Today we’d like to introduce you to Morgan McGrath.
Hi Morgan, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
For years I had a dream of starting a business. Feeling stuck in my corporate job, I decided to take a personal sabbatical and travel to Australia for several months. While there, and as cliche as this may sound, I decided to do some “soul searching.” As my trip was coming to an end, I had a realization: I could go back to my job and feel unfulfilled every single day or I could make a change and pursue my desire to be an entrepreneur. I grew up in the fashion industry, as my parents were clothing manufacturers and my aunt was an accessories rep. I knew that my footsteps would follow in the same path but wasn’t sure exactly what that would entail. I’d always had a major attraction to jewelry – from my days at FIDM (a fashion school in Los Angeles) admiring ancient jewelry in my textbooks to saving every holiday and birthday check so that I could buy something at XIV Karats in Beverly Hills, I knew it was something I had an eye for. I came back from Australia feeling reinvigorated and determined to learn more about the jewelry industry, and in 2015 Taylor Morgan was born.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I would definitely be remiss if I did not mention that there have been many challenges when starting and maintaining a business! I was relatively young when I started Taylor Morgan and just had the attitude that everything would work out. I don’t think I was mentally prepared for all of the challenges I was about to face, but in hindsight the obstacles I have overcome have made me such a stronger businesswoman and person in general, so I am thankful for everything that has happened. I’ve gone into partnerships that weren’t right for my brand, I’ve signed contracts that were not beneficial to me and were tough to get out of and worst of all have run into major production issues at times, forcing me to cancel large orders; however, I view everything as a learning process. I live by the sentiment that everyone makes mistakes – it is a part of life – but as long as you learn from them and do not make the same mistake again, you have gained valuable knowledge and experience.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I found a need for jewelry that is affordable but does not compromise on quality; something that I could shower with every day but wouldn’t turn green or tarnish. Each collection is comprised of layering pieces set in 14k gold fill (usually with a copper base) and sterling silver. My goal for each season is to design on trend and dainty jewelry, focusing on necklaces, chokers and bracelets that are meant to be layered for a chic, everyday look.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I love Girlboss Radio podcast! It was hosted by Sophia Amoruso (founder of NastyGal) but is currently transitioning to a new host. Listening to the trials and tribulations of fellow female entrepreneurs is a total must for me because the road of a sole entrepreneur is often lonely and intimidating. When I’m listening to the inspiring stories of Clare Vivier to Emma Grede, I take a moment and think, “wow, so this thing that I’m experiencing right now in my business is totally normal!” More often than not, the business journey is very relatable amongst current startups. I love to read but haven’t really gotten into business books. One book that was life-changing for me and inspired my little sabbatical to Australia was The Alchemist, as it helped me to dig deep and think about my life’s purpose. I don’t use many business apps, but definitely couldn’t live without Slack!
Pricing:
- Necklaces range from $40-$110
- Bracelets range from $25-$80
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: shoptaylormorgan.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shoptaylormorgan/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shoptaylormorgan/
