Hancock Co., Miss. Apr. 22, 2021 – In honor of its 95th birthday, the Hancock Chamber of Commerce is offering a 95-day trial membership throughout 2021. The first one to sign up was Ernest Taylor, owner of Taylor Made Creation, LLC., which makes custom cutting boards, cheese slicers, charcuterie boards, etc. Taylor Made Creation’s trial membership came full circle recently, as they officially became the first to transition off the 95-day trial into full Chamber membership and the first to host a ribbon cutting for their business.
The ribbon cutting was held at Midtown Pharmacy & Gifts, the only retailer in Bay St. Louis to carry the product line. Surrounded by family, friends and business associates, Taylor proudly shared his story and thanked everyone for supporting him in his new business venture, which he started during quarantine in 2020. Most memorable, though, was Taylor’s personal story and connection to his craft.
“Growing up, my mother couldn’t afford to have my name put on my jersey, so my wood shop teacher showed me how to make a cutting board. That cutting board was sold to my coach to pay for the jersey,” he shared.
He went on to say that he felt compelled to pick the craft back up, and made a board to give someone as a housewarming gift. The lucky recipient refused it, insisting that he would only take it if he could compensate Taylor for his time and the beautiful craftsmanship. Having someone demonstrate that kind of appreciation for the product and seeing how much pleasure his family took in watching him doing something he enjoys gave him the courage to step out in faith and start selling the boards. Reaching out to the Hancock Chamber was one of the first steps he took on the path to growing his business.
“We had just launched the Voice of Business Studio and the 95 Day Trial when Ernest approached us about both,” said Tish Williams, Executive Director. “We were so happy to have him join us as our first studio guest, and overwhelmed at the response we saw after that first video. He has earned every bit of his success and we love knowing that his products are now available at the finest retailers all along the Coast.”
An invitation to take advantage of the 95 Day Trial Membership is currently being sent to all Hancock County businesses registered with the Tax Assessor’s Office. Anyone who does business in Hancock County and would find value in reaching other Chamber members here is welcome and encouraged to register. Nonprofits, government agencies and individuals are also welcome to participate in the trial. All who sign up will be able to enjoy full membership benefits with two exceptions – they have to transition to full membership to host a ribbon cutting and/or vote in elections. To sign up, contact Membership Services Manager Jessica Bilotta at 228-467-9048 or jessica@hancockchamber.org.
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