Palm Height Hotel Grand Cayman Pop Up

As a passionate travel connoisseur and fashion enthusiast, I’ve always been captivated by spaces that seamlessly blend exceptional customer service with stunning aesthetics. For me, every hotel, Airbnb, or boutique space should feel like stepping into a meticulously curated world—where nothing is out of place, and every detail feels intentionally chosen. I often dream of living in a Wes Anderson film, where symmetry and on-brand design create a dreamy yet sophisticated atmosphere. If there’s one hotel that embodies this vision perfectly, it’s the Palm Heights Hotel in the breathtaking Grand Cayman Islands.

My journey with Palm Heights began through a dear friend and the industry’s beloved “auntie,” Marjon Carlos. She shared her plans to visit the hotel, and I immediately imagined her strutting through in the hotel’s luxurious hallways—wearing one of my favorite pieces from our spring-summer 2023 collection, the Yemaya Dress. Watching her Instagram stories, singing karaoke at the Palm Heights Mambo Italiano Night, was pure joy. It felt like a glimpse into a vibrant, colorful world where every moment is picture-perfect.

A few weeks later, during a call, Marjon revealed that Palm Heights was launching a boutique within the hotel, curated with luxury designers from around the globe. She wanted my brand to be part of this exclusive space. She shared how, while walking around in one of my dresses, hotel guests kept rushing up to her, eager to know where her stunning look was from. That was the moment I realized this was a golden opportunity—a chance for my brand to be showcased in a setting that epitomizes elegance and curated beauty.

Initially, the boutique didn’t even have a name. But soon enough, it was christened *Dolores*, named after one of the hotel’s most esteemed clients, adding an extra layer of charm and personal touch. The decision to include my brand in such a distinguished space was a natural fit. We discussed the possibility of hosting a trunk show at Dolores, with me traveling to the hotel to connect with guests, showcase my designs, and create a memorable experience.

Planning a trunk show or pop-up event—especially across international borders—requires meticulous organization, attention to detail, and a lot of hard work. From selecting the perfect pieces to bring—those that resonate more deeply in person than online—to ensuring a comprehensive size range, every element matters. My goal was to make every guest feel seen, appreciated, and inspired by the collection.

Over months of Zoom calls, approvals, and logistical planning, I finally set my sights on December 2024 for the Palm Heights pop-up. The event was scheduled for a Saturday, and I decided to extend my trip over an entire weekend. To capture the magic of the event and the hotel’s stunning surroundings, I brought along the incredibly talented photographer Marisa Langley. Her ability to capture dreamy, vibrant imagery—both on film and digital—was essential to documenting this milestone.

I also invited Fiffany Luu, a OG influencer whose impeccable style and radiant beauty I’ve long admired. Her presence promised to elevate the event, allowing us to create content that would showcase the latest collection against the hotel’s lush backdrop. It felt like a girls’ weekend infused with work—an inspiring blend of amazing dinners, outfits, and travel that didn’t feel like work at all.

Instagram can rarely do justice to the sheer splendor of Palm Heights. Every view is a postcard-perfect scene—vivid, vibrant, and utterly captivating. The hotel’s beach club, the lively Tilly’s restaurant, the tranquil spa, and the state-of-the-art athletic center all exude a sense of laid-back luxury.

Throughout the weekend, I immersed myself in the hotel’s opulence. I savored incredible Caribbean cuisine, swam in crystal-clear waters, and snapped photos of everything that inspired me—from the turquoise ocean to the lush, tropical greenery. Each moment was a feast for the senses, a reminder of why I love traveling to such extraordinary destinations.

While some designers shy away from in-person events, I thrive on the energy, the human connection, and the chance to see my work through the eyes of real people. Interacting with guests, hearing their reactions to my collection, and learning about their personal stories is endlessly enriching. It’s a reminder that fashion isn’t just about clothing—it’s about community, identity, and shared experiences.

The event featured a live DJ spinning Kaytranada tunes, while the hotel’s restaurant crafted exquisite hors d’oeuvres that delighted every palate. Every staff member I interacted with radiated warmth and genuine hospitality, adding to the luxurious atmosphere. The entire experience felt like a dream—an escape into a world of beauty, kindness, and effortless elegance.

Staying at Palm Heights was a highlight—by far the nicest hotel I’ve ever experienced. The blend of impeccable service, breathtaking scenery, and thoughtfully curated design created a sense of calm and contentment I hadn’t realized I was craving. I didn’t want to leave.

Looking back at the photos and videos I captured with Marisa, I am overwhelmed with gratitude. These visuals beautifully encapsulate the magic of that weekend—bright, vibrant, and full of life. I am especially thankful to Marjon and Gabby for opening the doors to this incredible opportunity, allowing me to present my work to hotel guests and island friends alike.

Along with the unforgettable weekend in Grand Cayman, I’ve been fortunate to host pop-ups and events in some of the world’s most inspiring cities—New York, Los Angeles, Malibu, Paris, Mexico City, and Barcelona. Each location brings its own unique energy and audience, and I’m always eager to discover where my next adventure will take me.

Palm Heights in Grand Cayman exemplifies this beautifully. It’s a place where luxury meets authenticity, and every detail is crafted with love and intention. Hosting a pop-up there was more than just a business opportunity; it was a celebration of beauty, community, and the joy of discovery.

So, where should my next pop-up be?