We had the good fortune of connecting with Taylor Roberts and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Taylor, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I have always found myself to be best expressive on paper, or through my writing. Since childhood, I had never felt that I was truly understood unless I wrote it out. As an adult, during one of my lowest points emotionally, I began to fiend for a creative outlet. I turned my mental struggles into short-story poetry. I began sharing my work on my instagram page, ToldByT in hopes of creating much needed conversation as well as inspiring others to be more comfortable in vocalizing their struggles and triumphs surrounding mental health. To my excitement, I have been continuously building a community of like-minded and engaged supporters. This support inspired me to turn my passion of creating, helping others, and connecting into a fulfilling career.
What should our readers know about your business?
In January 2020, I launched my clothing and merchandise brand, Season Of. The entire brand’s concept was created from a dream. I had been brainstorming ideas on how I could expand my community of readers and supporters of my writing page, ToldByT. At the time, I wanted to create something louder than a book. After a good night’s rest, I envisioned the idea of creating a clothing and merchandise brand surrounding the struggles and triumphs of mental health by way of my creative writing. Season Of was not only intended to showcase my creative work, but also as a collaborative brand for other artists, musicians, designers, athletes, etc. to use as a platform to display their positive messages as well. Being a descriptive speaker, learner and writer, Season Of’s concept was the best way to represent and self-advocate my journey.
What sets Season Of apart is the many layers the business entails. It begins with our mission of creating healthy and fearless conversation surrounding mental health, trauma healing, and mental illnesses. Each drop focuses on a different aspect of mental health, with a new color pallet each drop, and including a different segment from my creative writing displayed on pieces of clothing or merchandise. The creation of our clothing garments are all cut and sewn, and focused on sustainability. Our clothing garments are created outside of the United States, from an extremely reputable manufacturer. The materials are all locally sourced, thoroughly tested for the comfort and safety of every customer, as well as in support of small, foreign, businesses.
I am extremely proud of how the hard work and execution has brought my vision to life. The support surrounding my message and the amount of people who brag about the quality fuels me to keep going. I am proud that in under one year since launching, Season Of has had two successful drops and our first collaborative drop with the well-known, talented artist formerly known as WritingsFromMichael. I am excited to release and share a few others collaborative projects currently in the works. I am also pleased to announce that I am in the process of writing and soon-to-be publishing my first book comprised of unreleased, short-story poetry, ToldByT pieces.
Building a business on my own has been the furthest from easy, but I have been beyond blessed with continuous supporters from around the world. I would not have been where I am today (business-wise) without the endless inspiration found from some of my darkest days. I am a firm believer in there always being a light at the end of the tunnel and that challenges are made to be overcome. In saying that, every challenge faced thus far have turned out to be good lessons that evidently, turned into positive redirections.
A big lesson that I have learned along the way is to continue to stay organized, to create realistic deadlines/expectations, and to stay true to the vision created despite any negative chatter.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Being a Los Angeles native, I have been to almost every edge of this city. I love the beach, am a huge foodie and coming up on almost a year sober from alcohol. Needless to say, my itinerary for visitors usually ends up being a food with a view tour. Highlight Room atop the Dream Hotel in Hollywood, Yamashiro in Hollywood or Elephante in Santa Monica are great, rooftop vibes. Early hike in Malibu is always a must. A drive down PCH would be the best ocean views in LA. Griffith Observatory during the day is always my go-to for the clearest view of the Hollywood sign, and Beverly Hills for touristy photo opportunities. North Hollywood, Santa Monica, Hollywood, Silverlake, or Venice are usually the best areas for bar hopping depending on the visitor’s crowd preference. My restaurant recommendations are extremely picky, and depending on occasion or budget. Sushi or fresh seafood is definitely high on my list of suggestions for every visitor!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have quite a few people that I would like to thank. My late, maternal grandparents Elvira and Peter molded me and much of my early teachings. They had an incredible love story and were true examples of selflessness, humility, and hard work. My uncle and godfather, Savio, who has always believed in me and supported my dreams regardless of how big or small. My parents, Matt and Carmen for never allowing me to settle for mediocracy. My younger sister, Paige, for being my keeper during the absolute lowest time of my life, mentally and emotionally. My best friends, for always allowing me to bounce creative ideas off of them, and offering new perspectives. My cat, Asher Moon for being the best source of comfort and sitting by my side during every late night spent pouring into my book and brand. My dear friend, Gracie, for pushing me out of my comfort zone to publish my personal writings and for always reminding me of my talent being a source of inspiration for others. My past lovers and “situationships,” for being unknowing muses and allowing me insurmountable growth from each of their presence and absence. Last but certainly not least, the ever growing community of supporters who read my work, share it with others; and purchase the merchandise from my brand, Season Of.
Honorable mention: My talented, rockstar of a friend; Gianni Taylor who recommended me to ShoutOutLA.
Website: SeasonOfMerch.com
Instagram: ToldByT, SeasonOfMerch
Image Credits
Caleb Hwangbo