For Alexandra Peterson, opening Emerald Tack & Co. was about more than starting a business, it was about creating a place where the local horse community could find quality products, connect with one another, and feel at home. Alexandra was inspired to open Emerald Tack & Co. because she saw a need for greater access to quality tack, riding apparel, and equestrian essentials in the area. Her goal was to create a shop where riders could find what they need, discover something new, and feel welcomed and supported along the way.

But Emerald Tack & Co. is about more than what’s on the shelves. Alexandra hopes that when customers walk through the door, they feel comfortable, excited to look around, and connected to a community that understands their passion for horses. “I want it to feel like more than just a tack store. I want it to feel like a place where horse people can connect, find quality products, get help when they need it, and know they are part of a community,” she shared. That welcoming atmosphere is part of what makes Emerald Tack & Co. worth a visit. The shop offers a mix of quality new and consigned products, along with unique finds that make browsing part of the fun. Whether you’re searching for something specific or simply curious about what you might discover, Alexandra encourages visitors to stop in, say hello, and see what they didn’t know they needed.

For Alexandra, being part of Culpeper Downtown is just as meaningful as building her business. She loves the small-town charm, character, and sense of community that make downtown feel special. “There’s something special about walking down the street, seeing familiar faces, supporting local businesses, and feeling like you’re part of something bigger,” she said. She also appreciates the way downtown businesses and community members come together to support one another. For Alexandra, Culpeper Downtown is not only a great place to build a business, but also a place to meet people and call home.

While Alexandra may spend her days surrounded by saddles, riding apparel, and equestrian essentials, there’s another side of her that might surprise you. She’s an adrenaline junkie who loves fast cars, racing, and anything that gets her heart pumping. You might find her talking tack one minute and horsepower the next!  And when she’s ready to step away from the shop, Alexandra’s favorite downtown spot is Pinto Thai. Whether she’s enjoying a meal or exploring everything else downtown has to offer, supporting local businesses is clearly something she believes in.

At Emerald Tack & Co., Alexandra is building more than a tack shop. She’s creating a welcoming space for riders to connect, discover quality products, and feel like they belong. Whether you’re an experienced rider, just getting started, or simply curious about the equestrian world, stop by Emerald Tack & Co., located at 300 S. East Street, and see what you discover!