By Sherri Balefsky | Online Editor
On Monday, March 9, 20 incredible women gathered at BLT Steak at the Betsy Hotel {1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach; 305.531.6100} for a breakfast salon in honor of International Women’s Day.
It was a who’s who of Miami’s influential women, all of whom work in and/or vehemently support the arts, music, education, and other community-driven initiatives. Invitees were asked to bring along a woman that they admired—mothers, daughters, friends, mentors, co-workers, and more. It was clear that in most cases, the admiration was reciprocal.
While many might associate BLT Steak with being only a lunch/dinner place, the quiet art-filled dining room—which opens daily at 8am—was the perfect setting for such an event. We sipped coffee and freshly-squeezed orange juice while noshing on fresh fruit, mini croissants and pastries, and creamy granola-topped parfaits. The Betsy is also known for its outstanding brunch—don’t miss out on trying the BLT Popover Eggs Benedict, a Betsy favorite.
The Betsy has been involved in women’s issues since its founding. After all, the hotel is named after America’s “founding mother” Betsy Ross. It is also very active in the local community, sponsoring salons that invite artists and thought leaders to head up conversations about various issues. The salons are one of the cornerstones of the PACE (Philanthropy, Arts, Culture, and Education) program at The Betsy. Since opening The Writer’s Room in 2012, there have been over 70 such events, featuring many prominent art world figures, such as “Joy Luck Club” novelist Amy Tan and flutist Eugenia Zuckerman.
International Women’s Day was the perfect occasion for such a salon. The annual event has been celebrated since the early 1900’s and today is recognized as an official holiday by countries all over the world.
Among the respected guests in attendance were Deborah Briggs, VP of Philanthropy at the Betsy; Violette de Ayala, founder and president of Femfessionals; Norma Jean Abraham, philanthropist and founder of new teahouse Serendip-A-Tea; Carlene Sawyer and Ruth Greenfield, arts activists from Dranoff 2 Piano Foundation; Cristina Cartaya, principal of Our Pride Academy and advocate for special-needs community; Wendy Silva, a local entrepreneur, singer, and Doggie Day Care owner; and many, many others.
DiningOut was truly honored to be included in such an intimate gathering and to be surrounded by such inspiring women.