Taylor Wilmore headshot

Taylor Wilmore

Reporter, Startland News

Taylor Wilmore, hailing from Lee’s Summit, is a dedicated reporter and a recent graduate of the University of Missouri, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Journalism. Taylor channels her deep-seated passion for writing and storytelling to create compelling narratives that shed light on the diverse residents of Kansas City.

Prior to her role at Startland News, Taylor made valuable contributions as a reporter for the Columbia Missourian newspaper, where she covered a wide range of community news and higher education stories.

Recent Stories by Taylor Wilmore

How a humble DIY upbringing sparked this streetwear designer’s minimalist aesthetic

Flaws are part of nature, says Clark Rooseveltte: Go forth and be creative (not normal) Clark Rooseveltte — already known across Kansas City as the man behind the mic (and the mixtape) — is inviting others into his world of creative living through Clvr World Goods and Supply, a lifestyle brand focused on streetwear and…

Matt Baysinger: Choir Bar revival is just one note in Swell Spark’s chorus of experiences planned for 2025

Developments from within Kansas City-based entertainment group Swell Spark are coming in a round this winter, said Matt Baysinger, starting with the crescendoing return of its Choir Bar group singalong experience after a five-year hiatus. “We want to create places where people can come together, relax, and try something a little different,” said Baysinger, whose…

Well Played, KC: How an overseas Chiefs game inspired designs that brought Lindsey Hall off the bench

Her apparel brand’s timeless style echoes Ralph Lauren’s aesthetic, with a KC twist Kansas City’s fashion scene has gained a new player in Well Played KC, a lifestyle brand blending classic Americana style with local pride. Founded by Lindsey Hall, the business is gaining momentum with versatile, throwback-that-doesn’t-feel-dated apparel that resonates with on-the-go Kansas Citians. …

This top maker got his start with a social push; but the real influencers behind the Craft E brand: his wife and family

Enrique Hernandez, the creative force behind Craft E. Embroidery, proved that dedication and creativity can transform a hobby into a thriving business — earning him the title of Made in KC’s top maker for 2024. “It hasn’t really settled in yet,” Hernandez said about winning the award in mid-December. “But it feels good.” ICYMI: Made…

Go BTS of a new KC-filmed reality TV series with the entrepreneurs who matched competitors with their style

ULAH founders get second chance to put their business (and Kansas City) on the national stage One of Kansas City’s best-known fashion duos — married entrepreneurs Joey Mendez and Buck Wimberly — recently stepped back into the fast-paced world of reality TV as stylists for a new series featuring another KC personality who commands screen…

Malisa Monyakula wants to welcome you home for the holidays; she already has an igloo waiting

Adding pop-up holiday experiences at her popular Kansas City businesses is a way for Malisa Monyakula to bring back nostalgic memories of her childhood in Thailand, the restaurateur behind Lulu’s Thai Noodle Shop said. “Christmas is everywhere in Thailand,” she said, noting the classic American holiday celebrations are vibrant despite the country’s predominantly Buddhist population….

Made in KC crowns first-ever ‘Maker of the Year’ (plus the local-first retailer’s best new product)

Kansas City’s thriving maker community received a festive boost this holiday season as Made in KC unveiled its first-ever Made in KC Awards — a celebration of creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.  The awards highlight more than a dozen standout makers and innovative products, with two big  winners — KC New Maker of the Year and…

This startup comes with baggage: How one entrepreneur zipped away a classic travel pain

Editor’s note: The following story was produced through a paid partnership with MOSourceLink, which boasts a mission to help entrepreneurs and small businesses across the state of Missouri grow and succeed by providing free, easy access to the help they need — when they need it. Amber Walderier’s entrepreneurial journey began with an unexpected inspiration:…

She came to Kansas seeing a land of opportunity; now her just-launched bookstore opens doors for Black creatives

Startland News’ Startup Road Trip series explores innovative and uncommon ideas finding success in rural America and Midwestern startup hubs outside the Kansas City metro.  WICHITA — Latasha N. Eley Kelly’s new storefront not only combines her love of books, education, and supporting local creatives, she said; Left on Read also serves as a unique community…

Quincy Lee’s imagination never stops working; thanks to a life-saving camera, neither does he

An introverted “creativepreneur,” Quincy Lee juggles video content creation, co-owning a digital marketing agency, designing his own apparel, and fatherhood — all while bringing bold ideas into focus. “I’ve always been an entrepreneur all my life,” Lee said, reflecting on the early days of his journey. “It started small, but it planted the seed for…