NYC Weekend Recap: Fashionista Con And More

I spent the most fantastic five days in New York where I did a number of different things from attending Fashionista's annual conference to celebrating family birthdays. I don't know if it was the crisp fall air in Central Park or the hustle and bustle of Times Square, but somehow I left the city adoring it even more than I had before.

I am enthralled by the endless opportunities available for those who are willing to seek them out. I kicked off my city jaunt with a day of networking at Fashionista Con: How To Make It In Fashion. This day long conference offers attendees the chance to engage in meaningful conversations with the fashion industry's finest from clothing designers, style editors, publicists and more. It felt amazing to place my resume and business card directly into the hands of these incredible talents.

I sat front row listening to people like Bobbi Brown, Marissa Webb and Jonathan Simkhai to name a few, listening closely to every word they had to say about making it big in the fashion industry. The underlying message and biggest takeaway was to be passionate about what you choose to do in life. All of the speakers made a big impact and I was thrilled to hear career advice directly from them.

In addition to hearing the keynote speakers and having panel discussions, I had a mentoring session with Olivia Carrino, a public relations maven who has worked for Vogue and now serves as the US Public Relations Manager for MiH Jeans. We had a candid conversation about college, careers and what it means to be successful. She gave me priceless advice that I have permanently ingrained in my mind. This was a major highlight of the conference.

After a day of learning, networking and connecting with Fashionista, I enjoyed an evening of culinary delight at The Daisy, a new fusion joint on the Upper East Side. If you’re in the area, I recommend ordering the Kobe beef burger topped with pickled pork belly and cloth-aged cheddar cheese. It pairs well with The Scorcher cocktail that is a staple on their menu. You’re welcome.

The food scene in New York is out of control in the best way possible. One of my all time favorite places to grab a treat in the city is at Momofuku Milk Bar. This weekend I enjoyed one of their classic birthday cakes that have made them so famous. If you haven’t tried a Milk Bar treat, I suggest you go online ASAP and order a few. You will not regret it.

I walked off my night in food paradise the next morning in Central Park after visiting the Neue Gallery. Nothing beats fall in New York, and the vibrant orange and yellow leaves on the massive trees in the park captivated me as I strolled for hours. I could have stayed there all day!

Luckily, I had my complete dose of fall realness to carry me into another night of food and fun, this time at Chef Marc Murphy’s restaurant – The Kingside and his rooftop bar at The Viceroy Hotel in Midtown. SWOON. The view, the cocktails and the company all combined for a fantastic night. I had a delicious duck Bolognese dish that you absolutely must try should you visit this restaurant. You will not be disappointed!

As you can probably tell, I am enthralled with the city. It is exhilarating to be in a rush stumbling into the subway doors knowing that a few million of my closest friends are doing the very same thing. Everyone wears black and no one is afraid to make things happen. Outsiders speculate about New York, assuming it is a dangerous and treacherous place. That couldn’t be further from the truth.

The people who criticize New York having never visited are the ones who are too scared to ever leave their comfort zone. Time after time New Yorkers welcome me with open arms – from the doormen to the sales clerks to the taxi drivers. I feel at home when I am in the city, and as someone who is a bit of a nomad I don’t take this feeling lightly.

This weekend was full of work, play, celebration and relaxation. I experienced the very best things the city has to offer. As I gear up for a strenuous week of college classes, I can’t help but plan my next excursion to the city. Here’s to you, New York. Thank you for everything.