BarnManager Q&A With: Nichola O’Donovan
October 20, 2023| | in category BarnManager Q&A No comments yet

BarnManager Q&A With: Nichola O’Donovan

Nichola O’Donovan, manager for young show jumping athlete Hallie Grimes of Can We Keep It? LLC based out of Wellington, FL, and North Salem, NY

What are three things that are always in your ring bag and why?

Picking only three things is difficult, but the first thing I always like to have is a hole punch so we can make adjustments, even though sometimes the hole punch likes to grow legs and walk out of the bag. The second item is vet wrap in case of an emergency at the ring like an overreach. The last thing is a bag of cookies because it’s nice to let the ponies know when they’ve been good.

What’s something you learned early in your career that has stuck with you?

I wouldn’t necessarily say this came to me early in my career – it took me a while to realize it – but one thing I’ve learned is that because we work with many people from many backgrounds in this industry it’s important to remember that not everyone will do things the same way you do. This does not mean they are doing it wrong; it just means there are many ways to do the same thing. You can always learn a new way of doing something if you just take a minute.

What is your best tip for staying organized during a busy show day?

Photo courtesy of Nichola O’Donovan

On a day when I know I’m going to be busy, I make sure I start my morning with enough time. Having chores done before the horses get exercised is a big help. Whenever there are an extra five minutes, I like to clean the tack that is done being used. There is nothing worse than turning around at 5 p.m. and seeing a huge pile of tack to clean.

What is one horse show you have never been to but would love to attend?

I’ve been very lucky and have ticked nearly all shows and goals off of my list. I have never done a World Cup Final so that is top of the list now. My favorite locations are London, Dublin, and Rome. Any shows in those locations make me excited.

Mares, geldings, or stallions? Why?

I’ve had a quirky bunch of all three over the years, and none were easy to bond with in the beginning. I honestly cannot pick one. If they get your trust and bond with you, they will give you their whole heart. I’ve had a gelding and two stallions that really knew I was their person and that was something special.

If you were a horse, what would you be and why?

I would probably be a feisty companion pony. I wouldn’t be open to a herd of friends but would be very loyal to a few.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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BarnManager Q&A With: Corie Bannon
September 7, 2023| | in category BarnManager Q&A No comments yet

BarnManager Q&A With: Corie Bannon

Corie Bannon, office manager for Hampton Green Farm and show groom for international dressage athlete Kerrigan Gluch, based out of Ocala, FL

What are three things that are always in your ring bag and why?

For my ringside bag, I like to plan for the worst and hope for the best. If it fits, it’s going into the bag. However, three things that are always there are extra white gloves, sugar, and a rag. Sometimes when everything is hot and sweaty the rider can’t grip the reins and fresh gloves are needed. Sugar is the reward and keeps the horse feeling good about their work. If you know me you know I don’t go anywhere without a rag on my belt. Such a simple thing has so many uses!

What’s something you learned early in your career that has stuck with you?

Photo courtesy of Corie Bannon

One thing that has always stuck with me is you never know when a new opportunity might arise. The majority of my opportunities presented themselves when I was least expecting them. I was at the right place at the right time when I met a rider in need of a groom to travel to the Olympics with them. This led to an incredible opportunity to travel and learn so much about the sport. Unfortunately, I was severely injured in a car accident, and I was taken out of my position very suddenly. The turn of events took me away from the job I had but a new opportunity as office manager presented itself. You never know what life might throw your way. Always stay positive, patient, and open-minded and things will work themselves out.

Who inspires you the most in the industry and why?

Lendon Gray inspires me the most in the industry. Lendon’s dedication and passion for the sport of dressage is unmatched. Not only did she have an amazing riding career, but now dedicates her time to her nonprofit organization, Dressage4Kids. Dressage4Kids focuses on education for all youth riders, no matter where they come from, what level they ride at, or how much their horse cost. I have been involved with the program for more than 20 years, and I can gratefully say that I would not have found success without the incredible work of Lendon. Dressage4Kids is continuing to create a pipeline of well-educated youth riders for the sport in the U.S.

What is your best tip for staying organized during a busy show day?

I need to have a plan the night before in order for me to stay as organized as possible. I like to make a list of show times and times riders would like to get on each horse. Then I work backward to determine the correct timing of tacking up, braiding, etc. Another thing that helps me on busy days is having my tack trunks super organized. Everything has its designated spot, and I know where it is without even needing to look. This is especially important when the day becomes chaotic because I don’t waste time looking for anything.

What is one horse show you have never been to but would love to attend?

Photo courtesy of Corie Bannon

I have been extremely fortunate in my career and have been able to groom at so many amazing shows. I have been able to be a spectator at Aachen, but I would love to be able to groom at this prestigious show. I feel this show is a huge accomplishment and dream for most riders and it would be amazing to be part of that dream!

Mares, geldings, or stallions? Why?

I don’t prefer one over the other. Every horse has their own individual personality. I have never worked with two horses alike, which keeps it entertaining. I tend to enjoy working with horses that have very loud personalities.

If you were a horse, what would you be and why?

If I were a horse, I would be mostly laid back, but I would enjoy keeping my rider on their toes. I like to think I have a good work ethic. I’m a bit of a perfectionist, so I feel like I would enjoy being a show pony.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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BarnManager Q&A With: Madeline Finley
August 10, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

BarnManager Q&A With: Madeline Finley

Madeline Finley, manager at Maarten Huygens Horse Sales based out of Wellington, FL, and North Salem, NY

What are three things that are always in your ring bag and why?

I like to travel light. I try to only carry the essentials. With that being said, my ring bag is always equipped with a towel, a hole punch, and cookies for the horses. I like to keep things very simple.

What’s something you learned early in your career that has stuck with you?

I’m very big on cleanliness and organization. Some would say it’s an obsession for me. I find it very hard to work and operate out of a messy environment. I think it’s safer for the people and the horses when the barn aisle is tidy and everything is in its place.

Who inspires you the most in the industry and why?

Maarten Huygens and Madeline Finley Photo courtesy of Madeline Finley

The person who inspires me the most in this industry is without a doubt Maarten Huygens. He came to the United States at a young age, rode, groomed, worked hard, and eventually became the successful businessman he is today. It is a story similar to how so many of us started out, including myself. Working for Maarten is really special. He is one of the most genuine, down-to-earth individuals with so much knowledge and passion for the sport. I am always proud to stand by his side.

What is your best tip for staying organized during a busy show day?

Communication always! Working in a sales barn can be very chaotic at times, but as long as everyone is communicating the day will run smoothly.

What is one horse show you have never been to but would love to attend?

I have never been to a horse show in Europe. I would really like to experience that at least once in my life. If I had my pick, it would be the Dublin Horse Show!

Mares, geldings, or stallions? Why?

I love a mare with an attitude and a big heart. I like to think those two things go hand in hand. When you can form a bond with a tough mare she will do anything for you; she will be your best friend.

If you were a horse, what would you be and why?

I would like to be a western horse on the Yellowstone Ranch. That’s my favorite show, and I always wonder what it would be like to live there.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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BarnManager Q&A With: Katherine Esterline
June 23, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

BarnManager Q&A With: Katherine Esterline

Katherine Esterline, groom for Anna Marek of Marek Dressage based out of Ocala, FL

What are three things that are always in your ring bag and why?

I always have sugar cubes. Anna’s trainer Anne Gribbons likes to give a lot of rewards during her lessons. I make sure to keep a good supply in my bag for training times and warm-up at competitions. The second item is a wet rag. Lots of sugar leads to a lot of foam and a mess! I use a wet rag to wipe the horse clean of foam and sand before they go in the show ring. It’s also very handy when the reins get slippery and covered in sweat. The third thing I keep in my bag is an instant ice pack. In Wellington, FL, it can get very hot during competitions. The ice pack helps me stay cool while standing by the warm-up arena, and it keeps my rider’s water bottle cold. 

What’s something you learned early in your career that has stuck with you?

I learned early on that a good curry comb is your best friend.

Photo courtesy of Katherine Esterline

Who inspires you the most in the industry and why?

My mom helped me find a passion for horses at a young age. She trained and managed a boarding farm in Michigan. She was the one who gave me my first lessons. She now manages the care of Anna’s training horses at Crownview Dressage. She works extremely hard. I never see her take a day off. 

What is your best tip for staying organized during a busy show day?

I make a plan using the notes app on my phone the night before with the times my rider will mount and show. Anna tends to show two to three times a day plus additional schooling sessions. Having everything written down is essential. Setting timers for lunch and other special tasks is also very helpful.

What is one horse show you have never been to but would love to attend?

I really want to go to Aachen. I’d love to go even just as a spectator … one day! 

Mares, geldings, or stallions? Why?

I love geldings, but earning the friendship of a mare is truly the best. 

If you were a horse, what would you be and why?

The new foals on the farm look like they’re having the most fun playing around in the field. I’d love to be them!

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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BarnManager Q&A With: Kerri Short
May 18, 2023| | in category BarnManager Q&A, Uncategorized No comments yet

BarnManager Q&A With: Kerri Short

Kerri Short, manager and groom for Anna Marek of Marek Dressage based out of Ocala, FL, and Dunnellon, FL

What are three things that are always in your ring bag and why?

The first thing I always make sure I have in my ring bag is a towel for wiping off boots, horse slobber, or anything else. I also keep silver spray just in case there are any last-minute nicks or scrapes. The third thing is sugar cubes for the good ponies! There are a lot of other things that are always in my ring bag but those are my top three.

What’s something you learned early in your career that has stuck with you?

Early in my career I learned that happy, healthy, shiny horses are due to good feed, grooming, and management.

Who inspires you the most in the industry and why?

Photo courtesy of Kerri Short

I would say there is no one person in particular who inspires me. Anyone who has made the horse industry, grooming in particular, their livelihood is inspirational. It can be a tough life, so I admire a lot of professionals and grooms that continue to always do a nice job and care for their horses. The love the equine industry “lifers” have for the horses is pretty awesome.

What is your best tip for staying organized during a busy show day?

A white board! It is so important to write down all the times, schedules, and other important information about what needs to happen during the day. A white board is perfect for this because you can write down a lot of notes and easily make any changes.

What is one horse show you have never been to but would love to attend?

When I was an event groom, I always wanted to go to Badminton and Burghley Horse Trials. In the dressage world, any of the team shows, like the Olympics, Pan American Games, or World Championships, are high on my list.

Mares, geldings, or stallions? Why?

I think a good horse is a good horse!

If you were a horse, what would you be and why?

I would probably a short Cob horse. I would definitely hate flies and want all the fly gear!

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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BarnManager Q&A With: Chloe Garrett
April 13, 2023| | in category BarnManager Q&A No comments yet

BarnManager Q&A With: Chloe Garrett

Chloe Garrett, manager for Sarah Scheiring of Bellwyn Farm, based in Wellington, FL

What are three things that are always in your ring bag and why?

The first thing I always have in my ring bag is vet wrap because you never know when your horse will lose a shoe or get a nick on course. I also have boot polish for touch-ups between rounds and, of course, cookies.

Photo by Kind Media

What’s something you learned early in your career that has stuck with you?

Early on in my career I got the opportunity to work with a lot of young horses, and to this day they are still my favorite part of the industry. I learned a lot of patience from them, and even though it’s a bit of a trivial answer, I really notice this is lacking in the sport. Even when working with seasoned horses, it is important to take a step back and really say to yourself, “They are just animals, and they don’t have to do what you’re asking of them.” Taking time to build a strong relationship with every horse that walks through the door is something that I put a lot of value in, and sometimes all it takes is a little bit of patience.

Who inspires you the most in the industry and why?

One of my biggest idols for as long as I can remember has been Lee McKeever. I look up to him for a lot of reasons. I admire his invaluable knowledge of the horses and the sport, his work ethic, and his ability to always be on the same page as McLain Ward. Above all, I think what stands out to me is their team. You don’t see a lot of professionals maintaining long-term relationships in the way that they have, and I think it reflects greatly on how much value McLain holds in Lee as his second-in-command.

What is your best tip for staying organized during a busy show day?

I think there are a lot of ways to stay organized during a busy show schedule. Starting the night before, creating a really solid plan, and sticking with it are all important, but as everyone in the industry knows, just because you made a plan doesn’t mean it will run accordingly. I rely heavily on my staff to be one step ahead because timing is everything.

Another huge part of a busy show schedule is communication with the in-gates. A staple of a great horse show is its staff, and I try to maintain good relationships with everyone I see on a daily basis. AJ Holmes who works at the in-gate at the International Arena during the Winter Equestrian Festival is a great example of an individual who keeps the busy days running smoothly. When timing is everything, you rely on the rings to be on schedule so you know exactly when you should have your horses ready to show. For example, AJ’s communication with the competitors, staff, and other rings is the difference between being organized and ready to go versus being lost in a chaotic moment. It really takes a village.

What is one horse show you have never been to but would love to attend?

Photo by Kind Media

I have never been to Aachen, Germany, and I would definitely say it is a bucket list show for me. The atmosphere, the ring, the jumps, all of it. It’s really a class venue, and I would love to experience it one day.

Mares, geldings, or stallions and why?

Over the years the horses that have impacted me most have been mares. I have a love for all of the horses I work with but I think that although mares may be harder to get on your team, once you win them over they fight for you the most. At the end of the day, I think the horses that are the most successful and rewarding in and outside of the ring are the ones with the most heart.

If you were a horse, what would you be and why?

If I were a horse I think I would be an Amateur-Owner Hunter. I love what I do in the real world but there’s something that sounds nice and satisfying about working hard for cookies on the weekend and making an owner really happy.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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Tips From the Pros: Buying a Farm with Martha W. Jolicoeur
March 19, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

Deciding to buy your own farm is a decision not to be taken lightly. Understanding the process and knowing what properties will align with your needs are crucial factors to consider. BarnManager spoke with Martha W. Jolicoeur, one of the top-ranked real estate agents catering exclusively to equestrian clientele in Wellington, FL, to learn from her experience and expertise.

What are some important first steps a person should take when they decide to start looking for a farm?

When you start the process of looking for a farm you want to make sure you know what your budget is, especially when looking at equestrian properties. It’s important to hire a realtor you trust who comes recommended and specializes in horse farms.

What’s the first thing you look for when you walk into a farm, and what are a few other important qualities or features to look for?

As always in real estate, it’s all about location, location, location. Other features or qualities depend on what the buyer is looking for. For example, if you’re in Florida seasonally, you may need less land than if you’re here for a longer period of time. When looking at equestrian properties, it is important to remember that the maintenance of a property in Florida during the summer months is more than what is required in the winter; it rains every day in the summer, and everything grows really quickly.

Another important feature people who have experience working at a horse farm often look for is the ability to see the paddocks from the barn. Also, walkers are currently an important feature for many buyers. A farm that has a covered walker, or room to install one, is highly desirable.

Are there any features you consider to be absolute dealbreakers?

Anything that would be dangerous to the animals is a dealbreaker. Everything should be in a good state of repair. For example, there should be no nails sticking out in the stabling or fencing. If you’re selling, make sure the fencing is painted and looks nice because fencing is important and makes a strong first impression. For the barn itself, you want neutral colors. A barn that is painted in darker colors often looks dated which is a turn-off.

Are there certain features that are often overlooked but important when looking to purchase a farm?

Drainage is an essential feature for any barn. Also, having shade for the horses in the paddocks is often overlooked but is so important. It is a good idea to consider the direction of the barn and if it catches the wind. Having a breeze blowing through a barn aisle in the summer months is a great quality. Specific to barns in warmer climates, understand that rubber pavers do not do well in the sun. Many people are now using a poured rubber instead, which is easy to clean. You want to look for a surface that is attractive and can stand the test of time. If there is light footing in the ring, you don’t want a dark aisle surface that immediately shows the sand when you come into the barn.

Although shopping for an equestrian property is an exciting experience, it is also a large investment. In order to find a property that will best suit your needs, it is important to do your homework and to work with a knowledgeable realtor who understands the nuances of the market.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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BarnManager Q&A With: Ally Bradley
March 9, 2023| | in category BarnManager Q&A No comments yet

BarnManager Q&A With: Ally Bradley

Ally Bradley, show groom for Catherine Tyree, a young professional show jumping athlete based out of Wellington, FL

What are three things that are always in your ring bag and why?

My ring bag is a small tack room, to be honest. It of course comes with the usuals, but I will not go anywhere without a stud tree, Advil, or my spare rope halter. All three have proven to be useful on the days that make you say, “Well that wasn’t supposed to happen…”

Photo courtesy of Ally Bradley

What’s something you learned early in your career that has stuck with you?

Early in my career, I was working for Neil Jones while Mavis Spencer was still riding for him. Mavis taught me that there are many ways to do something correctly as long as you keep good horsemanship in mind. There is no one true path to success with horses. You have to leave room for error and stay empathetic with both the horses and humans around you. There has to be a space for differences in styles and personalities. Nothing in the barn belongs in a “box.”

Who inspires you the most in the industry and why?

My industry inspiration would be my childhood trainer, Kathy Slack, who is really more like my mom. When she started her career in horses, it was more of a side gig to teach a few lessons and enjoy her own horses while she worked as a nurse. She bought a small building with land and built the stalls inside the structure herself. Before you know it, she went from two horses to five to 10. Now, 25 years later, between two separate business operations, she oversees 80+ horses and countless riders and students. She does this all while being an incredible mom, instructor, philanthropist, and mentor. Kathy is the coolest person and the one who inspired me to go to Wellington and start grooming. I am grateful to her for everything she has done for me through the years.

What is your best tip for staying organized during a busy show day?

Photo by Lauren White Media

When the days get busy and you start going fast, the best thing you can do is have a clear plan from the get-go. Communication is also important. If everyone is on one page from the moment you feed the horses in the morning to the moment you feed in the afternoon, it makes for an enjoyable experience. If the plan falls apart during the day, it is also important to have a reliable and flexible team of people working with you. I consider myself really lucky to work with the team of people I do. I am quite close and work very seamlessly with my rider Catherine Tyree and my coworker Alex Weinman. We keep it all together by creating a plan every night and sticking to it the best we can. While we are very serious about show jumping, we are also always laughing and having fun. It is extremely important to me to be on a team of people I enjoy working with. If it’s not fun, why do it?

What is one horse show you have never been to but would love to attend?

I have yet to attend Spruce Meadows, and I am dying to get up there. It is such an iconic venue, and I hope to experience it soon.

Photo by Lauren White Media

Mares, geldings, or stallions? Why?

I am just a horse person. I don’t really have a favorite. I fall in love with the personality of the horse before anything else!

If you were a horse, what would you be and why?

If I was a horse, I would hands down be a naughty school pony who lived to be 100 years old.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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BarnManager Q&A With: Kristina Spellman
January 26, 2023| | in category BarnManager Q&A No comments yet

BarnManager Q&A With: Kristina Spellman

Kristina Spellman, Manager for Hubbard Horses LLC, located in Wellington, FL

What are three things that are always in your ring bag?

I always keep treats, vet wrap, and a towel in my ring bag.

Photo by Tryon x Natalie Suto

What is the most helpful habit that you practice at the barn?

I find that it is very helpful to follow a daily routine to stay organized.

How do you foster a great team environment in your business?

I try to always promote open communication. I find communication to be important when you are part of a team because it’s the best way to make sure everyone is on the same page about the horses’ care and the schedule. This way nothing gets overlooked and everything runs smoothly. Also, I think it is really important to have a positive attitude even during difficult days.

What’s your best tip or hack for grooming and horse care? Where did you learn it?

My best tip is to curry a lot. I have learned this through working for a number of top professionals in the industry.

What is your favorite equestrian competition and why?

I really enjoy Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, NC. It’s a beautiful facility with great footing. Also, on days when you’re not competing it is nice to take the horses out on the cross-country field.

Photo by Tryon x Karli Dannewitz

If you were a horse, what would you be and why?

I would be an amateur jumper because I’m reliable and always try to have a really good attitude. Plus, I know my owners would spoil me!

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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