Sponsor Spotlight: Tigress

Tigress is a boutique shop in Durham with strong values of providing sustainable, eco-conscious, and ethically produced clothing.

We spoke to the owner Rachel Erdheim about the company’s commitment to their community and their support for the Carolina Theatre!

CTD: How long have you been serving the Durham/Triangle community?

T: I started Tigress in January 2023. At first, I built the shop just online, but then in August 2023 I was able to move into a studio space at a local artist collective. I was in that space for six months as a pilot, and found that even in temporary digs, Durham was really supportive of my vision for a sustainable clothing and gift shop. So, this past February, I signed a lease and moved into our current location – a historic bungalow at 2302 Chapel Hill Road in the Lakewood/Duke Forest neighborhood.

CTD: What services do you specialize in?

T: Tigress specializes in sourcing from amazing clothing brands that care deeply about their environmental footprint and factory working conditions while also offering super awesome, fashion-forward clothing and accessories. We also focus on fair trade organizations, supporting artisans and communities by sourcing all kinds of gorgeous wares from across the globe. Lastly, we source from independent makers who dream up truly creative and beautiful accessories, home goods, and gifts.

CTD: Who are some of the local community businesses that you have provided services for?

T: So far, we have had the pleasure of partnering with local artists, makers, and food and beverage companies to offer special events at the shop. We are always looking to partner with local businesses and are very excited to keep moving in that direction!

CTD: What is one of your favorite services you have provided for your clients?

T: I absolutely love when a customer signs up for our bespoke, private Sip & Style offering. I get so jazzed when working one-on-one, or with a small group of friends, to achieve whatever styling goals are requested. I especially enjoy getting to know my customers in this quiet and chill environment, pampering them with drinks and dessert. It’s a blast, (and is offered on our website).

CTD: How have services or business in general changed over the years of operation?

T: Since I started Tigress, my buying strategy has shifted from being just a gift shop to focusing on clothing, and from there, it has shifted based upon what my customers want to see. As I continue to build relationships with sustainable brands, I am able to hone in on exactly what my fellow Durhamites are requesting, and what I envision they will love.

CTD: What is your favorite thing about the Carolina Theatre?

T: The Carolina Theatre is a true gem. We love going to shows and especially love the breadth of talent, from seasoned performers to newer artists. We love that it is a gorgeous, historic theatre, and feel that it adds so much to Durham in general. Also, my husband really loves the popcorn.

CTD: Why is it important to support the Carolina Theatre and arts in our community?

T: As a visual artist myself, my husband being a musician in a local band, and our daughter’s passion for acting, we are enormous supporters of the arts. It goes without saying that the Carolina Theatre and the arts should be supported always, as they are the vehicle in which we relate with one another and share our thoughts, visions, and experiences with the world.