And just like that, the holidays are upon us! Are you struggling to find that perfect gift for the horse lover in your life? For the most part, equestrians are practical people, so it may be time to rethink what holiday gifts will make the most impact. Consider a gift that a horse owner wouldn’t buy for him or herself, since so many of their resources go to equine expenses.
Think Outside the Gift Box
Inflation and increased cost of living is no joke, which makes it all the more important to be resourceful where gift-giving is concerned. When it comes to equestrians, you can never go wrong with a present you know they’ll use.
You could consider a gift of support, enrichment, or wellness. A friend on a tight budget may be lacking something just for herself these days. Additionally, personalized keepsake gifts are something that can be cherished for years.
Supportive Suggestions
Here are some ideas to get your creative gift-giving juices flowing:
◆ A gift card to a feed or tack store, or even a credit at a vet’s office or boarding facility. Every horse owner would appreciate these!
◆ If you’re on a budget, create a coupon book with clever ways to be of service, such as an offer to clean stalls, groom, or horse-sit so your equestrian friend can take a little time off.
◆ Meals are a great way to nourish and nurture, especially in the cooler months. Prepare some hearty, easy heat-up meals for the busy equestrian. A bowl of hot soup, stew, or a breakfast casserole are welcome after freezing winter barn chores. To bump it up a notch, a month (or more) membership for boxed meal deliveries—such as Blue Apron, Hello Fresh, or similar—can brighten someone’s winter menu and save them from having to plan meals and make trips to the grocery store. Hint: Most services offer a variety of options, such as vegetarian, family-friendly, lower-calorie, and quick prep.
◆ Horse owners work hard and enjoy pampering, such as a gift certificate for a massage, a restorative yoga class, or a spa day.
◆ Gift ideas for equestrian wellness could include a journal or an equestrian planner book to help with goals and/or intention-setting. Yoga sessions with an instructor who focuses on yoga for riders can also be supportive of physical and mental fitness.
◆ The gift of learning, such as a gift certificate to a horsemanship clinic, equine expo, or an online course is a unique way to give.
◆ Enrichment through travel and light adventure is another way to give creatively if you’re financially able. Fund or contribute to a retreat experience, a weekend at a dude ranch, or a getaway to an equestrian trade show.
◆ If tangible gifts are more your style, consider an equestrian book, a sturdy pair of warm barn boots, heated gloves, or maybe some fresh lead ropes and halters. Stocking stuffers could include inexpensive hand and boot warmers, or perhaps an insulated mug or reusable water bottle for the barn.
◆ Since most reading is done online these days, it can feel like a treat to get a subscription to an equestrian magazine. Receiving it by mail all year is a great reminder of your friendship.
◆ Personalized keepsakes can be very meaningful. Imagine how much you’d love a framed photograph or poster of your horse, or a professional painting or drawing. Picture books are easy to create online with platforms such as Shutterfly, and they make for a great coffee table book. After my heart horse passed, I was given a beautifully inscribed windchime to remind me of him every time it chimes—I just love it!
Give from the Heart
Gift-giving can be big or small. As long as it’s heart-centered, that’s all that matters. It’s important to stay true to your budget and not have the burden of paying off debt long after the holidays. Your family and genuine friends will understand. Remember, it’s OK to keep it simple, and your horsey friends will appreciate the sentiment.
Wishing you and your equines a beautiful holiday season!
This article about equestrian holiday gift ideas appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!
