We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Adanna Taylor . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Adanna below.

Alright, Adanna thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about the things you feel your parents did right and how those things have impacted your career and life.

My creative path has been so much more fulfilling because of the unwavering support of my parents. They recognized my passion early on and trusted my desire to pursue something beyond traditional academics. My mother is truly my #1 supporter besides my sisters LOL, she encouraged my hands-on creativity fully, allowing me to explore sewing and fashion design. This support extended to starting my own business – from enrolling in comprehensive sewing courses to taking the leap and leaving my full-time job to fully invest in it.

There was a turning point in secondary school when I wasn’t excelling academically for a particular year. My mother, showing incredible faith in me, even asked if I wanted to explore a trade school instead. While I chose to stay in school, her belief in my ability to find success through a hands-on career truly ignited a fire within me to push myself further.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Fashion wasn’t always my path, but a twist of fate in a sewing class at YTEPP 18 years ago sparked a passion I never knew existed. Originally enrolled in a computer program, a full class landed me in sewing , a happy accident that turned into my life’s work. Fashion had always called to me, but it wasn’t seen as a “serious” career. Yet, after mastering sewing skills, I was finally able to bring the designs in my head to life.

As a fashion designer, I don’t just create beautiful resort wear; I empower women. My meticulously crafted, handmade pieces celebrate women of all shapes and sizes. They address a common Caribbean struggle: finding clothes that flatter your figure and fit perfectly.

But my passion goes beyond design. Through my sewing school as a sewing educator, I empower others to express themselves and build self-sufficiency. Students learn this valuable skill, enabling them to create their own clothing, make alterations, and ultimately become self-reliant.

What sets me apart? Genuine connections. Building strong relationships with my customers is a priority. I ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met. My team thrives in a supportive environment, where we share a passion for empowering women through fashion.

My story is a testament to embracing the unexpected. It’s not just about creating clothes; it’s about building confidence, fostering self-sufficiency, and inspiring the inner designer in everyone.

Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.

After mastering sewing, I honed my skills with the help of my trusty (and patient!) sisters and friends. This passion project soon blossomed into a side hustle in 2013. Back then, I was juggling sewing with a full-time public service job to fund my education. Imagine me in my tiny 2-room apartment, standing over a second-hand sewing machine perched precariously on a makeshift table (aka my washing machine!).

In 2016, motherhood changed everything. With the arrival of my son, I decided to take the plunge and devote myself fully to my business. It was a decision fueled by passion and a desire to build something truly my own.

As my family grew and my business thrived, I was now living in a larger space allowing me to now have an additional room dedicated for my studio. In 2019, I launched my sewing school in that space, with one student per class. I eventually made the decision as the business grew from one student per class to more, to finally separate work and personal life. So I ventured out and got a dedicated commercial space. This wasn’t the final chapter – it was just the beginning of a new one! Today, we have two thriving locations – Woodbrook, Port of Spain, and Couva – housing both my clothing line and sewing school.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Sewing isn’t just a skill, it’s a transformative experience. Witnessing the personal growth fostered by creativity is what truly fuels my passion. I want to share this magic with others, empowering them to discover their own creative journeys, not necessarily like mine, but unique and liberating.

Growing up, creative pursuits weren’t readily encouraged. Now, I’m determined to create an inclusive space where those, like myself, who lacked initial support can explore their creative potential. Building a remarkable team of creative women within my company is also key. They share my vision for the transformative power of sewing and possess a deep desire to serve others and share their expertise.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.taylormltd.com & www.taylormacademy.com
• Instagram: @adannataylor , @taylormltd & @taylormacademy
• Facebook: Taylor M & Taylor M Academy

Image Credits

Millennial Studios for the studio images & an in house content creator for the others.