To wrap up this chapter on horse showing for less (the near impossible), I want to think about more things exhibitors can do themselves, rather than paying for a professional’s services. There are the obvious: braiding, grooming, mucking stalls, body clipping … but there are also the more creative and often overlooked cost-saving tricks such as making your own grooming products or using dollar store items you wouldn’t normally consider....
Let’s face it, when you walk into the show ring you want to look good. Who doesn’t? Frumpy, ill-fitting, and out-dated clothes, boots, or tack just won’t do. The real challenge, however, is looking show-ready without spending a fortune on clothes and accessories you may only use a few times a year....
After you’ve been horse showing for a few years, it’s easy to fall into a sort of comfort zone – a routine that works for you, but that may not be working for your wallet. You go to the same shows year after year because it’s what you know. You stay at the nearest hotel because it’s convenient. Your horse is trailered in a day early, your trainer may school him for you, and you enter a warm-up class. This is all good and well, but you’re spending an unnecessary amount of money....
