you a referral to an agent where you live Are you a condo or single family home person

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    Fun in the Sun: Things to Enjoy in Fort Lauderdale

    Why Fort Lauderdale?

    Fort Lauderdale, located in the sunshine state of Florida, is a popular vacation destination known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and warm weather year-round. Often referred to as the “Venice of America,” the city’s 165 miles of navigable waterways make it a paradise for boating enthusiasts.

    With its lively arts and culture scene, numerous shopping and dining options, and a variety of outdoor activities, Ft. Lauderdale offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting adventure, Fort Lauderdale is the perfect destination to unwind, explore and enjoy.

    The Wharf

    Back in the late 70’s, my family would take me and my siblings to Fort Lauderdale for Christmas and Spring Breaks, and little did I know how much of an impact those trips would have on me. All I knew was that I loved the warm weather, stunning beaches, and clear blue ocean.

    Fast forward to today, and I now have the pleasure of living so close to this incredible city. As my kids have grown into young adults, we’ve continued to enjoy all that FLL, as we affectionately call it, has to offer, from its delicious food scene to its exciting events. Trust me, if you haven’t been to Fort Lauderdale yet, you’re in for a treat!

    10 Not To Miss Things To Do In Fort Lauderdale

    Here are 10 things to enjoy and do if you’re considering vacationing or planning a move to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida:

    1. Explore the Intracoastal Waterway: Take a water taxi or rent a boat to see the beautiful homes and yachts along the Intracoastal Waterway.
    2. Visit the Fort Lauderdale Beach: Relax on the beautiful sandy beaches and soak up the sun.
    3. Stroll through Hugh Taylor Birch State Park: Enjoy a picnic or a hike in this beautiful park.
    4. Shop at Sawgrass Mills Mall: Shop for bargains at one of the largest outlet malls in the United States.
    5. Visit the NSU Art Museum: Admire the contemporary art at this museum located in the heart of downtown.
    6. Take a Segway Tour: Glide through Fort Lauderdale’s scenic Riverwalk on a Segway.
    7. Visit Butterfly World: Experience the beauty of thousands of butterflies in a tropical rainforest setting.
    8. Explore the Everglades: Take an airboat ride or hike through the Everglades to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife.
    9. Visit the Flamingo Gardens: See Florida’s wildlife up close and personal, including alligators, panthers, and flamingos.
    10. Enjoy a Sunset Dinner Cruise: Take a dinner cruise on the Intracoastal Waterway to enjoy the beautiful Florida sunset.

    South Florida Weekend Scoop

    Why Live Here?

    Fort Lauderdale is fast becoming one of the most sought-after places to live in Florida, and it’s not hard to see why. With its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and warm, sunny weather all year round, Fort Lauderdale is the perfect place for those seeking an active and outdoor lifestyle. The city’s navigable waterways and yacht culture make it a popular destination for boating enthusiasts, while its thriving job market and growing creative community make it an attractive option for all who are considering a move here.

    Additionally, the real estate market in Ft. Lauderdale has been booming in recent years, with a variety of housing options available, from luxurious waterfront estates to cozy beachside bungalows. All of these factors, along with Ft. Lauderdale’s vibrant arts and culture scene, foodie scene and fun vibe make it a great place to call home for those looking for a well-rounded and enjoyable quality of life.

    Bonus! GoBrightline has stations in Fort Lauderdale so you can jump on travel to Miami, Aventura, Boca Raton and West Palm Beach now! Coming in later 2023 take Brightline to Orlando!

    Fort Lauderdale Beach

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitlauderdale/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CityofFortLauderdale

    Chamber of Commerce Twitter: https://twitter.com/gflchamber

    Convention and Visitors Bureau https://www.visitlauderdale.com/things-to-do

    Downtown Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/downtownftl/

    Riverwalk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riverwalkftl/

    NSU Art Museum Twitter: https://twitter.com/nsuartmuseum

    International Boat Show Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boatshowupdates/

    Executive Airport LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fort-lauderdale-executive-airport/

    Foodie Faves

    Shrimp Dinner

    There are so many reasons to love the food scene in Fort Lauderdale! From fresh seafood to international cuisine and trendy farm-to-table eateries, there’s something for everyone. Plus, the city’s vibrant culinary culture is constantly evolving, with new restaurants and food events popping up all the time. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a delicious meal, Fort Lauderdale is definitely worth exploring. Check out some of our YouTube videos on foodie finds in Fort Lauderdale!

    PS…love garlic crabs? Check out the best restaurant for just that at the Rustic Inn in Fort Lauderdale! We love it!

    Fort Lauderdale Is The Place To Be

    In conclusion, Fort Lauderdale is a dynamic city that offers endless opportunities for fun and relaxation. The best time to visit Fort Lauderdale is between December and April, when the weather is warm and sunny with low humidity. During this time, the city also hosts a number of events and festivals, including the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and the Tortuga Music Festival.

    However, if you’re looking to save on travel expenses, consider visiting during the off-season, from May through September. While temperatures may be hotter and more humid, you’ll still be able to enjoy all the city has to offer, including its beautiful beaches and waterways. Finally, when you’re ready to explore beyond Ft. Lauderdale, be sure to visit nearby cities such as Miami and Palm Beach, each with their own unique attractions and experiences.

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    Check Out The YouTube Channel and Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Palm Beach

    Business Is Booming In Boca Raton

    1

    Have You Considered Moving Your Business To South Florida?

    The business boom is happening here in Boca Raton and South Florida! Have you been pondering moving your business to Boca Raton and South Florida? You are not alone! The South Florida business relocation migration is full on in play and happening every day! South Florida is a magnet for businesses wanting to get away from high taxes and less friendly business environments.

    Due to the pandemic and people realizing they could work from almost anywhere, moving to Boca Raton and the South Florida business relocation idea became a reality for many corporations and individuals who find the lifestyle, weather and business incentives attractive.

    Boca Raton Is Great For Business

    Boca Raton has always been a popular city for vacations, second homes and snowbirds, but over the last several years, corporations have been landing their plane here and settling their headquarters right here in Boca Raton.

    If you are considering moving your business to Boca Raton, take a listen to an interview I did with Jessica Del Vecchio, the Economic Development Manager for the City of Boca Raton on the #SoooBoca Podcast. She shares the allure of our beautiful community to companies and corporations from all over the globe that are moving their headquarters and themselves, their employees and their families to Boca Raton. The Office of Economic Development in Boca Raton is a wealth of information if you are thinking of making a corporate relocation to our popular city.

    We are also fortunate to be getting a Brightline train station here in Boca Raton on the east side near Downtown Boca. Currently stations are up and running in West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Miami. As per the City of Boca Raton’s website, “Construction of the Brightline train station is estimated to begin in the fall of 2021 with an estimated opening date in 2022.” Just download the app and check out what all the buzz is about! Brightline offers free Wi-Fi, comfortable seats, Smart business class and Premium first class, special events and stellar service!

    Also, just west of I-95 and Yamato we have a Tri-Rail station which also runs from Mangonia Park and West Palm Beach to Miami. You can check out that schedule right here. A cool aspect of Tri-Rail is if you want to take the train to Fort Lauderdale International Airport (FLL), Miami International Airport (MIA) or Palm Beach International Airport (MIA) there are stations near by. Check out the website for rideshare and shuttle options from each station. With that being said, I have a family member that is a flight attendant who takes Tri-Rail frequently to FLL!

    Boca Raton is a globally recognized city in the Southern part of Palm Beach County that has been a magnet for headquarters for a number of years. The pandemic was a defining moment for people and companies. With other states shut down, Florida was open for business for the most part. Boca Raton and South Florida became a very attractive proposition for company owners to relocate not only themselves but their headquarters to the South Florida area.

    Boca has a number of living options and business opportunities here, including, BRIC – Boca Raton Innovation Campus, the former IBM campus, which is a 1.7 million square foot office park located off of Yamato Road and I-95 here in Boca Raton.

    Boca Raton is located between Fort Lauderdale International Airport and Palm Beach International Airport which is highly convenient, and if you are looking for corporate and recreational travel, Boca Raton Airport, is a popular flight facility that also services international travelers!

    Mizner Park

    Palm Beach County Is Open For Business

    Perhaps you have also perused the Business Development Board Palm Beach County and have noticed that Boca Raton is high on the list of many companies and corporations that are moving from New York, New Jersey and other high tax states. I can assure you, as a Realtor here, this is the topic of many conversations I have with people that are ready to make a move here.

    Photos of South Florida

    That Famous Tweet

    From Miami to Fort Lauderdale to the Palm Beaches there has been huge growth and interest, particularly from tech companies, thanks to the timely “How Can We Help” tweet by Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, in making corporate relocation moves to the Tri-County area!

    According to Investopedia, “as of 2020, Florida had the fourth-largest economy in the United States behind California, Texas, and New York.” This includes tourism, agriculture, financial services, international trade, aerospace and life sciences.

    Favorable business conditions, the weather, the beaches and all over enjoyable lifestyle is a huge draw to Boca Raton and South Florida in general.

    Pros and Cons of Living in Boca

    If you are wondering why people and businesses love Boca Raton, check out the Pros and Cons of Living In Boca Raton post we did, with accompanying YouTube video. As a long time resident (think over 40 years), I still think it is one of the best places to live in the entire country! As an avid traveler, entrepreneur and Realtor, every time I get off the plane in Fort Lauderdale or Palm Beach I am always still excited that my family moved here in 1978. 

    More Information

    So now you have some great resources and information about moving your business to Boca Raton and the South Florida area. If you have any questions about making a move here, I would love to be your resource and Realtor. Make sure to check out the #SoooBoca Instagram profile and other local and lifestyle posts right here on the blog!

    Michele Bellisari

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently.

    5 Fabulous South Florida Restaurants To Try!

    Foodie Finds Just For You!

    As a South Florida Realtor, I am always on the look out for South Florida restaurants to try with my friends and family! I am on the go working with buyers looking to move to Boca Raton and also homeowners looking to sell their South Florida real estate and I really love to try neighborhood finds and unique restaurants as much as I can to dine at!

    As a big fan of Chef Michelle Bernstein’s Check Please South Florida, I love to get ideas for new dining diamonds to try in Boca Raton and South Florida plus I also see some of my faves featured on her show too!

    We have pretty much have all types of fantastic South Florida restaurants that cater to whatever your taste! From diners, to dives. BBQ joints to fancy ass restaurants!

    There is no rhyme or reason to the order of the restaurant’s in this months blog post, all I can tell you is that they all offer something unique and special!

    Naked Taco – West Boca Raton

    Lets start with one of the newest South Florida restaurants we have tried! If you love fresh innovative food at a restaurant with a great vibe and fabulous staff, you have check out Naked Taco in West Boca! Trust me when I tell you the Lobster Tail Tacos are the bomb! Check out this video to see what we ordered…the dessert is crazy good!

    Whales Rib – Deerfield Beach

    Boca Raton is right next-door to Deerfield Beach and another of our favorite seafood restaurants is Whales Rib! Everything on the menu is delicious! We particularly love the rock shrimp they have and of course the whale fries! Check out this video to see what to order next time your swing by!

    The Floridian – Fort Lauderdale

    If you love 24/7 dining, you have to check out The Floridian on Las Olas! Bring your pet, Pet Friendly, with Free WiFi, The Floridian serves up classic diner favorites 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in a casual, friendly environment.

    The Standard – Boca Raton

    If you love to brunch, check out The Standard in Boca Raton at Royal Palm Plaza off of Mizner Blvd. across from Alina Luxury Residences! Wow, this is such a great spot for dining and happy hours! Think hibiscus margaritas and mimosas + avocado toast, crab cakes and more!

    The Alchemist Cafe – Wilton Manors

    My girls absolutely love The Alchemist in Wilton Manors and now I do too! Wow, what a fantastic location with crazy good coffee and their famous “slicers” are delicious! You can check out what we ordered and how much fun this cafe is, right in the heart of Fort Lauderdale!

    South Florida Restaurants Rock

    From the Florida Keys to the Palm Beaches we have many choices and opportunities to try classic restaurants like Joes Stone Crab in Miami to Okeechobee Steakhouse in West Palm Beach! And of course, who doesn’t love pizza! Check out our blog post on some of the best pizza places in South Florida, particularly Boca Raton and Delray Beach!

    PS…if you love to dine at home, consider picking up your meal and taking advantage of some of the roadside BBQ stands and fish and seafood stores all over South Florida!

    Make sure to tell us your foodie faves so we can try them out!

    Family of Cooks and Foodies

    Kylie Bellisari doing a picnic

    As much as we love to dine out, we also love to hang around the kitchen and cook! So if you need inspo to create meals on a budget, check out these foodie ideas from my daughter, Kylie Bellisari’s TikTok channel for 5 ingredient videos to help you plan your meals on the fly!

    PS…Kylie also prepares fun meals for her Lebasi – Picnic & Shop Grab & Go Picnics for the Romantic Foodie! Her baskets are inspired by European summers and she creates her beautiful baskets for clientele in both Pittsburgh and Boca Raton!

    And if you watch my Instagram stories you may see my husband, Captain Andy Bellisari who charters Belli-Sea Sportfishing, who is an amazing cook and prepares fresh fish better than anyone I know. One fave is his macadamia nut encrusted snapper…sooo good! I

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

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    15 Fun Daycation Ideas To Do In South Florida

    Vacay All Day

    What are daycations anyway? Here is what Urban Dictionary says: A day trip. A day long vacation. Dictionary.com simply says: a day trip or one-day vacation. My favorite definition is from Wikipedia which calls it a holistay where you stay at home and participate in leisure activities within driving distances of where you live.

    Miami - Art Basel - Wynwood
    Wynwood – Art Basel

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    We are fortunate to live in an area where Boca Raton and Delray Beach offer a plethora of activities, parks, places, spaces and events to choose from. We are also lucky to live within an hour of many great cities and towns in South Florida like Jensen Beach/Hutchinson Island, Jupiter, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood and Miami just to name a few.

    Beach in Boca Raton
    Boca Raton Beach

    Are you ready to grab your travel tote and spend a day bopping around Palm Beach county for one of your daycations? Lets go!

    PS…if after reading this and you don’t live here but have thought about moving here grab my Boca Raton and South Florida Relo Guide!

    south florida daycations
    South Florida Daycations!

    Florida Keys For Lunch

    If you want to get adventurous you could even take a ride to Key Largo for the day…for lunch. Snooks, Snappers, The Big Chill and Sundowners are a few of our faves and trust me I have done Key Largo in a day! From Boca it is typically no more than a two hour drive. And who knows…you may decide to spend the night!

    Snooks Key Largo
    Key Largo Sunsets

    One Tank Trips

    Keep an eye out for our “one tank trips” as we focus on local travel this year! Think Naples, Daytona or St. Pete! If you want to know the best things to do in these fun Florida spots click on the links to some great blogs!

    YouTube Local Travel Playlists

    Check out our travel playlist below on YouTube with locations from around South Florida and of course beyond. We love the Bahamas so that is included in our list too!

    The #SoooBoca squad likes things on a shoestring budget so we look for destinations that are not expensive and that offer an experience whether that is simply biking to the beach, spending time at a local lake or relaxing with a good book at one of the great parks we have like Anchor Park or Atlantic Dunes Park in Delray.

    One other idea is to take to the waterway and enjoy a lunch tour via Delray Yacht Cruises that launch from Veterans Park on East Atlantic Avenue.

    Beaches and Boca

    We also love to visit some of the beautiful fountains around Boca in Sanborn Square, Mizner Park and Royal Palm Place for our daycations. Plan a day around getting to know Downtown Boca and then visit the Boca Historical Society and Museum.

    Perhaps the beach is on your mind (Florida has amazing beaches by the way so check out our great list)…rent a bike or take your own to one of the many beautiful Boca and Delray beaches.

    Hit up one of the local restaurants on Palmetto Park Road like The Tin Muffin or Boca Beach House, grab some take-out for a beach picnic and relax with your toes in the sand.

    If art is your jam plan your own Boca/Delray “art walk” to kick off your holistay! Start at the Boca Raton Museum of Art, have a coffee on Atlantic Ave, then head up to The Heart of Delray Gallery. Want more ideas? Click on our blog 15 Art Galleries You Will Enjoy! for some great choices to help you plan.

    Tour Around West Palm Beach and Palm Beach

    Another option is to buzz up to The Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach, then hit up Elizabeth Ave and Grandview Public Market, grab a bite at Restoration Hardware at their fabulous rooftop restaurant and then head over to Palm Beach to people watch, shop and explore some of the famous “Aves” like Worth Avenue!

    Cabana Life

    There are many hotels up and down our South Florida coast that offer day passes. You can lounge by a pool, reserve a cabana and just float the day away in pure bliss. Check out Resort Pass to see what is available for a fun day poolside!

    A Spa Day Is The Best Day

    We absolutely love a good spa day and have a great list for you to choose from in regard to doing a “spacation” if that is your cup of tea! We are fortunate to have a variety of spas all over South Florida and lets face it, there is nothing like a fabulous facial and massage to make any day simply divine!

    Lake Worth - Wine - Restaurants
    Lake Ave – Lake Worth

    We would love to hear about your daycation so let us know what you do so we can add to our list of #SoooBoca adventures! Don’t forget to buzz by our local calendar page to check out what is happenin’ in our sister cities here in So Flo!

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    About Michele Bee

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

    
                    

    The 20 Best Bars In Delray Beach Florida

    Day or Night You Have Options

    We love Boca Raton but we equally adore Delray Beach and the cool bar scene they have going on throughout the city. We put together a list of some of the best bars in Delray Beach to hang out at!

    From rooftop to beach front, there is certainly a great bar to hang out at, at any given time! We love meeting friends and family on Atlantic Ave and beyond to catch up, have an appetizer and cheers to something in our lives.

    New Kid In Town

    Today, you have to check out THRōW Social® Delray Beach in Downtown Delray Beach! The newest hot spot to flamingle and play has landed in Delray Beach!

    Throw Social Delray

    This Realtor has a new hot spot to share with my clients! #SoooBoca and at Halle Alessia Photography had an amazing time @throwsocialdelray at the VIP Grand Opening!

    It’s a new fan fave for us! Congrats Ginger Flesher-Sonnier, you have a hit on your hands!

    OPEN SEATING, THREE BARS, LIVE MUSIC & GAMES throughout the venue, inside & out. If you want to reserve certain areas or activities, like Cabanas, Board Game Lounges, Darts or Axe Throwing.

    PS…I can’t throw and axe to save my life BUT I can throw back those delicious Liquid Lullabies ? all night long ?

    Subscribe to this channel here

    Fun Bars in Delray Beach To Visit

    Cocktail

    Throw Social Delray 29 SE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33444

    The Falcon 116 NE 6th Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33483

    DaDa 52 N Swinton Ave Delray Beach, FL 33444

    Boston’s on the Beach 40 S Ocean Blvd, Delray Beach, FL 33483

    Johnnie Brown’s 301 E Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33483

    The Blue Anchor British Pub 804 E Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33483

    Hurricane Bar and Lounge 640 E Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33483

    Honey 16 E. Atlantic Avenue Delray Beach, FL33444

    Pour & Famous 524 W Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33444

    Sandbar 40 S Ocean Blvd, Delray Beach, FL 33483

    Sail Inn 657 George Bush Blvd, Delray Beach, FL 33483

    Tin Roof 8 E Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33444

    The OG 166 SE 2nd Ave Delray Beach, FL 33444

    Warren Delray – 15084 Lyons Rd Bay 350, Delray Beach, FL 33446

    Cocktails

    Hotel Bars

    The Ray – Rosewater Rooftop Bar

    Opal Grand – Drift, Monkey Bar and Cascades Pool Bar

    The Seagate – Atlantic Grille

    I am sure we are missing a few and will be updating this list occasionally!

    Just in case here is another link to round out the list of bars you can enjoy a cold beverage at!

    Delray Beach Market is going through a “refresh” so stay tuned for more!

    More To Do In Delray Beach

    Not for nothing but we have even more ideas for you in regard to hanging out and playing in Delray Beach! Check out this blog post, stellar South Florida daycation too! 

    Boca Raton Podcast
    South Florida Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

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    South Florida Sportfishing

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    Belli-Sea Is Ready To Take Your Crew Fishing!

    Sportfishing Boat

    Book your sportfishing charter with Captain Andy Bellisari. With over 40 years experience sportfishing in South Florida, the Bahamas and Mexico.

    If you are visiting South Florida, or you live here, and want to go fishing we have the perfect sportfishing charter for you!

    Located In The Heart Of South Florida

    Our boat is based in Lighthouse Point, not too far from the Hillsboro Inlet and the Boca Raton Inlet.

    Our 42′ Post has an air-conditioned salon, enclosed head (toilet), kitchen and 2 staterooms.

    Specializing in sportfishing off the South Florida coast from Fort Lauderdale to the Palm Beaches!

    We fish for mahi, snapper, wahoo, kingfish, grouper, sailfish and tuna!

    Sailfish Catch and Release

    Charter Rates 2023/2024

    1/2 Day Fishing (4 Hours)$700.00
    3/4 Day Fishing (6 Hours)$900.00
    Full Day Fishing (8 Hours)$1100.00
    Mahi Mahi

    Tournament Fishing

    Contact For More Information

    Bahamas

    Contact For More Information

    Intracoastal Happy Hour or Lunch Cruise

    Contact For More Information

    Accommodations

    Contact For Suggestions including short-term rentals!

    Hillsboro Inlet

    Contact Us To Schedule Your Charter

    Captain Andy Bellisari

    About Captain Andy Bellisari

    As a lifetime member of the big game sportfish community, having grown up in Boca Raton the son of a well-respected sportfish captain, it was quite natural that both my passion and career revolved around blue water fishing and sportfishing vessels.

    The assorted assets that I have captained have afforded me an extreme knowledge of both the waters and fisheries from Florida’s Eastern seaboard all the way to the Yucatan Peninsula South to include the Caribbean with enough time in the Bahamian islands to consider them a second home.

    I have been fortunate to work for assorted owners who have had the same passion for blue water game as I and have thus been able to participate in a myriad of world-class IGFA tournaments year after year.

    These assorted tournaments have allowed me to gain a lifetime of knowledge of how to successfully compete at the highest level.

    My experiences have afforded me the opportunity to build winning teams with the most knowledgeable of seasoned pros combined with many learning novices.

    Historically I have been involved in all aspects of the sport fishing and boating industry including sales, consulting, deliveries, and as noted big game tournament fishing to include blue marlin, sailfish and wahoo.

    I look forward to fishing with you and your families here in South Florida!

    Capt. Andy

     
     
     
     
     
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    A post shared by South Florida Sportfishing (@belliseasportfishing)

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. PS…Captain Andy is her hubby!

    If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

    Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

    Information in regard to real estate on this website should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the State of Florida.

    Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    City of Boca Raton Is A Relocation Magnet

    Boca Raton Economic Development

    Business is booming in the City of Boca Raton! Sooo much is happening in Boca Raton and South Florida from commercial real estate deals to tech companies migrating to Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton and the Palm Beaches! Plus residential relocation moves are at an all time high!

    Each quarter Boca Raton Economic Development puts out a great report that does a great wrap up including what restaurants are coming to Boca Raton, businesses relocating here, city rankings from national news sources and websites.

    As a long time resident of Boca Raton, one of the things that I love about living here is the proximity to cities and municipalities all over the Tri-County area!

    Accessibility To All Things South Florida

    Want to head to Miami from Boca Raton? Jump on the Tri-Rail and soon (4th Q 2022) Brightline. Thinking of moving your business to Boca Raton, lets get you connected with my friends over at the City of Boca Raton and the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County.

    Boca Raton Golf Course and Ocean

    How Many People Are Moving To Florida

    One Okaloosa Economic Development Council reports, as per Florida’s Office of Economic and Demographic Research, our state grew by an estimated 329,717 new residents between April 2020 and April 2021. Move.org reports Florida was the No. 1 destination for relocating Americans in 2020.

    Why Boca Raton?

    From the City of Boca Raton Website, check out these points:

    Florida offers a highly favorable tax environment:

    • No corporate income tax on limited partnerships.
    • No corporate income tax on sub chapter S-corporations.
    • No state personal income tax guaranteed by Constitutional provision.
    • No corporate franchise tax on capital stock.
    • No state-level property tax assessed.
    • No property tax on business inventories.

    Did you know…that half of Palm Beach County’s Corporate Headquarters are Located in Boca Raton.

    Downtown Boca

    South Florida and Boca Raton Real Estate

    We are fortunate to be in the real estate spotlight currently and attracting some great businesses to our South Palm Beach county location.

    Relocation Guide

    Thinking of making a move here? Grab the #SoooBoca Relo Guide!

    #SoooBoca Stories Podcast

    Check out and subscribe to the podcast! I do monthly updates sharing information about what is happening around our city and South Florida communities!

     

    Boca Raton Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    Visit & Play At 17 of The Best Florida Beaches

    Summertime Is All Year Long In Florida!

    #SoooBoca loves to visit the best Florida beaches with our family! We are always on the look out for hidden beach gems and fun things to do at the beach!

    Summer beach vacations are all about relaxing, romping in the ocean, making sandcastles and in our family eating, listening to music and playing old school games like Euchre and Yahtzee! 

    Birds at the beach
    Beach Friends

    I recently had the pleasure of enjoying some time over in St. Pete (one of many great Florida beaches) at a fun throw back motel on Treasure Island. The sunsets, the beachy vibe and old Florida feel made for a fabulous and quick well needed getaway!

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider 

    Disclosure: The links in this post/on this page are affiliate links via Amazon and other companies and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. 

    Planning Your Beach Vacation

    While you are planning which Florida beach to visit check out what made our beach bag essentials list to make your day even more enjoyable! Just click on the pics further down to get more details! PS…don’t you love the hat…perfect for your Instagram pics!

    I made a list of beach communities around Florida to share with you including our own beautiful Boca Beaches. I know we have many more Florida beaches to discover and explore by the way so let us know your favorite beaches so we can spend some time at them too!

    Lastly don’t forget to update your swimsuit wardrobe! The #SoooBoca gals can always find a reason to add new swimsuits to our stash and enjoy shopping at Swimland  in Royal Palm Plaza, Mora Surf Boutique in Deerfield Beach, Boca Surf & Sail just to name a few local shops!

    florida beach
    Beach Life

    Beaches To Buzz By This Summer!

    Hobe Sound 

    Boynton Beach 

    Delray Beach

    Deerfield Beach 

    Fort Lauderdale 

    South Beach Miami 

    Naples and Marco Island 

    Sanibel and Captiva 

    The Space Coast

    St. Augustine Beaches

    St. Pete and Clearwater

    Northwest Florida 

    After a day at the beach there are plenty of things to do around #SoooBoca or any of the cities and towns near the beaches I have highlighted! So make some “cool” plans to balance out our hot, hot summer FLA nights!

    Beach Fashion Accessories

    Beach Bag
    Beach Bag

    Me&Hz Colorful Layered Fashion Tassel Earrings Bohemian 3 Tier Fringe Statement Big Dangle Drop Earrings for Women

    Beach Cocktail Ideas

    Beach Cocktails: Favorite Surfside Sips and Bar Snacks

    Beach Cup Holder

    Pack of 4 – Spiker Beach Sand Coaster Cup Holder – “The Beach Is My Happy Place”

    Beach Cover Up

    Adreamly Women’s Pom Pom Trim Kaftan Chiffon Swimwear Beach Cover Up

    C.C Fun Verbiage Elegant Wide Brim 4″ Summer Derby Beach Pool Floppy Dress Sun Hat

    Slant – 22 oz Double Wide Tumbler Straw and Lid – Drink Up Beaches
    Patio Umbrella

    Shop 2020 Essentials For Your Home Now!

    Summer Beach Bag Essentials!

    Beach Snacks, Fashion and Sun Screen
    CW Network – Beach Bag Essentials Segment

    I had sooo much fun doing a segment on the CW South Florida in Fort Lauderdale in 2019.

    We chatted all about some new summer faves that came on my radar to throw into my beach bag!

    These particular items are “Product of the Year” winners which is the world’s largest consumer-voted award for product innovation backed by votes from over 40,000 consumers. Phew that is amazing!

    Toss some snacks and drinks like Strongbow Hard Cider 100 Cal Slim Cans and gluten free Gold Emblem abound White Cheddar Flavored Bit sized Quinoa & Rice Cakes. into your beach bag.

    Sunscreen Essentials

    Love the convenience of this particular suncreen. Inspired by the Honu, the Hawaiian sea turtle, this is an SPF 50 sunscreen with a patented extended wand design that allows us humans to protect every inch of our shells – including hard to reach places like our backs, necks, and shoulders…sooo brilliant!

    If you are considering planning a visit our Florida beaches I hope you have a great time! I know #SoooBoca always comes back from the beach feeling relaxed and refreshed! Happy Summer!

    Boca Raton Podcast

    Boca Raton Podcast 

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    Partner With Us – Brand Collaborations | Sponsored Media

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    Work With #SoooBoca® Lifestyle & Media

    My name is Michele Bellisari and I am the Founder of #SoooBoca® Lifestyle and Media!

    Enhance your brand’s visibility, audience reach, and relevance with our tailored social media, blog, and video content. We can design a personalized package and strategy for your business’ social media and online marketing campaigns including promoting your business, brand and event! Click here to learn more about #SoooBoca!

    Examples of What We Can Offer (For Pricing Please Email Us Directly):

    Social Media Posts, Advertising, Sponsored Posts and Email Blasts

    Exclusive Social Media Posts On #SoooBoca® Media Channels (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter)

    Calendar Listings

    Banner Ad Rotations

    Sponsored Blog Post

    Podcast and YouTube Interviews

    Sponsored Emails and Inclusion in our Weekly Weekend Scoop Email

    Photography Branding Shoot | Realtor Headshots

    Styled Social Media Photography (Custom Pricing)

    Event Collaborations & Partnerships 

    Please call to discuss details! We partner with public relations and advertising companies, brands, restaurants, non profits, businesses and groups in Florida and nationally!

    Expectations When Promoting Your Event Include:

    Event Promotion By #SoooBoca® to include 2 Complimentary Media Passes/Tickets

    Backlink from your site (when possible) to the #SoooBoca® website

    #SoooBoca® included as a sponsor of your event when possible (we will provide logo)

    Influencer Event Coordination 

    Do you want to have a private influencer event at your place of business? No problem! 

    We can coordinate small, intimate events for you that will get your message out to 1000’s of local and global connections. Lets talk! 

    For more information on how to amplify your business digitally click below to contact us! 

    Top 10 Best Golf Courses In Boca Raton

    Love To Golf?

    Whether you’re visiting Boca Raton, Florida for business or recreation, or you call this blissful place home, make a round of GOLF one of your top priorities. If you are looking for the best golf courses in Boca Raton, look now further! Boca has many outstanding options for the avid golfer, including a wide variety of courses and plenty of tee times to fit your schedule.

    Now don’t let the title fool you, we have included Boca Raton golf courses along with some great courses in the Palm Beaches and Miami! Just scroll down further towards the bottom for those links!

    If you love going to golf tournaments, there are many to choose from throughout the year in South Florida. Check out this link to plan your golf vacation or outing! 

    GOLF

    Public Golf Courses In Boca Raton and Deerfield Beach

    SOUTHWIND GOLF COURSE

    With wildlife ranging from Canadian geese totters and from foxes to iguanas, Southwinds offers a serene setting where a walk in nature is occasionally interrupted by the swing of a club. With water on nearly every hole, as each hole has a different character, shot placement is a must.
     
    The winner of numerous award throughout the years, Southwinds is proud to be a certified Audubon International Cooperative Sanctuary. Great course, great layout, nice folks.
     

    OSPREY POINT GOLF COURSE

    Having received numerous awards since its opening in 2010, Osprey point golf course is one of the top public golf courses in Florida, featuring 27 holes spread out in three nine-hole courses, Osprey point also provides a serene setting with a platinum paspalum turf, which presents a lush playing surface from tee to green, the surroundings are so beautiful and all the artificial features are natural in appearance that strangers were unable to distinguish them from nature itself.
     
    The place is a gem and a unique public course.
     
    Andy and Michele Bellisari Broken Sound
     

     RED REEF PARK EXECUTIVE 

    The Alan C. Alford reef golf course is located between the Atlantic ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, north of Palmetto park road and south of Spanish River Boulevard, on U.S. highway A1A [north ocean Boulevard]. The 9 holes,1357 yard course provides breathtaking views of the Intracoastal Waterway and Atlantic ocean and the holes ranging from 64 to 227 yards in length.
     
    The course was designed by Charles Ankrom and offers tees, fairways, and greens with seashore paspalum grass, which provides bright, vibrant color and superior play surfaces. They also have special amenities such as :
     
    • Advanced tees times
    • Restrooms on courses
    • Pull cart rental
    • Outings and leagues
    • Vending machines
    • Electric golf cart rental
    • Practice putting green
    • Club rental
    GOLF
     

     

     

     

     

     

    BOCA LAGO GOLF COURSE

    It’s located in Boca Raton, Florida, one of the most beautiful cities in all of Florida with exceptional living standards and quality of life. It is conveniently located between West Palm Beach International Airport and the Fort Lauderdale International Airport. Every member of the staff is focused and energized by consistently delivering warm, friendly, personalized service.

    Whether serving food poolside or organizing one of their renowned golf tournaments, their staff delights in pampering visitors in ways that make them feel like a very special guest. This warm approach gives Boca Lago a comfortable and embracing air seldom experienced in today’s country club environment.

    DEER CREEK GOLF CLUB

    It’s noted for its exceptional course conditions and country club amenities. Golfers can enjoy the championship course, a multi-million-dollar Key West style clubhouse, fully stocked golf pro shop, comfortable locker rooms, driving range and practice putting and chipping greens.

    Stop by the 19th hole, the Deer creek grille for drinks and exceptionally fresh food prepared by their renowned chefs. Social clubs are welcome to use their facilities. Deer Creek is the preferred course for several golf schools in the area for players who want to learn, or golfers who want to improve their games.

    BOCA GREENS COUNTRY CLUB 

    175 acres of pristine land in Boca Raton, FL, is a beautiful 18 hole championship golf course. Designed by world renowned golf architect “Gentlemen Joe Lee” with over 200 courses to his credit worldwide, including noted Florida clubs: Walt Disney World Palm & Magnolia, the Original PGA, Hamlet, Turtle Creek, Tequesta, Banyan & Broken Sound.

    female golfer

    Private Golf Course Communities in Boca Raton

    THE CLUB AT BOCA POINTE

    If golf is your passion, this truly is your paradise. Whether you are linking up at their practice facilities or gearing up for a day on the greens, their magnificent 18 hole, championship golf course is your playground. With a variety of social and competitive golf programs organized by a first-rate professional golf staff, you’ll relish every round. When visitors come over, they see that golf at the club is more than just their championship course!

    The club also features well-maintained practice facilities featuring an outstanding short game complex, social and competitive golf play all year long, men and ladies golf association leagues, member-staff events, weekly social mixer and many more.

    BOCAIRE COUNTRY CLUB

    Bocaire is more than just a Boca country club. It is a spacious friendly neighborhood with unparallel services and exceptional amenities. It is an intimate community with 237 custom-built estate homes on minimum1/3 acre lots, situated amidst magnificent fairways, serene lakes, and beautifully landscaped vistas.
     
    You deserve the finest of amenities and services, and they have tailored their community to cater to your family’s active lifestyle. It is a golfer’s paradise, situated amidst magnificent fairways, serene lakes and beautifully landscaped vistas within the 18-hole, par-72 Joe Lee designed golf course. No tee times, no reservations, and no membership cards because their staff knows all members by name.

    BOCA RIO

    Its luxurious 36,000-square-foot clubhouse was designed to be relaxed, yet sophisticated. Featuring personalized services, delicious cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere for friends to meet, their clubhouse puts each individual member at the center of the Boca Rio experience.
     
    Here you can plan a formal event or enjoy a quick casual meal after a round of golf. Or you can simply relax and enjoy a game of cards with friends in the comfortable setting. Boca Rio’s clubhouse features amenities found only at the finest golf clubs: an elegant dining room, grill room, lounge, his and her cards rooms- all with wonderful golf course views- as well as lavish men and women’s locker rooms and a full-service golf shop.
     

     BROKEN SOUND CLUB

    In the heart of South Florida, you’ll find one of the most exclusive golf and country clubs- The Broken Sound Club. Located in beautiful Boca Raton, their private club lifestyle is second to none. The broken sound club is an award-winning, year-round, private golf and country club community.
     
    As a five-star platinum club of America- the ultimate recognition of club excellence- Broken Sound is known for its warmth, elegance and genuine hospitality all joined together.

     

     

     

     

     

     

    ROYAL PALM YACHT & COUNTRY CLUB

    Part of the Boca Raton landscape for over 50 years, Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club is an oasis in downtown Boca, nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway and Capone island. Founded in 1959, the land that became Royal Palm was owned by Arthur Vining Davis.

    Mr. Davis wanted to sell some of his estimated 100,000acres in Florida, and the land he chose for the community was a premium location with boundaries of the Boca Hotel and Club, the Intracoastal Waterway, the Hillsboro River and federal highway. At the time the 450-acre parcel was home to a nationally renowned polo field and was a major focal point of palm beach society.

    Hotel and Resort Golf Courses 

    If you are planning a vacation in our beautiful area, check out some of these fabulous hotels and resorts that also have amazing golf courses! 

    The Boca Raton 

    The Breakers Palm Beach

    PGA National Resort and Spa 

    golf cart

    Palm Beach County Golf Courses 

    Discover The Palm Beaches has a great resource for golf courses that you can review right here!

    Click Links Below For More Great Golf Courses

    South Florida Golf Courses

    Fort Lauderdale Areas Golf Courses 

    Miami Area Golf Courses 

    Boca Raton Podcast
    Boca Raton Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed.

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    Best Live Music Venues in South Florida

    “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.” — Plato

    Live music in South Florida is a scene that we all enjoy. As always please reach out to any venues mentioned to get updates on dates, times and pricing. If you live in Boca Raton or are considering moving to Boca Raton, the music scene in South Florida is fantastic!

    Disclosure: The links in this post/on this page are affiliate links via Amazon and other companies and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. 

    #Soooboca loves music! From dancing in the kitchen with a cold glass of chardonnay to all the live music available to us right here in South Florida!

    There are so many fantastic bars and music venues locally it would take us months to visit them all so we thought we would share a few right in our own Boca Raton, Delray Beach and South Florida backyard.

    South Florida Concerts and Live Music Venues

    Our family has run the gamut with our love of live music including concerts back in the day at the Hollywood Sportatorium and Miami Stadium to Revolution and Culture Room in Fort Lauderdale to a first date to see Charlie Daniels play at Crystal Lake Country Club on the golf course in Deerfield Beach.

    hard rock live hollywood florida
    Hardrock Live Hollywood Florida

    More recently we enjoyed seeing Lynyrd Skynyrd on their “Last of the Street Survivors Farewell Tour” at Seminole Hardrock Live in Hollywood and it was fantastic…plus we got to see the new guitar hotel which is even more stunning in real life!

    hardrock live
    Heart Guitar

    We have spent time at venues in the Palm Beaches including Grandview Public Market in West Palm Beach, Bamboo Room in Lake Worth and Banana Boat in Boynton Beach and of course Coral Sky Amphitheater at the South Florida Fairgrounds attending just a few Jimmy Buffett concerts tailgating!

    Lets face it…cool venues, cool drinks and cool bands are a great way to balance out our hot and steamy weather especially after a day at one of our local beaches!

    Live Music Is All Around Us

    Our friend Rob Concierge has put together a great website for live music in South Florida that you need to buzz by at Weekend Broward Palm Beach. He is a wealth of knowledge about the local musical scene so I asked him how we can support local bands. His incredible support and information during Covid-19 in regard to the venues and musicians locally was incredible, so thank you Rob!

    “The talent pool is fabulous here in South Florida and many of these hard working musicians are found via word of mouth, which is great, as they have fans that do follow them. Another great way to support these bands is to always share the latest concert or performance date on your social media including tagging the band and the venue so even more people discover these talented musicians!”

    No matter what kind of music you love there is a variety of music all over our area in bars, restaurants, amphitheaters, theaters and casinos.

    live music delray beach

    If you are craving a little night music check out some of the live music Delray Beach has to offer and live music Boca Raton has on the local calendars. We have put together a short list of places for you to enjoy…you just never know… someone you are listening to today at one of the many open mic nights and jam sessions held weekly around our cities may very well be the next Ariana!

    Live Music Boca Raton

    The Funky Biscuit – 303 SE Mizner Blvd.

    Biergarten – 309 Via De Palmas #90

    Rockin’ Angels – 7200 N. Dixie Highway

    Crazy Uncle Mikes – 6450 N. Federal Highway

    Pavilion Grille – 301 Yamato Road

    Chops Lobster Bar – 101 Plaza Real S.

    Live Music Delray Beach

    Throw Social Delray Beach – 29 SE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33444

    Tin Roof – 8 East Atlantic Ave.

    Death or Glory – 116 NE 6th Ave.

    Arts Garage – 94 NE 2nd Ave.

    Boston’s On The Beach –  40 S. Ocean Blvd.

    Johnny Browns – 301 E. Atlantic Ave.

    Deck 84  – 840 E. Atlantic Ave.

    Tim Finnegan’s Irish Pub  – 2885 Federal Highway

    #SoooBoca – Boca Raton Podcast

    Boca Raton Live Concerts

    At this date there are no concerts scheduled in or around Boca Raton or in Downtown Boca. Typically there are great tribute bands playing for free, ticketed concerts, movies and fun events at Mizner Park. Remember to check with the city directly for updates on when concerts will be happening and for dates, times and prices.

    If you enjoyed this article you might also enjoy Discover Daycations in Your Backyardd and the #SoooBoca Stories podcast.

    Mizner Park

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    –>

    12 Fabulous Florida Coastal Vacation Spots

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    I don’t know about you, but all of us at #SoooBoca LOVE a fabulous Florida coastal vacation! Luckily, we live in the vacation capital of the world!  Florida is home to so many spectacular beaches, both popular spots and some untapped gems.  If you, like us, are thinking about some time away, consider these great beach staycations. So lets start close to home right here in Boca Raton and The Palm Beaches!

    The Palm Beaches Coastal Vacation

    As a long time resident of beautiful Boca Raton I can attest to the fact that it is a great Florida coastal vacation spot! With a variety of clean and fun beaches to visit and play at! Perhaps stay at The Boca Raton Beach Club or The Waterstone which both are on the water!

    Boca Raton Beach

    We are fortunate to be in a county full of a fabulous beaches include Delray Beach, where you can enjoy food and fun at the restaurants right there on A1A and Atlantic Ave, perhaps plan a stay at Crane House or the Opal Grand Resort and Spa or buzz up to the Lake Worth Beach & Pier (see the original Casino built in 1920).

    Lets not forget Palm Beach where you can rub elbows with the oh so wealthy at the beautiful beaches there and then walk or uber over to Worth Ave for a cool cocktail and afternoon happy hour at one of our faves Taboo! 

    If you are planning to stay in Palm Beach make sure to check out and stay at the iconic Colony Hotel!

    Miami Beach

    Miami Beaches

    Another great Florida coastal vacation spot included Miami Beach! You can hang out and eat at celeb style restaurants and bars all along the 2 miles stretch of South Beach, stay at one of the deco style hotels or one of the new trending hotels like Pharrell William’s gorgeous The Goodtime Hotel.

    Some other beautiful beach locations for you to add to your agenda should be Crandon Park, Haulover Beach Park. and Sunny Isles Beach Park.

    Fort Lauderdale Beach

    Having spent many years playing on the Fort Lauderdale beaches as a teen I can absolutely share what a cool city this is to do a Florida coastal vacation. Think 24 miles of stunning beaches and more in a town that is perfectly located between Miami and the Palm Beaches! What I love about this area is you are surrounded by cities like Deerfield Beach, where you can fish right off the pier, Hollywood Beaches 2.5 mile boardwalk and Pompano Beach, a true sportfishing haven, that are all amazing for a great Florida coastal vacation.

    Treasure Island

    Just a four hour trip from Boca Raton, Treasure Island is an ideal place to visit. Comprising three beach areas over four miles, you will have plenty of spots to explore. Mid-Island is home to most of the lodging, shops and restaurants.  Located there is also a beach trail where you can walk or bike! Sunshine and Sunset beaches are found at either end of the island and are more residential.  Make sure you check out the boardwalk by Sunset Beach, a perfect place to fish! 

    St. Pete Beach

    St. Pete Beach

    A visit to St. Pete’s beach will provide rest and relaxation along the shores of the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy the sun, sand and everything this fabulous location has to offer.It is one of the best beach towns for families. Well-known hotels including the Tradewinds Island Grand Beach Resort and the historic Don Cesar Resort, combined with a host of private vacation homes and condos, means there is no shortage of places to stay. Visit the Chihuly Collection to view breathtaking glass sculptures and take some time to explore the many parks and gardens in the city.  

    Boca Grande

    One of Florida’s “hidden gems”, Boca Grande is located Northwest of Fort Myers.  Popular for some of the best fishing in Florida, Boca Grande is home to some truly spectacular beaches. Consider staying at the Gasparilla Inn and Club,  this simply gorgeous property is the perfect place to relax. If you happen to head there, consider a side trip to Cayo Costa,  a barrier island accessible only by boat. This magnificent site is worth the trip!

    Seashells

    Sanibel Beach/Captiva Island

    One of #SoooBoca’s favorite vacation spots, without a doubt, is Sanibel and Captiva. These two islands are some of the best beach towns on the Gulf side of Florida and have some of the best shelling in the state.  You cannot believe the quality and quantity of the shells! With a host of lodging available, you will have your choice of places to stay.  South Seas Island Resort, on Captiva, has beautiful pools and beaches and a host of amenities. Consider renting a golf cart for your stay and explore the island!

    Cedar Key

    If you are craving a “small beach town” type getaway, then Cedar Key may be just the place for you.  Located about an hour from Gainesville, it offers old-world, small town charm. Think about  renting a cottage and definitely take time to explore the lovely town. Fun fact, Cedar Key is well known for its clams….be sure to indulge while you are there. Cedar Key is a special place to visit.

    Rod Reel Pier

    Anna Maria Island

    Home to seven miles of beaches along the Gulf Coast, Anna Maria Island is a true vacation destination. With a variety of vacation rental properties available, you have a host of choices about where to stay. Beachfront rentals are popular and are available with any number of bedrooms. You can travel with your extended family.  Even better, some are even pet friendly! Finally, there are tons of restaurants to take advantage of, as well as watersports, fishing and some fabulous nightlife.  Travel time from Boca is about three hours and forty-five minutes….not a bad trip.  Honestly, you will feel like you’re visiting another world!

    Where Do You Plan On Visiting

    Without a doubt, planning a Florida coastal vacation is always a great option if you need to get away for some me time! The spots above are some of the best beaches in Florida. The opportunity to get away and relax and recharge is something we should all take advantage of.  The fact that these amazing beaches and beach towns are all within driving distance of Boca Raton make them even more attractive….and affordable.  

    Explore these beach locations online.  And, when you visit one, let us know where you stayed, restaurants you visited and the best things you did!  If you’ve vacationed on one of the beaches recently, share your experience.  We are already planning our next trip!

    Boca Raton Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    9 Amazing Tips For A Stylish and Cool Bar Cart

    Styling Ideas For Any Budget

    Bar carts are the new “it” item in home decor. They are incredibly functional, providing a space for your glassware and spirits while enhancing the appearance of the rooms in which they sit. They are the perfect “home accessory”. 

    As a Realtor, I get to see some amazing home decor and patio decor and one thing that I have seen over and over again is…you guessed it…bar carts!

    I recently purchased the prettiest pink bar cart from HomeGoods that I keep in my kitchen! It has wheels and is the perfect size! It was also deeply discounted and thus affordable and useful!

    HomeGoods Bar Cart

    Other Ways To Use A Bar Cart

    Now, keep in mind, a bar car isn’t just for storing your fabulous collection of liquors and cocktail things…a bar cart has many uses especially when entertaining.

    Consider using a bar cart as a coffee bar, to hold your office supplies, in your nursery or like I do (when not entertaining) as a plant stand with, my Lilly Pulitzer for Target plates on the bottom shelf!

    Disclosure: The links in this post/on this page are affiliate links via Amazon and other companies and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. 

    Bar Carts: The Perfect Purchase for Any Home

    And, a new and expertly styled bar cart is an ideal way to make your home a bit more inviting.  

    After all, who doesn’t love a cocktail!

    Styling Your Bar Cart

    If you already own a bar cart, our tips below can help you give it a bit of a facelift.  If you don’t, consider purchasing one. They are available in a variety of sizes and shapes and in all price ranges. This is a home improvement that doesn’t need to cost a fortune. Once you have your cart, consider these ideas.

    Maximize Your Space

    Stock the essentials, not everything. You want your cart to be a beautiful focal point in your room, not an overcrowded storage area. You don’t need to display each and every glass and decanter you own. Select a few special pieces. And, consider changing them when the occasion demands. Perhaps you have beautiful Christmas glasses that can be displayed during the holiday season and replaced with more classic and neutral pieces throughout the year.

    Stock Your Florida Favorites

    Of course, you will want to be able to offer your guests the standards from your bar: high-quality vodka, gin, whisky (rye, bourbon, and scotch), rum, tequila, cognac, and bitters. That said, it’s always special to stock some locally produced offerings. Consider trying a bottle of Miami Club Rum, Fat Dog Spirits Vodka, or an artisan whisky from Citrus Distillers.  Surprisingly, Florida is home to a number of distilleries, many of which welcome visitors. 

    Keep it Fresh

    When you live in South Florida, there is no excuse to not have something fresh and alive on your bar cart.  Of course, a small plant is always a good choice. But so is fresh fruit. We live in the citrus capital of the world. A small bowl of lemons or limes will brighten up your bar! This is an especially good idea when you have guests; the fruit can be used to garnish drinks.

    Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize!

    Fabulous bar accessories are everywhere and are the ideal way to add a splash of color or flair to your bar cart.  Consider straws, wine charms, or a beautiful bottle stopper.  Elegant decanters are also eye-catching pieces. Make sure to include things of varying heights and sizes.  And, try this.  Set up the bar cart completely. Then, step back, take a look and remove one item.  Just as when you get dressed for an occasion, you don’t want to be over-accessorized.

    Keep Things Cool

    A small but beautiful bowl for ice and/or a wine chiller are the perfect practical addition to any bar cart. Available in different shapes, sizes, and colors, these are stylish items that make your bar interesting as well as functional.

    Creating a stylish bar cart is a great project.  Browse the multitude of pictures online. Make lists of what you like, what you don’t, and what you know are the “must-haves” for you, your family, and your friends. 

    Passion for Repurposing

    Once you have an idea of what you’d like to accomplish, take a look through your closets and cabinets.  It’s likely you have hidden treasures that will work to help create your dream cart. And then, do some shopping.  Whether you choose to shop online or venture out (safely of course) to some of Boca and Delray’s awesome shops, you are sure to find exactly what you need.

    When you have everything at home and have created the perfect cart, send us a picture!  At #SoooBoca, we love decorating, shopping, entertaining, and especially cocktails.  We cannot wait to see what you have created!

    New Blog Post

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    25 Things To Do In The Florida Keys

    Visit The Keys And You Might Not Come Back!

    I have been going to the Florida Keys since the late 1980’s when I had an overnight date, and my first rum runner along with a “floater” with my soon to be husband. We listened to Jimmy Buffett before his song “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” and did some offshore fishing! (Florida Keys Reopens to visitors on June 1st. Please verify this directly with Monroe County)

    We have loved introducing our daughters Kylie and Alle to one of our favorite vacation destinations to enjoy all the things we have, from fishing to sunsets to just chillin’ out and hanging with the fam.

    PS…If you are thinking of buying a vacation home in the Keys I know all the best Realtors there just an FYI! Just contact me for a connection! 

    That Florida Keys Feeling

    I have never forgotten that feeling I had crossing over from Dade to Monroe County and literally felt a shift in myself…a calm came over me…it was the strangest thing and I just kept on coming back!

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    Why We Love the Florida Keys!

    We love Key Largo and the Upper Keys with all our hearts. It is a short drive for us from Boca Raton and a non stop flight from many places to Key West, Miami International Airport and Fort Lauderdale International if you don’t live locally.

    I do believe the Florida Keys should be on every traveler’s bucket list for a variety of reasons including the beauty, peacefulness and history of that very special part of the world. 

    1988 Holiday Isle - Islamorada

    1988 Holiday Isle – Islamorada

    Things to Do in the Florida Keys

    things to do in the Florida Keys

    From sport fishing, both offshore and back country, to snorkling, diving and just relaxing by a hotel pool there are many things to do. 

    I love exploring the art galleries, shops and of course spending time at one of the many wonderful waterfront restaurants in the Keys. The daily fresh catch like mahi or snapper is always a great choice coupled with a Key Lime Martini or refreshing sweet tea. 

    Take a drive from Key Largo to Key West and stop along the way for lunch! Feed the tarpon at Robbies and check out the Dolphin Research Center while you leisurely drive while enjoying the the water views.

    Fun Fact: You will enjoy Overseas Highway and the 42 bridges including the fabulous Seven Mile Bridge that links the Keys to each other and the mainland. Trust me on this one.

     things to do in the Florida Keys 

    Florida Keys Resources 

    Map of the Florida Keys

    Islamorada Chamber of Commerce

    Key Largo Chamber of Commerce

    Marathon Chamber of Commerce

    Key West Chamber of Commerce

    Monroe County Tourist Development Council

    Florida State Parks

    Florida Keys Events Calendar

    things to do in the Florida Keys

    Eat and Play in The Florida Keys

    stone crabs

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Restaurants 

    Lazy Daze (Cook Your Catch)

    Lorelei (Cook Your Catch)

    Craigs Restaurant

    Florida Keys Brewing Company

    The OV 

    Ziggys 

    Robbies 

    Islamorada Fishing Club 

    Mangrove Mikes in Islamorada

    Snappers Key Largo 

    Bayside Grille

    The Key Largo Conch House 

    Corks & Curds Key Largo Wine Bar 

    things to do in the Florida Keys

     

     

     

     

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    Hotels and Accommodations

    Playa Largo

    Cheeca Lodge

    Amara Cay Resort 

    Hilton Key Largo

    The Moorings Village and Resort

    Caloosa Cove Resort and Marina

    The Chesapeake Beach Resort 

    The Postcard Inn

    Pelican Cove Resort 

    The Caribbean Resort 

    La Siesta 

    Ocean Point Suites Key Largo 

    Hawks Cay Resort on Duck Key 

    Ocean House 

    Harbor Lights Motel / Fisher Inn Resor

    things to do in the Florida Keys

    Keys Arts 

     American Legion Riders Coral Head Music Festival 

    Pigeon Key Art Festival

    Key West Food and Wine Festival

    Key West’s Master Chefs Classic

    Third Thursday Art Walk in Islamorada 

    Old Road Gallery

    The Gallery at Kona Kai

    Florida Keys Fishing

    deep sea fishing in the Florida Keys

    Captain Andy Bellisari with a Huge Mahi

    South Florida Fishing on the Belli-Sea Fishing Charters 

    Whale Harbor Marina 

    Florida Keys Outfitters

    Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Tournament

    things to do in the Florida Keys

     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    List of Things To Do

    • Sportfishing
    • Sailing
    • Snorkeling 
    • Diving
    • African Queen Cruise
    • John Pennekamp Park
    • Ernest Hemingway Home
    • Dry Tortugas National Park
    • Theater of the Sea
    • Turtle Hospital
    • Dolphin Research Center
    • Kayaking
    • Glass Bottom Boat Tours
    • Looe Key 
    • Bahia Honda Park
    • Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail
    • Florida Keys Wild Bird Sanctuary
    • Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
    • Harry S. Truman Little White House
    • Jules Undersea Lodge 
    • Mel Fisher Maritime Museum

    If you like this post buzz by these ones:

    Boat Ramps and Marinas in South Florida

    10 Things to Do On Vacation in Boca Raton

    I hope you enjoy your time in the Keys as much as we do! Make sure to let us know what you have enjoyed the most. I know you will come back feeling refreshed and relaxed after a vacation to any of the many fantastic spots we have highlighted in this post!

    Boca Raton Podcast
    Boca Raton And South Florida Lifestyle Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    11 Fabulous Reasons To Move To Lighthouse Point

    Lighthouse Point Florida is a Hidden Gem

    Between the cities of Pompano Beach and Deerfield Beach, in eastern Broward County, lies Lighthouse Point, a spectacular city comprising fabulous homes, beautiful parks and delicious restaurants. Minutes to Boca and Fort Lauderdale this waterfront community is easy to get to! Is it time to make a move to Lighthouse Point?

    Those who call LIghthouse Point home love the community feel, spectacular water views and laid-back and relaxing atmosphere. The variety of residential properties includes everything from smaller inland condos and apartments, non-waterfront properties and magnificent luxury waterfront homes. 

    Let’s take a closer look, together, at Lighthouse Point. Start your search here!

    Boat Tour

    Lighthouse Point Marina

    If you are a local boater, you are likely familiar with the Lighthouse Point Marina which is family owned and houses 100 wet slips. Boats dock regularly and visitors enjoy the lovely area which is home to a dock house, rec rooms, swimming pool, tennis and basketball courts and more, all available exclusively to dockage customers. 

    Visitors are welcome to dine at the popular Marina restaurant, The Nawti Dog Marina Cafe. This fabulous spot is right on the water and offers breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Be warned, they are closed on Tuesdays!  For dog lovers, put this restaurant on your list! Pups are invited to dine with their owners and the restaurant even offers them a special menu.

    Lighthouse Point Yacht Club

    LHP Yacht Club

    Operating since the 1960’s the Lighthouse Point Yacht Club is still a popular location today. Their marina offers full-service facilities and their location can’t be beat. This private club includes a spa and fitness space, fabulous tennis courts and a swimming pool. Dining and entertainment facilities are top notch and they host beautiful weddings year-round.

    Seafood World

    Restaurants in Lighthouse Point

    And finally, LHP has some awesome restaurants, and you know how much those of us at #soooBoca love to eat out! We already shared our appreciation for the every-popular Nauti Dog, at Lighthouse Point Marina, but thought we’d spotlight a few more of our local faves. 

    First, no discussion of LHP restaurants would be complete without a mention of Cap’s Place. This historical spot (open for well over 80 years) is located on an island just off Lighthouse Point.  To dine there you can take their motor launch to their Island and enjoy an out of this word meal in Broward’s oldest restaurant.  

    Finally, add these spots to your “don’t miss” list. Papa Hughie’s Seafood Word is great for sushi, seafood and craft beer and Le Bistro offers gourmet food on Federal Highway

    Hillsboro Inlet and Lighthouse

    Hillsboro Inlet

    The Hillsboro Inlet, home to a picturesque lighthouse, connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Intracoastal. If you are a boater living in Lighthouse Point, this is the inlet closest to you! This beautiful spot is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. And, honestly, it is a must see.  Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch in the park and don’t forget to actually visit the Lighthouse. Take lots of pictures, this is a great Instagram photo spot!  

    And, if you love fishing, make sure to visit the Hillsboro Inlet Fishing Center.  They run awesome half and full day charters and you can even plan a trip to the Bahamas!

    Hillsboro Mile

    If you want a glimpse of the Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous type homes, please take a drive down Hillsboro Mile.  Homes located here have magnificent waterfront views, as the narrow stretch lies directly between the Atlantic and the Intrarcoastal. As you drive down the street make sure to look east and west, the homes are truly breathtaking.  Fun fact, in December of 2018 one of the largest (and the most expensive) homes on Hillsboro Mile (33,000 plus square feet) sold for $42.5 million dollars.

    Shellfish

    A Few More Favorites

    We love Lighthouse Point and visit regularly. When we visit we make it a point to  drive by the Psychedelic Art House on Sample Road. The colorful murals are beautiful, and are truly a sight worth seeing. We also always stop for a brief rest at the bench at the end of Sample Road. This single bench on the intracoastal offers an unmatched look into life in Lighthouse Point.  On any given day you can find families enjoying the weather and fishing or residents just relaxing. It is one of the “perfect spots” in South Florida.

    Bellisari Sportfishing Charters
    Belli-Sea Sporfishing Charters

    Fishing in Lighthouse Point

    Because we love to fish, no trip to LHP is complete without a visit to Custom Rod and Reel.  Operating for over 40 years, this shop is a fisherman’s dream.  In addition to the top-line merchandise they carry, they also custom build fishing rods and lures. Trust me, this is the BEST place to shop for your fishing gear!

    Parks and Rec

    There are a few great parks right in Lighthouse Point. Check out Dan Witt Park – Closed for New Community Center Construction, Frank McDonough Park, Exchange Club, Park, De Groff Park, Al Fletcher Park.

    The Weather

    In Lighthouse Point, the weather is beautiful throughout the year. The summers can be hot and humid with regular afternoon rain showers. Winter time, December through March is cooler with the occasional sweater weather opportunity.

    Waterfront Real Estate

     
     
     
     
     
    View this post on Instagram
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Boca Raton | Florida | Realtor (@soooboca)

    City of Lighthouse Point

    For more information on this fabulous city just click this link and get even more details on what is happenin’ in Lighthouse Point!

    Thinking of Moving To South Florida?

    If you can’t tell, we LOVE Lighthouse Point.  It’s a quick 25 minute drive from the Boca Raton area and the atmosphere is so very different.  This city has  small town appeal and waterfront beauty, both of which make it worth visiting. Take our advice and make the trip. You can thank us later.

    Nautidawg Restaurant

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    READY TO TRAVEL IN STYLE | BRIGHTLINE IS HERE!

    2 New Stations Are Opening In South Florida

    Great news for Boca Raton and Brightline! Here is the latest! We are sooo excited to have the Brightline station open in Downtown Boca on December 21, 2022! Not only is it a connector to West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Aventura and Miami it is convenient all things Boca Raton!

    View The Latest Weekend Event List! Updated Each Thursday! 

    The station is adjacent to the Downtown Boca Raton Library and sooo close to Mizner Park, Palmetto Park Road, Royal Palm Plaza and all things happening in the downtown area!

    Powered by

    Brightline is a high-speed passenger rail service that connects Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach, Florida. With top speeds of 79 mph and convenient stations located in the heart of downtown, Brightline makes it easy to travel between South Florida’s most popular destinations. Whether you’re commuting to work, visiting friends and family, or just looking for a quick and hassle-free way to get around, Brightline has you covered. Plus, with comfortable seating, WiFi, and on-board dining options, you can sit back and enjoy the ride. Experience the future of transportation today with Brightline.

    Press Release

    MIAMI (DEC. 15, 2022) – Brightline, today announces that tickets are on sale for the highly anticipated launch of service for Boca Raton and Aventura. To commemorate the launch of each new station, Brightline will host ribbon cutting ceremonies on December 20, 2022.

    The first day of service for the Boca Raton and Aventura stations will be December 21, 2022. One-way tickets are on sale starting today for as low as $10 and can be purchased on Brightline’s app or website.

    Brightline’s initial schedule for each new station is designed to optimize commuter patterns and will focus on peak morning and evening weekday service. During non-peak hours and weekends, Brightline will provide service approximately every other hour. Regular hourly service will continue in West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and MiamiCentral. For more detailed schedule information, please check www.gobrightline.com

    Brightline Train Station Boca Raton

    ABOUT

    Brightline is the only provider of modern, eco-friendly, intercity rail in America. The company currently serves Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach, with stations in Aventura and Boca Raton opening for service on December 21, 2022 and its Orlando station beginning service in 2023. Brightline was recognized by Fast Company as one of the Most Innovative Companies in travel, offering a guest-first experience designed to reinvent train travel and take cars off the road. Brightline plans to bring its award-winning service to additional city pairs and congested corridors across the country that are too close to fly and too long to drive, with immediate plans to connect Las Vegas to Southern California. For more information, visit www.gobrightline.com and follow us on FacebookInstagram, and Twitter.

    Boca Raton Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    https://www.buzzsprout.com/194577?artist=&client_source=large_player&iframe=true&limit=5&referrer=https://www.buzzsprout.com/194577.js?artist=&container_id=buzzsprout-large-player-limit-5&limit=5&player=large

    The Breast Center at West Boca Diagnostic Imaging | Think Pink

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    October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

    This month is the time of year that many of us think pink and plan to schedule our annual mammograms! Once again, #SoooBoca has partnered with West Boca Medical Center and The Breast Center at West Boca Diagnostic Imaging Center to share information on early detection, treatment, awareness and a new podcast interview on #SoooBoca Stories Podcast.

    As a busy Realtor, mom and wife, I have to always remember to schedule my mammograms. Stop what you are doing, and make a call to your physician or breast care center and make your appointment!

     

    Interview with Suzan Pooran

    On this episode I have the pleasure of interviewing Suzan Pooran as she shares her journey of being diagnosed with breast cancer, her treatment as well as tips and information you will find to be useful and helpful.

    Suzan Pooran

    Suzan works at West Boca Diagnostic Imaging Center, and was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2020. She shares her story in regard to her diagnosis, her double mastectomy and her journey having her surgery, early detection of breast cancer, working with her multi disciplinary team, radiation and chemo, recovery and tips for friends and families who want to help out.

    This episode is sponsored by West Boca Medical Center & The Breast Center at West Boca Diagnostic Imaging.

    Ep 056: Breast Cancer Awareness Month | Interview With Suzan Pooran

     

    West Boca Diagnostic Imaging Center

    The Breast Center at West Boca Diagnostic Imaging

    We are fortunate to have West Boca Medical Center located here in Boca Raton on 441/State Road 7, just north of Palmetto Park Road and South of Glades Road. 

    Among many of its services, it is also home to a top notch diagnostic breast imaging center. In fact, The Breast Center at West Boca Diagnostic Imaging has been named a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence from the American College of Radiology. 

    Their services include scheduling a breast MRI, breast ultrasound, diagnostic imaging and mammograms.

    Additional Breast Cancer Awareness Posts 

    Think Pink With The Breast Center at West Boca Medical Center

    Gift Yourself A Mammogram This Holiday Season

    Resources

    This October marks the 36th year since the American Cancer Society marked October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. What began as a week long event in 1985 has grown to a month long global campaign. 

    Today, medical groups, non profit organizations, government agencies and the general public all work together during October to raise money and increase awareness.

    The Breast Center at West Boca Diagnostic Imaging

    About The Breast Center

    The Breast Center at West Boca Diagnostic Imaging focuses on comprehensive breast care including prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment of breast conditions. 

    Because early diagnosis and accurate imaging is a critical aspect in breast health, this center is incredibly valuable.  Among its offering are:

    •  The Breast Center at West Boca Diagnostic Imaging focuses on comprehensive breast care including prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment of breast conditions.
    • Beginning at age 40, women should get a screening mammogram performed annually
    • The Breast Center at West Boca Diagnostic Imaging offers 3D Mammography which is designed to find cancers that may be missed with conventional mammography.
    • All mammogram studies are interpreted by a breast fellowship-trained and board-certified radiologist who specializes in breast imaging.
    • The multidisciplinary team includes a patient navigator, medical oncologists, a pathologist, plastic surgeon, radiation oncologist, fellowship-trained radiologists, and breast surgeons.
    • The Breast Center also offers three different types of breast core needle biopsies, MRI-guided, ultrasound-guided and stereotactic guided. They also perform seed localizations.
    • Other services include: access to clinical trials, genetic counseling and high risk assessments, personalized follow up programs and surgical consultations.

    According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, “one in eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime”. Aside from skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women. 

    Over the years, early identification has improved and new treatments have been discovered, offering hope to the many women who are diagnosed each year.

    Breast Cancer Awareness Month Events in South Florida

    Whether you want to simply donate, walk, run, bowl, paint or do Zumba, there are a variety of events that you can get involved with right here in our local Boca Raton and South Florida community!

    And, perhaps most importantly, reach out those you know who have suffered from breast cancer in the past or are currently fighting this disease.

    Ask how you can help honor their success or help them through their treatment.  A small act of kindness goes a long way.

    Go Pink Luncheon

    Have you purchased your table for the 18th Annual Go Pink Luncheon yet?

    You won’t want to miss this year’s Keynote Speaker, Professional Ballroom Dancer, “Dancing with the Stars” judge, and Breast Cancer Advocate Derek Hough!

    Call Terrie Mooney at 561-955-6634 to reserve your table or visit https://donate.brrh.com/foundation-events/go-pink-luncheon/. Limited individual tickets are also available.

    Of course, these are only a few of the great things happening locally.  Please, let #SoooBoca know about other awesome ways to participate this month as well as throughout the year! 

    Sponsored: This post was sponsored by West Boca Medical Center. All opinions expressed in this blog post, vlogs, emails and social media are my own. Please reach out directly to the sponsor in regard to facts and information provided about their service or business. I have been compensated, but that does not impact my views or opinions. Information is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

    Michele Bellisari

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    35 Beautiful Parks To Enjoy in Boca Raton

    Boca Raton Parks Are Simply Outstanding

    It is always a great time to visit our local parks here in Boca Raton! If you live here or are visiting here there are many parks to choose from that have tons of activities and fun things to do!

    (Subscribe to #SoooBoca for latest posts and updates!)

    We have included several parks, not just six sooo scroll down to the end to see our other faves! For other events around town click out the Buzz in Boca  and subscribe to our Amazon Alexa Daily Flash Briefing the “Boca Raton Lifestyle Buzz”  just download the Amazon Alexa app on your phone and in the menu go to Skills & Games then search Boca Raton Lifestyle Buzz, tap on it and hit enable. Each day you can ask Alexa: What are my flash briefings (and yes you can add others they have a great list to choose from).

    So Many Parks, So Little Time

    flowers in parks

    1. Sugar Sand Park

    This is a beautiful newly renovated park. It still has the same structures but newer. How about that carousel? Great for all ages and awesome Instagram pics too! They have slides, a multi-tiered climbing structure, a spray mister, swings. You should try the climbing structure. It’s wide enough for adults to fit in and chase after their kids easily.

    The playground also has access for children with disabilities. They have the Willow Theater that hosts films and live theater productions throughout the year. They also have a water spray area and if you ever get too hot while playing outside, take a chance to visit the Children’s Science Explorium. There are lots of stuff to see such as traveling exhibits. Many of the sports leagues utilize the fields and the basketball courts at Sugar Sand Park in East Boca in between Camino and Palmetto Park Road on Military Trail.

    2. Patch Reef Park

    Patch Reef is a very large park and back when our kids were younger we went to many birthday parties and of course Boca Jets Football! This big park has beautiful, well-kept landscape. There are lots mature trees that provide shade and give you a cool feeling. They have ball fields, pavilions, and playgrounds.  Let your kids enjoy running around, a splash pad, swings and Pirates Cove Playground! There are outdoor restrooms and pavilions that you can rent for your own parties, picnics and gatherings. The park has a tennis center, a community center, very long biking and walking trail. There is also plenty of parking space. A park you’ll surely revisit!

    3. Burt Aaronson South County Regional Park

    This park has it all! Talk of soccer fields, tennis courts, basketball courts, an amphitheater, a dog park, water park, nature trails and children playgrounds. If you love music Sunset Cove is a big feature of South County Regional Park as is Coconut Cove Waterpark. Another great attraction of is the Daggerwing Nature Center. Daggerwing is a nature park & exhibit hall with live animals & interactive features, plus scenic boardwalk trails. If you love golf then check out Osprey Point Golf Course​​ It’s a beautiful and attractive place. Take a walk an enjoy nature from a close view. Enjoy SCRP!

    Gumbo Limbo Park

    4. Spanish River Park

    94.4 Acres in size!  Looking for a beautiful beach and park combo that’s very clean and not crowded? This is the place you are looking for! The ocean views and Intracoastal views here are stunning, with beautiful blue-colored water. This park is a great place to take a swim, surf, sunbathe and also take pictures. You can go jogging, read a book or just relax. You can also catch the surfers out at the end of 40th Street and of course you are also close to Bark Beach too…Boca’s only spot of the beach that allows your pup to frolic and play!

    Spanish River Park has everything you need. Beach access, picnics, grilling, showers, you can all enjoy these here!  There are also many shaded areas in case you wanna get out of the sun. Enjoy one of Boca’s most popular parks right on A1A.

    5. Spanish River Sports Complex at Countess De Hoernle Park

    What a fabulous facility and park! The Count and Countess De Hoernle were beloved in Boca Raton and here is just another reason why. With a plethora of baseball/softball fields, football and soccer fields, a playground and a beautiful lake to enjoy and walk around this is very popular spot. Pondhawk wilderness park is nearby. Not to mention the T-REX Trail if you like to bike, jog or walk through nature. The City of Boca Raton has the annual Fourth of July Fireworks at this park a not to miss event!

    6. Lake Wyman Park  and James A. Rutherford Park**

    These parks are in East Boca off of Federal Highway near 5th Avenue. Currently there is a walking track with exercise stations as well as baseball/softball fields, basketball courts, soccer field, tennis court, volleyball and playground. If you want to picnic, bbq and enjoy this lovely park it is easy to get to and never overcrowded.

    **The restoration project is expected to include boat ramps, kayak launch, parking, access, canoe trail revitalization, boardwalk replacement, exotic vegetation removal, mangrove habitat establishment and enhancement and coastal hammock development. For more details, please visit the Rutherford Park & Lake Wyman Restoration ProjectOpens a New Window. page.

    For the most updated information on Boca Raton parks and beaches click here
     
    parks

     

     

     

     

    Coming Soon

    Wildflower Park! It is currently closed due to construction but is at the Intracoastal Waterway in Boca Raton at Palmetto Park Road by the Palmetto Park Bridge! 

    Hidden Gems in Boca Raton:

    South Beach Park (County Park on the beach in Boca Raton)

    Red Reef Park

    University Woodlands Park

    Hillsboro El Rio Park

    James A. Rutherford Park

    Sanborn Square Park in Downtown Boca

    Silver Palm Park – City of Boca Boat Ramp

    Gumbo Limbo 

    If you love this post make sure to check out Fitness Trends You Might Enjoy and some of our latest local travel guides and boat ramps and marinas for all your weekend fun! 

    Boca Beach

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

    If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

    Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

    You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    5 Lucky Charms To Help You Sell Your Home!

    The mad rush of homebuyers has definitely slowed down and home sellers need to get back to basics in regard to selling a home! Sooo, today is all about leveraging luck to help you sell your home! There are many people that believe lucky charms will help you sell your home!  I am one of them (along with a few other things like having a clean home, staging, decluttering and curb appeal to name a few).

    If we have not met, I am Michele Bellisari, a Realtor with Real Broker LLC, based in Boca Raton and serving home buyer and home sellers throughout Palm Beach and Broward counties! 

    When it comes to selling your home there are many rituals, superstitions and lengths sellers (and Realtors) will go to get a home sold. So lets get started with talking how lucky charms help you sell your home! 

    Grab 7 Tips To Selling Your Home Fast here. 

    Disclosure: The links in this post/on this page are affiliate links via Amazon and other companies and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. 

     

     

    Attracting Luck To Your Listed Home

    I interviewed Realtors and home sellers and they shared what works for them to help bring them buyers, outside of marketing, advertising and open houses, so here are my Five in the Hive tips on attracting luck to sell your home:

    St. Joseph Statue

    1.  St. Joseph Statue is the #1 response I got when I asked my sellers and other Realtors what brought them luck when selling a property! The Patron Saint of Real Estate buried a variety of ways in in a variety of locations, this $10.00 statue seems to be the most popular method to bring luck to a home seller and a listing. A prayer is said upon burying St. Joseph and once the home sells it is dug up and cleaned up and put in a special place to be honored inside your new home.

    St. Josephs Statue

    Smudging Your Home

    2.  Smudging your home with sage…yup…smudging is an age-old method where you walk around your home saying an Indian prayer and keeping one window open to let bad vibes, negative energy and old arguments fly out the window thus clearing the house of all that old crap and opening your home up to good energy, vibes and a contract on your home.

    Smudging Kit

    Feng Shui

    3. Is Feng Shui your lucky charm? Buyers like the feeling of balance and calm when they look at homes and Feng Shui is a great way to open up energy and bring a little luck to your home showings. Clearing clutter and having 7 lemons in a bowl for luck to clear out negative juju are popular techniques to help bring you luck in selling your home.

    Psychic

    4. Maybe Psychic assistance is the route for you to find luck! According to an article written by Lew Sichelman “sticky emotions and anti-sale energy” can hamper you selling your home. But no worries, just hire your local psychic or witch to cast a spell on your home to help it sell fast and for a great price!

    Fresh Baked Cookies

    5. Old school but still considered a lucky charm for many is simply baking a tray of chocolate chip cookies. The aroma might entice a buyer to fall in love with your home…hold on though…what if someone doesn’t like the sweet smell of baked goods?

    Hillsboro Lighthouse

    Lifestyle

    Bonus Tip + Plan Bee (and my preferred method) is build on the lifestyle you are selling, now that will bring you luck baby! Coastal living is my thing personally and my locale so anything that I can use that reminds a buyer of the ocean, the beach and South Florida is my “lucky charm”.  

    Fragrances – But Not To Cover Up Any Smells

    Think a fragrance, some palm fronds in a flower vase, having sea shells out etc to create a vibe to connect your home to a buyer!

    I believe we do make our own luck and sometimes we do need to search for luck and pray for luck! One last, but very important piece to this post and additional bonus Five in the Hive tip would be, hire a fabulous Realtor with a track record to bring you luck!

    Get more 7 Tips To Selling Your Home Fast here. 

    Michele Bellisari Realtor

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    Best Garlic Crabs | The Rustic Inn | Fort Lauderdale

    We love to venture all over for good food…good crab in particular and it seemed perfectly timed to celebrate my birthday at the Rustic Inn Crabhouse in fabulous Fort Lauderdale in Broward County…  Garlic Crabs for everyone! Our server was fantastic and the food was amazing! We love to experience different food spots around South Florida so check out our vlogs and reviews!

    Location, Location, Location

    The location is so cool with being close to the Fort Lauderdale Airport you can watch the jets landing while you enjoy your garlicky meal! You can order the World Famous Golden Crabs, World Famous Garlic Crabs, Alaskan King and Queen crabs, lobster, shrimp, fish like grouper, mahi-mahi and of course stone crab when in season which is November 15 – May 15. Never had a stone crab…it is one of life’s great foodie pleasures!

    View The Weekend List Here! New List Every Thursday! 

    If you love clams, oysters or conch they have plenty of that as well but frankly we went for the crabs baby and my birthday celebration was in full swing…literally! The menu is huge! By the way…crazy good caesar salad and yummy glass of chardonnay to round out this delish meal! PS…if you prefer or cannot eat shellfish The Rustic Inn has steaks and burgers too!

    Crab Dinner

    The Rustic Inn Crabhouse is about a 30 minute ride from #SoooBoca and a straight shot south on I-95 and super easy to get to plus the parking was a breeze. Whether you are vacationing in Ft. Lauderdale, Miami, Boca Raton or even Palm Beach this is a not to miss throwback seafood destination you don’t want to miss out on.

    Lunch is a great time to go as traffic on I-95 is not too bad at that time of day or after 6 ish at night…we drive around South Florida alot so don’t forget to to use your map app on your phone for directions and traffic updates!

    Relocation Guide Get Your Boca Raton Relocation Guide 

    Plan to relax and take your time … enjoy the views, the company you are with and the food especially those garlic crabs sooo yummy…it truly is a special restaurant that has been around for 55 years! Don’t forget to look at the “celebrity” photos all over the walls too… a fun and nostalgic way to spend your South Florida day!

    PS…If you love Stone Crab check out the best places to get Stone Crab in South Florida!

    Other Favorite Restaurants!

    The Whales Rib in Deerfield Beach 

    Riggans Crabhouse Lantana

    The Original Crab House Miami

    15th Street Fisheries – Fort Lauderdale

    Southport Raw Bar – 17th Street Causeway

    Boat Yard – 17th Street Causeway

    SeaWatch On The Ocean – Lauderdale By The Sea

    Flanagans – Boca Raton

    Follow Us

    Don’t forget to click on our travel, local, foodie, real estate and calendar links for lots of local information because we are #bocalocals and #livelikelocals Follow us on Instagram stories for timely and fun posts where ever we are getting our nom nom on!

    #SoooBoca xo

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home?

    Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    20 Summer Beach Reads To Love | 2022

    Every summer I enjoy discovering new books to read (or to listen to on Audible). I love to put together an annual summer reading list for myself and my friends and this year’s version is now here! I included light, biographical, coffee table and society books that may peak your interest.

    So whether laying inside with the air conditioning blasting, by the pool, under a shade tree or at the beach I truly try find time to read a few choice books each summer and hope you will too.

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider 

    Disclosure: The links in this post/on this page are affiliate links via Amazon and other companies and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. 

    Summer Beach Reads

    Finding a good book (and might I mention an old favorite) to drown yourself in is just good therapy in my opinion. I researched and crawled around the Amazon charts for some great suggestions that have great reviews that might appeal to you.

    Summer Reading Ideas
    Summer Reading Ideas

    Now one thing I want to point out that as a certified workaholic I try to stay away from too many business and marketing books these days, sorry not sorry.

    I consume a ton of blogs, social media and vlogs on YouTube to satisfy my “learning” need so I really try to focus on light and easy reads vs something I feel the need to take notes on. 

    However, with that being said, I have included a few of my quick read marketing and branding books on my summer reading list that I think you will enjoy and that might inspire you in your own business or if you are considering starting a business. 

    The books I chose are in no particular order and I have not read them all. Just click on the links for short summaries! PS…don’t forget to peruse your local library online for lists and suggestions too!

    Beach and Pool Reads

    Sanibel Dreams

    Sanibel Dreams

    Where The Crawdads Sing

    Where The Crawdads Sing

    Happily Ever After

    Happily Ever After

    Word Travel

    Little Fires Everywhere

    Little Fires Everywhere 

    Nantucket Inn

    The Nantucket Inn

    Big Summer

    A Big Summer 

    The 5 Second Rule

    Four Seasons At Agelinos

    Four Seasons at Angelos

    Coffee Table Books 

    Slim Aarons Photographer

    Slim Aarons: Once Upon A Time

    Beaches Coffee Table Book

    Beaches 

    Chanel

    Chanel 

    Summer Business Books

    The Joy of Missing Out

    Joy of Missing Out  – I was fortunate to interview Tonya Dalton on my podcast In the Hive with Michele Bee. She offers amazing insight into simplifying your life.

    Atomic Habits

    The Go-Giver

    More Summer Books To Choose From

    I have a list of more of my faves on Amazon in my store…check them out!

    Do You Have A Fave?

    I would love to know your choices so send me your list via Instagram direct message or a comment below! Flip your way to some sense of summer with some of these great books!

    Woman with Dog

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    11 Ways To Declutter Your House | Free Guide

    “Often It Is What We Hold Onto That Holds Us Back” – Cheryl Richardson

    Whether you are making a move or just tired of clutter, today you will get some great tips on how to declutter your house! Isn’t any season a great time to consider doing a little declutter action in your home and life…but where to begin? I have a knack for clearing the clutter quickly in my house and I love executing this quickly!

    Taking one day to declutter is in my DNA and something I personally like to do and get done…thus waving at my mess and donations in the rear view mirror!

    Declutter Guide

    GET YOUR ROOM BY ROOM 7 DAY DECLUTTER CHECKLIST CLICK HERE

    I have put together a one page easy to follow room by room declutter your home checklist for y’all by the way so you are not on your own! You can do this in a day or you can tackle one room per day for an hour and be done in 7 days!

    As I mentioned I am a declutterer and tidier by nature in my own life, home, car and real estate business so when Marie Kondo started popping up on my Twitter feed I had to see what all the buzz was about and I am so glad that I did!

     

    PS…if you are thinking of selling your home any time soon once you de-clutter, use what you have left to stage your home! Check out this video for some great tips on that! Get Your Home Value Today!

    “Does it spark joy?”

    This is the question that Marie Kondo, decluttering sensation and author of the No. 1 New York Times best-selling book, “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up”, poses to her followers. She is the founder of KonMari Media, Inc. and has a show on Netflix called “Tidying Up With Marie Kondo”. This is a great new binge to watch and learn from. You will be enhanced, charmed and pulled into her philosophy of organization and decluttering for a happier and more simplified life.

    The Home Edit

    This Netflix sensation is fantastic if you need ideas on how to organized and declutter your house. Think organizing with a dash of design and style and you have some beautiful inspiration to make your home amazing with pops of color and function! From freezer organization to holiday decor you will love checking out their blog for tips and ideas!

    declutter

    Getting Started

    Less is more. Period. A few years ago when we had to store household items in a portable storage unit we ended up giving away, selling or throwing out over 60 percent of it. Out of sight, out of mind is what happened. Who knew we were already KonMarieing!

    I find starting with small spaces like my master bathroom is a great place to begin. I recently went through my drawers and under that sink and threw out tons of stuff, picked up some organizing drawers and got rid of old makeup (ladies you know what I am talking about…samples, expired items, yucky eyeliner and icky makeup sticks).

    At the end of the day the simplest way to clear the clutter and bring good energy into your living space includes, as Kondo suggests, to “take an inventory of what you have” dump it all in one room and then see what “sparks joy” and remove the rest. In other words as she implies, “We should be choosing what we want to keep, not what we want to get rid of.”  Brilliant!

    Don’t Forget These Places

    1. Bedside Tables – Those drawers are full of stuff, organize and put only what you will use there. Think face wipes, emory board, notepad, pen, any sort of things that are essential to you.

    2. Under Your Bed – They say putting things under your bed is not Feng Shui and frankly it collects dust. Get rid of the crap!

    3. In Those Storage Benches – Nice try! If it truly is a great use of space (which it is in our home) then use them, if not, you know what to do!

    4. Sheds – I have never met a shed yet that is not a cluttered mess. Go through that and keep what you need and toss or donate the rest.

    5. Bathtub/Shower – Just sayin’. You know who you are.

    declutter

    I Never Thought About These

    Branded items in your home like liquid soap and shampoo bottles create “visual clutter” in our lives. How can you fix this? Simple…decant what you have into clear pump bottles and containers. Kondo says, “By eliminating excess visual information that doesn’t spark joy, you can make your space much more peaceful and comfortable.”

    Everything should have a place. Meaning if you cannot put it away easily you probably need to make some changes.

    Living in an event heavy community like Boca Raton and Palm Beach County means “swag bags”. My goal is to appreciate the bag but not bring it home. Thanks to “thinking like Marie Kondo” I only take what I need from my bag and I leave it behind for the organization to reuse again.

    declutter closet

    Lack of Space? Get Creative

    I think everyone has a pain point in their home or apartment and mine is a lack of closet space or a fabulous walk in closet. Couple that with no basement (South Florida probs) and only a garage for additional storage and the need to declutter is real.

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    I am always looking for creative ways to store items I truly need without cluttering up my actual living space. From shoe organizers, decorative boxes, under the bed storage, racks and benches that can store seasonal items like sweaters I have found there are great ideas on Pinterest and YouTube that can help you find some smart storage suggestions.

    GET YOUR ROOM BY ROOM 7 DAY DECLUTTER CHECKLIST CLICK HERE

    Alternative Decluttering Methods

    Lastly another method of decluttering I have used is the four box method. Super simple in which I get four boxes and use one box for donations, one for what you are going to keep, one for trash and one for storage.

    If the direction you are heading may be exploring minimalism, which is a cool mindset by the way, then check out The Minimalist Home.

    Organizing and Decluttering Resources:

    The Container Store

    California Closets

    Local Thrift and Resale Shops (to donate to and to find storage bins)

    National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals (NAPO)

    I would love to hear about your organizing and decluttering successes! Once you start if you are like me you will be on a mission to clear that clutter and simplify your life! PS…Don’t forget to get your declutter checklist!

    Tune in weekly to the #SoooBoca Stories Podcast!

    Mizner Park

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials.

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    Living In Boca Raton | Ask #SoooBoca®

    Boca Raton Is An Amazing Place To Live, Work and Play

    My name is Michele Bellisari and I am the Founder of #SoooBoca®Lifestyle & Real Estate. One of the things I love to share with the world is the Boca lifestyle!! As a long time resident, I can tell you there is nothing like living in Boca Raton! There is something for everyone here in Boca Raton!

    I started this website as a love letter to the city of Boca Raton and South Florida so I could share things to do, places to go, businesses to see, restaurants to visit, hidden gems,  hotspots, events, real estate and more with visitors and residents! 

    Boca Raton Beach and Bird
    Boca Raton Beach

    Ask #SoooBoca®

    I love discovering and sharing all aspects of the Boca lifestyle, from fabulous foodie finds, new and established businesses, thrifting options, beaches, boating, parks, events, holiday and business roundups and more right here in Boca and South Florida!

    Delray Beach Market

    Ask Michele Bee

    If you need recommendations for things to do in Boca Raton, places to go, hotels to stay at or even your next daycation, shoot #SoooBoca® an email or text! I love to share my faves!

    The best Boca Raton beaches? Ask me!

    The best Boca Raton restaurants? Ask me!

    The best Boca Raton parks? Ask me!

    The best Boca Raton shopping? Ask me!

    The best Boca Raton pizza? Ask me!

    The best Boca Raton coffee spots? Ask me!

    The besting restaurants? Ask me!

    Boca Raton and Boating

    Boca Raton Relocation Guide

    If you have happened upon this blog because you are considering a move to Boca Raton or South Florida grab my relocation guide and begin your search for properties under the real estate tab! If you are thinking of selling, I have resources for you too under that same tab! 

    Boca Raton and South Florida is a marvelous place to live, work and play! I raised my family here and love where I live! Get ready to explore and if you have a fun find, share it with me so I can highlight it on the #SoooBoca® Instagram account or Facebook page!

    South Florida Network

    Get Boca and South Florida Local

    PS…if you want to get connected, I have a local community group on Facebook too!

    Thanks for being part of the Boca Raton community and welcome to #SoooBoca®

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    13 Best Breakfast Spots in Boca Raton

    What’s For Breakfast?

    “Breakfast is everything…at least in the #SoooBoca world! There is something extra special about going out for breakfast with friends and family and lucky for us, some of the BEST breakfast spots in Boca Raton and South Florida are located right here; we don’t have to go far. Check out where to get breakfast in Boca Raton and hit up some of our favorites. Oh and for you “coffee or tea” only for breakfast…check out coffee spots in Boca Raton and Delray Beach we love!

    Breakfast Is Served

    Another Broken Egg Cafe Boca

    Located in Royal Palm Place, this restaurant specializes in breakfast. No wonder it’s one of our fave breakfast spots in Boca! The menu is HUGE and offers the perfect array of both sweet and savory items. If you are hoping to indulge…..look no further; the options are endless.  We are fans of both the croissant french toast and the eggs benedict. And, we love that they offer a breakfast flight; you can select three of their yummy pancakes. It’s perfect for when you can’t make a decision.  Finally, we rate their beverage selection, including cocktails, an A+.  

    Poached Eggs

    Keke’s Breakfast Cafe

    If you haven’t been here yet…..run, don’t walk, for a spectacular breakfast.  Keke’s is known for its super-fresh and always delicious offerings. If you are in the mood for some awesome stuffed french toast, this is the place to be. Their menu includes the full array of breakfast items including waffles and pancakes and a host of egg dishes. The Boca restaurant is on Palmetto Park Drive east of 95 in the old K-Mart plaza.  It’s a great place to grab breakfast on your way to the beach!

    Yolk Boca Raton

    Talk about the perfect name for a great breakfast spot in Boca, Yolk is known for its creative menu, private label coffee, and generous portions. It has become a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Just watching their food come out of the kitchen makes our mouths water.  Don’t believe us, check out their Instagram feed. As would be expected, the egg offerings are extensive. You can customize your omelet or choose from one of their specialties. (The kale scrambler is a #Soooboca favorite.)  Finally, we love that they offer a “sweet single” a single piece of one of their yummy treats! Breakfast should always have dessert right??

    Eggs and Bacon

    Tom Sawyer’s Country Restaurant

    Locally, Tom Sawyer’s is synonymous with breakfast.  And for good reason; they have been serving breakfast in Boca Raton for 32 years! With over 100 dishes on the menu, there is something for everyone. Known for their “breakfast in a pot” and “breakfast skillet”, this spot is also praised for its homemade baked biscuits and pastries. Everything is always fresh, hot, and delicious. If you are looking for something sweet, try cinnamon bun french toast. It’s spectacular. To be honest, we suggest dining with a friend.  One of you go sweet, the other savory…and share. It is the best of both worlds. If you haven’t been to Tom Sawyer’s for breakfast, plan to go!

    Bagelworks

    It would simply be wrong of us not to include Bagelworks in our list of breakfast favorites. Some of us truly believe that bagels are the perfect food!  You can really have a bagel for breakfast, lunch or dinner LOL! This spot, located on Glades Road, is well-known and well-respected as one of the best spots for a yummy breakfast.  Their breakfast menu includes freshly baked bagels, breakfast wraps, sweet options (including waffles and pancakes), and eggs.  And, don’t forget the always fresh and yummy delicacies like lox and salmon. Everything here is consistently good. Take our advice,  grab a dozen bagels and some cream cheese on your way out for the rest of your family.  They’ll be eternally grateful!

    Bagels And…

    Boca Beach House 

    Open 7 days a week, from 8:00am – 3:00pm, Boca Beach House serves breakfast….. beach style. Breakfast tacos and banana bread french toast are two great options on their broad based menu. And, how’s this for innovation — you can order a side of nutella for any of your griddled treats. Who doesn’t want to eat at a restaurant that knows the value of Nutella! Make it a point to meet a friend for breakfast here, you’ll be glad you did.

    French Pastries

    Cote France 

    When a restaurant shares that they offer “authentic French food and baked goods” we simply cannot resist a visit. Brunch at this local gem is not to be missed. In fact, just reading the menu makes our mouths water. The sweet waffles are an indulgent treat. Take our advice and stop by the bakery and bring home some scrumptious treats for later.  You’ll be glad you did.

    Duck Donuts Boca Raton

    For you donut lovers out there, you have to check out Duck Donuts over at Polo Club Shoppes! They love to create donuts and smiles and boy do they have a great menu! They have made to order donuts, featured donuts and special occasion donuts yum! Couple that with their fresh coffee and you are ready to run and do your deals in heels! This fun donut stop started in Duck, North Carolina and ps…Quack gives back so if you are a local non profit connect with them!

    Flakowitz 

    If you haven’t been to Flakowitz have you even been to Boca? This place is an institution. Take the word of their many loyal followers and put this spot on your “must eat at” list. Specializing in “Jewish Deli” favorites, breakfast is hearty and yummy.  And, it’s our favorite spot for Mazto Brie (that delicious fried combination of matzo and eggs that you can top with syrup or sugar, and butter). Honestly, don’t wait for Passover, order it today!

    Donuts and Coffee

    Saquella

    This Boca Italian espresso bar has lovely indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for breakfast. When you visit it  FEELS like your dining in Europe. They have a full array of baked goods, spectacular oatmeal and, even a “Tuscan Sensation Every Day Brunch” when you want to relax and indulge. Enjoy a relaxing breakfast with friends or family here.

    The Griddle 

    Welcome to The Griddle, an amazing coffee shop on Spanish River Boulevard. In operation since 1945, this restaurant is part of the history of Boca. If you live here, you know full well how spots, especially restaurants, fall in and out of favor.  The longevity of The Griddle speaks volumes. We have been known to order, and of course share, biscuits and gravy and the corn beef hash…oh my! Their breakfast is comfortingly traditional and always hot and delicious.  Stop by and try it out; we bet you will be back for more!

    Pancakes with Fruit

    The Original Pancake House

    Oh boy! If you love pancakes…and we love em! We always took our girls here when it first came to Boca! Still a fan fave for many, this is the place to be! PS…if you love crepes too they have an amazing selection! As per their website The Original Pancake House was founded in Portland, Oregon in 1953 by Les Highet and Erma Hueneke. Drawing upon their many years of experience in the culinary field, and their extensive working knowledge of authentic national and ethnic pancake recipes they were able to offer without compromise this unique and original menu which has gained national acclaim.

    First Watch

    We love the vibe at First Watch and the fact they have sooo many options to choose from! Located over on St. Andrews, they offer healthy options like the ever popular avocado toast, to omelets and frittatas to power bowels and egg-sclusives! Fresh and fab they serve breakfast, brunch and lunch!

    Smoothies

    Breakfast Thoughts

    Clearly, we don’t have the time, or space, to share all of the phenomenal breakfast spots in Boca. My goodness, we’d be here all day. That said, feel free to comment and share your favorites, along with why you love them. We’re always looking for someplace new and yummy in South Florida. It’ll be our excuse to go out, once again, for breakfast!

    Are You In The Mood For Brunch In Boca Raton?

    Well here is a little reminder…if you want to find the best brunch in Boca Raton, many of the breakfast spots we mention offer that as well! Craving a refreshing Mimosa or spicy Bloody Mary? You can also brunch at Oceans 234,  Louie Bossi in Boca and Waterstone Resort and Marina!

    PS…do you have breakfast for dinner? Inquiring minds want to know! This may or may not include pizza, so check out our blog post on where to get great pizza here!

    Boca Raton Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    Disclosure: This post contains Amazon and other retail affiliate links. If you purchase I will earn a small commission from these companies. Shopping through these links helps support my business. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

    10 Reasons To Love Highland Beach Florida

    What’s It Like To Live In Highland Beach

    If you are thinking it is time to get out of the winter and get down to South Florida, I have another hidden gem for you! As a lifestyle blogger and Realtor, there is nothing I enjoy more than exploring these hidden gems in South Florida. Lets visit Highland Beach!

    Did you know that when you head east on Spanish River Blvd towards A1A, and hang a left to go north, that you are heading into Highland Beach? Yup! 

    Sailboat at the beach

    Take A Tour With Me

    This is a cozy residential strip along the beach, with amazing views of luxury homes and high end condos on both the east and west side of the road. 

    Beachfront Pool

    The Town of Highland Beach is 1.1 square miles, has it’s own police department, library and water services and the median home price is $591,500. Highland Beach real estate is higher end and if luxe is on your radar this is the place to be. If you think you might be in the market lets chat by the way, 

    Easy to get to, as it is between Fort Lauderdale International Airport and Palm Beach International (or if you fly private, Boca Raton Airport). 

    Friends and Food

    Wine at the beach

    I am fortunate to have friends that live in Highland Beach and always enjoy an invite to hang at the pool and beach. One of my friends has a great “deck” where we enjoy the view of the ocean, sea life and windsurfers from. And yes, sipping on something fun like Prosecco and enjoying a charcuterie board with local delights including smoked fish dip (check out Old Dixie Seafood for that delicious snack). 

    Tuna Snacks

    For stats on crime, schools, income and more check out Niche.com and NeighborhoodScout.com for more information.

    Highland Beach Boating

    Things I Love About Highland Beach

    1. Highand Beach is a very relaxing community to visit and live in. The properties are mostly on the beach or intracoastal waterway. There are a variety of options if you choose to rent there or you want to purchase. Many of the people that live in Highland Beach are part time. 
    1. If you love to dine out, Delray Sands Resort is a great place to have cocktails, brunch and stay for vacation. We have had so many great times there and the views are simply stunning! 
    1. During sea turtle season which is from May 1 through October 31you may have the opportunity to see hatchelings. Keep in mind, the sea turtle is a protected species as per the Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission. Did you know that there are five species of marine turtles found swimming in Florida’s waters and nesting on Florida’s beaches: Loggerhead, Green, Leatherback, Kemp’s Ridley, and Hawksbill. In otherwards, don’t mess with the turtles, their eggs or their nests. PS…that goes for manatees too! 
    1. The sunrises from the beaches are amazing + many of the properties in Highland Beach also have a west view for some colorful sunsets too! 
    1. The proximity to Delray Beach and Atlantic Ave is fantastic. Literally a short bike ride or Uber to all things happening just to the north of Highland Beach. Restaurants like Bostons on the Beach and Deck 84 by the beach or on the water, art shows and out door events are happening at any given time. 
    1. To the immediate south, you have all things Boca Raton! From Mizner Park, to Town Center Mall, lets face it, world class shopping in Boca! To the Boca beaches and parks which are fantastic, all kinds of restaurants to choose from and plenty of out door activities to choose from. PS…you can also join The Boca Raton Club if you like the feel and style of a country club, enjoy tennis, golf and a social membership. 
    1. If you buzz further south past Boca, you have Deerfield Beach at your finger tips! Gotta love all that is there to enjoy! From the pier, the restaurants like Oceans 234, The Cove and Whales Rib, the shopping including Island Watersports, Target (no, we don’t have one in the city limits of Boca Raton), and some great thrifts including the Goodwill Superstore. Check out 18 Cool Things To Do In Deerfield Beach here on the blog! 
    Highland Beach condos

    Making A Move To Highland Beach

    The great thing about Highland Beach is that it is less hectic and touristy then some of the other cities here in South Florida. It is fairly quiet and almost 100% residential, as there are no retail stores at all along that A1A stretch. 

    You have the best of both worlds when you live in Highland Beach. The quiet and sereneness of a small town feel with access to big city life from Miami, Fort Lauderdale to Palm Beach!

    Boca Raton Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed.

    11 Fun Things To Do In Boynton Beach

    Thinking of Moving To Boynton Beach?

    #SoooBoca loves to explore our own backyard and there are sooo many fun things to do in Boynton Beach I just had to do a short video on it!

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    Lets face it there are a million things to do in Palm Beach county and here is just another example of a daycation, staycation or vacation right in our beautiful South Florida community!

    Check out this link for more things to explore and do! 

    From the beaches to the parks not to mention shopping and exploring there is something for everyone in Boynton Beach!

    Not to mention that we have many people visiting and Boynton Beach real estate is hot, hot, hot! From beach front condos to 55+ communities you can search here for your dream home.

    An quick trip from Boca or Palm Beach the city of Boynton Beach is truly in the heart of Palm Beach county and super easy to get to with both the Florida Turnpike and I-95 having exits into the city.

    Take A Drive

    Or you can take an leisurely drive up or down A1A by the fabulous Atlantic Ocean on the east side of town and enjoy one of the parks or the beach with a cooler full of snacks, sandwiches and drinks.

    Disclosure: The links in this post/on this page are affiliate links via Amazon and other companies and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. 

    Boynton Beach has a cool art and culture vibe from music, to art in public places to the children’s museum. If craft beer is your thing you can visit local breweries as Boynton Beach has some great options for you! 

    oceanfront park boyton beach

    Beaches in Boynton

    One of our favorites spots is Boynton Beach beaches…yes you read that right!

    If you are beach person then you have to swing by Oceanfront Park if you want to coordinate a picnic or just hang out at the beach. It is gorgeous!

    Another great spot is Gulfstream Park...truly a beautiful beach location to relax and enjoy our amazing South Florida weather!

    One of #SoooBoca’s favorite things to do is head over to some of the waterfront restaurants by the Intracoastal to eat, drink and watch the boats go by.

    Some of our foodie favorites include Two Georges, Prime Catch and of course Banana Boat. Sometimes we get to see the fresh fish that has been caught by the local fisherman.

    Ready to go fishing in Boynton Beach? You can go drift boat fishing on the Sea Mist III. Speaking of fish we love mahi mahi and snapper so consider ordering that if it is on the menu that day at any of the local restaurants!

    boynton beach

    Love the History

    The city of Boynton Beach has a ton of history too and you can buzz by the Boynton Beach Historical Society for lots of fun and interesting facts about this unique beach side town! 

    Take a ride by NOMAD Surf Shop for a real piece of history and if you want to learn how to surf! Right over the Woolbright bridge on A1A. I have some fond memories of running up there in high school for some OP shorts, tops and bathing suits!

    Seaside Deli and Market is right next door so grab some fabulous sandwiches for your beach picnic…freshly made to your liking!

    We know you will enjoy spending some time shopping, playing and eating around Boynton Beach! Love to hear some of your favorite spots to visit while you are there!

    Oh and by the way there are some fabulous golf courses in Boynton Beach too if you love to hit the links!

    golf boynton beach
    Golf Courses in Boynton Beach and The Palm Beaches

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    Don’t forget about The Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Refuge a gorgeous location for wildlife and birding.   This is a 147,392-acre wildlife sanctuary that is located west of Boynton Beach, in Palm Beach County, Florida. 

    As you can see there are tons of things to do in Boynton Beach at any given day or time. We would love to some of your favorite spots and locations so send us a message!

    ☀️Moving to Boynton, Delray or Boca click here or if you are leaving our beautiful area then click here.

    Here are a few other posts you may enjoy for more about our fabulous South Florida area!

    9 Art Galleries You Will Enjoy 

    Things To Do in Boca Raton

    #SoooBoca Blog

    Boca Raton Podcast

    South Florida Lifestyle Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed.

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    How To Qualify For The Florida Homestead Exemption

    One Of The Perks of Home Ownership In Florida!

    If you are thinking of purchasing a home or you just purchased a home then you want to find out and make sure you file get all the great facts on our Florida Homestead Exemption and see if you qualify to take advantage of it!

    If you have not buzzed by the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser site they have a fresh new look and many search options for you. For example what additional exemptions do you qualify for? What kind of search options are available to you? Where do I go to get forms I might need?

    Things to Do In Boca Raton

    You Can Now E-File Your Homestead Exemption

    (Courtesy the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser Office)

    Welcome to Homestead Exemption online filing. My office is pleased to provide this service to new homeowners in Palm Beach County.

    Homestead Exemption can provide significant property tax savings, and this interactive system will walk you through the qualifications and application process. Many other exemptions are also available through our office. At this time, we ask that qualified seniors, disabled veterans and other disabled persons visit us in person to file for those additional exemptions. 

    Where To Get Started

    Dorothy Jacks, CFA, AAS
    Palm Beach County Property Appraiser

    In order to begin your filing process you will need to:

    1. Gather necessary documentation establishing your qualifications to file.
    2. Request a Personal Identification Number.
    3. Log in to online filing.
    Boca Raton Golf Course and Ocean

    BEGIN THE FILING PROCESS NOW

    On the last business day in the month of December, the Property Appraiser’s Office mails a pink and white homestead exemption receipt card to every property owner in Palm Beach County with a homestead exemption. If there are no changes to the use and/or ownership of the property, simply keep the card as your receipt that you have been automatically renewed for another year. However, if there is a change to ownership due to a sale, marriage, divorce, death, or change in property use, call our office at 561.355.2866 or email us at MyExemption@pbcgov.org.

    The E-File process now allows for taxpayers who have recently purchased their property to file for Homestead Exemption, even if their deed has not been recorded and/or uploaded into our database. Simply begin the process by requesting a PIN and follow the simple instructions. Please know your Homestead Exemption Application will be in a Pending status until your deed is recorded and transferred into our database. When this occurs, your application will be submitted automatically and reviewed for processing.

    Filing For Portability

    You may now file for Portability while using the on-line filing system. Portability is an additional tax savings to residents moving from one home to another within the State of Florida. At the end of filing for Homestead Exemption, you will be asked if you wish to file for Portability.

    The PAPA website is full of information for home buyers and homeowners in our county so take advantage of all the information you can get from it.

    More Information About South Florida Real Estate and Lifestyle

    So now you know! If you want to learn more about our beautiful Boca Raton and South Florida lifestyle follow #SoooBoca on Instagram and check out some of our other articles, podcasts and videos!

    Additional Real Estate Resources

    Google My Business

    Real Estate

    11 Reasons To Buy An Investment Property in South Florida 

    Pros & Cons of Moving To Boca Raton

    5 Lucky Charms To Help You Sell Your Home 

    Selling Your Probate Property in South Florida

    Seniors Downsizing: Tips and Strategies 

    South Florida Real Estate YouTube 

    Boca Raton Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    12 Reasons To Love Boca Raton Airport

    As of May 31, 2018 the U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility is open!

    Did You Know That Boca Raton Has An Airport?

    We have always loved what Boca Raton Airport has to offer in regard to flying options! Did you know you can fly into Boca Raton just as quickly as you can fly out! The airport is rich with history and has been part of Boca Raton since 1936. 

    With so many global businesses and headquarters based in and around Boca Raton, it makes it very easy for executives to fly private in and out of Boca Executive Airport or as “locals” call it Boca Exec! 

    If you have thought about relocating your business or making a move to Boca, having a hyper local airport nearby can be very convenient. South Florida is a moving magnet these days and businesses and people are moving here in droves for a variety of reasons.

    As a local Realtor, with Real Broker, I have put together some information for you in regard to the business and tech environment here including an interview with the Boca Raton Economic Development Manager, Jessica Del Vecchio. 

    View The Weekend List Here! New List Every Thursday! 

    Fly In For South Florida Events 

    Perhaps you have a meeting here, want to fly in for a Miami Dolphins or FAU football game, attend a concert or fly over to the Bahamas for a beautiful vacation to fish, snorkel or dive? How cool is it that you could fly into Boca Raton Airport.

    Entertaining guests or your business associates for the weekend? Charter flights make for a quick weekend getaway to enjoy our Boca Raton beaches, world class shopping, amenities and to have a fabulous dinner with friends!

    No matter what the reason, Boca Raton Airport is convenient and well located to all things South Florida.

    PS…the airport sits right off of Airport Road, I-95 and Spanish River. I love to watch planes of all types taking flight and landing daily with that gorgeous Boca blue sky and FAU Football stadium as a backdrop.

     

    SUBSCRIBE TO #SOOOBOCA LIFESTYLE

    A Few Boca Raton Airport Facts

    • The Airport encompasses 214 acres between Spanish River Boulevard and Glades Road. The Airport’s runway 5/23 is 6,276 feet long and 150 feet wide, with a full-length 40-foot wide parallel taxiway.
    • The Boca Raton Airport serves the recreational, corporate, and flight training needs of the community, averaging over 70,000 operations annually.
    • FAA Contract Tower located on the field. The Tower is open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
    • Two full-service Fixed Based Operators (FBOs) are located at the Airport. Each FBO offers a range of amenities, such as fueling, ground handling, aircraft storage, conference rooms, catering, and limousine service.
    • Onsite Customs and Border Protection facility (coming soon) enabling international flights to fly directly into the Boca Raton Airport instead of first stopping at another airport to go through customs.
    • Did you know…that during WWII, Boca Raton Airport served as a base for air-sea patrol, and a weigh station for planes being ferried to Europe?

    Things To Do in Boca Raton

    Jetting off is as easy as 1, 2, 3 when flying out of Boca Raton Airport — no security delays, no two hour wait times, no crowds and most importantly no TSA!

    Choose from a list full of carriers HERE,  that best suit your needs. If you are just staying for the night, there’s a hotel right on site at the recently renovated Marriott Fairfield Inn and sever more close by.

    If you are in need of some entertainment then head over to Cinemark Palace 20 to catch the latest flick, or catch an Uber or Lyft to shops and dining of Downtown Boca, Atlantic Ave or the Town Center Mall. This “fly private” idea is sounding better and better isn’t it!

    10 Reasons to Fly Private

    1. Convenience
    2. Time Saving
    3. Reduced Stress
    4. Privacy
    5. Flexibility
    6. No long security lines
    7. Food choices
    8. Life Balance
    9. Makes Sense for Your Business
    10. Cuz you can (okay we threw this one in but seriously are we right or are we right)
    11. As of May 31, 2018 the U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility is open!

    Flight Options For You

    We have a variety of options for you as you can head up to Palm Beach or down to Fort Lauderdale International to travel. However be sure to find out how Boca Raton Executive Airport can meet your needs as well. 

    Check this informative video out below and if you want more tips on what to do in #SoooBoca check out our YouTube channel!

    Some references provided via Boca Raton Executive Airport site. Please contact airport, carriers and any referenced businesses for the most up to date information.

    South Florida Executive Airports

    Fort Lauderdale Executive Aiport

    Pompano Beach Airpark

    Palm Beach County Park Airport – Lantana

    Miami Opa-Locka Executive Airport

    South Florida International Airports

    Fort Lauderdale International Airport

    Palm Beach International Airport

    Miami International Airport

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    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

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    15 Fabulous Places To Shop in Boca Raton and South Florida

    0

    Love To Shop? So Do We! 

    This mother daughter squad loves fashion, beauty, home decor and thrifting and will tell you that shopping in Boca Raton by far one of the best cities with some of the most unique and amazing stores to be found in the world!

    We love to shop everywhere whether at Town Center Mall, Mizner Park, Royal Palm Place, wonderful boutiques, thrifts, consignments and home decor stores.

    Boca Raton has options for every personality and budget and typically most stores and shops are open 6 – 7 days a week.

    We would love to know some of your favorite shopping spots and boutiques to share with our followers so send us an email so we can explore what you adore.

    Don’t forget to visit the Community Links page for calendars of all types of events around Boca Raton and sunny South Florida.

    That includes art fairs, festivals and events that are a ton of fun and happen throughout the year!

    Drone view of Boca Raton

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    Worth Avenue

    The Royal

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    Pompano Citi Center 

    Promenade at Coconut Creek

    Fort Lauderdale Area

    Las Olas 

    Broward Mall 

    Miami

    Aventura Mall

    Lincoln Road Mall

    Miami Design District 

    Bal Harbour Shops

    There are literally no limits to the stores and shopping right here in Boca and South Florida!

    On any given day I drive by unique hidden gems that are fabulous and I stop in to check them out and share with the #SoooBoca followers!

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    Product Reviews & Unboxings 

    Thrifting Stores in Boca Raton

    Shopping in Boca Raton is a unique experience and you can truly make a weekend vacation out of shopping at some of the most interesting stores in the world found right here in South Florida. 

    Boca Raton Podcast
    Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

    Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. 

    Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    Shopping and Things To Do In Boca Raton

    The Best White Paint Colors To Choose From For Your Home

    A few years ago, the time had come to pick out white paint for the interior of our home. We had a major water issue that happened and thus we had to gut the floors, living and kitchen areas of our home. We had to choose tile, cabinets and paint for our home.

    When something like this happens, you really are not prepared to make so many choices as to what look you want to go with. Luckily, I had a pretty good idea of the feel and vibe and I also  started a Pinterest board to help me get organized.

    Family Affair

    My husband and I really collaborate well on house and home projects, as he grew up in the plumbing industry, and I studied interior design for about a minute in college before I switched my major to advertising. We both like neutral walls as we add pops of color and coastal accessories to give our house a beachy feel. The project lasted a few months and frankly, the biggest challenge I had was choosing the right paint. It was overwhelming.

    Art Book and Glasses

    Aesthetics To Consider

    My design feel for our home is beachy elegant with a Florida Keys vibe, so I prefer white walls so I can play around with pictures, change my furniture at whim (thank you bulk Mondays, thrift stores and garage sales), and I just think it suits our “beach house” not on the beach home really well for us.

    We also have a ton of color coming in the windows via palm trees, blue skies and our pool which we see from all our main rooms.

    So Many Choices

    With that being said I was in cool or warm white hell…do we go with Roman Column or Eggshell? Did we want a white paint that is more beige, grey, pink or yellow?  What is a hue vs a tint? Where do we even paint some walls to see how the “sunlight” glints off of the colors?

    Thankfully the interweb came to the rescue and Pinterest, which is a haven for great ideas and trends and also made me realize there is no shame in going neutral…phew…as I was sweating it out on that one:

    Paint Cans

    Flooring and Deals

    The other kicker is that we had flooring picked out before our paint, so moving a 24 x 24 inch polished marble sample around from room to room to see how the paint looked against it was the other big challenge and frankly was making the husband cranky. Those tiles are freaking heavy!

    By the way…definitely shop around for flooring! I got a crazy good closeout price at a tile place in Pompano Beach and negotiated it down even more! We are fortunate here in South Florida to have so many amazing flooring, paint, home decor, design centers in the Tri-County area. You can literally shop from Miami to the Palm Beaches. It is fantastic!

    Sound Advice From An Expert

    Bridget King Interior Design

    I participate in a great real estate mastermind daily on the Clubhouse App. The conversation recently turned to why a seller should paint before listing a home, colors to use and the value it can add. Many agents, like Atlanta Realtor Glennda Baker, Virginia Beach Realtor Megan Luker, and designer Bridget King chimed in to share their thoughts and ideas on best practices and colors they recommend to their clients.

    After our group discussion, I reached out to Bridget for some thoughts on painting, especially since sellers always ask if a fresh coat of paint will add value to their home sale.

    “The RIGHT paint colors can boost your home’s value. Paint is the most cost effective investment for the biggest return on the value of your property. Interior painted is said to bring a 55% ROI. Select warm and neutral colors that work with all styles of homes and furnishings.”

    Bridget is the founder and owner of Captiva Design, is the current President of the South Florida Chapter of International Association of Professional Home Stagers. She is the first African-American woman to hold such a prestigious position governing the Florida Southern Region. Bridget is an Accredited Home Staging Professional, and Certified Interior Decorator.

    Choosing The Perfect Color

    So although we were challenged on the paint front, we both make decisions rather quickly. I am the type of person that even when car shopping, can narrow it down pretty quickly and choose the “one”. Same thing with the paint. Once we figured out about 5 colors, tested them on a few walls in the house, we knew what we wanted. See our choice at the end of this blog post.

    Kitchen

    Get Your 2022 Color of The Year Lists Here

    Since everyone has an opinion on brands. I have highlighted a few here that you may want to peruse.

    Sherwin Williams

    Benjamin Moore 

    Magnolia Home

    Glidden

    Behr 

    Ralph Lauren Home

    What’s In A Paint Name

    Apartment Therapy has that answer for you! Did you know that companies have people and teams specifically tasked to come up with fabulous paint names. Some names are trendy, some romantic, some quirky, some fun, some dark and some classic. One company even has an accompanying playlist on Spotify to get you in the mindset and spirit of painting your rooms!

    10 White Paint Color Faves

    A tried and true list of white paints to consider include: White Dove, Super White, Chantilly Lace, Crisp Linen from Benjamin Moore, Extra White, Alabaster and Mercer White from Sherwin Williams, Design Studio White by Ralph Lauren, Polar Bear by Behr 75, Wimborne White No. 239, Farrow & Ball and Fresh Kicks from Clare, to name a few!

    Lastly

    If you are stuck in 50 Shades of White Paint hell…no worries… there is a white shade of paint for every personality and taste out there, you just have to experiment and play with some samples to see what works for your home and lifestyle.

    So what did we choose in 2016?  Sherwin Williams Mercer White and I still love it!

    PS…don’t forget to get all the house painting accessories you need right from Amazon!

    Another quick reminder is to start planning your landscaping refresh on a budget! You would be surprised at how much you can change the curb appeal of your home for just a couple of hundred dollars!

    If you are getting ready to paint your home I would love to hear what color you choose! Here is to keeping it fresh and fun anytime of the year!


    Boca Raton Podcast
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    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed.

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots


    15+ Art Galleries You Will Enjoy In Boca Raton | South Florida

    Get Your Art On!

    If you love art galleries and live in Boca Raton or South Florida, you have hit a home run! We have a list of galleries and art options for you in the Palm Beaches, Boca Raton and South Florida  to make your weekends pop! If you are considering an art weekend or a daycation in So Flo, then keep scrolling for suggestions and links to plan your day! FYI…the New York Times clearly loves the art scene here in South Florida check out this article! 

    Art Basel Miami Beach

    Get Ready For Art Basel

    Every year in December,  ART BASEL MIAMI, is the go to art event in the United States.  As per their website, leading galleries from five continents show significant works by masters of Modern and contemporary art, as well as the new generation of emerging stars. 

    We have enjoyed Art Basel over the years especially Scope Miami Beach and heading over to Wynwood. Check out this YouTube video from one of our trips to Miami for this spectacular event! We love hitting the restaurants and exploring the foodie options available in Miami + all of the different types of hotel venues available to spend time exploring. 

    Boca Raton Events 

    Tap into The Boca Raton Museum of Art  to get updates on events and shows. As per their website, The Boca Raton Museum of Art encompasses a creative campus that includes the Museum in Mizner Park and the Art School.  The Museum has provided seven decades of cultural and artistic service to the community and to many visitors from around the world.

    Boca Raton is a world class city with much to offer in regard to art and culture. Perfectly situated between Palm Beach and Miami, it makes it very easy to day trip to the plethora of galleries and museums here in South Florida! 

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    The Vernissage of Art Boca Raton is an event that we had the great luck of attending a few years ago! I cannot think of a better way to spend an evening then simply sipping an icy cold glass of champagne and enjoying lite bites while wandering through the 45,000 sq. foot white tent directly on Florida Atlantic University campus and watching the sun set while private jets take off into the dimming Boca Raton sky. As a huge music fan I could not get enough of Robin Austin’s very cool art showcasing some of my favorite artists like David Bowie, The Beatles and Mick Jagger…and of course the icon Marilyn Monroe.

    Palm Beach County 

    Palm Beach County as a whole has amazing art districts and venues that you can check out and make a day of! The Cultural Council of Palm Beach County is an amazing resource for all things art in our area.

    Thinking you may head South to Fort Lauderdale? You have to grab a cup of joe and head to FAT Village (Flagler + Arts + Technology) and buzz by Broward County Cultural Divisions Public Art & Design page.

    Boca Raton

    Art Fair Calendar 

    Boca Raton Museum of Art

    Wentworth Gallery

    Sponder Gallery

    Vertu Fine Art 

    Stewart Fine Art 

    Rosenbaum Contemporary Art

    Addison Gallery

    art galleries boca raton

    Delray Beach

    Arts Garage 

    The Heart of Delray Gallery

    Avalon Gallery

    Old School Square 

    Blue Fine Art

    Pineapple Grove Arts District

    Arts & Culture 

    Boynton Beach

    Boynton Beach Arts District 

    Lake Worth

    Cultural Council of Palm Beach County

    West Palm Beach

    The Norton Museum of Art

    Flagler Museum

    Arts and Entertainment District 

    Palm Beach Photographic Center 

    art galleries boca raton

    Don’t forget to subscribe to #SoooBoca and our social media channels. We love that Boca Raton and  South Florida has amazing art, culture, music and theater sooo close to us and we enjoy sharing it with all of you!

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    Here are some additional posts you may enjoy!

    Coffee Spots in Boca Raton

    13 Great Parks in Boca Raton

    Boca Raton Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed.

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    .

    The Nutcracker Ballet Performances in South Florida 2022

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    Nutcracker Season Is Here!

     
    Who doesn’t love the the music from the beloved George Balanchine’s Ballet The Nutcracker with music by Tchaikovsky. We love this beautiful ballet from the waltz of the snowflakes, the sugar plum fairies to the Mouse King and Clara and her  Nutcracker Prince! 
     
    The Nutcracker kicks off the holiday season, in our opinion, and we look forward to purchasing our tickets to see a performance.  
     
     

    This beautiful ballet is truly one of our favorites and always makes us smile. This is one of those holiday shows you simply should not miss! 
     
     

    Holiday Event Guide!

     
    Make sure the checkout out our annual Holiday Event Guide with a list and links of events and activities happening in Boca Raton, Palm Beach County, Fort Lauderdale area and Miami! 
     

     
     
    How about a casual brunch and a matinee? The #SoooBoca squad has gone many times for the matinee in particular and we make an afternoon out of it.  
     
    One of the many benefits of living in South Florida during the holidays (in addition to the absolutely fabulous weather) is the fact that we are in close proximity to venues dedicated to the performing arts; many of which are hosting dance companies performing The Nutcracker.
     

    What Is Happening Every Weekend!

     
    The Weekend List is here for you! Every Thursday we update this link with local events happening here in Boca Raton and South Florida every weekend! Make sure to subscribe to #SoooBoca for alerts! 
     

    Where To See The Nutcracker in South Florida

     Below we have compiled a list of performances from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton and Palm Beach.  Even though we may not have snow to celebrate the season we do have many options to see The Nutcracker at your favorite theater or venue. 
     
    nutcracker boca raton
     
    Boca Ballet Theater: For over 23 years, this dance company has been performing The Nutcracker.  
     
    Visit Kravis Center in West Palm Beach for the Miami City Ballet’s performances of The Nutcracker.  

    nutcracker boca raton

     
     
    Parker Playhouse Each year this is one of the most popular shows!  
     
    nutcracker boca raton
     
    Miami City Ballet Arsht Center  at the Ziff Ballet Opera House located on Biscayne Boulevard in Miami
     
     
    Kravis Center in West Palm Beach with the Miami City Ballet
     
     

    Make Sure To Get Your Tickets Now!  

    With so many performances, there has to be one that fits in to your holiday schedule!  Reserve your tickets and plan your day – what could be better!  Enjoy the show!
     
    As always please check with the venue and companies to confirm dates, times and for the most updated information.
     
    sooo boca squad
     

    More For You!

     
     
     
     
    Happy Holidays to you and your family from #SoooBoca!
     
    Boca Raton Podcast
     

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

     

    15 Ways To Get Instant Curb Appeal For Less Than $200

    Here Is A Plethora of Ideas For You!

    Want more money for your home? Start with instant curb appeal for your South Florida home! For just a couple of hundred dollars you can make your front yard look spectacular! As a Realtor I can tell you that one of the most frustrating things I see when showing homes is lack of curb appeal. It is such an easy fix in most cases very affordable.

    In many cases it this could include simply weeding, clearing the clutter on the porch or in the carport, painting a front door or even adding some new plants to the garden.

    Even if you are not making a move, create more equity in your home by doing improvements both outside and inside!

    Landscaping of a home
    
    
    
    
    

    Disclosure: This post contains Amazon and other retail affiliate links. If you purchase I will earn a small commission from these companies. Shopping through these links helps support my business. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

    Need Some Inspo

    Just take a drive around any Boca Raton or South Florida neighborhood to get instant curb appeal ideas for your front island, driveway, porch and front doors! Nothing is set in stone by the way! In other wards, you definitely see traditional Florida landscaping with just palm trees and shrubs to more extensive showcase style outdoor landscaping including paved driveways, extensive outdoor lighting or exotic types of landscaping.

    The cool thing is that you can totally take the luxury look and implement it at your home if you are on a tight budget! Check out some of the steals and deals on Amazon like this bench! Now that will liven up any front porch and create some instant curb appeal!

    When Is A Great Time To Refresh Your Landscaping

    Frankly, with the amazing weather we have here all year long, you can pretty much create instant curb appeal throughout the year (and usually in under a couple of days).

    Now we typically do a refresh right before Thanksgiving as we are usually having family and friends over.

    This includes trimming back overgrown bushes and plants (now we do this throughout the year too) but in particular we go to town in November. We add fresh mulch a few times a year to the gardens and of course trim back those pesky palm fronds that grow like weeds.

    bougainvillea

    What Is Your Vibe

    We like low maintenance plants that do not need shade. Now, just to be transparent, I am not a gardener by any means. But I know what I like, and I have an eye for simple design. I love palm trees of all kinds and we are fortunate to have some beautiful, and very old ones in our yard. One did leave us during one of the hurricanes but it’s twin is still in the front island garden.

    This year we have liriope, iris regina blues, and angelonias and then added the red mulch (which fades pretty fast in the hot South Florida sun). Always cool when the walkers in your neighborhood stop and say how nice it looks. Yay!

    Of course my big favorite is the bougainvillea. Sooo many colors to choose from and they really thrive is the South Florida weather.

    I have tapped into some great blogs you might enjoy in regard to learning more about Florida gardening here is a list I put together for you. It goes beyond just doing a refresh of your gardens and gets into all types of things you can do including fruit trees and beyond!

    Blogs To Check Out

    Dragonfly Garden

    The Florida Native Orchid Blog

    Native Florida Wildflowers

    15 Tips For You To Get Started

    This is just a short list of things you can do to create instant curb appeal:


    1. Fresh mulch
    2. Updated plants and shrubs
    3. Porch seating
    4. Beautiful door wreath
    5. Outdoor lighting
    6. Fix those sprinklers
    7. Pressure clean sidewalks (and roof)
    8. Paint the front door
    9. Replace mail boxes
    10. Fresh house numbers

    Vision or Mood Board

    Another great ideas is to set up a mood board on Pinterest or to a folder on your phone if you are driving around taking photos. I did this exact thing. Turns out I really do not like those faux rocks that I see in island gardens LOL!

    Yellow Flowers

    Resources For You

    Luckily we have many places to choose from for plants, landscaping, mulch, outdoor living and more. You can hit up your local Home Depot or Lowes and even better, swing by a local business like NuTurf Pompano for landscaping, plants and outdoor decor. Next time I am there I am definitely getting some plants that attract butterflies!

    Mac’s Garden Center has been around since 1987 and a Delray Beach nursery and landscaping staple. Another fan fave is Johnny Mango’s also in Delray Beach. If orchids are your thing, then check out their selection along with outdoor merch to refresh your outdoor space.

    New to the area? Check out The Boca Raton Garden Club celebrating 68 years as I write this post! This organization can help you with all your gardening questions!

    Boca Raton Garden Club
    Compliments of Boca Raton Garden Club

    Does It Make A Difference To A Buyer

    You better believe it does. Curb appeal is a big deal. People want to showcase their home and consider that when buying. Does it look pretty when they drive up to it. Can they envision a fresh look? Will it be too expensive to do a front yard refresh. The more you do as a home seller, the less the buyer has to imagine and frankly many buyers simply don’t have vision.

    First Impressions

    You only get one chance to make a fantastic first impression. Block out a couple of days to create instant curb appeal for your home that buyers, and your neighbors will rave about!

    Quick Decor Tip

    Something I have done for years when I am in a pinch for fresh flowers, is to go out to the yard and cut some fresh palm fronds and pop them in a pretty vase positioned on my kitchen island! Nothing like bringing the outside in and it is already in your garden!

    Ready To Roll

    So now you know! If you are ready to list your home, perhaps downsizing, needing to sell due to a divorce or estate situation, lets chat. I have ideas for you to get you the highest and best price for your property!

    Boca Raton Podcast
    Check Out The #SoooBoca Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed.

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    Best Thrift Stores in Delray Beach and Boca

    Lets Go Thrifting In South Florida

    There is nothing better than a sensational thrift or consignment store haul. If you are hankering for a deal in Palm Beach county, then check out some of the best thrift stores in Delray Beach for that perfect haul!

    There are a variety of reasons I love to thrift, hit garage sales on the weekends, drop into consignment stores and, yes, pick up items on the side of the road weekly during bulk day.

    Some of the most popular celebrities in the world love thrift shopping, buy from consignment and look for a great deal from Hoda Kotb to Sara Jessica Parker.

    Delray Beach Thrifting Store

    Palm Beach County has a plethora of thrift stores from Jupiter to Boca Raton and there are dazzling deals and steals to be found no matter what you might be needing. Check out our article on even more shops and locations!

    I wear items I have purchased from thrift stores, my home has furniture from my shopping finds and I have found beautiful gifts at bargain prices to share with friends and family. Think Lilly Pulitzer, Tiffany & Co. and beyond!

    If high end clothes are your jam then look no further in our 2,383-square-mile county because clearly with the number of events, balls and charity dinners happening at any given time you can find designer gowns, handbags, shoes, dresses and more by shopping thrift and consignment…some items will even have the tags still attached.

    Designer Clothing Finds

    If you have a weekend or business event to attend or a home decor project to tackle but your budget is limited buzz by a local thrift store to stretch your dollar to find secondhand items and designer deals to freshen up your wardrobe and your hive.

    If classic T-shirts are your passion, you need a winter coat, for the one trip up north this year, or you simply have to freshen up that one room in your house and have champagne taste but a beer budget then you are in luck with all the thrifting store choices we have right here the Delray/Boca area!

     #SoooBoca Thrift Shopping Tips:

    Make a list of what you are hunting for before you go.

    Check the back racks…always.

    Bring cash as a backup

    Dress comfortably

    Clean out your car…you never know when something big may be on your take home list.

    Find out when new items will be hitting the floor each week at your favorite thrift and consignment boutiques. Certain days have certain sales and discounts and pop that in your calendar.

    Pineapple Grove

    Goodwill 1640 N. Federal Highway, Delray Beach

    Bethesda Bargain Box 12 NE 5th Ave., Delray Beach

    Habitat Delray Beach 181 S.E. 5th Ave. Delray Beach

    Nest Delray 817 NE 6th Ave. Delray Beach FL

    Second Time Around 801 George Bush Blvd., Delray Beach

    Affluent Finds 809 George Bush Blvd., Delray Beach

    Levis JCC Thrift Store 141 NW 20th St., Boca Raton

    Hospice Resale Boca 141 NW 20th St. E2, Boca Raton

    Perfectly Imperfect Consignment  3333 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton

    Purse Ladies 21090 St Andrews Blvd. Suite 1, Boca Raton

    Tri-County Animal Rescue Thrift 3350 NW 2nd Ave. A-22, Boca Raton

    Best Thrift Finds

    Remember another ones give aways are someone elses treasures! One of my best finds was a Tiffany votive candle holder for a $1.00 at Debbie Rand Thrift Shop in Boca Raton. You never know what you might find so go to your favorite thrift stores often!

    Have a favorite store? Send a direct message to @soooboca on Instagram, instant message us on Facebook or email info@soooboca.com to share!

    #SoooBoca has some fun merchandise too! Our store is now open! Click here to see what fun items we now have for purchase!

    Michele Bellisari

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    By: Michele Bellisari – Originally in the Boca/Delray Newspaper. Please check on addresses and times open directly with the stores.

    10 Best Key Lime Pies in South Florida

    A Florida Dessert Staple!

    Okay, we admit it. At #SoooBoca we LOVE dessert. And, because we live in Boca Raton and sunny South Florida, it should come as no surprise the key lime pie is one of our favorites. Because we are so dedicated to sharing the best South Florida has to offer with you, we did some research into the most delicious key lime pies in the area.  Some we have had the pleasure of tasting personally while others came highly recommended.  All we can say is that we are determined to try them all!

    In The Florida Keys

    Kermit’s Key Lime Pie

    When something is available on Goldbelly you know it’s in high demand. Kermit’s key lime pies are available on the foodie website for shipping across the country. This pie is unbelievable. The totally sour key lime part is balanced by the creamiest whipped cream. It hits every note perfectly.  And, for our friends with dietary restrictions, Kermit’s offers a gluten-free version.  Hooray! Pie for everyone!

    Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory

    When your key lime pie has been featured on The Food Network and The Travel Channel, you must be doing something right.  The Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory is located in Tavernier, in the Florida Keys. Their website says they “have a passion for key lime pies” and “their job is to make people happy”.  If that doesn’t say it all, we don’t know what does. Their pies are made fresh daily, on-premises, and reviews are out of this world!

    Key Lime Pie

    South Florida Top Spots

    Joe’s Stone Crab

    Known across the country for their awesome stone crabs, Joe’s is no slouch when it comes to dessert.  And, their key lime pie has quite a following. We are big fans. The pie is the perfect combination between tart and sweet and the ideal way to end your meal at this spectacular restaurant.  While we suggest a trip to Miami, you can even get this pie delivered to your home

    Bob Roth’s New River Groves

    Located in Davie on Griffin Road is Bob Roth’s New River Groves. This awesome shop sells tons of fresh fruit and Florida favorites, including Terry’s Pies.  The key lime pie, made in-house, is well-known as one of the best ever.  Trust us, it’s worth a drive to Davie just to enjoy this indulgent dessert.  These pies are one of the most popular items.  Visit the grove early to make sure they don’t sell out!

    Beach House Pompano

    This fun Pompano Beach restaurant not only has great food and a spectacular view, but it also has some pretty yummy key lime pie.  In fact, members of a Facebook group dedicated to South Florida food repeatedly shared its name in response to the question “where can I get the best key lime pie?”  While there is no meringue on top, it does feature ground pecans in their graham cracker crust.  We’re putting it on our list of must-haves!

    Kaluz

    In that same Facebook foodie group, Kaluz was often cited for their awesome key lime pie. The restaurant is a favorite of those of us at #soooBoca. And, their menu describes it as a “traditional key lime pie, graham cracker and pecan crust, whipped cream.”  We’re making reservations as we speak!

    Luff’s Fish House

    If you don’t want to travel far, but do want to enjoy authentic key lime pie, head to Luff’s in Boca. This super “high” pie is actually baked in a springform pan.  And, instead of a whipped cream topping get ready for some yummy meringue.  Honestly, our only complaint about this decadent treat is that we can’t finish a serving, because it’s so rich and yummy…..but we really, really want to!  Visit this awesome restaurant and be sure to leave room for dessert.

    Grammas Bakery

    If you are in Delray Beach, make sure to to drop by this lovely spot! Gramma’s offers fresh baked bread, homemade Key Lime pie, cakes, pastries and cookies. Everything is made from scratch every morning. 

    Old Key Lime House

    With a name like Old Key Lime House, you’d expect the key lime pie to be top-notch. And, you’d be right.  This Lantana restaurant’s pie is one of our local favorites. Their homemade key lime pie has been called “Best in Palm Beach”.  Take just one bite and you’ll know why.  It is delicious!!  

    Key Lime Pie

    Grocery and Gourmet Markets

    Publix

    Yes, we said it.  In our search for feedback for the best key lime pie in Florida, so many of our friends firmly responded “Publix”.  We know that those from out of state don’t understand the high-quality baked goods that Publix provides. Whenever visitors ask for bakery recommendations, and we send them to Publix they are mystified.  But one bite of their yummy treats and they are sold.  Apparently, their key lime pie is just as good as their chocolate chip cookies and birthday cakes.  Even better, they are super convenient and reasonably priced.  Pick one up today!

    Key Lime Pie

    Recipe’s for You

    While there are so many places to get a sensational key lime pie in South Florida, we know that some of you are sold on homemade.  So, we are including a link to this incredibly well-regarded recipe from Martha Stewart, who seems to be able to do everything well.  We love this recipe because it gives you the option of whipped cream or meringue on top!

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    Best Co-Working Spaces In South Florida

    Working From Home Driving You Nuts? Try One Of These Cool Options!

    The phrase “going to work” has a very different meaning today than it has in the past.  The growth in technology and the internet has given professionals the ability to call almost any space their office, including co-working spaces.

    If you have considered making a move, don’t want to work at home all the time and need some work space options check out the list we have put together that can help you create a great work space option!

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    Co-sharing space or communal working space has become incredibly popular in the last few years especially here in Boca Raton and South Florida. Did you know we have some of the best co-working spaces in the world right in our backyard?

    While the ability to operate from anywhere is convenient, not everyone believes they are as productive as they could be working from local coffee shop…and trust me if you know us you know we adore our local coffee spots! Sometimes you just need to be in an office type of environment!

    co-working space

    With a variety of co-working space design available there is a style and fit for any entrepreneur. The reasons why people engage in co-working spaces vary; but include the opportunity to meet other professionals and the chance to work in a collaborative manner.  

    Check out 11 things people have said recently, on social media, about utilizing co-working spaces:

    11 Reasons to Try Co-Working Spaces

    1. People love the “different energy and meeting people”.
    2. “Meeting entrepreneurial minds in a creative setting” is a draw.
    3. Entrepreneurs “like the energy of coworking spots”.
    4. “Connecting with others” is a huge benefit.
    5. “Potentially collaborating” is of value.
    6. “Love meeting other young hustlers.”
    7. “I’ve ended up working with several good people on different projects as a result of us all being in the same co-working spot. :)”
    8. “Mine is also an art gallery so they host community events, they host artist events and change out the art every few months.”
    9. “I’m a big fan of the environment that many provide for work and for connecting with others especially for potential collaborations.”
    10. “ I don’t have any memberships I just pay when ever I go.”
    11. “I frequent several…the more local, the better.”

    Clearly, the need for part-time, sometimes temporary and sometimes not, office space is growing.  In Boca Raton and South Florida and there are multiple companies that offer co-working spaces to professionals, creatives and entrepreneurs.

    co-working spaces

    Boca Raton Co-Working Spaces

    Cendyn Spaces:  Located on Federal Highway in east Boca, Cendyn Spaces bills itself as an “innovative, hybrid, workplace”.  Their co-working option, which is known as the Cazbah, provides an open and dynamic space in which to work. You can grab a seat on a couch or chair, or grab a spot at a table and plug in and get to work, all while surrounded by people doing the same thing.  You can even reserve conference room space if you need to hold a meeting. Cendyn offers a variety of membership plans; check them out and find something that meets your needs.

    Flamingo House Boca Raton

    Co-Suite:  You can reserve conference rooms, rent private office space or participate in one of their two co-working space plans, either benching or dedicated space.  Benching provides desk space that includes outlets for your equipment; but it is available on a first come first serve basis.  Co-Suite is ideally located in central Boca and provides a broad range of amenities, everything from coffee and privacy phone booths to mailing addresses and storage.

    Regus-Florida: Can you imagine a more fabulous place to co-work in Boca than Mizner Park?  Operating nationally, this organization offers private offices, meeting space and office suites. Working here puts you in the center of Downtown Boca where you can take advantage of everything that Regus and Mizner Park have to offer. Regus is global so you can choose locations all over the world to work from.

    Delray Beach


    Living in the Delray Beach area? Check out Seed Co-Working Space. They have private and open space, a kitchen, zen rooms, meeting rooms and more!

    South Florida Co-Working Spaces

    The Studio 1016 Located in the heart of The Warehouse District and Downtown West Palm Beach this is a cool and innovative space you will want to check out if you are in the West Palm Beach area. With a photo studio, open space, offices and more if you have biz for the day in our area you can drop in for a day pass or get a monthly membership.

    Social House in Lake Worth is another fabulous co-working space right here in Palm Beach County. They host workshops, pop-ups and events in their venue located on Lucerne Ave. There is a commercial kitchen and it is a great location and space for networking events. Close to both West Palm Beach and Boca it truly is in the heart of Palm Beach County.

    General Provision Fort Lauderdale has two locations one in FAT Village (Flagler Art and Tech) and one in Downtown Fort Lauderdale in The Historic Colonial Hotel. From shared offices, virtual offices and dedicated desk club for entrepreneurs. They offer workshops, hackathons, meetups and more! Think innovation and incubation. We have been to the space in FAT Village and it is inspiring to say the least!

    Miami Florida

    Miami has a huge number of co-working spaces from Brickell to Downtown to Wynwood! Wework has a presence here and creates a space and place via shared offices, private space or office suites. Love their mission statement “Create a world where people work to make a life, not just a living.” You can also find a Wework space globally.

    Some other cool options include The Lab Miami, in the heart of Wynwood! Industrious Brickell, in the Miami financial district and Miami Shared located right on Biscayne Drive.

    No matter where you go in South Florida there is a plethora of co-working spaces to choose from! From a day pass to a monthly membership you can enjoy working around creative entrepreneurs that will inspire you!

    Time to get out of your home office or uninspiring work environment? Give co-working a chance we know you will love it! We have linked the mentioned spaces for you so check them out and so confirm with them directly any questions you have. Bottom line: There is a co-working space for everyone!

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    PS…share your co-working space with us so we can update our post throughout the year!

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

    If you like this article buzz by Things to Do in West Palm Beach and Travel Tales

    Moving to Boca? 13 Fun Tips for a Breezy Relocation!

    Are You Ready To Move To Boca Raton?

    I love my town! I get asked for my top moving to Boca Raton tips all the time! Have you thought about moving to Boca Raton? If you didn’t know, Boca Raton and the surrounding South Florida communities are a fan fave for buyers globally. 

    Hi there! I’m Michele Bellisari, and I’ve proudly called Boca Raton, Florida home for over 45 years. If you’re looking for a knowledgeable Boca Raton Realtor, you’re in the right place. I’m here to guide you through the Boca Raton housing landscape—from condos and luxury waterfront properties to gated communities. Plus, if you have questions about other delightful locales like Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, Lighthouse Point, Highland Beach, or cities across Palm Beach and Broward counties, I’m your go-to resource. Let’s explore together!

    Laptop Beach Lifestyle
    Boca Raton Beach

    When you make a move to Boca Raton you get beautiful beaches, year round weather, nightlife, businesses, parks, recreation,  economic development and fantastic coastal lifestyle, Boca Raton is one of the most popular places to live in South Florida. Now more than ever people and companies are making moves to Boca Raton.

    There is so much to do here from events, live music, shopping, dining and more, our area is very appealing to many who are considering moving to Boca Raton and South Florida.

    Did You Know 

    “Boca Raton is the second largest city in the Palm Beaches, has 46 parks, 5 miles of beach, 1,650 acres of recreational space, over 30 corporate headquarters are here, that Boca Raton Airport offers a customs facilities, there are top luxury shopping malls that features a mix of upscale specialty shops and department stores and three nationally ranked universities and an abundance of A-rated public and private K-12 schools. 

    A true “full service” city, Boca Raton is consistently recognized for being one of the safest cities to live in and for having one of the lowest property tax rates for a full-service city in Florida. The City of Boca Raton offers a unique and unparalleled quality of life you can only truly experience when you are here. Welcome home.” – City of Boca Raton Website 

    Relax at Boca Raton Beaches
    Boca Raton Waterfront Living

    In Addition 

    Florida doesn’t collect an individual Income Tax. Here is the link to the Florida Tax Guide.

    Homestead Exemption  Every person who has legal or equitable title to real property in the State of Florida and who resides thereon and in good faith makes it his or her permanent home is eligible to receive a homestead exemption of up to $50,000. The first $25,000 applies to all property taxes.

    Proximity 

    South Florida Airports
    South Florida Airports

    Boca is located in Palm Beach County and has easy access to three international airports in Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach.  Not to mention cruise ports and an easy flight to the Bahamas (or boat ride). 

    Palm Beach County Open For Business

    Did you know that Boca Raton sports many of the corporate headquarters that are based in Palm Beach County? 

    As per the Palm Beach Business Development Board, “Palm Beach County boasts some of the finest manufacturers in the world. Their presence is a strong indication of the county’s ability to support industry. Although the county has a variety of producers, there are distinct industry clusters. The most prevalent in the county are: communications & information technology; aerospace & engineering; agriculture & food processing; business & financial services and medical & pharmaceutical products. Many of the county’s industrial employers are competing on a worldwide basis with products sold in the international market. Below is a list of some of the quality companies that have chosen Palm Beach County as a business location.”

    Ready to Make A Move 

    Our amazing community and sister cities like Delray Beach, Wellington, Lighthouse Point and West Palm Beach and throughout Palm Beach and Broward counties have so much to offer! 

    Get my exclusive relocation guide today and lets work together to find the perfect home for you! PS…did you know there is zero cost for you to hire a Realtor to help you with your home purchase? Just making sure you know that! 

    No matter when you are making move or why, relocating to a new city or town is tough, stressful and tiring. My goal is to always be a connector, a facilitator for you and of course help you find an amazing new home.

    As a kid that moved frequently growing up, including moving to Boca in 1978 as a high school junior at Boca Raton Community High School I totally understand what is involved with making a significant change. 

    I have included a short video all about Boca Raton and why I love it here! You will find many videos I have done on the surrounding South Florida communities so take a quick look! 

    Relocation Tips

    My relocation buyers have shared with me some of the things that helped them stay “sane” during their relocation move.

    1. Stay organized to keep your stress down. Nothing worse than panicking as it makes everything seem sooo much more overwhelming.
    2. Know your relo package. Does your company pay for flights, house hunting trips, seller assistance, buyer closing cost help. Don’t assume anything and if you don’t see it, ask for it, the worst that can happen is your relo specialist will just say no.
    3. Second showings! If you are looking at properties online, which everyone does, look carefully at angles of photos, ask what is behind those trees in the backyard (like a water tower or busy road), try to come to see the area at least once or twice and absolutely look on YouTube and local blogs like www.soooboca.com to get a feel for the area.
    4. Look into the cost of living the new city you are moving to and in some cases perhaps it makes sense to rent for 6 months before you buy.
    5. Of course…once you are here lets get you wired into the local chamber like the Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce, non-profits, sports and other activities for your kids and other networking organizations to help you meet new friends and business acquaintances.
    6. Do you have a stay at home spouse or partner? Hey it is important for everyone making the move to meet new people…we can help with that too! From mom groups to empty nester activities we can wire you in to what is happening around town! Join our Facebook group! 
    7. If your company is planning on relocating employees to our area let us be your only call…we not only help with the move but we network your employees into the area with ease.

    For a Daily Dose of Boca Raton Follow Us On Instagram

    #SoooBoca on Instagram

    Home Buyer Tips

    1. Know your credit score and pay down your debt.
    2. Know your budget and be comfortable with sticking to it.
    3. Work with a recommended Realtor to help you find the right home for you.
    4. Get with a reputable lender and determine how much house you can afford and get a pre approval.
    5. Get familiar with your closing costs, inspection fees, appraisal costs and any fees in regard to your closing.
    6. Learn about down payment assistance programs
    7. Understand you will be negotiating a variety of things from the closing date to possible closing credits.
    8. An older home is never going to be new again!
    9. Don’t apply for new credit or buy anything new during the loan process or until after you close on your property.
    10. Enjoy the process…buying a home should be enjoyable and yes, it will be a little stressful, but the end result is awesome!

    Vendor List

    As a valued customer making a move or a relocation I give you my VIP list of vendors, professionals like elder law, estate attorneys, placement counselors, move managers, tradesmen you name it from paint to plumbing and beyond including restaurant suggestions and more!

    I tell all of my customers and clients that “One Call Handles It All!” Just call or text me and I will do my very best to help you in any way that I can.

    I hope if you decide to “relocate” to #SoooBoca or one of our sister cities to purchase a home that you give me an opportunity to work with you to make your relocation as smooth as possible! 

    Five Star Review

    “Michele was referred to us by our agent in Colorado when we were making our move back to Boca Raton…from beginning to end she helped us find a fantastic home in Royal Oak Hills where she happens to reside. Her VIP list of contacts made it very easy for us to find contractors and vendors to help  with items around our new home. Always available to talk via text, phone or email, Michele made the buying process smooth and easy. We would highly recommend Michele to any of our friends and family who are buying or selling a home in South Florida.” 

    Michele Bellisari is a Realtor with Real Broker, LLC in Boca Raton, lifestyle blogger and midlife mom of millenials and a Boca local since 1978. Social media savvy, virtually virtual since forever and a lover of a great chardonnay you can find more about Boca on Michele’s #SoooBoca Stories Podcast where she interviews locals and shares local events and trends around town!

    Selling a House in Probate in Florida

    Are You Going Through The Probate Process?

    Selling a probate property, in Florida, that you have inherited is overwhelming to say the least. From coping with the grief and loss of a loved one to dealing with the many issues surrounding selling a property like handling an estate sale, clean out, repairs, moving or living out of state, it becomes overwhelming.

    Are you a personal representative or executor of an estate that’s going through probate or potentially going to be going through one? I have tips and information for you to help you through the property sale process. Please contact me for a confidential meeting.

    court and gavel

    What Is Probate: Florida Bar Association Definition 

    Probate is a court-supervised process for identifying and gathering the assets of a deceased person (decedent), paying the decedent’s debts and distributing the decedent’s assets to his or her beneficiaries. In general, the decedent’s assets are used first to pay the cost of the probate proceeding, then are used to pay the decedent’s funeral expenses, then the decedent’s outstanding debts, and the remainder is distributed to the decedent’s beneficiaries. The Florida Probate Code is found in Chapters 731 through 735 of the Florida Statutes, and the rules governing Florida probate proceedings are found in the Florida Probate Rules, Part I and Part II (Rules 5.010-5.530).

    There are two types of probate administration under Florida law: formal administration and summary administration. This pamphlet will primarily discuss formal administration.

    There is also a non-court-supervised administration proceeding called “Disposition of Personal Property Without Administration.” This type of administration applies only in limited circumstances. (via Florida Bar Association)

    Selling A Probate Property

    In this blog post I have included a video where I discuss some of the situations that I encounter as a listing agent when getting a property ready for sale including working with the personal representative, heirs and their attorney.

    5 Probate Property Home Selling Tips 

    1. Don’t just hire anybody to help you out. From Realtors to attorneys to contractors and vendors, make sure you interview and get referrals for the professionals that you are going to have assist you with the sale of the probate property.
    2. Don’t turn off the power to the home. Make sure, especially here in Florida, that you keep that A/C running. Between the heat and the moisture here it makes good sense to keep the house cool and as humidity free as possible.
    3. If possible, maintain the landscaping in the front and backyards. Curb appeal is important and you don’t want the appearance that nobody lives in the property to avoid possible break-ins.
    4. You can hire local professionals to help you clean out your probate property. If you live out of are, in particular, you may not be able to come here to ready the property for sale. There are a variety of movers, packers, estate sale companies and cleaners that can get the property ready for you, without you being here.
    5. In today’s world, if you do need to conduct an estate sale, you can Facetime, Zoom or do a What’s App video meeting and go through the property virtually to get things coordinated in regard to what you are going to sell, keep, donate or dispose of. 

    I have worked with probate properties for many years here in South Florida and if you need to just talk or want an attorney or another local professional referral please reach out to me. I have a VIP list of vendors and I can give you an idea of property value too.

    Lastly, in many cases, a property may not be a probate situation, however a surviving partner or spouse may need to downsize their living situation and I can assist you with that as a Senior Real Estate Specialist. From assisted living, memory care or independent living, I can guide you to caring professionals that can assist you with making a housing decision for your loved one.

    If you have would like to set up a private and confidential conversation with me about selling a house in probate in Florida, lets set up a confidential time to talk.

    I defer all legal questions about probate, accounting, finances and real estate law to attorneys and licensed professionals. I am not an attorney, financial planner, accountant or give any legal advice on any real estate transactions. Please reach out to your own attorney for legal advice.

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

    8 Reasons HomeGoods Is My Happy Place

    Need Some Design Inspo? Check Out Your Local Store!

    I fell in love with HomeGoods many years ago! I was studying interior design in college for a bit before I switched my major to advertising but I never lost that passion for home decor and design.

    I truly love the way a few well placed items can change the entire feel of a room and a home for the better and give one a sense of peace and joy.

    The cool thing about being a Realtor is that I truly get to see some incredible homes, home design and also some very expensive home designs. 

     

    For those of us not with an unlimited budget, HomeGoods is a great option if you are wanting to remodel your home or freshen up any room.

    If you are like me I literally have to decide between buying a new pair of shoes or home decor!

    I am always looking for smart deals that I can use personally and that I can move around my house in order to create different looks for different seasons.

    Outdoor Chair

    Home Staging 

    As a Realtor I also will purchase items to stage my listings with. I store items to re-purpose and reuse for different situations and decor. I like my properties to have a fresh look and will blend my items with my seller’s individual style. 

    HomeGoods Has A Blog

    Home Decor Tip: Check out the HomeGoods blog for great posts on room decor, holiday ideas, kitchen decor and more…I recently discovered this and it is a great tool for us DIY folks!

    Typically my HomeGoods experience occurs during the week when I am trying to figure out either an update to my own home or a new listing I have taken.

    I love the challenge of finding the perfect item at a deeply discounted price!

    My best finds are usually discards from other shoppers that I find in departments I am perusing throughout the store. A mirror in lamps, a pillow in the art department and a chair that someone forgot to pick up at the front of the store…lucky me!

    Declutter Challenge

    One of the suggestions I have, before you shop, is to declutter the rooms in your home that you want to freshen up. It will allow you to see what you really have and what you will donate or get rid of. Get your 7 day challenge here! 

    Pinterest

    Take some time to peruse the fabulous world of Pinterest. Let me tell you…setting up boards with the ideas you have, the items you love and pinning other great suggestions is a complete afternoon of design and decor bliss!

    Pillows 

    By the way…they have the best decorative pillow selections especially for every season. This is a great way to change up the look in your bedroom, living room or dining room.

    New Items

    Try not to get overwhelmed. New items come in daily so don’t over buy because there is always something new to tickle your fancy.

    There is so much to choose from I suggest you have a strategy to what you need and what look you are going for.

    I personally love a coastal chic beach look which suits my personality, style and that of my family.

    Holiday Decor On The Cheap

    If you like to entertain you will always be able to get some fresh ideas as well as holiday decor for the multitude of dinners, brunches and special occasions we all put together.

    Hostess Gifts 

    I have a box in my home office that I store things that I find when I am “treasure” hunting so that I have hostess gifts, wedding shower gifts, gourmet food gifts, thanks for being my pal gifts at my finger tips.

    I do purchase gift bags in bulk and of course candles.

    Sale Items 

    Don’t forget to check out the sale items…I have found many a great deeply discounted item for my home, to use for staging or simply a gift.

    PS…did you know if you open a TJ Maxx credit card the discounts and coupons are fabulous!

    There are 23 HomeGoods stores in South Florida

    If you find something great at one of your local stores tag us on Instagram so we can see your very special find!

    In the meantime take what you have in your home and blend it with something fun and fresh to brighten up your day!

    If you enjoyed this post please check out some of my other posts about real estate, home decor and South Florida style!

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

    7 Fabulous Florida Lunch Ideas For Any Occasion

    Need Great Ideas For A Quick Florida Lunch At Home?

    If you are ever struggling to figure out authentic Florida lunch ideas for entertaining friends or family we have a winning menu for you! This is a 30 minute meal with about 20 minutes of prep time.

    We decided to have a “dining” at home experience while Kylie was here on business. A mother daughter date of sorts!

    Disclosure: The links in this post/on this page are affiliate links via Amazon and other companies and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. 

    But what to choose? We needed some Florida lunch ideas that were fresh and new that we had not made before. In our travels we love to share and try new dishes so after chatting via text and thanks to Google we came up with the big picture and we each came up with a dish!

    Are You A Foodie Too?

    We are foodies first and foremost and love to try new places, spaces and dishes. However, we also really enjoy eating at home in our kitchen around the island with friends and family.

    PS…if you are a foodie like us check out “Homegating Is The New Tailgating” blog post that has some great appy and lunch ideas ideas for football season!

    Since we live in South Florida and we “love” seafood and especially shellfish we thought you might enjoy this easy to make (anytime of the year) meal for a lite lunch or dinner.

    For Starters

    To kick off our delicious lunch Halle Alessia made a marvelous charcuterie board that was perfectly put together with cheese, meats and olives. It looked sooo pretty we didn’t want to touch it … but we did and enjoyed it immensely.

    What’s On The Menu

    We paired the crab cakes with an amazing hearts of palm salad and refreshing #SoooBoca spritz of sorts with Ketel One Botanical Vodka and fresh citrus coupled with a splash of champagne.

    We chose a recipe that emulates the lumb crab cakes from the iconic Joe’s Stonecrab in Miami. Now we adore stone crab especially when it is in season, from October 15th – May 15th, but for now…we thought an amazing crab cake lunch would be perfect for this girls luncheon.

    Stone Crabs
    Stone Crabs

    Now just to be fair…we also adore garlic crabs and The Rustic Inn in Fort Lauderdale is the best game in town for that so check them out as well!

    Recipes

    Crab Cakes
    Joe’s Stone Crab Restaurant Recipe

    1 pound jumbo lump crabmeat, picked over
    1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
    1/4 cup chopped onion
    4 scallions, trimmed and chopped
    1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
    1 garlic clove, minced
    1 egg, lightly beaten
    2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
    2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
    1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
    1/4 tablespoon Tabasco sauce
    3/4 cup fine dry bread crumbs
    2 tablespoons vegetable oil, plus more if needed
    lime or lemon wedges, for garnish

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the crabmeat, red pepper, onion, scallions, parsley, and garlic. In a small bowl, stir together the egg, mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire, and Tabasco. Gently fold this mixture into the crab meat mixture; then add 1/4 cup of the bread crumbs, mixing with a light touch just until combined.

    Form 8 patties, using 1/2 cup of the crab meat mixture for each. The patties should be made in ovals about 1/2 inch thick and 3 1/2 inches long. Coat the patties with the remaining bread crumbs and place them on a wax paper-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate until set, at least 1 hour.

    Heat the oil in a large skillet, preferably nonstick, over medium heat. Add 4 of the crab cakes at a time. Cook until golden, about 5 minutes. Adjust the heat as you cook so that the fat maintains a steady, gentle sizzle. Gently flip the crab cakes with a spatula and cook until golden, about 5 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with lime or lemon wedges, with a small cup of salsa on the side, if you like. Makes 8 crab cakes. – This “copy cat” recipe is from http://seafoodchainrestaurantrecipes.blogspot.com/2016/05/joes-stone-crab-crab-cakes.html

    Crab Cakes
    Hearts of Palm Salad and Crab Cakes

    Hearts of Palm Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

    Prep all of the items in the recipe and chill for an hour in the fridge

    1 14 ounce can of hearts of palm, sliced

    2 papayas, peeled and cubed (we used mango)

    2 kiwis, peeled and cubed

    2 bananas, sliced

    1 fresh pineapple, cubed or canned is fine (we did not use due to a food allergy)

    1 6 oz box of dates, chopped

    Lettuce (we added a fresh lettuce to this recipe)

    Combine the fruits and lettuce into a pretty glass bowl, mix and serve.

    The salad recipe is from Tropic Cooking by Joyce LaFray Young. This is the most fabulous cook book that has amazing cuisine from Florida and the Islands of the Caribbean! Grab this amazing addition to your kitchen!

    We hope you enjoy our lunch ideas, cooking video and conversation and lets us know if you try any of the recipes! Make sure to follow at #SoooBoca on Instagram!

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

    7 Tips To A Fast Home Sale in South Florida

    Are You Ready To Sell Your Home? Lets Talk! 

    I write this post with the greatest respect for home sellers trying to sell their home…but for the LOVE OF PETE please follow some simple cardinal rules of home selling and make sure you grab my 7 Tips To A Fast Home Sale cheat sheet! 

    Refreshing your home can be easy and you can use what you have and move it around, thrift store shop and even do some quick online home decor shopping! 

    Buyer Experience

    Here are some examples that home buyers of mine have experienced while viewing homes.

    House #1 – One of the home sellers (who by the way was an owner/broker) not only made us take our shoes off before touring the house, but had clearly been cooking something smelly before the showing. It was very distracting to the buyers and frankly was a turn off. We left very quickly.

    House #2 – The property had never been cleaned…ever! It is important that real estate agents have this conversation with sellers. Hiring a professional cleaning services can make a huge difference as well as an organizer to help declutter. With that being said, you as a seller can DIY and here is a declutter list for you to use to help you get your property ready in just a week!

    Bedroom Decor
    Bedroom Decor

    House #3 – FSBO (For Sale By Owner) It really makes sense, even if you are trying to sell by yourself to hire a photographer to take photos of your home. Make the beds, clear the clutter and clean up the yard.

    House #4 – Ah but it gets better and my personal favorite is the last house we went to visit…should have been clued in when we heard the home sellers yelling and screaming from inside the house. Owner let us in…oh joy…we were in the middle of “Divorce Wars” the series.

    Now let me tell you this much…besides the fact they were screaming their heads off at each other, they were also sharing a ton of information about their personal situation like their bankruptcy for one and a few other juicy tidbits we could have used during a negotiation had my buyer’s liked the property.

    You guessed it! We scurried out of there as quickly as possible to avoid any ricocheting glassware and frankly the energy of the home was terrible.

    House #5 – My personal favorite is the lingering/stalking home seller who refuses to step outside and let buyer’s have some privacy! Why oh why do you seller’s do this…it is creepy!

    Grab my 7 Tips to A Fast Sale cheat sheet now to help you get the highest and best price for your home.

    Just Stop

    Look at it this way: It is like going to Macy’s and having the sales person hit you up the moment you walk into their department and describe each new item they have just gotten in! I love that…said no one ever!

    Sooo please…if you are trying to sell your home and you want top dollar and you want to get it sold fast here you go…thank me later!

     10 Home Seller Tips 

    1. Get rid of food smells 
    2. Put pet food away, clean up dander and hair, buy some deodorizer and get new bowls and beds (Save 30% with your first autoship order with Chewy)
    3. Clean your house or have it cleaned professionally
    4. Declutter every room ( 7 Day Declutter Challenge Cheat Sheet)
    5. Remove weird or offense art or photos
    6. Do not follow buyers around
    7. Don not leave financial statements out
    8. Do not share you divorce issues with buyers
    9. Turn lights on and have blinds and hurricane shutters open
    10. And for the “LOVE OF PETE” head to Kmart, Homegoods or TJ Maxx and buy decent comforter sets and shams for your beds!!! 
    Lucky Charms
    Lucky Charms

    Lucky Charms For Home Sellers

    Lets face it, even the most confident home seller may look to a few lucky charms to help them sell their home.

    For example many sellers will get a St. Josephs statue and plant it in their yard!

    Need some ideas for more lucky charms? Click to read the full article here!

    Find more tips and strategies on selling your home click here for trending topics and videos to help you make your move!

    ☀️ Disclosure: This post contains Amazon and other retail affiliate links. If you purchase I will earn a small commission from these companies. Shopping through these links helps support my business. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

    Michele Bellisari

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed.

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    7 Tips To Downsizing Your Home

    Are You Thinking Of Downsizing?

    Moving is never easy! It is overwhelming, stressful, emotional, time sucking and just frankly a big drag in things we have to do in life. It is absolutely mind-boggling if you have are cleaning out a home due to the passing of a friend or loved one or perhaps you have a senior who is need of downsizing to assisted living.

    One of the things that I see as a Realtor, when my clients need to downsize is how overwhelming it truly feels for the seller and their family. I have some great tips for you and resources to assist you in coordinating making a move.         

    Click Here To View The Weekend List Here! New List Every Thursday!

    Where do you begin?

    Well here is the good news…there are professionals out there that can help you coordinate all the “moving” pieces to your clean out, downsize and actual move.

    In this short video I have 5 tips to help you get started with de-cluttering and downsizing your home. Nothing needs to be done in a day so take a deep breath and start with one closet, one room or one bathroom. 

    One thing I suggest, especially in this unprecedented real estate market, is to check out your latest home value. 

    Do You Live Outside Of South Florida?

    If you are living out of state and don’t want to or cannot make the numerous trips here on your vacation time, your personal time and holiday time to downsize you can hire professionals and direct them to what you want to keep, ship, sell and donate. I can assure you there are individuals and companies that can help you

    Get The “Declutter Your Home in One Day” – Worksheet

    As a Realtor with designations/certifications working with seniors downsizing and probate properties I am involved with many senior organizations and the Boca Walk to End Alzheimers…believe me we brainstorm ideas for our clients to make things easier for them.

    Having The Conversation

    My first question to my real estate clients is how are you doing? Many of my clients are caregivers to their parents and are tired, worried and anxious. Many of my clients are making a significant life transition and simply need to bounce ideas off of me in regard to renting vs buying their next home.

    The next questions are how do you plan to get the property emptied, how do want items shipped to you, what are you wanting to keep or move. There are always many questions and all of them have an answer and a solution believe it or not.

    Senior Downsize - The Upsizing to Downsizing

    Downsizing and Moving Tips 

    1. Come up with a game plan that works for you and some goals in regard to selling, like time frame,  where you want to go, how much you want to spend and what will make you happy.
    2. Communicate with family and friends about your move. At some point you will probably want to share your plans with people you know. You will know the right time to do this.
    3. There are great professionals along with your real estate agent that can help you. I have a great referral team that can assist my sellers and their family. I have placement companies for independent and assisted living, move managers who can help you pack up, car shipping companies, moving companies, estate, probate and elder law attorneys, CPA’s and financial planners and contractors that I can put you in touch.
    4. Dealing with a household of possessions. So just a little secret…nobody really wants your furniture and household items. Taste and styles change so don’t get your feelings hurt. Non-profits won’t take everything either like years ago. They resell items so what they take will need to be in decent condition.  Keep what you want to keep, give away to friends and family, donate what you can and trash anything else.
    5. Stage your home to sell it. Many agents can assist with this simply by moving a few pieces of furniture around and decluttering your counters, getting rid of things like silk plants, broken items and clutter. The good news is…you can always pick up things at a local thrift store or HomeGoods to do give your home an inexpensive fresh look.
    6. Lastly, I do work with probate real estate situations involving a home sale. This is typically a devastating time for families and friends and if you are appointed to be the personal representative the added stress of having to prep and sell a piece of real estate is even more difficult. I can assure you that even if you live out of the area, as an agent that works with these situations frequently, many of the same tips do apply. The difference is you are not here to do the labor. I have clean out companies, cleaners and even a virtual staging company that can make the home presentable. 
    7. I also work with with a number of elder law attorneys, estate and probate attorneys and real estate attorneys  if you need a referral.

    Don’t Do This By Yourself

    My point is this…don’t go it alone, let people “more organized and connected” than you help you out. You are not on an island believe it or not. Reach out to professionals like myself that can come up with a game plan with you and for you whether for yourself or the senior in your life.

    PS…if you are thinking of selling your home check out my 7 Tips To Selling Your Home Faster article for some timely information to get the highest and best price for your home! 

     

    ☀️ Disclosure: This post contains Amazon and other retail affiliate links. If you purchase I will earn a small commission from these companies. Shopping through these links helps support my business. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

    Boca Raton Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed.

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    Search South Florida Home Search | Public MLS

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    Are you ready to start your South Florida Home Search? Check out these properties for sale!

    Boca Raton real estate and South Florida real estate is hot, hot, hot, and I love working with buyers and sellers that want to move to Boca Raton or other South Florida cities.

    If you have been thinking about making a move, upsizing, downsizing or relocating #AskSoooBoca! Take a fly by the articles and information on this site to give you a feel of our beautiful area.

    Check out my relocation guide! If you have considered making a move to Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, the Palm Beaches or the Fort Lauderdale area, I can help you with finding a great property that is perfect for where ever you are in life.

    Boca Raton
    Boca Raton Florida

    If you are ready to sell your property, I can assist you with that too!

    I am a REALTOR® based in the heart of Boca, as we fondly call our beautiful city. I met my husband here, raised my family here and plan to grow old here!

    You can get started with your South Florida Home Search below or on any of the other posts and pages here on #SoooBoca.

    Thanks for visiting this website and welcome to #SoooBoca!

    10 Awesome Things To Do Around Boca Raton

    If you are on spring break, summer vacation, winter break or have a long weekend in front of you there are a ton of cool things to do around Boca Raton for a staycation or daycation!

    Subscribe to #SoooBoca for the latest updates and happenings!

    We have put together calendars and resources with links for you to check out so you can plan your day, your week or your month including holiday information and posts plus school calendars! This will help you organize a day-cation or vacation around all the things to do around Boca Raton! 

    Take a step into time and check out one of Boca’s oldest landmarks — the original City Hall where you can find the Boca Raton Historical Society. Built in 1927 this long standing building has seen #SoooBoca grow into one of South Florida’s largest and most popular travel destinations.

    Between the hours of 10am and 4pm you can catch a guided tour around the hall or you can explore on your own. Curious about the history of not only Boca but IBM…the rooms are full of fun facts and history changing items for you to learn from and see.  

    This sweet piece of history is a prize possession among locals. By the way…if you love wine and food the Boca Bacchanal is one of the Historical Society’s signature events!

    Boca Raton

    Weekends in Mizner Park are always a blast thanks especially with the variety of events always happenin’ in this popular downtown hot spot! Grab a drink with your posse around the park or bring the family down for a night that all can enjoy. This family friendly atmosphere is a great way to shake up the usual summer routine!

    Things To Do Around Boca Raton
    Mizner Park

    CELEBRATE VALENTINES DAY IN BOCA RATON STYLE

    Sweets and Treats Galore For That Special Valentine

    #SoooBoca loves to celebrate love! We especially love to celebrate Valentine’s Day and have shared some of our favorite sweets and treats spots with you.

    As a local real estate agent I love to search out great new things to do, places to go, events happening, and more in Boca Raton and beyond!

    There are so many little gestures you can do to show your love, in fact, according to Fooddive.com, “A survey from the National Confectioners Association found 80% of Americans plan to share chocolate and candy with friends, family and loved ones for Valentine’s Day.” 

    To help make your Valentine’s Day gift-giving easier, we are sharing suggestions of where you can purchase some of our favorite sweets this year, candy and cookies. 

    Disclosure: This post contains Amazon and other retail affiliate links. If you purchase I will earn a small commission from these companies. Shopping through these links helps support my business. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

    Stylin’

    I love pinks and reds and of course the perfect Tee Shirt for special holidays and occasions! Check out one that I just ordered for myself … can hardly wait to pop this on to celebrate the day of love!

    Candy

    Candy Hearts
    Candy Hearts

    Truth be told, the mere mention of Valentine’s Day makes us think of heart-shaped boxes filled with chocolates, exotic truffles, and chocolate-covered strawberries oh my and shops in #SoooBoca have exactly what we are looking for!  

    Mindy's Munchies
    Mindys Munchies

    Mindys Munchies

    You can get chocolate treats, gift baskets and platters at this delightful shop at Glades and Boca Rio Road! They are now carrying the famous So Sweet It Is (which closed in 2020) “Boca Trash” for all those that are looking for that fabulous fun item!

    Chocolates
    Valentines Day Chocolates

    Hoffman’Chocolates

    Located throughout South Florida, the location in Boca Center is one of our favorites. This is the perfect place to buy a delicious assortment of candies for Valentine’s Day. We have to admit, their chocolate-covered pretzels are to die for!!

    Laderach Chocolatier 

    Laderach, located at Town Center at Boca Raton®: Läderach – chocolatier suisse brings you fresh, artisanal chocolate from Switzerland.

    Cookies and Baked Goods

    Valentines Treats
    Cookies and Hot Chocolate

    Sloans Ice Cream

    Welcome to the magic of Sloan’s…where fantasy becomes reality!  It all started with their first location in West Palm Beach, Florida in 1999. Their goal was to create an ice cream utopia for the young and young at heart. We love Sloans and they have locations all throughout South Florida, California and Nevada!

    Just Baked Boca 

    Right in the heart of Downtown Boca this popular shop has cookies that are simply delish and they also deliver! 

    Candy’s Cake Pops 

    Cake pops are all the rage and we love them! They are magical, pretty, and the perfect gift for Valentine’s Day!  You can order a variety of lovely treats including Valentine’s Day Party Cake Pops to help you celebrate this special day!  

    Sweet Stacy’s West Palm Beach

    Southern-Inspired Bakery with a Deliciously Modern Twist. They’ve been baking for Palm Beach and Beyond since 2013, and have served hundreds (actually thousands) of happy clients. Inspired by our southern roots, we bake with the richest flavors and the highest quality ingredients. Their cakes are just as delicious as they are beautiful.

    Valentines Day Cookies

    So there you have it my sweet treat junkies! Plenty of suggestions to share something sugary and full of love for your favorite Valentine this year! 

    Valentines Day Champagne

    Valentines Day Dining

    There are sooo many South Florida restaurants to choose from, that have lovely specials and prix fixed menus that we have included the Open Table link for you so that you can search every type of restaurant and food experience to enjoy from the Palm Beaches to the Florida Keys!

    You can also check out my list of Downtown Boca Restaurants that may have some specials happening! Some of our local faves include The Addison, Elisabetta’s Ristorante, The Hampton Social, Gallaghers Steakhouse, Oceans234, Latitudes, El Camino Boca Raton, Meat Market Boca Raton..

    Schedule a Photoshoot With Halle Alessia Photography

    Halle Alessia Photography

    Halle Alessia of Halle Alessia Photography does beautifully artistic photography that embraces romance and love! If you want to capture your romantic side you can reach out to Halle on her Instagram or her website!

    A Couple of Steals and Deals

    Valentine’s Day On The Cheap

    Don’t forget that just the simple gesture of taking a walk, going to the beach or park or taking a local daycation are great ways to celebrate love and companionship on Valentine’s Day!

    We live smack in the middle of so many cities, so take a ride to the Florida Keys, Palm Beach or Jupiter!

    Galentines Day Celebration

    Galentines Day Events

    Are you thinking of hosting a fun Galantine’s Day event? Check out some local ladies who are amazing entrepreneurs on Valentine’s Day and beyond! Here are some ideas for you from Greetings Island to plan a fun Valentine’s event! Start planning today for a fun time with all your gal pals!

    Lady Ashley Party Planners

    Valentine’s Day Items and Decorations

    Now if you all know me at all, I have a passion for repurposing, so you can hit your local thrift stores for gently used and “loved” Valentine’s Day decorations, accessories, and decor!

    If you want to purchase some personalized items hit up Bliss Monogramming in Downtown Boca … we love their wares!

    And if you love outdoor decor, check out these fun items to make a Valentine’s Day splash in your neighborhood!

    Spa Lady
    Spa Treatments

    Book a South Florida Spa Day

    Check out our big list of spas in Boca Raton and the Palm Beaches! Got a fave you can’t live without? We want to be in the “know”.

    No Matter What

    I hope you take time to enjoy the day of love and do something sweet, kind and lovely for just you! xo

    Michele Bellisari

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

    If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Click here!

    Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

    You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed.

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    Galentine’s Day | Top South Florida Creatives Have The Best Ideas For You

    It’s The Best Time Of The Year

    Boy bye! Yup, we said it! Let’s take time to celebrate friendships and fun with our gal pals today and throughout the year! Valentine’s Day is for everyone and we as women should be celebrating each other today!

    So plan your very special Galentine’s Day with some amazing local South Florida girl boss vendors and their creative ideas to make your day super special and fun!

    Galentine’s Day picnic of your DREAMS

    Not sure what Galantine’s Day is? Let’s start by thanking the talented folks at Parks and Recreation and the fabulously funny Amy Poehler!

    Her character professes one of the best girlfriend quotes ever “It’s only the best day of the year! Every February 13th, my lady friends and I leave our husbands and our boyfriends at home, and we just come and kick it—breakfast-style. Ladies celebrating ladies.”

    Picnic

    Ladies Celebrating Ladies

    There is nothing like talented and strong women, supporting each other in their business ventures! This collab of creatives is a testimonial to just that!

    Galenentines Gathering

    Pink Dreamland For Galentine’s Day

    These local South Florida vendors teamed up to create a pink dreamland picnic scenario great for celebrating Galentine’s Day!

    Who doesn’t love a pretty pink backdrop for Galentine’s Day selfies?

    Ya have to love a heart-shaped pizza to celebrate friendships and fierce!

    Halle Alessia Photography

    Halle is a local lifestyle photographer creating fresh curated and candid photos for your real life moments – capturing the memories to hang on your wall (while having the BEST time doing it.) She cultivates a vibe and brings your vision to life through artistic images and storytelling by creating inspiring imagery that looks and feels authentic to you.

    Website: https://hallealessia.com

    Instagram: @hallealessia

    Enjoy a delicious charcuterie board with your favorite icy cold vodka cocktail and dessert!

    Transform any location into a lavish retreat this Galentine’s Day with luxury picnics. Whether it’s the serene beach, your cozy backyard, or a surprise spot, these chic and elegant setups create the perfect ambiance for a memorable celebration of friendship.

    Experience the ultimate in style and comfort, making your Galentine’s Day not just a gathering, but an unforgettable event.

    The Basic Birch Co

    The Basic Birch Co. is a handcrafted sign and backdrop company specializing in wood and acrylic signage. You’ll find our signs anywhere from weddings to baby nurseries, always providing completely custom and personalized designs to add a special touch and wow factor to any space. 

    Instagram: @thebasicbirchco

    Amber and Vine Events

    Amber and Vine creates luxurious balloon installations to make your celebrations that much sweeter! Each design is crafted with intention and adds the perfect POP to intimate gatherings and larger-scale events alike. 

    I can share that for a very special birthday for moi in 2022, the balloon installation was the talk of the party!

    Instagram: @amberandvine  

    FLORMOSURA

    FLORMOSURA creates empowering and empathetic florals in Fort Lauderdale’s Downtown Oakland Park District blending the fresh and expressive energies of Rio De Janeiro with the casual pastel vibes of South Florida’s art deco culture. Creating florals for editorials, installations, weddings, holidays, events and corporations. Creative studio space coming spring 2022.

    Website: https://www.flormosura.com

    Instagram: @flor.mosura

    Pepina Sugar Co LLC

    Home-based bakery in Boca Raton, FL specializing in custom-decorated sugar cookies for all special events and occasions. We’re here to help make your celebrations a little sweeter!

    Website: https://www.thepepinasugarco.com

    Instagram: @pepinasugarcollc

    Petal & Pear

    Petal & Pear is a bespoke cake design studio specializing in creating one-of-a-kind edible pieces of art!  Each cake is individually hand-crafted with attention to detail, & will leave you craving more.

    Instagram: @petal_and_pear

    Alpha-Lit South Florida 

    Alpha-Lit South Florida is a South Florida based rental company specializing in the highest Quality Aluminum Marquee letters and numbers. We take your event to the next level, lighting it up! 

    Website: www.alphalitletters.com

    Instagram: @alphalitsofl

    Grazing Joy

    Grazing Joy Charcuterie is the best place to order a grazing board in South Florida!  Based out of Deerfield Beach, we have the goal of delivering impeccable grazing boards & tables with outstanding service.  We are your go-to for a beautiful and delicious grazing experience! 

    Website: www.grazingjoycharcuterie.com
    Instagram: @grazingjoy

    Wild Lilly

    A beautiful beverage from the sisters Lilly! Shera Kaan-Lilly and Maxime Kaan-Lilly have created a refreshing and very chill wine right here in South Florida!

    “A dynamic blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay brings forth lush aromas of wild cherry and toasted caramel. With a soft and silky mouthfeel, highlighted by ultra-smooth tannins, its supple texture effortlessly dances on the palate.” – Wild Lilly Website

    Versatile enough to go with almost any dish, it’s a playfully sophisticated wine bursting with flavors of strawberry, ripe cherries, and vanilla bean.

    So What Are Your Galentines Day Plans?

    As Galentine’s Day approaches, embracing the spirit of community and camaraderie extends beyond just celebrating with friends.

    By choosing to support local businesses for your Galentine’s Day festivities, you’re not only enhancing your celebration with unique, community-crafted goods and services but also contributing to the growth and sustainability of your local economy.

    Whether it’s sourcing decorations from a nearby boutique, enjoying treats from a local bakery, or hiring a neighborhood event planner, each choice makes a meaningful impact.

    This Galentine’s Day, let’s cherish friendships while also strengthening the community fabric by shopping locally.

    Boca Raton Podcast
    Boca Raton Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

    If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

    Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

    You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    14 Tips to Listing Your Home During the Holidays!

    As a Realtor in Boca Raton, around this time of the year I do have many conversations with sellers in regard to the best time to list their property.

    Do you hold off between Thanksgiving and the New Year to list your Boca Raton house or South Florida condo for sale in order to “get” through the holidays OR do you take advantage of South Florida’s lower inventory levels and truly motivated buyers who need to buy?  

    Here are my thoughts on why you want to list your Florida home now during the holidays.

    Keep in mind that almost any time of the year in South Florida is a great time to list your property as we have great weather, outdoor activities all year long, events, concerts, and sooo much to do! 

    Disclosure: This post contains Amazon and other retail affiliate links. If you purchase I will earn a small commission from these companies. Shopping through these links helps support my business. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

    Top 8 Reasons To List Your Property

    1. Less inventory for a buyer to look at!
    2. A buyer looking during the holiday season is a serious buyer and perhaps relocating or at the end of a lease.
    3. Decorations can make a home feel cozy and if done correctly can be very appealing to a buyer to envision for their own holiday in their new home.
    4. You can begin the New Year fresh knowing you are closed or soon to be closing. Not just starting the process of listing your home.
    5. One thing sellers are not aware of is that they can block out showing times…work with your agent on that.
    6. Great marketing opportunity to tie the ultimate gift of a home as a present for someone special out there!
    7. Inventory levels rise after the holidays. Sellers who have had their “final” holiday celebrations are ready to move.
    8. Homestead Exemption – see the Palm Beach Property Appraiser link I have included for complete details.

    (Please Note:  You must have an existing Homestead Exemption to qualify for additional exemptions. The deadline to file for Homestead Exemption is March 1 of the qualifying year. For more information, call us at (561) 355-2866 or contact us at myexemption@pbcgov.org)

    What Is My Home Worth?

     Top 7 Tips on Staging Your Home During The Holidays

    1. Make this a time to do a “deep” cleaning and decluttering. Keep it, donate it or get rid of it. Make sure all curbside bulk is picked up before you start to show.
    2. You are not inviting potential buyers to your annual holiday party so keep it simple and neutral, put the cookies and liquor in a cabinet when you have showings.
    3. If you love to hang lights, consider white ones. This is a great neutral for holiday decor. Consider a theme tree or decorations that highlight the Florida lifestyle. Look to the beach and ocean for ideas to decorate your home. For this year let the blow up outdoor sad during the day snowman stay in the garage until next year.
    4. Pinterest and Houzz are your best friends for ideas for fabulously simple yet gorgeous holiday decorations and decor.
    5. Remember that all of the space in your house doesn’t need to be decorated and please throw out the old decorations that really don’t hold an emotional attachment.
    6. You can check out Homegoods, TJ Maxx or Bealls’s and find some good deals. Also buzz by the Dollar Store for fun signs that give that holiday vibe.
    7. Don’t forget to hit up your local thrift stores. Goodwill, Habitat and local nonprofits have accessories, furniture, and more, plus you are giving back too!
    8. Lastly, you can typically get a warehouse in any town to store your “clutter”! I mean your fabulous things! Since we don’t have basements here in Florida, in most areas, our garages house our cars and are considered storage! I have certainly used PODs and local storage facilities here and there.

    So Now You Know

    So now you have a few good tips on what to do when you decide it is time to list and sell your property during the last couple of months of the year.

    Remember, there are three holidays that banks and title companies are closed, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day so factor that into your timeline.

    Out Of State Sellers

    I would like to add that in some cases, there are special circumstances in which you may need to list a property. I work with probate and estate sales, seniors downsizing and divorce situations.

    If you would like to have a conversation please give me a call, text or email.

    Decor Tips You Can Use

    Lastly

    The one last and most important tip of all is this… hire a great Realtor who doesn’t go MIA during the holiday season.

    I love the excitement of closing a chapter and new beginnings like out with the old year and in with the new one!

    Happy Holidays to you and your family!

    Michele Bellisari

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media.

    If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

    Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

    You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca.

    Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    October Festivities: Halloween and Oktoberfest Highlights in South Florida 2023

    Halloween in Boca Raton Is a Blast!

    There are always fun Halloween events in South Florida happening!

    We have updated our blog post to reflect 2023 events that you might enjoy including Oktoberfest celebrations, pumpkin patches, breweries to visit, and “live” music events around Boca Raton and Delray Beach!

    Tons of Halloween events in South Florida are happening and you can check out some of the below links and see what is happening around the state of Florida too!

    Click here for costume parties, roof-top events, gothic fun and tea parties!

    Halloween Events

    Plus…staycations are “in” and Halloween is on a Sunday this year so check out some great deals for daycation or staycation or a weekend getaway!

    The best thing about fall events and Halloween events in South Florida is, without a doubt, the weather! Where else can you enjoy fall in shorts and a T-shirt!  

    That said, the humidity has lessened and outdoor activities are even more enjoyable.

    Halloween at The Addison
    Halloween at The Addison Boca Raton

    Below we’ve highlighted some October events you might enjoy locally and around the state of Florida!

    Disclosure: The links in this post/on this page are affiliate links via Amazon and other companies and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. 

     

    PUMPKIN PATCH AND FALL FESTIVALS

    Enjoy a great weekend of fun at the Boca Raton Pumpkin Patch Festival~ Mizner Park Amphitheater – 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, FL 33432

    Mr. Jack O’ Lanterns Pumpkin Patch

    Our pumpkin patch is a family-owned business that strives to reach the full potential of Halloween spirit.

    We offer premium pumpkins, corn, games, activities, pumpkin decorating kits, pumpkin carving kits and attractions to ensure the full Halloween experience!

    You can now order online. We also deliver! We are happy to announce that we will be open for the 2022 season!

    Halloween At South Florida Fairgrounds

    History and Haunts at Yesteryear Village South Florida Fairgrounds

    Join us for another eerie season filled with illusory and bizarre happenings!

    DO YOU DARE?

    Are you brave enough to see what’s really going on in Yesteryear Village?

    War Party Paranormal will be leading and guiding the tours and they will have their paranormal equipment available for our guests to use. History and Haunts in Yesteryear Village will be a unique, intimate and exclusive evening.


    Once the activity at the Riddle House was chronicled a few years ago on the Travel Channels’ “Ghost Adventures,” the interest in the building increased.

    And now curious seekers will have a chance to learn the stories behind the house and other buildings with the Village’s nighttime tours.

    Join us for this unique experience!

    Oktoberfest

    Oktoberfest

    Ready For The Chicken Dance?

    A Taste of Oktoberfest 2023 will bring you a fantastic sampling of our original Oktoberfest. Our 49th Oktoberfest will return in 2023 in all its full-fledged glory!

    One of the largest in the country. Two German bands on two weekends. We offer authentic German cooking, domestic and imported beer, carnival and much more.

    Mark your calendars for our annual Oktoberfest the second and third weekends of every October. We hope to see you there!

    Florida Oktoberfest Celebrations

    Florida Rambler.com will be updating Oktoberfest celebrations and craft beer events in Florida for 2021 so check out that link right here and check back soon.

    Beer and Breweries

    Local Breweries

    Don’t forget you can celebrate Oktoberfest at your local breweries so check out what they have happening!

    We hope you enjoy all some of these events around Boca Raton and South Florida this Fall.

    Remember to please confirm with the event details by going directly to the event website in regard to details, dates, times, price and location.

    Live Music Around Boca Raton and South Florida

    Live Music in South Florida

    Don’t forget to check out bars and venues that have live music throughout the month and for Halloween.

    Boca Beach

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out!

    Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate!

    You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida.

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    10 Great Things To Do During Florida Summers

    Florida Summers Are Full Of Surprises

    If you know you know! South Florida summers are relaxing, a little less crowded and lets face it, the “snowbirds” head north. This isn’t just until August, the lull lasts until late October so if you are thinking of planning a Florida vacation, this is a great time to do it!

    Mom and her daughters
    Snappers Key Largo

    While getting away is always enjoyable (nobody loves a vacation more than me), “summering” in Florida provides a host of opportunities. On behalf of those of us at #SoooBoca, consider these 10 reasons to enjoy South Florida summers.

    Plus, I have a great YouTube video with my Realtor pals sharing even more ideas on things to do around Florida in the summer!

    Easy Restaurant Reservations

    Making restaurant reservations, in season, has always been a challenge. But, when summertime rolls around, reservations at South Florida’s most popular, and most delicious spots, are much easier to obtain.  Make a list now of all the places you’ve been wanting to try and get ready for some superb meals. Here are five fabulous restaurants to try this summer or anytime!

    Great Hotel Rates

    Consider a “staycation” at one of the best hotels, locally.  We have a great article here on the blog called 15 Fun Daycations In Our Own Backyard! Hotel rates in Florida are significantly less expensive during the summer than the rest of the year.  Take advantage of the great deals and summer specials available and check out some luxurious spots.

    Space at the Beach

    If you’ve been to any of our local beaches the winter and spring, you’ve seen, first hand, the crowds.  Oh my goodness, people have practically been sitting on top of each other.  South Florida summers means we have beaches with room to spread out.  Bring a blanket, an umbrella, and your friends.  Enjoy the sun, the surf, and the sand! Check out Visit and Play at 17 Of The Best Florida Beaches here on the blog to help you plan your beach getaway!

    Special Events

    There is always something happening in Florida. And, summertime is no exception.  You will be surprised at the plethora of awesome activities. The Hyundai Air and Sea Show in Miami is scheduled for the end of May annually and Hemingway Days in July in Key West is a historically fun! Check out some of the top annual events in the Palm Beaches! and the #SoooBoca local calendars for events happening all over South Florida every week!

    The Marlins

    The boys of summer, our Florida Marlins, are playing baseball and the stadium is welcoming fans. Check their calendar and pick a game (or a few) to attend.  The facility is fantastic and you’re guaranteed to have a good time. 

    Snappers Florida Keys

    Live Music

    Live music is fantastic in South Florida!  From intimate venues to stadiums, we have it all from Miami to West Palm Beach! Check out the latest tours at Broward Center , at Hard Rock Stadium (where our Miami Dolphins play), FTX Arena in Miami, Hardrock Hotel and Ithink Financial Amphitheater Check the this list of venues and bars that also offer live music around South Florida!

    Giraffe and Zoo

    Family Amusements

    During the high season, many of South Florida’s family favorites are, in a word, mobbed. The idea of being so close to so many people can be off-putting.  But, during the summer some of the most amazing spots are much emptier. Like animals? Plan a visit to the Palm Beach or Miami Zoo, or Lion Country Safari.  Or, stay cool at one of the area’s awesome water parks.  Coconut Cove, in Boca and the Rapids Water Park, in Riviera Beach are great fun!

    Sport Fish Boat
    Sportfishing

    Boating

    If you love to fish and boat, the waterways here are a little less crowded! There is nothing like taking a day to do some fishing, book a fishing charter on the Belli-Sea or simply cruise up and down the Intracoastal in South Florida! We are blessed to have a plethora of marinas and public boat ramps in our area and frankly all over the sunshine state! PS…I know all the best boating communities in South Florida like Lighthouse Point and Boca Raton!

    Year Round Living

    At #SoooBoca, we LOVE our summers in Florida. And this year we plan to take advantage of everything this season offers. Did we leave something awesome off our “Sensational Summer in Florida” list?  If so, let us know.  We’re making plans right now and would love to add to it!

    Boca Raton Podcast

    About Michele Bellisari

    Michele is a South Florida Realtor, based in Boca Raton, Florida, serving surrounding cities, and the founder of #Soooboca Lifestyle and Media. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots

    Celebrate Fourth of July in South Florida Style

    Ready For Fireworks and Fun Around The Sunshine State?

    We love Fourth of July whether here in South Florida or up in Columbus, Ohio ( yup we are Buckeyes). From fireworks, parades, cookouts, beach picnics, boating, dining out, fun runs decorating, roadtripping and sandcastle contests there is plenty to do in 2023…YAY!!! 

    Take a scroll through the blog for the latest on Boca Raton news and events for the holiday, with tons of inspo to celebrate July 4th plus links to some of my favorite local and national bloggers who have some great ideas on celebrating Independence Day! 

    Andy and Michele Fourth of July
    Michele Bellisari founder of #SoooBoca® Lifestyle & Media and a Realtor with Real Broker.

    We have sparklers ready as always, the Captain is ready to grill some fresh mahi or snapper…maybe we can convince him to make some of his famous smoked fish dip too! Make sure to subscribe to #SoooBoca on Instagram to see some of our home cooking stories! 

    Disclosure: The links in this post/on this page are affiliate links via Amazon and other companies and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. 

    PS…I am shopping for something fun to wear this year so check out Amazon for some quick deliveries!

    Pets and The Fourth 

    Our pets can get very anxious from all of the loud booms and bright lights happening throughout the week ramping up the the July Fourth holiday. Plan ahead to keep your pet safe, comfortable and stress free if possible with some tips from the American Veterinary Medical Association that can help you prep and keep your animals safe. 

    Our Yellow Lab Brody

    Fireworks and Events 

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

    Boca Raton 

    FABULOUS FOURTH

    Tuesday, July 4, 2023

    Countess de Hoernle Park | 5:30PM-9:30PM

    FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

    The City of Boca Raton’s Recreation Services Department will host a Fabulous Fourth Celebration on Tuesday, July 4 at Countess de Hoernle Park/Spanish River Athletic Facility (1000 NW Spanish River Blvd) starting at 5:30pm with a spectacular fireworks show beginning at 9pm.

    Fourth of July. People sitting in field watching fireworks

    FREE Event

    • live music
    • amusement rides
    • kids’ craft
    • strolling entertainers (Captain America, Wonder Woman and stiltwalkers)
    • Captain America: The First Avenger movie on the lawn 
    • DJ and games
    • food trucks and vendors (for purchase)

    LIVE Mainstage Music

    5:30pm – Luis Rojas (high energy acoustic featuring favorite hits of today and yesterday)
    7pm – Matthew Sabatella and the Rambling String Band (traditional folk, fiddle tunes, old-time country, bluegrass, Appalachian, ragtime, blues)

    Fireworks

    A spectacular fireworks show begins at 9pm.

    FREE Parking

    Free parking will be available nearby at the Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRiC). Complimentary shuttle service will begin at 5pm through the end of the event. Shared Ride Drop-Off is located at 4530 Technology Way.

    Please Note: Enter parking from Yamato Rd OR Spanish River Blvd.

    What To Bring?

    • Remember – bring your reusable water bottle! The City’s mobile water unit will supply free filtered water at the event.
    • Blankets & lawn chairs are permitted.
    • NOT PERMITTED on site: pets, coolers, sparklers, fireworks, drones and alcohol.

    The Fabulous Fourth Celebration is presented by the City of Boca Raton Recreation Services and the Greater Boca Raton Beach and Park District, and sponsored by WPBF-TV and the Boca Raton Airport.

    Subscribe here and become a #SoooBoca Insider

         

     

    Delray Beach 

    Delray Beach 4th of July  

    Delray Beach 4th of July Celebration

    Event: Delray Beach 4th of July Celebration

    Where: East Atlantic Avenue and A1A, Delray Beach, FL 33444

    When: July 4, 2023, 5 pm – 9:30 pm

    The City of Delray Beach is excited to be hosting the 4th of July Celebration again for 2023!  It’s been a family-friendly event for over 50 years and draws 80,000 people to our Village by the Sea. The event starts at 5 pm with the 60’ flag raising ceremony, with an honor guard and the singing of the National Anthem.  We invite the public to join us for this ceremony. Our celebration has something for everyone – contests, food trucks and vendors, children’s activities and games, non-stop entertainment, and so much more! The spectacular Zambelli Fireworks will start promptly at 9:00pm.  The City of Delray Beach 4th of July Celebration will take place on East Atlantic Avenue from the Intracoastal Bridge to A1A.

    (The streets close on Tuesday, July 4th  from 1:00 pm – 11 pm – East Atlantic from the Intracoastal Bridge east to A1A, A1A from Thomas to Miramar.)
    (*subject to change)

    Event Schedule 

    5:00 PM – Flag Raising

    5:30 PM – DJ Big Smile at the main stage, DJ SoNyce non-stop at the teen stage, frozen custard eating contest by BurgerFi.

    6:00 PM – Cheeseburger eating contest by BurgerFi

    7:00 PM – K-Luv and the United Funk Foundation at the main stage

    7:45 PM – DJ Big Smile at the main stage

    8:15 PM – K-Luv and the United Funk Foundation at the mainstage.

    9:00 – Fireworks by Zambelli

    Other Activities

    Food vendors and trucks, merchandise vendors, soft play area for toddlers and toddler bounce house, giant games, two inflatable obstacle courses, 360 photobooth, face painting and temporary tattoos, Ninja wall and more. 

    Getting Around

    Parking – The public is urged to park west of the Intracoastal Bridge. There are plenty of parking lots around the city. To find the closest one, visit our Parking page.

    Tri-Rail – Runs a Holiday schedule. Call 1-800-TRI-RAIL (874-7245) for more info.

    Bike – Ride your bike! Bike valet available.

    FreeBee – Free rides through the FreeBee app anywhere in the downtown area. 

    More Info

    Contact Information

    For more information, please call (561) 243-7250 option 5 or email Danielle Beardsley BeardsleyD@mydelraybeach.com


    West Palm Beach 

    West Palm Beach July 4th Fireworks

    Tuesday, July 4, 2023 | 6–10 p.m.
    on the West Palm Beach Waterfront

    Activities are programmed along Flagler Drive between Banyan Boulevard and Fern Street
    Fireworks start about 9:09 p.m.

    Join us for South Florida’s largest, free outdoor annual Independence Day celebration — 4th on Flagler. This event will be the City’s 35th annual celebration, and it will feature live entertainment (music on three stages), a military honor ceremony, a kids’ entertainment zone, roving entertainment (including jugglers, stilt walkers, and magicians), food and refreshments for purchase, and an 18-minute fireworks show over the Intracoastal Waterway. Viewers can also join the celebration remotely by tuning into WBPF’s live special broadcast from 9 – 9:30 p.m.

    FOR FULL ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE CLICK HERE.

    4th on Flagler Stars & Stripes in Paradise Poster

    For more information about 4th on Flagler, call (561) 822-1515. If you wish to receive emails about our upcoming events, send your email address to: events@wpb.org with “Events Eblast” in the subject line.

    Event Location: Waterfront Commons (100 North Clematis Street), Meyer Amphitheatre (105 Evernia Street) and Flagler Drive from Banyan Boulevard to Fern Street.

    Deerfield Beach

    4th of July At The Beach!!!

    4th of July Celebration logo

    4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION

    The City of Deerfield Beach is excited to announce that this year’s 4th of July event will be back at the beach. The celebration kicks off at noon with music, vendors, and more. The night will be wrapping up with a spectacular fireworks show!  

    SPECIAL NOTES: 

    • Fireworks will be launching from the Pier at 9:05 PM. 
    • There will be several road and facility closures related to the 4th of July Celebration:
      • International Fishing Pier will be closed on TBD, and will reopen at 6:00 AM on Wednesday, July 5th. 
      • On July 4th, Ocean Way from Hillsboro Boulevard to SE 4th Street, the Main Beach Parking Lot, the lot behind Ocean Rescue, and the Pier Parking Lot will close, reopening the morning of July 5th. 
      • SE 2nd Street and SE 1st Street will close at A1A, Monday, July 4th at 6:00 AM, reopening on the morning of July 5th. 
      • On July 4th, from 6:00 PM-11:00 PM, the Hillsboro Boulevard Bridge will remain in the lock-down position from 6:00 PM-11:00 PM for pedestrian traffic. 
      • Parking on the barrier island will be limited during the event. Complimentary parking will be available at the Cove Shopping Center, Sullivan Park, and St. Ambrose Catholic Church. Attendees can make the short walk across the bridge to the event or take the complimentary shuttle service that will pick up at the Cove Shopping Center, St. Ambrose, and drop off at SE 4th Street. 
      • The Shuttle Service will run as follows:
        • TBD
        • 11:00 PM to 12:00 AM

    fourth of july treats


    Lauderdale By The Sea

    Lauderdale by the Sea

    Fourth of July Parade and Family Fun Day

    We’re bringing back the fun at this year’s Parade and Family Fun Day!

    The day kicks off with the Town’s annual parade at 10 a.m. along El Mar Drive. Restaurants, shops, non-profits, and local business owners are invited to decorate a float and partake in the parade festivities spectators line the street in their fun red, white, and blue attire. This year’s Grand Marshal Paula Mangano, a resident for over 70 years and owner of Paula’s Beauty Salon, will lead the procession.


    Florida Keys Celebrations

    florida keys sunset

    Florida Keys July 4th Events 

    You know the #SoooBoca family loves their “Keys” however this year many things are cancelled due to Covid-19. Please click the link above to see what is happening from Key Largo to Key West

    fourth of july scarf

    Florida Travel 

    Thinking of jumping in the car and doing a July 4th vacation or even a staycation…then check out some road trip ideas for you around the “Sunshine State” that you may want to consider and hotels and lodging ideas for you! 

    25 Things To Do In The Florida Keys 

    Discover Daycations In Your Own Backyard 

    Visit Florida 


    We wish you a very happy Fourth of July and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram to see some of our holiday celebrations!

    American Flag
    Happy Fourth of July

    Florida Bloggers Fourth of July Inspo

    Check out some of my favorite Florida bloggers and publications for events, ideas, fashion and food!

    Fort Lauderdale on The Cheap – July Fourth fireworks & Festivities

    Florida Travel + Life – Best Fourth of July Celebrations in Florida

    Ocean Drive Magazine – 2023 Miami Events

    Information we provide should be directly verified by readers, is subject to change, provided only as a courtesy and please remember to contact the event coordinators directly for information, times and any questions you may have before you go. Event info is compiled from city and county websites.

    Boca Raton Podcast

    About Michele BellisariMichele Bellisari is the founder of #SoooBoca® Lifestyle & Media based in Boca Raton and a Realtor with Real Broker. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any of the surrounding cities let her help you out! Thinking of purchasing a vacation home? Michele blogs, vlogs, posts and shares all things Boca Raton, South Florida & Beyond from events, people, food, travel, home decor, fashion, beauty and real estate! You can find more at www.soooboca.com and on all the socials @soooboca. Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed.

    How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

    Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

    Start Your Home Search Here

    Zillow Homes For Sale 

    Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots