Now that it's gift season, I am sure all non-horse lovers are wondering what to get for their equestrian fanatic. To ease the journey of finding the perfect gift, I am going to share 10 different do’s and don’ts when Holiday shopping for your horse obsessed loved one. These presents are fool proof because…well…I am an equestrian and I want them all.
I hope all these ideas help to try to find the best present for your equestrian! Just remember, it’s the thought that really counts when giving a gift, so just try your best! I know that I am always thankful when someone at least thinks to get a gift for me, even if it is an ugly Christmas sweater I would never wear.
- Do get jewelry – You cannot go wrong with jewelry. There are many different options and styles of rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings that are horse themed! I bought a sterling silver cuff horseshoe ring at AQHA Worlds and there are few words I can use to fully describe how much I love it! Horse jewelry is pretty easy to find, too. For instance, Etsy has beautiful hand-made pieces that will definitely awe any horse lover. There are other places to get jewelry, too! Local leather crafters usually put together awesome jewelry that is also hand made. Montana silversmith is another company to choose great pieces from. Also, any tack shop is bound to have a necklace or two. Another great thing about jewelry is that most items are not super expensive! You can choose how much you want to spend and can usually find something in your price range.
- Do get something local and beautifully crafted like hand made leatherwork – Going off on my last idea, local leathersmiths usually have the cutest, hand crafted pieces that would make a great gift! These companies usually make adorable purses, belts, wallets, and many other leather crafts. Some also have the option of cowhide and usually adorn conchos, cute bling or leather tooling. These accessories, although sometimes expensive, will make any equestrian happy! It’s always nice to give something sturdy and adorable like a handmade leather purse.
- Do get Saddle pads. Even if you are English, endurance, or western, you will be loved forever if you give your equestrian a saddle pad. I know it sounds weird, but a good saddle pad is like gold in the horse industry (okay, maybe I’m exaggerating a little bit). Finding cute, but functional saddle pads is the best way to go! These can get pricey, but are oh-so-worth-it. I recommend shopping here and here for one!
- Don’t assume you know how to get a good quality item from a tack shop. If you are new to the equestrian world and have no idea what you are doing, ask someone to help! You can also ask their best barn friend what your equestrian likes or what they need. If you don’t have any access to a barn friend, the helpful customer service at places like SmartPak, Riding Warehouse, and Dover will be more than happy to help pick out a gift for you.
- Do get horse cookies. These are great for a barn friend or for an acquaintance that you want to show that you were thinking of them! These are an inexpensive option and you know all horses love horse cookies! You can make them with an easy recipe or you can buy any of the delectable brands out there! Local tack shops, as well as big Internet horse stores should have these babies.
- Do ask us what we want! The horse world is super expensive and sometimes we just need help affording our passion. I know it takes the surprise element out of gifting presents, but the thoughtfulness of asking what we need is almost a gift in itself.
- Don’t buy any clothing that talks about horse lovers or has ponies on it. I know we say we love horses and there are many funny quotes centered around horses, but those are meant to stay on the wall in a painting or a print or even a pallet board sign! Speaking of which…
- Do feel free to make us something! If I got a cute sign about horses that my friend made me, I would definitely hang it on the wall/barn/ outside/ wear it around my neck/in my car….you name it! Plus, something hand made really does go a long way!
- Don’t drag us on a commercial horseback trail ride. Unless I am 6 and have no pony, or I have loved horses forever but don’t ride, I DO NOT want to go on a cheesy trail ride on someone else’s worn down horse. If you want to take me on a beach ride with your horse and my horse, then I am all for it!
- Do get a gift card! If all else fails and you have no idea what to get your horse lover, a gift card will ALWAYS suffice! Equestrians always need grooming supplies, grain, cute breeches, saddle pads, bell boots…the list goes on. A gift card is always a good go-to because we always need money to fuel our extremely expensive, but rewarding passion!
I hope all these ideas help to try to find the best present for your equestrian! Just remember, it’s the thought that really counts when giving a gift, so just try your best! I know that I am always thankful when someone at least thinks to get a gift for me, even if it is an ugly Christmas sweater I would never wear.