Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dee Dee Taylor. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Dee Dee, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

I was a paralegal for 20 years. I took a huge risk getting into the Hemp and CBD business in 2016. It wasn’t even truly legal at the time. But it was worth it. I love what I do now. Lots of trials and tribulations, but worth it.

Dee Dee, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I was born in Middletown, Ohio, graduated from Lebanon High School and attended The College of Mount St. Joseph. I obtained my Bachelor of Arts in Paralegal Studies and had an exemplary career in Ohio and Kentucky as a paralegal/office manager. I became a permanent resident to Middletown, Kentucky in 2010 to be with my now husband, John Taylor and his daughter (now my daughter, as well). My family jokes about leaving Middletown, only to be living in Middletown.

My husband, John, suffers from Grand Mal seizures. No explanation as to why and he wasn’t born with them. 2010 was the height of his debilitating episodes. After a horrific episode, I urged him to find a natural alternative. The pharmaceutical drugs were not working and the side effects were horrible. My husband traveled out west and learned about CBD oils and began to use the products. His seizures immediately stopped and he went 5 years seizure free. He has only had 9 seizures in 13 years. He started making his medication at home and then in 2014 when Kentucky started their Hemp Pilot program, John and his partner were one of the first to be licensed as a hemp processor. They have been in business ever since making quality, safe products with Kentucky Hemp.

I began taking the oil for my debilitating anxiety and panic attacks in 2016 and noticed an overall improved quality of life. After learning how this product was able to help me and others, I decided to switch career paths to focus full time on the hemp business and helping others. I started setting up a booth at fairs and festivals around town as KY Beauty and Wellness. I didn’t set out to be in the alternative medicine field, but have found my calling and passion. I truly love to learn about new advances in hemp and love to help others find relief through quality products. I also partner with other local companies to formulate other quality items using John’s extracts.
I own 502 Hemp Wellness Center, Louisville’s premier hemp boutique and recently opened 812 Hemp in Clarksville, IN. I am excited to grow into Southern Indiana and offer my expertise to the local community with safe, quality, reliable products.

Have you ever had to pivot?

In 2021, The Kentucky Department of Agriculture issued a guidance letter that said Delta 8 THC was illegal and license holders could lose their license and retailers could face criminal charges. In June stores were raided so in July I was part of a lawsuit against the department and the Kentucky State Police to stop the overreach due to the fact that there was no law that made Delta 8 illegal. I lead the campaign funding to pay for the attorney’s fees. We ultimately won, but had to fight possible bans by the legislatures in two separate sessions. Finally this year we had common sense regulations imposed and now have a law in place that says Delta 8 is legal. While I was in business as a retailer, I had to pivot to being a paralegal once again and stand up for what was right.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Quality. Integrity. Knowledge. I have built my brand and stores around this. Honesty in all we do. It is so important, plus providing safe quality products is so important.   

Contact Info:

• Website: www.502hemp.com
• Instagram: @502hemp
• Facebook: 502 Hemp Wellness Center
• Linkedin: Dee Dee Taylor
• Twitter: @502hemp
• Youtube: Hempin’ Happiness

Image Credits
Today’s Woman