FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
All ages all abilities: Grooming and braiding 1 pony 1 child $30 1/2 hour. No riding. Two children, two ponies 45 mins $60.00. Beginner, teen or adult grooming and groundwork, $65.00 per hour, No riding. Transition to mounted lessons $75.00 per hour. Ride in larger arena (independent riding, balanced seat, confident walk-trot) $85.00 per hour. Trail ride excursions (walk up to 2 hours), or learn dressage work, or beginner jumping, $95.00 per lesson.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Learning in a group is fun and a confidence builder. A typical new student process is that we talk about everything I can get YOU to share abt riding, your experiences and your goals. I watch your movements around the equines and see where you hesitate. I teach respect and safe handling on the ground to keep you safe, then halter and walk around the property using our new cues. I put you in the saddle when I feel you have bonded and show routine leadership qualities. I work slowly building confidence, a centered seat, and strong legs so it becomes a familiar and natural routine. It takes a long time to understand how riding is not passive like being a passenger in a car, but a physically active sport, like riding a bike. All our movements signal something to the horse under the saddle (non verbal communication). Many of my children dream of jumping but show me they cant memorize the three steps to a successful turn or whoa and backup. Thats why I like group lessons, students learn by watching others then taking their own turn, my instruction is positive and progressive. Many adults cant get up and swing their leg over a saddle, sometimes I suggest yoga, bike riding or tennis (I do have a tennis court) to get them moving again. Riding horses is not for everyone, groundwork and grooming outside on a beautiful warm day in the country is a beautiful experience and a logical option.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been affiliated for years with US Equestrian, AQHA, NBHA and California Western Dressage Association. A show secretary and boarding horses at my place.