About Miami
Located at the southern tip of Florida where the Miami River meets the Atlantic Ocean, Miami is one of the most modern, metropolitan cities on the eastern seaboard. It’s the second-most visited city in the country by international travelers and it’s the busiest cruise port in the world, thanks to its proximity to exotic island destinations.
Miami offers world-class golf courses, abundant outdoor recreation activities year-round, a diverse community and miles of pristine beaches. You’ll also find an elevated food scene with fresh seafood, authentic ethnic fare and unique Latin fusion creations. Miami is famous for its glamorous nightlife and is a frequent hotspot for Hollywood’s elite.
With the most international banks clustered together in the U.S. and headquarters of several international and Fortune 500 companies, Miami is the perfect location to host a gala. Whether you’re hosting a black-tie celebration or a fundraising gala for a worthy cause, Miami has one-of-a-kind venues and services available to make it a truly special event.
Gala Location Options in Miami
With one of the busiest international airports in the country and a wide range of modern, upscale lodging and dining, you’ll find endless options for a gala location in Miami. Local service providers have years of experience and are ready to add a professional touch to your event.
- Florist
What is a gala without a bevy of floral arrangements? Give your Miami gala location a boost of color and style with centerpieces and standing arrangements in the corners of the room and other key spots. Miami florists are the ones to call for assistance in choosing the right flowers to fit your theme.
- Catering
Whether you’ll be providing a sit-down meal for your guests or serving mobile finger foods to promote networking and social interaction, there are many catering companies and restaurants in Miami to provide fresh, local favorites. Seafood fresh from Biscayne Bay, Cuban specialties and Southern favorites are all on the menu, along with mouthwatering desserts and custom cocktails.
- Entertainment
Large gatherings almost always benefit from background music to keep guests engaged and comfortable – the right music can set the mood for the entire evening. Miami is home to many talented musicians, from soft rock cover bands to elegant string ensembles, pianists and vocalists. Most charge an hourly fee, but some accept payment by the gig.
Gala Location Companies in Miami
Hosting a large-scale event like a gala requires a lot of time and attention to detail. A professional event planner can help you achieve your vision on the budget you set, attending to all the small details while leaving you free to enjoy the party.
- Makaira Co. Events
With more than 20 years of experience in the event planning industry, planners and staff at Makaira Co. are ready to help you host a flawless and memorable gala. The team specializes in event productions of all sizes, from table design to technology to VIP and speaker management. Makaira can also provide experienced staff members to assist with the event, whether you need knowledgeable hostesses, waitstaff or musicians.
- A Events Miami
Whether you’re planning a fundraising gala for a charitable organization or celebrating the success of a local business, experienced planners at A Events Miami can help you create a beautiful gala tailored to your organization’s goals and aesthetic. The full-service event firm offers a selection of planning and design packages to fit different needs and budgets, from weddings to social events and corporate parties. A custom package can be created for your event, ensuring that all your needs are accommodated.
- Chris Weinberg Events
Planners at Chris Weinberg Events have been designing, planning and executing memorable luxury events for more than 15 years. The firm specializes in elegant, out of the box designs and concepts and have an extensive network of preferred vendors to ensure quality product and services. Chris Weinberg Events offers free consultations to get to know you and your desires in order to provide you with a custom quote on services for your event.
Pros and Cons of Gala Locations in Miami
Miami’s reputation as an international business center and tourism hub makes it perfect for elegant, black-tie galas, but there are some advantages and disadvantages you should consider before making a final decision.
Advantages
- Natural beauty
You’ll find a large variety of outdoor and water-based activities, from the Florida Keys to the Everglades and pristine beaches.
- Great food
The food at your gala will be terrific. Miami is known for fresh seafood and culinary creations with a spicy Latin flare.
- Nightlife
You’ll find something to do during the evening hours all over town, from the beach to the glamorous Art Deco District.
Disadvantages
- Expensive
Food, entertainment and lodging can be expected to cost more in Miami, especially downtown.
- Tropical storms
Miami is frequently in the path of both Gulf and Atlantic storms and may take a direct hit.
- Mosquitoes
If you are booking a Miami gala location with an outdoor aspect to the event, plan for bugs like mosquitoes. Have bug repellant on hand and make use of bug lights and deterrents.
Famous Locations in Miami
- Cubaocho Museum and Performing Arts Center
The Cubaocho Museum and Performing Arts Center is a space for celebrating all things Cuban in Miami. Located in Little Havana, the location has a large collection of 19th and early 20th century Cuban art. The venue also offers live music performances and Cuba-centric food, cocktails and cigars in a cozy downtown setting. The venue also hosts several special events throughout the year.
- Dolphin World
Dolphin World Miami offers visitors to South Florida a chance to get up close and personal with some of the park’s friendly marine life. You’ll have the opportunity the interact with dolphins, as well as swim with them, participate in a penguin meet-and-greet, swim with seals, or even walk through a 300,000 gallon tropical reef. You can also feed a variety of different sea mammals, fish, birds and reptiles.
- Historic Virginia Key Beach Park
Founded in 1945, Virginia Key Beach began as one of the very few recreation sites for the African American community in Dade County. Today, the park features colorful beach huts, an old-fashioned carousel, a train ride for young visitors, and the world’s tallest sandcastle. There are shaded pavilions for picnics and parties, along with barbecue pits and a concession stand for snacks.
