For Us, Bread Means Family
Tylor's journey into bread-making began with a bread machine gifted to him by his mother-in-law. He dove into the art of baking, experimenting with different recipes and techniques, and became consumed with the idea of offering the community locally sourced and nourishing bread. He got busy learning all there was to know about local farming and credits his friend Susan, who mentored him on her 150-acre urban farm, igniting awareness of the need to care for and be responsible stewards of the earth. Learning about ethical farming and milling as part of the bread-making process led him to a grain school, where he had a transformative experience. Surrounded by industry leaders and visionaries, he was inspired by their dedication to developing a healthier and more localized grain economy. This experience lit a fire within him, and he knew he had to contribute and commit to the world of bread.
Tylor is passionate about supporting local farmers to promote a healthier grain economy and responsible stewardship of the earth. As a member of the Common Grain Alliance, he works closely with farmers, millers, and other industry professionals to create a more sustainable and localized grain community. “There’s a constant feedback loop between farmer, miller, and baker, but it goes further than that,” he explains. “Dieticians, nutritionists, geneticists, brewers, bakers, and distillers all have a stake in a grain industry that’s healthier for the soil and our community.”
In his baking process, Tylor places an emphasis on family, community, and the idea of pilgrimage. Inspired by his experiences walking El Camino in Spain, he sees bread as a symbol of our journey through life, a pilgrimage to abandon fear and embrace strength. Each loaf is a tribute to the seed's journey from field to mill to oven, and finally to the hands of those who break bread together. Tylor's mission is a deep dedication to family and community, and preserving the traditions of freshly milled flour to ensure that the grain's vitality is felt with every bite. His work as a baker is more than a profession; it's a labor of love, a pilgrimage of the heart, and an offering to those he serves.
Pilgrim Bread, May it Offer Strength for Your Journey
Motion surrounding my every step, never finding a breath to take, and feeling like I am in the midst of the biggest storm. Suddenly stillness overtakes this moment and I can finally see beyond my storm and the light is pouring in. My stillness is simple and comes from things like a phone call with an old friend or a moment to just sit and be vulnerable with myself. I can truly see what it means to be still and one with my thoughts and emotions. These moments of stillness refresh my broken spirit and give me the strength to get through the storms.
- Elizabeth Alexander