The holidays are a fun time to think of others and surprise them with a useful or thoughtful gift. This can be particularly tricky when faced with someone with a specific passion. If you’re not sure what to get for your horsey friend or loved one, think about offering your time. You can give coupons to your friends or family members to really help them out when they need it over the coming months.

Offer to video them riding.
Move jumps and poles for a session or two.
Join them for a horse themed movie night - complete with refreshments.
Attend a horse expo or clinic with them.
Promise to be their assistant or groom at their next show.
Help stack hay.

If you are looking for handy gift that will make a difference in their pocket book AND serve a practical purpose….

Get a gift card for your local tack store.
Buy a lesson package from their favorite instructor.
Pay for a load of hay or shavings.
Buy a load of stone dust - and help spread it.
Pay for a clinic with their favorite professional rider.

For a really special treat, check out my local picks for ultimate equestrian holiday gift ideas!!

It’s especially cool when you can support local businesses in our region, so check out some of the amazing talent on offer in and around the Saratoga Springs, NY area. I’ve compiled a few equestrian themed items worth adding to your holiday shopping or wish list!

Unique art work - Miranda Bradley Fine Art

Consider commissioning an amazing picture of your pets. Our animals are part of our family and as we all know their time with us is precious. Savor those memories with a beautiful fine art impression of your favorite four legged friends. Check out Miranda Bradley’s Facebook page to get your painting order in for the holidays!

Custom show outfits or alterations - Needle in the Haystack

Imagine arriving in the post-Covid horse show world with your very own custom made show shirt or jacket? How fun to feel extra special when you finally hit your show circuit again? Maybe you have a favorite jacket that just doesn’t sit quite like it used to? Wouldn’t it be amazing to slide into your new or revitalized garments?

Amy-Lin Slezak is a professional seamstress specializing in alterations and custom sewing services. Her expertise stretches beyond ready to wear garments, to Bridal, Ladies Formal Wear and fine Equestrian Apparel. Find her information on her FB page for Needle in the Haystack

Amy-Lin offers gift cards as a neat holiday surprise for your loved one for future projects.

Tattoos by Kennedy Coltey

Check out some of the designs Kennedy has created for horse themed tattoos. Why not celebrate your horse passion with an incredible piece of art on your body? Leap into 2021 with some fresh new ink from an incredible up and coming tattoo artist at Unique Arts Studio in Glens Falls, New York. Kennedy will also take her original tattoo designs and put them on some awesome products for everyone and she offers gift cards for her incredible services.

See more of Kennedy’s portfolio on her instagram account @artbykennedy_uas and her website www.society6.com/artbykennedy

Custom mugs by K And K Designz

Consider ordering some nifty coffee mugs with the horse design of your choice. You can always use more mugs or travel cups and they make great gifts for your barn family too! Check out K And K Designz Facebook page for more inspiration and get your orders placed for the holidays!