Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Taylor Emery Eck. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Taylor , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
One of the most meaningful projects I’ve been part of was with a couple who included my mugs in several major milestones in their life together. It started when one of them commissioned a custom mug that said “Will You Marry Me?” to propose. Later, they used my mugs at their wedding, and a few years after that they announced their baby by gifting family members mugs with their new titles—like Grandma and Grandpa. Being a small part of that whole journey, from proposal to growing their family, was really special to me. Moments like that remind me that something handmade can become part of people’s biggest memories.
Taylor , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I’m the maker behind ClayByTay, a small handmade ceramics business focused on creating functional pieces that make everyday moments feel a little more special. I first got into ceramics in college through a ceramics class, where I fell in love with the process of working with clay and creating pieces that are both beautiful and useful.
What started as a creative outlet gradually turned into a business when I began selling my work at a local farmers market. From there, a local gallery picked up my pieces, and the support from the community helped ClayByTay grow into what it is today.
My work focuses on handmade ceramics—especially mugs and small kitchen pieces—with a mix of personalized designs, pop culture themes, and imagery inspired by St. Louis. Many customers come to me when they want something more meaningful than a mass-produced item, whether that’s a personalized gift or a piece that reflects their interests or connection to the city.
What I’m most proud of is the community that has grown around the brand. I love knowing that something I made by hand becomes part of someone’s daily routine or a gift tied to an important moment in their life.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
One of the biggest ways people can support artists and creatives is by intentionally supporting handmade and local work. When someone chooses to buy from an artist, visit a market, or share a small business with friends, it really does make a difference.
Creative communities thrive when artists have opportunities to connect with people—whether that’s through local markets, galleries, or community events. Those spaces give artists a way to share their work and build relationships with the people who enjoy it.
I’ve been really fortunate to grow ClayByTay through those kinds of community spaces, and it’s a great reminder that when people support local artists, they’re also helping keep creativity and craftsmanship alive in their community.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
One of the most rewarding parts of being an artist is the flexibility it’s given me in my life. It’s allowed me to stay home with my son while also running a business that I care deeply about. I also love being able to connect with my community through my work, whether that’s meeting people at markets or creating pieces that reflect shared interests and local pride.
Being my own boss while having a creative outlet has been incredibly fulfilling. It’s really special to build something that supports my family while also doing work that I genuinely enjoy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.claybytay.com
- Instagram: @claybytay
- Facebook: ClayByTay
