Meet Emilie Marchand, Lola Torch of Hi, Tiger! in Tucson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emilie Marchand, Lola Torch.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Emilie, Lola. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
As Lola Torch, I have been a performer and burlesque artist in Tucson and beyond for over 14 years. I’ve always made all of my costumes from scratch right down to the knickers. These years of experience and the demand for me to make garments for others, led me to start dreaming of a line of lingerie that reflects my personal taste as Emilie Marchand and the technique and cheekiness of Lola. After a lot of planning and trial-and-error with designs and fabrics, I was able to officially launch Hi, Tiger! in June of 2019.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I don’t believe there is a such thing as a “smooth road” when it comes to starting a small business! Especially when you are handling all aspects of said business on your own. Not only do I design and make all of the lingerie by hand, but I also manage the business, keep up with social media and other marketing, and sell items face-to face at markets, pop-ups, and other special events. The biggest challenge has been to be patient with myself and the process and to not give up when conditions aren’t ideal.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Hi, Tiger! – what should we know?
I’ve combined my experience as a burlesque performer with my personal taste to create intimates and loungewear that is effortlessly sexy and graceful. My design influences range from 1920’s/30’s modernism to the ease of 1970’s liberation and beyond.

I’m inspired by all of the performers I’ve worked with over the years and their brazenness and body positivity. I am driven to create intimates for all body types; for every person who wears them to feel sexy and confident. Inclusion is extremely important to me. My pieces are for everyone!

My business model is to create items in small batches with limited quantities of seasonal colors. In doing so, my customer knows that they are purchasing a special item and will look forward to an ever changing inventory with the maintenance a few essentials that they can rely on.

I love love love to create beautiful things and am passionate about my designs and the crafting of them. I have an eye for detail, a penchant for perfection, and I take great pride in the quality of my garments. Nothing makes me happier than a satisfied customer! A recent model of one of my bodysuits said “This is more comfortable than being naked!”

Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Tenacity and passion! As hard as it can be, I truly love what I do.

Pricing:

• My basic lingerie pieces run from $20 – $100

Contact Info:

• Website: www.hitigerlingerie.com
• Email: hitigerlingerie@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hitigerlingerie
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hitigertucson

Image Credit:
Emily Gindlesparger; Rya Pie Pictures

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