When celebrities such as Catherine Zeta-Jones, Donna Karan and Oprah Winfrey are planning a bash, there is one person on their speed-dial: Preston Bailey. This is the man that Donald Trump and Melanie Knauss chose to plan their January 2005 Palm Beach wedding. Bailey's design style is extravagant, over-the-top and magical. He's also a consummate traveler, zipping between his home base in New York, to Saudi Arabia and LA for his clients, as well as his own inspiration.

What is the last place you visited for a vacation?

Egypt. I loved loved loved it. I visited all the temples and pyramids. It was such a life changing experience. And it was an absolute joke how much I brought back. I bought great plates, mats, jewelry and glasses in the market.

How is your design style influenced by your travels?

Whenever I feel stagnated or stuck, I go on the road. For me it's a matter of filling up the well. It's so inspiring to see a different point of view. India and Bali are always standouts, and in January I'm heading off to Thailand.

Describe your perfect shopping day in NY.

I would start in Soho. There are always great new shops there. I love the Prada store. Whenever I am feeling lazy I always had to Saks. They have a great menswear department. It's not stuffy anymore.

Best place for breakfast in NY?

Coffee Shop in Union Square.

Best place for a stylish lunch in NY?

Five Points on Great Jones does the best lunches. I absolutely love 11 Madison Park. I usually take my clients there or have business lunches there. I also like Alto.

What items do you have to have when you travel?

I always travel with two empty duffel bags for all of my shopping.

What is your favorite item that you have brought back from abroad?

When I was in Florence I found these amazing glasses from a little shop in the middle of nowhere. I bought 30 of them.

What is your favorite shopping city in the world?

Paris. I hate to be such a cliché but its true. It's the best city to shop in, not just for the clothes but for furniture, food, and home accessories.

Which hotels do you feel get the design right?

The Mandarin Oriental gets it. I like the clean lines and the presentation of the food. I also like the Four Seasons.

Is there an item that you always buy from your favorite city?

I always shop for clothes in Paris. I find that the clothes are usually six months ahead of what you'll see in New York. I usually go to Prada or Armani there.

Best bargain snapped up when traveling?

I hate to say it but I'm not much of a bargain shopper. If I find something I like I will buy it. I did end up finding these wonderful plates in Florence once that cost about $2.50 each.

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