Blazer Stories
Like many Quincyans, Chris Taylor once believed that bigger cities meant bigger opportunity—more options, more style, more possibility. But over time, he discovered what fashion teaches best: quality matters more than excess, and the right foundation makes everything else possible.
Taylor spent his middle school and high school years in California, living in Camp Pendleton. After graduating, he found work with a small boutique fashion chain in Los Angeles, gaining firsthand experience in retail and style in one of the nation’s largest markets. While the experience was exciting, reality set in quickly.
“The cost of living, housing, and even imagining starting a business out there was overwhelming,” Taylor said. “It forced me to really think about what kind of future I wanted.”
A phone call with his mother—who had already moved back to Quincy, the family’s hometown—prompted a leap of faith. Taylor returned to Illinois and began looking for a practical, affordable way to continue his education.
After attending a career day at John Wood Community College, Taylor saw a clear path forward. He was inspired by the programs available at Western Illinois University and encouraged by how seamlessly JWCC credits could transfer.
“I set my sights on completing my general education courses at John Wood with the goal of transferring and finishing my bachelor’s degree,” he said.
That decision proved pivotal. Taylor transferred from JWCC to Western Illinois University, where he completed his bachelor’s degree—building on the academic foundation and momentum he gained at John Wood.
“I had to work for everything,” Taylor said. “John Wood made it possible for me to even start. Without the access and affordability JWCC offered, my path would’ve looked very different.”
Today, Taylor channels his education, experience, and hometown pride as the co-owner of 644 Maine, a women’s clothing, accessories, and home accents boutique in downtown Quincy. Originally launched as Home & Her, the business rebranded as 644 Maine and has grown into a 3,800-square-foot brick-and-mortar storefront known for timeless style, authentic service, and thoughtfully curated goods—including locally made products.
“We’re serious about service,” Taylor said. “People don’t just come here to shop—they come here to feel seen.”
That philosophy has built a loyal following, amplified through live Facebook merchandise reveals and strong community connection.
Beyond retail, Taylor remains deeply invested in Quincy. He previously served on the City of Quincy Human Rights Commission and the Quincy Art Center Board and continues to support both organizations’ programming. Currently, he serves as a founding member and president of the TriState Diversity Coalition, a local Pride-focused 501(c)(3) dedicated to inclusion, advocacy, and community building.
For JWCC alumni who may be living elsewhere, Taylor offers advice rooted in both experience and perspective.
“Quincy is ripe for entrepreneurs,” he said. “There are incentives, enterprise zones, and real opportunities to make an impact here. You don’t have to go somewhere bigger to do something meaningful.”
Proudly displaying both his John Wood Community College and Western Illinois University diplomas in his store, Taylor credits his success to access, education, and the courage to come home.
“John Wood gave me a foundation,” he said. “Quincy gave me a future.”
John Wood Community College, along with Quincy University and the Great River Economic Development Foundation, are partnering to host Re-Connect to Quincy meetings in St. Louis and other Midwest cities to remind former residents and alumni of the benefits, incentives, and opportunities awaiting their return. GREDF event information can be found here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/e79pjem.