As 2011 comes to an end, we're getting all nostalgic about the great moments in Miami culture that took place over the past year. And we know we're not alone. So we've asked some of Miami's top artists, writers, film producers and other cultural geniuses about their favorite 2011 memories.
If ever there was a year to drop out of college and get on a reality show, it was 2011. Of course, we suggest you stay in school (fool), but if times get rough, selling your soul to cable isn't a bad option. Let's take a look at some obvious winners: Snooki's products sold-out on HSN, Bethenny Frankel sold her booze brand for $120 million, and do we even need to mention the Kardashians? And one local reality star didn't do too shabby herself: Mrs. Marysol Patton.
It would be hard to argue that her biggest moment this year was making her Bravo debut on Real Housewives of Miami. And
while the show received its share of bad reviews, it was picked up for
season two, which starts filming in 2012. And Patton must have made a
good impression -- she was the only Miami housewife to be picked for The Real Housewives Live tour in October.
As
for her off-screen life, she celebrated her one-year anniversary with
husband Philippe Pautesta-Herder. Plus, her public relations firm went
from successful to superstardom with the landing of some big time
clients. One of whom was Mike "The Situation"
and his new business venture with Boca Tanning Club. While we aren't
sure if that was good or bad for The Patton Group, it definitely is, in
fact, a situation.
From Marysol's mouth, here are a few of her 2011 favorite moments.
Favorite TV Moments: When I do have time, I only like to laugh when watching TV. Murder, mystery, drama -- not really my thing. Definitely nothing haunted. But I will say definitely my favorite part of watching TV this year was watching my mom on Real Housewives of Miami. Filming it was fun, but watching it back, it was actually even funnier. Every time I see her, I can't stop laughing. Especially when she and I drove up to New York to do Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen. That car ride was epic... to say the least.
Favorite TV Shows: Most definitely Modern Family. Wait, did that start in 2011? It didn't, but I am counting it as my favorite because of they swept the Emmys. It's really the only show I get home and think, "OK, I must tune in!"
Favorite Celebrity Run-Ins: I met Andy Cohen, one of my Bravo bosses. He is so cute and so nice. I have nothing bad to say about that man. I had a lot of fun with Linnethia "NeNe" Leakes. I met Patti Stanger, but only over the phone. But she is really, really great. I like her a lot. She is very deep, sensitive and intelligent. She is a lot different from her persona on TV.
Favorite New Restaurants: I don't go to a lot of clubs and the opening
of Amnesia was just fantastic. The light show and Bob Sinclar -- it all
just took my breath away. For restaurants, for a while, I wasn't going
anywhere but Zuma. But I have recently started venturing out to Smycha's
-- it's really delicious. When I want a great crowd and good wine, I go
to Wine Depot. It's very European and it never disappoints.
Favorite Events in Miami: There were so many great events in Miami this year, I don't know where to start. Fashion's Night Out at Village of Merrick Park was one the best, I think. We (The Patton Group) just did an event at Fendi Casa with a private concert with Robin Thicke. It was just him and a piano - there is nothing better. And maybe my favorite of the whole year was Elle Spa grand opening at the Eden Roc. It was a great party, lots of great people and lots of celebs came out - one of the best nights of the year.
Favorite Marriage Lesson Learned: I learned that you most definitely need to pick your battles. If you know it's going to end up in a petty disagreement, just take a deep breath and move on. It's usually not worth it. And also to be patient. I am very patient person, but at the same time, I am very set in my ways. Patience and choose your battles -- you cant go wrong.
Favorite New Year's Resolutions: To lose weight. No, I am just kidding. I have actually given up on them because I never do them... ever. I am kind to animals, generous to people, etc. Ill always try to be my best, though, especially in 2012.
Follow Cultist on Facebook and Twitter @CultistMiami.
