As you’re thinking ahead to the equestrians on your holiday gift list, here are some of my favorite equestrian small businesses whose unique products will make the perfect gifts this holiday season!
Gifts for the Home
Hand-Painted Porcelain Ornaments by Equestrian Artist Larissa Ann
For that equestrian who has it all, check out these gorgeous, limited-edition ornaments from fine artist Larissa Ann. They’re hand-painted with over 20 layers of paint for a level of depth and detail that has to be seen to be truly appreciated. You’re going to want one for your own tree, as well. Shop here.
Tartan Blanket Company: Recycled Wool Blanket
When I was setting up my son’s nursery, I splurged on one of these blankets from the Tartan Blanket Company (female owned, Scotland-based), and these are now go-to gifts. They may not be outwardly-equine, but the rich colors and gorgeously-soft wool would be a welcome to any equestrian’s home. I went with the Buchanan Antique Tartan color, but be prepared to get lost in all of the gorgeous color palates and other gift options on their site.
River Wood Forest Equine Gifts
I’m a sucker for anything Fjord, so I fell in love with River Wood Forest’s Scandinavian Winter Fjord designs, though the Etsy shop has all sorts of whimsical nature and animal-inspired designs by artist Tina Schofield. (There’s also a gorgeous Christmas Friesian design, too – just go to the Etsy store and search “horse” for all of their horse-themed gifts!) From throws to tote bags to dish towels to sweatshirts and skirts, there’s an option for just about anyone on your shopping list. Check out the Etsy store here.
Danielle Demers Stationery and Gift Tags
Add some luxury to your gift-giving game, or dress up your own cards and presents this season with gorgeous foil-stamped cards and gift tags by artist Danielle Demers. (Take it up another level with coordinating wax seals in horse, fox, or rosette designs!) And while you’re on the site, check out her wallpaper and original prints — shop here.
Gifts for the Barn
Smokey Hollow Maple Co. Hand-Made Stall Signs
If you’re looking for a thoughtful, personalized gift, these handmade stall signs are beautifully crafted, and their high-quality materials and craftsmanship are made to last. I have them in my own barn and they spark regular compliments. The variety of wood, stain, size and font options allow you to customize to your heart’s delight. Order by December 1 for guaranteed holiday delivery. Shop here.
MOSS Saddle Soaps
These soaps smell amazing, and — made from the highest-quality natural ingredients including goat’s milk glycerin — they’re great for your tack, too. These are a great gift for barn owners, trainers, or barn friends, and they make great stocking stuffers for the equestrians under your own roof (grab one for your own stocking, too). Scent options: Citrus Basil, Vanilla Bean, Tea Rose, and Lavender (there’s not a wrong choice, but the Vanilla Bean smells good enough to eat!). Find them here.
Lucky Braids Shampoo
As the snowflakes start to fall, maybe your trainer or best barn buddy is just dreaming of show season. Lucky Braids is my professional-groom-friend’s favorite shampoo for manes, tails, and bodies. It’s highly concentrated, so a bottle lasts longer than a show season does, and it solves and protects against common skin issues. Grab this must-have for the tack trunk here.
Gifts for the Equestrian
R. Riveter “Take the Leap” Handbags (And More!)
Equestrian artist and military veteran Larissa Ann teamed up with R. Riveter, a women-owned handbag company founded by military spouses. The “Take the Leap” collection features equestrian-themed handbags, sweatshirts, hats, blankets, and pewter ornaments whose signature winged horse will inspire those you love to take the leap to follow their dreams. There’s something for everyone in this collection – it’s definitely worth a look this season! Shop here.
Kastel Denmark Cabernet Tonal Crown ¼ Zip
The rich tones, high-tech fabrics, and perfect amount of bling of this Kastel riding top make it a perfect gift this season. It’s a great layering piece for cooler temps, or a wear-alone top in the spring or fall (with 30+ SPF, too). The polyester/spandex blend is buttery-soft and the feminine fit is super flattering. And it’s got to be said — the high-tech antibacterial and odor resistant properties keep you as fresh as you can be when riding or working around the barn! Check it out here.
Plus, enter to win a “discipline-branded” version of this shirt during our 12 Days of Christmas!
Blue Ribbon Beauty Equestrian Cosmetics
One of my most put-together horse friends, Amanda, swears by Blue Ribbon makeup, a brand created by Rachel Lavelle for women who get stuff done but want to look good doing it. All products are paraben- and cruelty-free to make you feel good about what’s going on your skin. Plus, with fun names like “Latigo and Lace” and “In the Irons” and playful designs by Lavelle herself, anything from Blue Ribbon would make a great gift or stocking stuffer! Visit the website here.
“Awakening with Equines” Card Deck
From equine-partnered coach, healer, author, and speaker Kate Neligan comes a gift for spiritually-centered equestrians: her “Awakening with Equines” Card Deck. 40 unique cards feature images (by artist Nica Ware) and text highlighting the emotional intelligence qualities that Neligan has gathered through decades of experience studying horses and psychology. It’s a perfect gift for anyone who adores horses and wants to understand them better, is interested in personal growth, and is inspired by beautiful, equestrian art. Locally sourced, women-owned, and a recipient of the Winnie Award at the Equus Film Festival. Check it out here.
Gifts for Kids and Teens
Equus Bell Saddle Pad Block-Printing Kits
If you’re looking for a gift for a crafty horse-loving kid or teen, you have to check out these saddle pad printing kits made by Indian-American equestrian Roxanne Khan. Combining her love of horses and her Indian heritage, Equus Bella’s saddle pad kits come with everything needed to block-print a custom saddle pad. The cotton and bamboo pads themselves are crafted in India by a professional quilt-maker, and piped with colors that coordinate with the selected pattern. Hand-carved blocks (think “wooden stamps”), paints, brushes/sponges, and detailed instructions are included in the kit, and it’s easy to create a treasured, unique useful saddle pad. Four patterns are available to choose from currently, with more options coming for the holidays. Visit their website here.
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