Daily Inspiration: Meet Zoe Taylor

Today we’d like to introduce you to Zoe Taylor.

Hi Zoe, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today. 
After graduating from Barton College in 2016, I recently moved back to Wilson in July 2022. I realized there wasn’t a bookstore nearby and decided to start a Facebook group with my own collection of books and see how it went. The group became extremely popular thanks to a local Wilson Community page on Facebook. I was working the store out of my dining room, and then it grew into my second bedroom. About 8 months after “opening my store” on Facebook, I was fortunate enough to get a storefront in Historic Downtown Wilson! 

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?
Overall, it has been easygoing. Owning the bookstore is my third job, so I consider it more of a hobby rather than work. Starting online really allowed me to save and get a solid game plan for a storefront. The community has been extremely helpful and generous, along with my parents who have “invested in their retirement” as they like to say to help me open sooner. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Full-time, I work with Senior Centers in Johnston County and oversee their State Certifications. I have been working in this field for roughly 7 years. Part-time, I am a 911 dispatcher for Raleigh-Wake County. I like to stay busy! With the risk of sounding too concieded, I am most proud of myself for being able to balance my work and social life, all while growing my business. It has taken a lot of work, but it has always been a dream of mine. 

What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love the diversity Raleigh has, but as far as Wilson, I love how supportive the community is. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.thenovelnestbookstore.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenovelnestbookstore?fbclid=IwAR3RtH3FxO8QTSg74rZD46cB9mDiWGazP1dMYVjSZSyQrK7yqMDVMESEnF0
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089859639534
• Other: https://linktr.ee/thenovelnestbookstore