Meet Taylor Materio | Director of Development

We had the good fortune of connecting with Taylor Materio and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Taylor, how do you think about risk?
I believe that taking risks is critical in your overall success in life. The key is knowing how to manage risk and your ability to engage in calculated or strategic risk. Of course, sometimes you just have to jump in, but knowing when a risk is worth the challenge it may present is the tricky part. This is why it is important to surround yourself with a team of advisors or mentors who believe in you and want you to be successful. Once you have found these individuals make sure to engage them! Ask their advice and talk through pros and cons of risky decisions you have been presented with. Find the confidence to trust in yourself, I have taken new jobs, purchased risky properties and gambled on risky marketing efforts, but never without a great consult with the people I trust in to help me find my way both professionally and personally. It has been challenging, but worth it every step of the way.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As the Director of Development for the Historical Society of Palm Beach County I have the pleasure of sustaining our mission to collect, preserve and share Palm Beach County’s vibrant history. As a native West Palm Beacher I find joy each day in knowing that I get to be a part of protecting our history. I have the opportunity to connect with incredible people in our community and learn more about our special, local history. One of my favorite parts of my job is being able to experience our vast Archival Collection that we are responsible for at the Historical Society, which holds more than 4 million images, artifacts, documents!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There is so much to LOVE about where I get to live, but here are a few of my personal favorites. My favorite restaurant in Palm Beach County is Table 26 Palm Beach! I love the ambiance, the food, the service and the cocktails! Make sure to say hi to owners, Eddie and Ozzie while you are there! In addition, to the Richard and Pat Johnson History Museum (always free to the public), I love Mounts Botanical Garden (a hidden gem) and of course any mom spends half their time at the Palm Beach Zoo (the flamingoes!). On Island, make sure to check out The Colony Hotel for trivia night (seriously so much fun!) and a few selfies…there is something iconicly Palm Beach around every corner.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, my incredible mom! She is a force and I have earned so much from her as a woman business-owner, community leader and now as a mother myself. Secondly, Sheila Crowley who was my first boss out of college and showed me what it meant to be a leader that genuinely believes in her team and her mission. Both of these women stood out in male dominated sectors and showed me the way with grace. Lastly, my husband who has loved me and lifted me up every step of the way. We have been at this life since we were just kids (literally met in elementary school!) and I am so grateful for his intellect, guidance and of course humor!

Website: www.pbchistory.org

Instagram: @pbchistory

Facebook: The Historical Society of Palm Beach County

Image Credits
Capehart Photography First photo of exterior of Courthouse/Museum – Hunter Dyess