Get 10% off Your First HGS order to celebrate our launch with code LAUNCHYAY10
Get 10% off Your First HGS order to celebrate our launch with code LAUNCHYAY10
I was doing some business research the other day and stumbled across a Reddit thread where someone was asking for tips to create a successful equine business. A lot of the advice was solid, but a few comments made me laugh out loud.
One of my favorites?
“If you want to have a successful equestrian business, the most important thing is to make sure you’ve got a hefty trust fund.”
*Insert eye roll here.*
So, let’s be real for a hot minute: do you actually need a trust fund (or a fat bank account) to build a successful equine business? In most cases, nope.
Sure, some business models require more startup cash than others. But money alone isn’t what makes a horse business thrive. What does? A mix of strategy, intention, and good ol’ grit.
And because I know the internet is full of unhelpful one-liners like that Reddit gem, I put together this list of real-deal tips for building a successful equine business (no trust fund required).
I know the phrase “ideal client” sounds like corporate baloney, but hear me out. It’s just a fancy way of saying: know who you want to work with. And no, your ideal client isn’t “anyone with a horse.”
The better you know your people, the easier it is to:
Get this right, and your business has a much stronger shot at long-term success.
Even if you’re “just starting small,” your business needs to be set up right. Nothing kills a dream faster than a fine, lawsuit, or messy tax situation because you skipped the boring stuff.
Do the research for your state, country, or province. Figure out what you need: licenses, registrations, insurance – and get it done. Not only does it protect you, but it also shows your clients that you take yourself (and them) seriously.
If you can’t explain what you do and how it changes your client’s life, you’re going to struggle.
Generic = forgettable. Specific = sellable.
When you can say, “I help nervous riders feel confident in the saddle” or “I keep show horses sound and ready to perform,” you’re making it easy for people to say yes.
The clearer you are, the easier the decision is for them.
I see it all the time: horse girls get excited, whip up a few Canva graphics (all in different colors and fonts), post about their services on Instagram and Facebook… and then wonder why it’s crickets.
The difference-maker? Intentional marketing.
The more intentional you are, the better your results will be. Promise.
Pricing is hard. Period. Especially in the beginning. The temptation is to charge peanuts so people will book you, but that almost always backfires.
Here’s what I’ve learned: underpricing doesn’t attract “nice” clients. It attracts people who haggle, don’t respect your time, and cause you the most stress.
Instead, charge enough to make your work worthwhile. Think about the value your clients get, and don’t be afraid to own your worth. The right clients will pay it.
👉 Need a hand? I created a Pricing Your Services Workbook to walk you through the numbers without the headache.
I know it’s hard to turn down money, especially when you’re just starting out. But saying yes to everyone is the fastest way to burn out.
When I launched my design business, I took on every client who waved a check at me. Big mistake. I ended up with nightmare projects that drained me, made me doubt myself, and almost had me quitting.
Now? I only say yes when I know I can truly make a difference and enjoy working with the client. And guess what? The work is more fulfilling, the clients are more respectful, and the money is better.
Say no when it’s not a fit. You’ll make space for the dream clients who see your value and treat you right.
Trust fund? Optional.
Clarity, strategy, and confidence? Non-negotiable.
If you know your people, set yourself up legitimately, price your work right, and learn to say no when it matters, you’re already way ahead of most new equine business owners.
And remember, you don’t have to do it alone. That’s why I created The Horse Girl Startup: to give you the tools, templates, and pep talks I wish I had when I was figuring this all out.
