As the co-founder of Crème de la Crème, a luxury home goods and gift boutique, Tara Wegdam has masterfully blended European sophistication with warm Southern hospitality for the past 25 years.
From its humble beginnings to its current status as a five-location empire across Virginia and Maryland, Crème de la Crème represents more than just a retail success story—it’s a testament to the power of vision, dedication, and the art of slow living. Together with her husband Ben, Tara has created an immersive shopping experience where each carefully curated piece tells a story of craftsmanship and European artistry. Their commitment to excellence hasn’t gone unnoticed, with the pair recently being named among Virginia Business’s ‘100 People to Meet in 2025.’
As we celebrate Crème de la Crème’s 25th anniversary, Tara shares insights into her entrepreneurial journey, from her early dreams to becoming a recognized tastemaker in luxury home décor and entertaining.
Tara Wegdam, Co-Founder of Crème de la Crème
Your journey from small-town dreamer to co-founder of a luxury boutique is inspiring! What moment made you realize this was your calling?
Tara Wegdam: I have always wanted to have my own shop. My parents had shops and loved being in them when I was little. Recently, I was reminded that their employees were really like a second family to us.
Crème de la Crème blends European charm with Southern hospitality. How did this unique vision come together for you?
Tara Wegdam: I am a true Southerner at heart, but I love the European lifestyle. I think some similarities complement each other. I didn’t realize this until I started traveling more in the US to places like Charleston and New Orleans. These “sub-cultures” are blends of both.
As you celebrate 25 years in business, what has been your proudest achievement with Crème de la Crème?
Tara Wegdam: The relationships that have developed along the way. Not only the relationship with my husband with whom I work alongside everyday but the customers, vendors and employees.
Many female entrepreneurs struggle to maintain a work-life balance. How have you and Ben navigated being both business partners and life partners?
Tara Wegdam: We have separate roles and try not to let them cross. I respect his opinion when he comes over to my side, and he does the same. The work-life balance was important and intentional
We love where we live in Middleburg. Although it may have been better for business growth to relocate, we chose to stay in our own small village near our children’s schools and our community.
What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned about resilience during your 25 years as a business owner?
Tara Wegdam: Control what you can and let the rest go. Focus on what we are doing and stay in “our lane,” true to who we are, and the rest will work itself out.
You’ve been compared to a modern-day Martha Stewart. How has this influenced your approach to building your brand?
Tara Wegdam: Well, that is very flattering, of course, the icon of a strong business-minded entrepreneur. She studies details, and that’s what makes her stand out. I also would rather not do something than do it wrong or without perfection.
In our heavily digital age, you’ve championed “slow shopping.” Why do you think this experience resonates so deeply with your customers?
Tara Wegdam: Shopping is what I enjoy. I notice things I respond to and things i dont when i am having an experience and try to bring these into our buildings for our guests.
When selecting pieces from European artisans, what speaks to you? How do you know when something belongs in your collection?
Tara Wegdam: I love linens and pottery. Excellent quality and craftsmanship are essential, along with usefulness.
Many women dream of turning their passion into a business. What advice would you give them based on your experience?
Tara Wegdam: Go into it 100% try to learn each aspect of the business- I am not saying you need to be an expert in all because you must hire people who you can learn from but at least know the basics of everything from accounting to your pos system.
With recent tariffs affecting imported European goods, how are you adapting your sourcing strategy while maintaining the authentic European quality your customers expect?
Tara Wegdam: These challenges are expected and calculated. We are taking each item, item by item, and assessing the margin and price, still trying to bring a quality product and value to the customer. We will not raise prices unless absolutely necessary.
We will not order anything that does not hold its value to the end user. This is not much different than a fluctuating currency, which has happened before, and we adjusted. If we can survive COVID when we were required to be closed, we can get through this as well.
Looking ahead to the next chapter of Crème de la Crème, what dreams are you still excited to bring to life?
Tara Wegdam: I would love to see our website and social media align with the experience in our boutiques. This is something that’s not in my wheelhouse, so it’s a tremendous challenge.
I love details and experiences; although a digital one is different from an in-person one, I believe we can bring a little joy and happiness through something beautiful and interesting this way as well.
Lastly, is there a specific mantra, quote, or affirmation that you hold close to your heart
Tara Wegdam: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans of welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Emily Sprinkle, also known as Emma Loggins, is a designer, marketer, blogger, and speaker. She is the Editor-In-Chief for Women's Business Daily where she pulls from her experience as the CEO and Director of Strategy for Excite Creative Studios, where she specializes in web development, UI/UX design, social media marketing, and overall strategy for her clients.
Emily has also written for CNN, Autotrader, The Guardian, and is also the Editor-In-Chief for the geek lifestyle site FanBolt.com
