Meet Keith Taylor! I had the pleasure of sitting down with Keith at Barista Alley Coffee to learn more about him and his business. Keith and his wife own Kre8ivgifts which offers embroidery and screen printing services. He moved here in 2007 and has been an active member of the Greer community with involvement in the Lions club, Greer chamber, Greer leadership and meals on wheels. Keith retired from the Navy in 2008 after serving 30 years. He primarily worked in Human Resources but was also the Command Master Chief for the U.S.S. Samual B. Roberts. We are proud to have him#hereinGreer!
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
A: I am married and my wife and I just celebrated our 41st year wedding anniversary! I have a daughter who is married to a Hawaiian native and lives in Hawaii with her two sons and daughter and I have a son who has a son and they live with me.
Q: Please tell us about your current career. What do you love most about what you do?
A: I started my business in 2015 and love the freedom of owning my own business although I have a lot of bosses. I enjoy managing my time and love helping people especially the work we do with non-profit organizations. We are able to reduce costs and help people to get things they didn’t think they could get. We are able to do some local stuff right in the shop and other jobs we contract out.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
A: The Strip Club, Great Bay Oyster, Bleu Ridge Brewery and Tipsy Taco
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
A: James Carter. He owns Empire Studio on Trade Street. I met him at the Greer Chamber. When I was new to the town, he took the time one day to walk me downtown Greer and introduce me to every business owner. He is a genuine person!
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the work right now, where would it be and why?
A: Curacao. Being in the navy, I’ve seen a lot of places. This tropical island is so full of life and the people are warm. They speak many languages and are friendly.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies?
A: My Cousin Vinny– this movie is so funny and makes me laugh every time even though I know all the words.
Q: What advise would you give to people?
A: Be kind. Love first and always do the right thing.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
A: I want to see all my grandchildren graduate from high school.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
A: I’m a blues and classic rock fan. I like J.J. Grey. The first time I heard them was at the Handlebar. They can be upbeat or mellow.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
A: The Davenport and Grace Hall embrace the traditions of Greer. They have a great atmosphere! I give credit to the Mayor and Greer Chamber for doing a great job developing the town.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
A: I would like to have lunch with the President of the United States, whoever that is. I have a lot of questions that I would like to ask. I would take the President to Tipsy Taco.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
A: The people in Greer are genuine and welcoming. I listened to my friend, Bill Roughton, and joined the chamber which was helpful to get to know people and to help establish relationships.
Q: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
A: I own two guitars and can’t play either of them (LOL) but the entertainment value is to laugh. I enjoy writing songs.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
A: Hawaii
Q: Favorite month? Favorite holiday? and Best single day on the calendar?
A: My favorite month is July/ August because I love the hot weather. Veteran’s Day to honor those who served and my single favorite day is August 2nd, my wedding anniversary.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
A: My wife and dad. My dad always mentored me, especially as I got older.
Q: Finally, what three words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
A: Family, Peace and Love
