This spring I made my annual pilgrimage to NYC, one of my favorite places to be inspired by restaurants, design stores and fashion. On this particular trip, one of my adventures included a chance run-in with the Pope as I was trying to find Carrie Bradshaw’s Upper East Side address. This is what I love about NYC. Only here would I get cut off from worshipping at the stoop of a fictional character by the world’s most recognized religious figure.

This trip to NYC included meals at lots and lots of restaurants, including The Spotted Pig, L’Ecole at the French Culinary Institute, the famed Tavern on the Green, Mint, and the uber-cool Stanton Social which included a Gossip Girl sighting, , and the absolute standout of the bunch, Union Square Café. Pictures were snapped and ideas were jotted down. From new flavor combinations and hot cocktails to presentation and plating ideas, we were inspired. Visits to stores such as Zabar’s, Bloomindales, boutiques in the Village, a walk through Little Italy and a quick trip to MOMA gave us many new design inspirations for summer.

Since I like to visit new cities for inspiration, I often recommend that my One World brides and grooms do the same. Garner inspiration for your globally-inspired wedding by eating at restaurants that serve local, international and fusion cuisine. Visit ethnic shops or high-end design boutiques, museums and local attractions.

A weekend getaway to a new city, the place you will be holding your wedding or city that you love can be a wonderful experience as you plan your wedding. Dedicate time to visit new restaurants, (even if just for a drink and appetizer at the bar), boutiques, ethnic and cultural areas or simply wander with a camera and notebook on hand. A little inspiration goes a long way!

Photo credit: Oliver Malms