Pony Club Moms and the Unexpected Birth of a Small Business

One of the things I’m asked about often when talking to customers is, “How did you get started in this business?”

The unlikely beginning of my equestrian jewelry business started when my kids joined our local Pony Club. As a life-long horse person, involvement in Pony Club was a departure for me. I was used to being completely hands-on in all aspects of my kid’s involvement with horses. Pony Club’s emphasis on teamwork and hands on experience was a wonderful awakening.

For those of you who have had children in the United States Pony Club you’ll relate to this. Pony Club members learn 360 degree horse care as well as team work. A great deal of emphasis is placed in both areas. Pony Club competitions embrace these concepts with team-based competitions. In addition, once a competition (better known as a rally) starts, no interaction with parents is allowed. How, you say does this relate to making jewelry?

This hands-on Mom suddenly found herself relegated to watching from the sidelines with all the other Moms who were watching from afar. I was never one to sit quietly for long stretches of time with nothing to do. As a result, I started bringing my jewelry making materials along with me to rallies and riding lessons. Time passed quickly and my skills improved. My hobby often piqued the interest of the other Moms who were also looking for something to occupy themselves. We talked, got to know each other and soon I found myself, giving away many of the pieces that I made. Pony Club Moms became the perfect testing ground for my work. You see, most of us wear multiple hats. Often this meant spending a full day at work then transitioning to time at the barn and whatever else the day had in store. We all wanted pretty, practical jewelry, that would easily transition from work to play. Something that could withstand dirt and sweat while still looking good. The feedback I received from all these wonderful Moms really helped me tailor my work to this type of lifestyle. I will forever be grateful for the time so many of these mom’s took to talk to me about my work and help me improve. After a year or two of making and giving away my jewelry, the demand grew to the point that I realized that I might be able to sell a few things and at least cover the cost of my materials.

And so, I started bringing finished pieces with me to Pony Club rallies. Before I knew it, I was selling everything I made. I decided to dip my toe further into the water and started going to a few horse and hound shows where I would sell my wares. A website was soon launched, and the rest is history.

Suffice it to say that Pony Club will always hold a special place in my heart, not just for the fantastic foundation it provided for my children in their development as horsemen, but also for the unexpected support from Pony Club Moms that allowed me to pursue something I loved and launch a small business. If any of you reading this blog were one of the Moms who helped me, please know that I will be forever grateful for your support!