Work by Tyler Graddy
Official Writing Portfolio
About Me
I’m a big believer that variety is the spice of life, that experience is the best teacher. And that the modern writer needs to be so much more than good with copy.
In an age where communication splits further into fragmented, overstimulated chaos every day, I’m obsessed with understanding how each piece of the puzzle fits together into this mosaic of messaging.
I’ve spent my career catapulting headlong into the swirling whirlwind, working to find a deeper understanding of each different medium. Every stop along the way—as a business major, as a student journalist, a digital and social media intern, video host, copywriter and editor—continues to show me something new.
I love to experiment with writing styles, tones and audiences. I’m passionate about improving, about growth through feedback—this journey is just getting started.
Portfolio of Work
Four Types of Shopping at Hyde Park Village's Small Business Saturday
November 2020
This holiday season, don’t get dragged down into the corporate bog that is the Black Friday parade.
Wait a day and pounce on Small Business Saturday.
This is how heroes shop; a way to support your local community while adding serious sentimental value to your gift-giving routine. Frankly, it’s a clear way to say, “Hey, I give a damn. About you, and my local vendors.”
We recommend you take this advice and run with it, all the way to Hyde Park Village—where the refreshments and shopping are second to none.
The Slacker’s Guide to Working From Home
May 2020
A magician never reveals his tricks.
So, on the front end of this, I want to make it clear—to my editors, to my boss, to Derrick Brooks and the c-level executives that read these newsletters in my dreams—these are (mostly) not my tricks. I am a diligent worker who never schemes while on the clock.
These strategies and tactics have purely been gathered to help others avoid long hours during these weird times.
Because I’m told, every now and then, people need a mental break, you know? A couple of hours to kick back and center your chi. A day or two to realign your passions. Maybe even a week to shelter-in-comfort.
Fantastic Beers and Where to Find Them
April 2020
In the wake of social distancing, good beer is not a luxury that you can afford to sacrifice. So first, check your closest (or favorite) local brewery to see if it’s selling curbside crowlers, as many are still pumping out some of the country’s most innovative fresh brews.
Then read this list, in which IDTB writer Tyler Graddy details the best beers that you can find while you’re out making a mundane supply run.
Florida’s Sports Coast | Cycling Through Downtown Dade City
December 2020
The Tampa Bay area boasts a whiff of ambrosia for pretty much anyone these days.
World class beaches and attractions? Check. A growing cuisine scene and legendary beer culture? Got it. Ping an interest and we’ll point you in the right direction, just a drive away from home.
Which brings us to Dade City—a tourist-friendly biking hub that’s having itself a moment in 2020.
This easy-to-navigate gem is brimming with gorgeous Florida trails and a veritable cornucopia of bike-accessible businesses.
Perched between Zephyrhills and Lacoochee, our journey began at Flint Creek Outfitters. This family-owned outfitter sells anything you need to conquer the great outdoors—from top-of-the-line bike rentals to enough fishing equipment to feed a village.
National Moonshine Day Spotlight | 5 Tampa Bay Distilleries
June 2020
Moonshine holds a certain reverence here in the not-so-deep south – a level of respect earned from generations of home-cookin’.
It makes sense; Florida grew up on the intoxicating vapors of distillation, from Rum Runners during Prohibition to the world’s ‘shine capital in Baker County. To celebrate this hooch holiday the only way we know how, we've highlighted five of our favorite local distilleries:
Food Review | Skyway Jack’s Scrambled Brains
February 2019
We’re always looking for the next big foodie fad around Tampa Bay. Hot Cheetos sushi burritos, crazy cocktails , you name it – we want to try it.
But this time? We looked into an old, head-scratching local legend: Skyway Jack’s scrambled brains and eggs.
Quesabirria Hype Test | Tampa Bay’s latest food trend
December 2020
If you’ve not heard by now, let me be the first to confirm: the quesabirria is the King of 2020 Food Trends.
A unique taco that’s taken off in 2020, it first blipped onto my radar when the Tampa Bay Times dubbed it “Tampa Bay’s latest food craze” back in November. It seemed simple enough: shredded beef and melted cheese in an orange tortilla—could it be so revolutionary?
Simply put, yes.
Website Design Copywriting
727to813 | A Celebration of All Things Tampa Bay
#727to813 celebrates Tampa Bay with an annual series of events held in the Tampa Bay metro area between July 27 (727) and August 13 (813) with the goal of highlighting our unique communities.
From socially distanced events to great deals for everyone, The Identity Tampa Bay will spotlight something outstanding about the Tampa Bay area every day.
Small Business Saturday
Native Ad published in the Tampa Bay Times for Hyde Park Village
Quarantine has made us all do questionable things.
Do and buy, that is. Did you really need to buy 25 houseplants? Or that ‘90s nostalgia-filled album on vinyl for your “cool home office space?”
Likely not! But it’s the holiday season and you’re set to embark upon an entirely new journey of 2020-influenced madness—so we come with a message: shop (and eat) local this year. Lean into the madness with tangible intent. And without question, do so at Hyde Park Village.
This gem in the heart of South Tampa is steeped in history and embroidered with elegant open-air ambiance. A grand 26 locally-owned businesses await you; 16 shops plus ten restaurants and eateries. Small Business Saturday on November 28 is the ideal opportunity to scoop up deals and make a dent in your holiday shopping list, all while supporting the Tampa Bay community.
Hyde Park Village has the whole family covered, for socially-distanced shopping and gifts. Kick off the day with a cappuccino and avocado toast from Buddy Brew Coffee or Clean Juice favorite The Immunity One. Once properly fueled, let the full-on fashion exploration commence, starting with the latest for the ladies.
Pop into Canvas Fashion Gallery for the hottest trends at a manageable price point. Not only will the owners greet you – they’ll help you pick out the perfect gift for a friend (try the necklaces made from upcycled designer buttons) or gift for yourself (like Paige jeans and Lack of Color hats). Glide through boutique Juxtapose’s bright orange doors for the chicest of home décor, one-of-a-kind baby items and effortlessly cool clothes. A stop at Sunni Spencer guarantees signature après-sea style; we’re talking upscale dresses, sandals, purses and hats. Finish any look with delicate, handmade jewelry from Albisia. These timeless, yet modern pieces can be mixed together or stand alone and range from gold-filled to fine jewelry.
Now for the guys on our list, the ones who often present a gift-giving challenge. The Ella Bing Haberdashery is the first stop for that enigmatic man in your life, with a range wooden bow ties, vibrant dress socks, skincare necessities and men’s accessories. For the outdoorsmen, drop by Salt Pines for everything Yeti and 813-branded gear. And let’s be honest, right now, we all need some pampering. A gift card to The Cambridge Club for a fresh haircut or shave will help any dude welcome 2021 in style. Try the gift of adventure with an electric bike from Pedego.
If you’re in the market for something a little more hands on? Take a spin at Color Me Mine, where you can experience the joy of painting your own pottery—or give your senses a whirl at The Candle Pour and go home with a custom scent. Then stop by Social Revelry and stock up on enough party supplies to spark conversations for years to come.
Everyone deserves a bit of pampering right now. Everyone. You’ll find a staff of aestheticians dedicated to the art and science of beauty at Elan Aesthetics; Aveda Level Salon is the trusted salon of the Buccaneers Cheerleaders. Downtown Dogs will help you spoil your pup like it’s going out of style.
Even if you can’t escape work—even if you feel the urge to burn the candle at both ends, Hyde Park has you covered with the gallery-style workspaces at Hyde House.
And to put a freakin’ bow on it all: a world-class selection of food, highlighted by iconic Tampa Bay institutions.
Treat your taste buds to grub from Goody Goody, Irish 31, On Swann, the Meat Market, or Forbici Modern Italian—and then wrap up with stops at Sorrento Sweets, the Wine Exchange and The Hyppo. Take home a gourmet spread to impress everyone this holiday season with treasures from Fig & Julep.
Like we said, there’s something for everyone.
Curriculum Vitae
Writing Roles
January 2018 - Present
The Identity Tampa Bay
Senior Writer and Editor
August 2012 - December 2017
Knight News
Sports Director
January 2017 - April 2017
Daytona International Speedway
PR & Digital Media Intern
April 2016 - August 2016
Orlando Predators
Digital Media Intern
August 2016 - December 2016
The Skyboat
Freelance Writer
