Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaitlyn Hoy.
Hi Kaitlyn, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey into the world of polymer clay started during a time of immense uncertainty in 2020. I had recently been laid off from the job that brought me to Florida, and with the pandemic in full swing, I craved a creative outlet to keep my mind at ease. As an event planner by trade, being told to stay home—a challenge for someone who plans basically everything—made me desperate to let my creative mind run wild.
I’ve always loved crafts and earrings, so after countless hours of YouTube videos, Pinterest scrolling, and trips to Michael’s, Tampa Bay Clay was born. Now, I pour my heart and soul into crafting small-batch, one-of-a-kind earrings, bringing a touch of wearable art to your everyday style.
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?
It’s been a road with curves, not always a smooth one, but I wouldn’t trade the experience. I think the answer really depends on how you define growth. I’ve definitely had some tough lessons along the way, but those challenges have always led to incredible “aha” moments. More importantly, this side hustle, which has turned into a small business, has allowed me to meet some of the most amazing people.
My biggest struggle—the one that really tested my resilience—happened on my birthday in 2023 when my first business Instagram account was hacked.
That experience broke my heart, but not for the reason people might expect. I knew I could re-build the page and the follower count; that was just digital work. The true loss was the human connection: I lost tons of valuable messages with customers, connections with loyal followers, and all the original content that chronicled my journey.
Losing that history was painful, but it forced me to step back, re-evaluate my branding, and focus even more on direct communication with my customers. It was a tough lesson in digital security, but it ultimately taught me that the real value of my business isn’t the social media platform—it’s the genuine relationships I build with the people I meet because of this small business.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At Tampa Bay Clay, I specialize in crafting polymer clay and resin earrings. While I certainly could branch out, earrings have always been my favorite accessory—they’re the perfect, instant mood-booster. My simple focus is on making earrings that I am truly proud of and that I would happily wear myself.
What truly sets Tampa Bay Clay apart is that we are the opposite of a big-box brand. I create small-batch, one-of-a-kind wearable art. I’ve had that major vibe-killer moment of showing up to an event and finding someone else in the exact same outfit! I want my customers to never have that worry. The vast majority of the earrings I make are created only once, guaranteeing you’re the only person rocking that exact pair. Even in my signature collections, like the College Collection arches, every single pattern is different—no two pairs are ever the same.
While I love being the maker, I also love planning and hosting events, so it was only natural for me to combine my passions. I have started to expand my offerings into teaching clay classes and hosting pop-up events for my “build-your-own-earring” bar. The energy is just so different and wonderful when you are around people who are learning a new skill and making something they can’t wait to wear or gift to someone else. It allows me to use my creative energy both in crafting the art and hosting a memorable, hands-on experience.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Where I See the Industry Going (Keeping it Real)
Honestly, it’s a total mixed bag. On the not-so-fun side, the cost of shipping and materials is constantly doing the absolute most—it’s always going up! That means my prices have to reflect the true value of handmade work, which will always be pricier than those mass-produced accessories.
But here’s the exciting part—the big shift that benefits us all: I see consumers completely overhauling their style philosophy. They are officially getting burned out on fast fashion and that disposable mindset. They want pieces with personality, not something everyone else has. The future is all about saying “bye” to the same-old and saying “hello” to one-of-a-kind.
The fact that Tampa Bay Clay focuses on small-batch, unique earrings means we’re perfectly positioned for this change. People are willing to invest in pieces that truly feel special and reflective of their vibe, and that’s exactly what I’m here to create!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tampabayclay.com
- Instagram: tampabayclay_
Image Credits
Amanda Cureton with CreativeThinking4U
Jess Veguez Photography
