Horsing Around With sigAshop

September 22, 2016

Horses have always been a big part of my life. I grew up on a small horse farm in Warrenton, Va where I was fortunate enough to learn to ride at a very young age. I think as soon as I was walking, I was on a pony. As soon as I was capable, I was helping with the barn chores and taking care of the horses. After school I would go for a ride; weekends were filled with horse shows and Summer’s full of pony camps. I have so many fond memories growing up around horses and a few painful ones too. Like the time I broke my arm after being bucked off my pony named Tony, or the time Sadie threw me into a fence. There were many many spills, feet stomped on, bitten arms but I know those unfond memories only made me stronger. I always had to get right back on after my falls and face my fear. Having horses taught me so much growing up, responsibility, a strong work ethic, competitiveness, how to be a part of a team, how to work with animals and how to be friends with them too.

. My last horse passed away two years ago because of old age; she was the same age as me (guess that tells you something)!! I may not ride much anymore, but I still love being around horses. Luckily for me, my sister has taken on the horses on her farm, and I have a place to go when I need my horsey fix.

I am also lucky to have friends who also share my appreciation for our four-legged friends. My hometown friends Jen Gray and Brittany Hartz started an equestrian/bohemian clothing line, sigAshop a little over a year ago and I have been obsessed with their designs and their vision. We have collaborated a few times, which always brings me to a farm with horses. The most recent collaboration was during our trip to Saratoga, NY. Jen and Brittany met me in NY to watch some horse racing and for a fun sunrise shoot with famous equestrian photographer, Tracey Buyce and her horse Moose.

I wasn’t thrilled with the 4 am wake up call, but the lighting made it all worth it. I absolutely love the photos that Tracey took and will treasure them for a long time. If you are ever in Saratoga NY and are in need of a photographer, you have to give Tracey Buyce. And before you head to your next equestrian event, you need to order a sigAshop dress because they are so cute, comfy, and you will get a million compliments on the horse prints! Check them out!