The Annual Beaux Arts Ball Goes to Sea

With social distancing in mind, the city’s longest running costume ball transformed itself this year in a “ball by boat.” More than 200 guests participated in the annual event, which raises money for the Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami. Usually held at the Biltmore Hotel, this year’s ball was at Marine Stadium, with guests arriving by private vessel. The ball featured a giant floating LED screen, a silent auction, and live DJ music. But the highlight was the annual costume contest, with ocean-themed attire. A Kardashian Yacht Party took first place, with World War II sailors coming in second. “Due to the pandemic, we couldn’t host our signature event in a ballroom, so we made a creative pivot,” says Beaux Arts Co-President Michele Reese Granger, who envisioned the event with co-chair Monica Mase. Sponsors included Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables, the Ashley Cusack Team, Bacardi, and the Bermont Gold Wealth Advisory of Raymond James.