Why The Teal Tail is Brigantine's Own 'Cheers': Where Shopping Meets Community Spirit

Inside the teal tail brigantine nj | women't clothing store atlantic county nj

Every town needs its own Cheers, that local spot where everybody knows your name. It’s a judgment free zone, a place to build friendships and community. Sometimes that local Cheers is a restaurant, coffee shop, or a gym.

In Brigantine, it’s a boutique.

The Teal Tail opened its doors on Brigantine Avenue in 2022, after five and a half years of building a successful online business offering a carefully- curated selection of women’s clothing and accessories. Initially, owner Kristen Pilch wasn’t looking to open a brick- and-mortar location, but once she did, she said “it took off like crazy.”

the teal tail brigantine nj - women's clothing store atlantic county nj

It also gave Kristen an opportunity to give back to a town she loves.

“I believe community helps one another. Being a part of the community is really big for me, especially with owning a business,” Kristen said. “Every time somebody makes a purchase, it allows me to give back.”

Kristen lives in Brigantine with her husband and school-aged son, and this connection makes it that much more meaningful when The Teal Tail can sponsor local sports teams and support in-town fundraisers and events. The shop also donates to nearby women’s shelters, nursing homes and food pantries.

This idea of community is fostered within The Teal Tail’s walls as well, where special events are held year- round to bring locals together.

“They’re great opportunities to get to know others who live in the community,” Kristen said.

In January, it is a Favorite Things party, when attendees bring beloved items to share with other party-goers. There’s a Murder Mystery around Halloween and a Cookie Exchange in December.

While most events need a purchased ticket to attend (and typically sell out within days), in the summer, there is a free Mermaid and Pirate Day for families. Kids can take photos with mermaids and pirates, make themed crafts, get their faces painted and more.

“Each season and almost every month we have some sort of event. It just gets people out,” Kristen said. “The Teal Tail is our own little community.”

This year, the Teal Tail has a new location – a larger space for morefabulous inventory and more events to bring the community together.

It is a bit like Cheers, in that Kristen and her staff remember customers’ names. Shoppers remember the staffers’ names, too, partly because they’ve all been on the team since The Teal Tail opened two years ago, but also because the all-woman staff of varied ages resonates with customers, according to Kristen.

“Women want to feel comfortable and want to be helped and want to be dressed,” she reflected. “This makes for a more comfortable experience.”

Kristen brings her past profession as a personal stylist to The Teal Tail as well. She travels the country to handpick all merchandise for her shop, primarily focusing on fabric quality, pricing and comfort. The Teal Tail carries some popular picks, such as Corkys footwear and Judy Blue denim, but inventory doesn’t chase trends that are bound to fade away.

“It’s timeless,” Kristen said. “At The Teal Tail, you’re shopping things that are cute, comfortable and practical that you can wear year after year.”

Download The Teal Tail app to shop!