Sometimes in life, things just align.
Who would’ve thought this opportunity with @theshelborne would align with the relaunch of @publicschoolnyc And who would’ve imagined that almost 20 years later, our evolution would still move in parallel?
To me, it’s bigger than coincidence — it’s alignment rooted in something much deeper.
The roots of Public School trace back to Miami and, more specifically, Arrive Miami — a store that helped shift how the city viewed fashion by not only bringing in designers that weren’t available here at the time, but also through a level of curation that distinctly defined the shift in culture.
I still remember being told by an editor at Ocean Drive that the store “wasn’t urban” or “streetwear.” To him, we may not have been, but to me, we were never meant to fit into one box. That would’ve never happened, and that same mentality helped shape everything that came next.
As Arrive helped influence and contribute to the evolution of fashion in Miami, and Public School helped reimagine retail floors and elevate streetwear, I now look forward to showing that nightlife can evolve as well. The options don’t have to be either a turn-up or overpriced, dull, and pretentious. An amazing dinner, great cocktails, and an incredible musical experience can be enough. There’s still a way to feel connected to culture and youthful energy without standing on couches and sparklers. Don’t get me wrong, I did my share, so it’s no shade… I’m just ready to move on, and there just aren’t enough viable options.
From elevated streetwear to luxury. From Miami Music Week chaos to vinyl DJs, live jazz, Michelin chefs, and refined cocktail service - always rooted in substance, culture, and community.
We sold out of the inaugural Public School x Little Torch Residency Collaboration T-shirt, but stay tuned for the next drop.
Stay tuned… and follow us @littletorchmiami
What sets anything apart is the ability to create meaningful experiences that serve a greater purpose.
My life’s work has been rooted in developing ideas and concepts that genuinely add value to culture and community, especially when it supports or inspires the next generation.
The Handoff Vinyl Residency at @littletorchmiami located @theshelborne is an extension of that mission. By pairing an established “Icon” (OG) with a “Rising Talent” (YG), the residency creates intentional space for connection, knowledge-sharing, and cultural preservation through vinyl and music.
One half of our inaugural pairing features @stretcharmstrong - DJ, producer, and cultural icon whose influence and contributions deserves both study and celebration. It’s an honor and privilege sir… and I look forward to continuing to support you and working with you.
Lastly: I truly believe this kind of multigenerational exchange is essential to fostering a lasting love for anything meaningful.
It’s way more interesting beneath the surface…
Sincerely,
Max Pierre
I played some records and got to share my music at @taquizatacos ' 12-year anniversary celebration. Seeing how hard work, dedication and passion can positively impact the community is truly inspiring. Happy to see so many different faces showing love for a local favorite. Glad I was able to show up and rep the Shelborne crew…
I’ve been pretty swamped, but I had to take a moment to say thank you to everyone who came out for the launch of Little Torch Vinyl & Cocktail Lounge at the Shelborne - and for the first Vinyl Residency with Miami’s own rising DJ Pressure Point alongside NYC legend DJ Stretch Armstrong. Even if you just showed love in the comments or sent a message, it really meant a lot.
There are times in life where you question your steps… even your vision. But the love and support I’ve felt through this has been real. It reminded me that the work I’ve been putting into the cultural scene here in Miami has truly meant something. I’m grateful, and honestly just humbled by it all.
Check out the Shelborne happenings to stay updated on what we’ve got going on. I’m usually around, so if you’re on the beach Thursday through Saturday, come through - grab dinner at Pauline. The lobby menu is solid, and the cocktail program is exactly where it needs to be.
We don’t go too late, but if you’re looking for a proper drink after dinner, you’ll probably find me at Little Torch - 9pm to around midnight - listening to some incredible vinyl sets.
And stay tuned… I’m about to start sharing some of the music I love (and own) on 45s. Thinking early evening vibes, maybe 7–9pm. I’ll keep you posted.
Thank you once again 🙏🏿
Yours truly
Max Pierre
I know I can be wordy, so I’ll try to keep this one short.
First - Thank you God. The road hasn’t been straight. Through the highs, the lows, and even the lonely moments… I’ve never truly been alone. Thank you for guiding me - and at times, carrying me.
I’ve always been driven by love - art, culture, friends, family and community. That foundation shaped everything. My work has never just been nightlife, hospitality, or ideas - it’s always been about culture and the people who move it.
So this next chapter feels aligned.
I’m proud to share I’ve joined The Shelborne (Proper Hotels), helping shape nightlife through a deeper cultural lens. Not as a trend. Not as a tactic. But as a real, ongoing commitment to something meaningful.
Honored to step into the role of Director of Nightlife & Culture.
Because nothing lasting in luxury exists without intention, community, and truth.
Authenticity isn’t something you imitate - and people know the difference.
This week, we begin…
Little Torch - a vinyl & cocktail lounge located at the NEW Shelborne by Proper
Launching alongside:
The Handoff Vinyl Residency
Stretch Armstrong (NYC)
Pressure Point (Miami)
w/ my brothers Maxwell Osborne & Dao-Yi Chow (Public School NY) helping shape the vision and curation. Look out for our limited run merch collaboration to be announced.
THURSDAY - Damon DeGraff
FRIDAY - Pressure Point
SATURDAY - Stretch Armstrong
Time: 9PM - 1AM
If you’re in town, come through. Have a drink. Be part of it.
And one thing - if we’re elevating the culture, we have to show up like it.
Get dressed. Step out.
We’re grown… although still young at heart.
With love and respect,
Yours truly…
Max Pierre
RSVP:
/happenings/
Aside from playing my 45's more often, I also want to ride my vintage Bianchi more. It’s not just decor for @littleriverculturalgarden , I really do ride it.
Fashion photographer COREEN SIMPSON decided she wanted to take a few pictures of me. All I can say is… I’m still kinda in shock, and obviously I need a print…. @artnoirco crew I may need y’all help on this.
What an amazing woman, truly an inspiring conversation.
My takeaway:
Do what you love and the money will come.
Join me FRIDAY Fed. 6th, 2026
9:30pm - 1:30am @harbourclubmiami
I miss getting dressed - so I’m creating a series where we do exactly that.
I miss vibing, talking while the music plays in the background, and yes… even a little two-step once in a while.
I want to hear good music. I don’t care how much you paid for the vinyl - just bring the right energy, good vibes, and a touch of nostalgia.
I want to share some of the music I love. I’m no music nerd or DJ for that matter, but I know what moves me… and I have a feeling it might move you too.
My hope is to curate a diverse room - creatives, professionals, multigenerational - all connected by the love of music and good energy. Miami needs something different. An alternative. A lounge. A bar. Good music. Beautiful and eclectic people. A refreshing ambiance.
Let’s build it together.
P.S. We had such an incredible time at the
De La Soul concert after party that I had to share a few photos from last time I was at the Harbor Club. That’s the energy we need… at least once a month. Pic by @worldredeye
Remember MISTER WOLFE at the Townhouse Hotel in the former Bond St. Lounge? Probably not… it was a summer Pop-Up. I really loved the concept and the branding… but honestly, that part doesn’t even matter.
What mattered most were the talented, passionate people I had the chance to work with. I was genuinely a fan of everyone involved and truly believed in them. The beautiful thing is that each of them went on to shine and do incredible things.
Shoutouts to @gavindmckenzie , @chefnunogrullon , @o_fishel , and my partner who disappeared to Ibiza for the summer, @erikyehezkel 😂. And I can’t forget @m___arellano —the woman who held me down through most of these crazy projects.
Thank you all 🙏🏿
Thank you all 🙏🏿
