When did you decide you wanted to be a designer?
When I realized that finance wasn't for me, I really did a lot of soul searching and thought long and hard about my dreams!

If you didn't become a designer, what would you be?
Such a tough question – all I think about is design and fashion so I don't really think about doing anything else. I am so incredibly happy with my career that I couldn't imaging doing anything else.

Who/what has shaped your designs the most over the years?
The New York woman. She's strong, sexy, sophisticated and unafraid to take risks. Walking the streets is so incredibly inspiring and I am constantly in front of great inspirational people.

How would you describe your style?
The Jay Godfrey woman is modern, sexy and clean.

What is the one rule or value you try to instill in all of your staff?
Have fun. Life is too short and if you don't love what you are doing, you are in the wrong business!

What is your least favorite food?
Anything with dill! YUCK.

What is your beverage of choice?
It truly depends on what I am eating. But my go to is a Grey Goose on the rocks with a lime. When having a red sauce Italian blowout, I love a big, toasty Sangiovese. When I'm having Japanase, I am in for refreshing Gewurztraminers with a little bit a spice.

Where is your favorite place to eat?
So difficult to answer. These days I am loving Michael White's Convivio and Marea. Also, I am loving Minetta Tavern.

Which foreign country inspires your style most?
I don't get inspired by countries. I get inspired by people and things :).

What was the most spectacular meal you have ever had?
The night I proposed to my wife, we had the most extraordinary tasting menu at Per Se.

What do you eat when you are home?
My wife and I go out to eat A LOT so when at home, we do our best to eat as clean as possible, especially since my wife's a nutritionist. Often, it will be simple and healthy dishes like grilled fish or chicken and some asparagus or okra.