I developed a love for horses at a young age. Whether I had my nose buried in a book about them, was tagging along with my mother to the barn where she kept her young project horse, or was at the racetrack with my grandfather, I never turned down an opportunity to be among horses. As a teen, I took lessons at a Hunter/Jumper barn and discovered my love for English riding. After high school, I stepped away from riding and pursued some of my other interests.

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In college, I majored in Science while working at a local hospital. Shortly before graduating with a plan to continue into pharmacy school, I realized that I desired to live a more artistically fulfilling life, but still wanted to help people. I decided to attend Cosmetology school instead. I have found meaningful gratification over the years in helping people feel better inside by helping them esthetically. 

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Eighteen years after my horseback riding hiatus, I began to take lessons again, and the joy that being back in the saddle sparked was something I hadn't felt in years. I took regular lessons for a few years until I was ready for a horse of my own. In 2019, I found Zippy, a 5 year old Appaloosa. Zippy has a build that can be tricky to fit, so, in an effort to find him a  saddle, I employed the help of a local saddle fitter. In that process, I became fascinated with saddles and everything about them. All the different options for tree shapes, panels, and variance between brands! The more I learned the more my curiosity was piqued, and I decided to officially further my education. 

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I attended Mike Scott the Saddle Guy’s Saddle Fitting Certification Program, a thorough course that spans 6 months based in South Carolina that includes time spent learning theory in the classroom, hands-on in the field, independent case studies, volunteer hours, observation hours, research and instruction on how to make repairs. I appreciate that the class was deeply rooted in equine anatomy and biomechanics.

 

I have learned that where art and science meet is a place that truly lights me up. I am dedicated to helping everyday horsemen and women support their equine friends, and I am passionate about making education on the importance of saddle fit more accessible.