Anytime is a great time to buy from a small business, but as most of the country is confined to their homes and businesses are forced to temporarily close their doors and cancel vending at shows, now is an even better time to support those who may be suffering from the effects. I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite small businesses owned by fellow amateurs for your shopping needs, and if you can’t support by purchasing, give them a follow and peruse their online sites whenever you’re ready!
Coast to Coast Equestrian
Coast to Coast Equestrian makes one of my favorite pieces of equine-inspired pieces that I wear daily—the Namesake Cuff. Instead of a chunky, leather nameplate bracelet from a tack shop, the Namesake Cuff is thin, cute, and completely handmade. I have gifted many a Cuff since they opened, and the founders, Jane and Jamie, are the other two-thirds of our equine-obsessed ammy trio. If you follow along on their Instagram, you also may notice photos taken by yours truly and their other handmade items like tack cleaner and conditioner, keychains, and stickers!
60 Likes, 0 Comments – CoasttoCoastEquestrian (@coasttocoastequestrian) on Instagram: “Happy Wednesday! Weekend pony time is just around the corner 🐴 #boop…”
35 Likes, 3 Comments – CoasttoCoastEquestrian (@coasttocoastequestrian) on Instagram: “Best way to spend a Saturday? A morning full of ponies, crafting some new projects, and fighting…”
Between the Ears Bonnets
Another small business local to me, Between the Ears Bonnets are handmade by fellow amateur Michala. After struggling to find a bonnet to fit Ax’s small ears but normal sized crown, I had a custom one made and it’s perfect. In addition to custom orders where you can choose your colors, trim, and embroidery or a patch, you can find pre-made bonnets that are ready to ship.
1,319 Likes, 7 Comments – Between the Ears Bonnets (@betweentheearsbonnets) on Instagram: “If you’ve been waiting for an excuse to order your own custom bonnet… NOW is the time!! Our Dog…”
54 Likes, 8 Comments – Between the Ears Bonnets (@betweentheearsbonnets) on Instagram: “Check out how awesome these bonnets came out for the ladies at @south_well_farms_ !! ☑️ Have a logo…”
Myst Equine Products
I have collected a variety of Myst Equine Products since discovering the brand—and meeting the amazing team of ladies behind it, one of them being an ammy—a few years ago, but the Dry Shampoo is by far my most-used product. Ax gets a generous spritz and rub down with a clean towel a few times a week and he comes out looking cleaner with every use, especially during the chilly weather when bathing isn’t an option. When it is warm enough for a bath, their new shampoo bars comes with a handy scrubby glove, and more than 10 washes later, my bar is still going strong.
209 Likes, 22 Comments – Myst Equine Products (@mystequineproducts) on Instagram: “Another satisfied blogger! If you’re horse’s Coat is in full winter mode and needs a little pick me…”
ACE Equestrian
I have featured ACE Equestrian belts a few times in the land of blogging, and this is no exception. Founded by Annie, a fellow ammy formerly based in New England, my Black + Black belt is one of my favorites and most worn. I’ve been meaning to pick up the Buck Off Cancer belt that supports a recently diagnosed Massacusetts-based eventer—a perfect way to support two amazing ladies in one—and now is the perfect time.
Stay safe out there, and happy shopping!
The Working Amateur 