Tam Taylor Interview

Our interview with successful ice cream shops business owner Tam Taylor who can be seen on TLC’s “Behind Closed Doors.” show.

“Behind Closed Doors” will take you to experience the American family, unfiltered like you’ve never seen it before. Three families from across the country allow remote-controlled cameras into their homes and viewers into their lives for a revolutionary series that reveals an intimate and uncompromising look into their daily lives. Each at a crossroads in their relationship, this authentic look captures the tension, fights, and love that every family endures.

Hi Tam please tell us a little about yourself?

I like to think of myself as a good-time girl who doesn’t take herself too seriously. Being from the south, I love big hair, big personalities, and some good ole down home cooking. I’ve always been told that I’m a walking contradiction. On one side, I look like the stereotypical big blonde with zero ambition and even less to say. When in reality, I am an incredibly driven and passionate business owner. I have worked hard in my life and I am at an age where I am ready to have fun and act a fool, which is what I think garnered the attention of reality TV producers. When you think advocate and successful business owner, I’m not exactly the first image that pops into your head. And I love that! I am all about breaking down stereotypes. At the end of the day, I am a daughter, a sister, an aunt and a big goofy blonde who’s just looking for my happiness in a world full of crazy.

Describe yourself in 3 words?

Big, Blonde and Bold

Who is your biggest supporter?

My mom. She has always been there for me right or wrong through thick and thin. She is an amazing woman.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up bouncing between Panama City Beach and Ft. Walton Beach, Florida and Phenix City, Alabama.

How’s a typical day in your life?

I would say I spend most of my day at my ice cream store working on making it the best it can be. I try to hit the gym as much as possible, but emails, social media, online shopping and getting my hair under control usually forces any chance of cardio to the backburner. When it comes to the weekend, I am a firm believer in enjoying life, so I like to get a little crazy. Lots of shots, dancing, and fun!

How did you got selected for the show?

I’ve always been told that I have a personality made for reality TV. So when I saw a casting notice online to be a part of an innovative new reality show, I instantly felt this pull to apply. I filled out the application and sent my picture in. Almost immediately afterward, I was contacted and told that they were interested. After Skyping several times and speaking with the producers I got a phone call and was told that everyone in the production company and TLC LOVED my energy and refreshing honesty. It was incredibly exciting and humbling all at the same time.

How has your life changed after the “Behind Closed Doors” TV Show?

Seeing your life on TV is crazy. You instantly become super aware of who you are as a person. It has changed the way I view myself, the way I make decisions and the way I choose to live. It’s also helped with my confidence. The viewers really showed me that it’s okay not to be perfect. It’s given me a voice and a platform to try and help others going through similar scenarios. It’s also led to some really important and powerful conversations with new and old friends.

Do you guys have a script on what to do or say?

There was no script and no direction. I was just told to be me and live my normal life. There was also no hair and no makeup person, even though after seeing the footage, I wish there had been. Lol.

Can you share something funny that’s happened to you while filming?

I made great friends with the crew. They were some talented, patient people. There were cameras in the house 24/7 so I didn’t pee for three days at home!! In some unaired footage, I had a huge pink flamingo float that the crew bought me. They were all by the pool and I thought I would jump on and give it a try. I had on a short dress and I figured, what the heck, it can get wet. As I was climbing onto the flamingo I slipped and fell backward. My legs went up and I suddenly became very aware that I wasn’t wearing any panties. In other words, I flashed my business to the entire crew!

Any advice to other people thinking on share their lives on TV?

Think long and hard about it. It all seems great and most of it is but remember what you say is recorded and you cant take it back. You also need some really thick skin..people on the internet are always going to have something negative to say. To that, I always say I never did mind about the little things and remember you cant hide anything. ALL your skeletons will be dragged out of the closet…but if you’re an open book like I am, I say DO IT!

What do you think makes a woman beautiful and why?

It may be cliche, but beauty comes from within. Compassion, kindness, openmindedness, those are what makes a person attractive. All women are beautiful in their own way and I’m
on a mission to make sure all women know that..and that all women are worthy of real love.

What would say are the greatest lessons you learned so far?

Self-acceptance. I learned I can just be me and that it’s enough.
I can be an overstuffed barbie and it’s ok. I can eat dessert and it’s not the end of the world! I’m learning to love me and that lesson is the greatest love of all.

Who are your favorite designers?

Since I live at the beach I adore Ashley Alexiss’ swimwear, not to mention her sexy lingerie. Being a bigger girl I can always find something to wear from her collections. I can always count on Christian Louboutin to make my shoe dreams come true! Christian Siriano is a favorite of mine. His lines look good on my body. Diane Von Furstenberg has saved my life on several occasions with her wrap dresses and last but not least Betsey Johnson with her fun youthful styles. I have to mention stylist Patricia Fields who opened my eyes to fashion back in the late 90s when I walked into her NYC store. I never wanted to leave.

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

I see myself on television in a reality show that really entertains people, while sharing my life with the world as my message of female empowerment goes global. I see my ice cream store continuing to prosper and maybe a happily ever after with the man of my dreams. He’s out there somewhere.

What was the last book you read?

This is going to sound bad. I listen to a lot of audiobooks while I’m traveling, at the gym or on the beach. The last book I actually sat down and read was “Eat, Pray, Love.” And not only did I read it, but I LIVED it after a really bad break-up. I traveled internationally, found myself, ate really good food and tried my hand at spiritual enlightenment. I’m still working on that one!

What would be the dream holiday, and who would you go with?

That would have to be a Roman Holiday, of course. Then over to Greece for a few days. I would love to go with my mom. She has never been out of the country and it would so great to see these places through her eyes.

What do you do in your free time?

Free time?? What’s that?? Haha. When I do have free time I enjoy the beach and spending time with my mom and nieces. I also help rescue animals find homes when I have time. That really makes me happy.

Who is your celebrity crush?

Channing Tatum is my celebrity crush, but I have to say I also have a HUGE lady crush on Erika Jayne from Beverly Hills Housewives. Her life is goals. Smart, powerful, and beautiful!

What do you like to watch on TV?

“Behind Closed Doors: The American Family,” of course! When I’m not watching that Lee Daniels “Star” and “Empire” are ALWAYS on my list. Ryan Murphy’s shows “American Horror Story” and “Feud” entertain the mess outta me. I can’t wait until his show about the death of Versace comes out. And I’ve been with Andy Cohen from day one with “The Real Housewives of the O.C.” Now I watch ALL the Housewives. I’m a crazy Real Housewives SUPER FAN!

Do you support any charities?

I support the local animal shelter, the ASPCA (ASPCA.org) and the Humane Society. I love animals.

Your idea of a perfect Sunday is?

My perfect Sunday is waking up late, cuddling up in my chilly bedroom under big white comforters and piles of pillows. Ordering a large pepperoni pizza, drinking wine and catching up on all of my TV shows.

What do you think of Social Media?

I LOVE social media! It’s a great way to connect with people from all over the world. I use it keep up with my friends and family and make new friends.

Where we can follow you?

thetamtaylor.com
Facebook.com/thetamtaylor
Twitter @thetamtaylor
IG thetamtaylor

Quote: “Love is Blonde”

Drink: Vodka Martini and Fireball! I’m always a good time.

Travel Destination: Domestically, Orlando, Florida. I really enjoy Universal Studios – the rides are awesome! Internationally: The Eternal City, Rome. The food and nightlife are amazing.

Music: ANYTHING 80s. Some of my favs are Taylor Dane, Boy George, Lita Ford,Spandux Ballet, Tiffany, Debbie Gibson, Joan Jett,Duran Duran,Billy Idol, Blondie, U2, Madonna, Pat Benatar, The Police.