Shop Local: Paper & Clay
Memphis is overflowing with talented, creative artisans, and one of my favorites to visit is Brit McDaniel, founder and owner of Paper & Clay. Founded in 2013, Paper & Clay is both a modern, handmade ceramics brand, and a cute brick & mortar gift shop located downtown at 535 S. Main Street.
In addition to her own handmade wares, Brit has curated a beautiful gift shop filled with indie brands and products that compliment her Scandinavian + Mid-Century design aesthetic.
Given the level of detail that goes into her work, her design aesthetic is reflected in her space as well: muted walls, wood furnishing, and drenched in gorgeous, natural light. I popped in recently to catch up with Brit and take a tour of her studio that’s located in the back.
Q&A with Ceramics Shop Owner Brit McDaniel
Kim: How long has Paper & Clay been open/in business?
Brit: I opened our retail shop on South Main two years ago, but May 2023 will mark 10(!) years for Paper & Clay!
Kim: Why Downtown/South Main Street for your location?
Brit: I've always been attracted to the architecture and the feel of South Main. It was bittersweet to leave Midtown after so many years, but I needed more space to grow my studio and 525 South Main was filled with natural light and just the perfect spot. There is so much going on down here now, you can easily spend an entire day on South Main.
Kim: What do you feel makes Paper & Clay different from other specialty shops/businesses?
Brit: I think there are many things that set us apart. First, Paper & Clay ceramics are all made right here in our building! My small team and I work hard to create pottery that is beautiful, functional, and adds something special to our daily routines.
When it comes to our retail shop, we carry brands that I personally love and support. You won't find anything here that I wouldn't buy for myself. I believe that curated shops should have their own personality and add to the vibe of a neighborhood. Our customers know that when they shop here they are not only supporting my life as a potter and my team, but the vitality of Memphis.
Kim: What’s your favorite part about owning this business?
Brit: Well, I'm NEVER bored. :) But If i have to pick one thing: it's the freedom to work in a way that aligns with my values. We make decisions based on our pottery and our team first. It may not make me the most wealthy, but I love my team and look forward to coming to work everyday.
Kim: Any special events or upcoming classes happening that we should know about?
Brit: We don't offer classes here (shoutout to Belltower for all of your pottery class needs!) but we often have events and pop-ups with other artists! We have several new things up our sleeves in November, and readers can follow me @britmcdaniel for exact dates and details.
Kim: How can people shop with you/keep up with what’s happening with the boutique?
Brit: The best way to keep up is to join our email list (no spam, we promise!) and to follow along on Instagram. We post regularly with behind-the-scenes videos, process photos, promos and more. We're open Thursday - Monday every week (closed on Tuesday & Wed). We're also happy to schedule appointments if you need to pop in before or after work. Just give us a call!
Paper & Clay
525 S Main St
Memphis, TN 38103
Hours:
Sunday: 12pm-4pm
Monday: 9am-1pm
Tuesday-Wednesday: Closed
Thursday-Friday: 11am-5pm
Saturday: 10am-4pm
Keep up with Paper & Clay:
https://www.shoppaperandclay.com/
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