My City Series | Sophie Bowman
Sophie Bowman is our international journalist sharing the best luxury travel and business news throughout the USA and beyond. Sophie found her passion in writing many years ago, leading to her own monthly column in a UK magazine, and writing for luxurious brands like LeVian diamonds in the past. Sophie's appetite for travel has seen her travel the globe, stopping off to live temporarily in Marrakech and Australia. Sophie relocated to Miami three years ago, before finally planting roots recently in Fort Lauderdale.
Born and Raised or Expat?
Expat (originally from London).
What led you to choose your current profession? And, what steps did you take to get there?
I was a dedicated bookworm at school, favouring reading over small talk, which inescapably progressed to me writing poetry and creative fiction over the years. I was nominated for a $50,000 writing award, aged 15 yrs. when some of my poetry was published in America, which only strengthened my love affair with writing. I was headhunted by a national magazine aged eighteen for their PR team, where my love for brands and learning the art of writing in multiple tones of voice was born. I went on to study music journalism and secured my own monthly column in a UK magazine to amplify my journalism skills. I've been 'lucky' enough to write for some serious powerhouse brands and various celebrities over the years.
On your Day-to-Day routine?
Every day is organised, creative chaos. If I'm not writing blogs, I'm writing engaging Instagram captions. On a rare day off, a Sunday, if I'm lucky, you'll find me curled up on a beach somewhere as far away from humans as possible reading a riveting book.
What is your favourite brunch spot, and why?
Oh, this is a tough decision. I think I have to go with Boatyard in Fort Lauderdale. You can perch outside to spot chic day outfits, watch boats pass by, and nibble on flavourful dishes. Obviously, the flavoured bottomless mimosas are a plus too.
When you have guests, where in town do you like to take them for dinner?
If we do the 30-minute drive to Miami, Toscana Divino in Brickell is always my first choice for their authentic, gourmet Italian food, amazing service, and interesting people-watching opportunities. In Fort Lauderdale, I frequent Louie Bossi for their unparalleled ambiance.
How has your city grown and changed since you’ve known it? Which changes did you like best? Why?
Fort Lauderdale is evolving at a phenomenal rate with new artisan cafes and Instagrammable chic restaurants popping up continuously. There is an unstoppable surge in tourism and real estate development.
What cool festivals, if any, happen in your city?
Miami Spice is a wonderful time of year where you can sample menus at Miami's top restaurants for a fraction of the usual price. Fort Lauderdale Fashion Week is a must-attend also for all fashion-forward locals and visitors.
8. Where do you go to escape? How does this space bring you peace?
Local beaches promise turquoise waters and white sandy havens. I love driving up to Jupiter for fewer humans and added surfer town vibes. It's a picturesque escape where you can submerge yourself in ocean therapy, unplug, and reboot.
9. What’s a local brand that we must know about?
Plant the Future; Nature-inspired biophilic design studio, plant boutique, and botanic art gallery. They are a next-level home interior brand focusing on bringing nature inside.
10. Where and when is your next adventure?
Now that I'm scuba certified, I plan to visit the Philippines next year for a diving trip. My best friend's father was a marine biologist and assured me these whimsical islands offer the best diving in the world.
11. Does Travel breed creativity?
100%! Any time I start feeling myself burning out, I go on an adventure. The act of changing your scenery is enough to jumpstart your creativity and remind you how to think outside the box.
12. As for connecting the mind, body, and soul, what do you do to promote self-love?
I was notoriously poor at this my whole life. Now, the simple act of taking a weekend to get lost at the beach in a good book is enough to change my entire energy. I also learned from entrepreneurial leader, Loren Ridinger, a cool trick. When you're having a bad day, place your hand over your heart. That's your purpose. I can't really explain how it works, but when I find myself surrounded by chaos or upset about something, this simple act is super soothing. I started morning meditation two years ago - this is something I HAVE to get back into the routine of doing daily.
13. Who is one famous figure throughout history that has particularly brought you inspiration, and why?
Richard Branson. What an incredible businessman who has achieved so much with charisma and the courage to take on some serious enemies over the years. I love that he speaks out about his dyslexia too. When I was in school, I was told I had numerical dyslexia. They automatically dropped me to the lower tier math class, and I was told I couldn't study psychology at university because 'there's no way I'd get the grades.' So, I summoned my inner Richard Branson, took my Biology GCSE anyway, got an A*, and applied (and got accepted) to study medicine to prove a point. Anyone who can inspire a teenager to do this is a superhero.
14. Are there any philanthropic programs or projects that you’re passionate about or would like to shed some light on?
I was recently invited to a luncheon at The Ritz Carlton Fort Lauderdale by Club Yacht Charter as their special guest. The Sea Soiree has been created to showcase resort wear fashion collections and raise funds to 'BOOST the BAHAMAS' Hurricane Dorian Relief Efforts supporting World Hope International & Grand Bahama Children's Home. In response to Hurricane Dorian, World Hope International has set up portable solar-powered reverse osmosis units capable of purifying water from fresh or salt water on Marsh Harbour, Central Abaco, Treasure Cay, Green Turtle Cay and Freeport, operating 24/7 and meeting a critical need for drinking water. The contribution to Grand Bahama Children's Home will assist with the reassembling of the home that was severely damaged in the storm.
15. Entrepreneurs, Tastemakers and Trailblazers, where do people like to hangout in your city?
Fort Lauderdale must-visits include Louie Bossi for the atmosphere, Rooftop, and the W Hotel for artisan cocktails with a view.
16. Give a shout-out to someone in your city that is doing groundbreaking things, and what is it that makes them a trailblazer?
Asa P Sealy aka The Branding Guy is a creative genius multi-tasking various projects and events in Miami and Fort Lauderdale. He has been a significant player in the evolution of South Florida brands and marketing.
17. Advice for budding entrepreneurs?
Say yes to every viable opportunity. So many doors will open up to you, new experiences, and fresh networks of professionals who bring additional opportunities.
18. We’re living in a world where our attention to new innovation doesn’t seem to have longevity, how do you find your inspiration to make new waves with long-term prosperity?
Stay ahead of the game. Although I started as a journalist and columnist, I looked forward and figured social media would be a big deal many years ago. Had I not started tinkering with the social world back then, I would have been in serious trouble when the majority of publications went online. And it opened the doors to me launching an online business writing branding and social media strategies; two things any creative would delight in being paid to do. You always have to be listening and watching your industry trends; they will guide you to keep developing and strengthening your game.
19. Please share a playlist that embodies your work. What about this particular music brings you inspiration?
My playlist is as ADHD as my resume! When I need to focus, summon creativity, or reduce feelings of overwhelm, I ask Alexa to play spa music playlists. Otherwise, you'll find me somewhere in between 90's RnB Allstars like Aaliyah and LL Cool J, and hip hop essentials or reggaetón.