(425) 890-2133
About Me
As a dedicated Horse Riding Instructor based in the picturesque Kittitas County, I have been passionately working with individuals and their equine partners since 2013 throughout Washington and Montana. Growing up in Snoqualmie, Washington, my love for horses led me to Dillon, Montana, where I pursued a college education centered around my two passions—horses and the business that supports them. During my time in Montana, I immersed myself in the ranching industry, honing my skills as both a rider and a teacher. I firmly believe that everyone has something valuable to teach, and I am always eager to learn and share my knowledge.
My deep-seated passion for horses drives me to help my trainees enhance their skills and achieve their equine aspirations. Known for being both tough and understanding, I provide personalized guidance to help each client reach and exceed their potential. Through careful preparation and realistic goal-setting, I motivate, inspire, and guide my students—both human and equine—towards success.
With Bachelor’s degrees in Natural Horsemanship and Business Administration, I offer a unique and practical perspective on the equine industry. My approach focuses on developing balance, timing, and feel, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of horsemanship. Are you ready to achieve your equine goals? Let's start this journey together!
My Life with Horses
An In Depth Look
Welcome to my horsemanship journey! It all started when I was 10, and an old racehorse in need of love galloped into my life. I eagerly volunteered and learned to ride on that sweet gelding, sparking a passion that has shaped my equine career. Though his passing was tough, it opened doors that led me deeper into the horse world. I kept busy working at various barns, exercising client horses, and absorbing wisdom from trainers and fellow enthusiasts.
With hard work, saving, and my parents' support, I finally got my dream horse, Levi, affectionately known as Moo. Our first ride was a wild one—she tried to buck me off! But I knew she was the one. Throughout high school, I juggled riding 5-7 horses daily and maintaining 5 different barns, while also competing in 4H events with Moo. As the president of my 4H club, I loved helping fellow members and sharing my passion.
College took me and Moo to the University of Montana Western in Dillon, where I delved into the horse industry and its business side. I found incredible opportunities, like working as a wrangler at a dude ranch in the Rocky Mountains. There, I matched horses to riders, managed over 20 horses' care, and trained new horses—all while meeting amazing people and horses.
During my junior year, I added another mare, Amarillo, to my journey. She started as a reluctant student but blossomed into a hardworking partner through my training. My college years were also filled with learning the cowboy lifestyle: moving cattle, checking on calving cows, branding, and fixing fences. These experiences honed my ability to train horses for any challenge.
In my final year, I interned at a breeding facility, working with young colts and refining my training skills. I also became a teaching assistant, guiding students through the courses I once eagerly absorbed. I graduated in June 2019 with degrees in Business Administration and Natural Horsemanship, certified in Instruction, all with Moo by my side.
After six wonderful years in Montana, my partner and I moved to Washington to be closer to family and explore new opportunities in the Cascades. Now, I teach horse enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels, focusing on effective communication with horses and mastering balance, timing, and feel. My ultimate goal is to help clients improve their horsemanship and achieve their dreams.
About My Program
My training philosophy is grounded in a firm but kind approach, with a focus on patience, consistency, and a deep understanding of both horse and rider. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of learning from a variety of experienced trainers, attending specialized courses, and gaining firsthand knowledge through working directly with horses. As a result, my style is a blend of techniques, influenced by different disciplines and a range of methods. I believe that no single approach works for every horse or rider, so I tailor my program to the unique needs of each individual.
When it comes to training horses, I don’t believe in shortcuts or "quick fixes." I take a methodical approach, ensuring that each horse absorbs what they are being taught, laying a strong foundation before moving to the next step. Skipping steps only leads to gaps in understanding, and my goal is to develop horses that are confident, well-rounded, and capable of performing at their best. Whether it’s groundwork or more advanced skills, every lesson is part of a larger process of real learning and growth.
In lessons with students, I adopt a similar philosophy. I help my students set attainable goals that challenge them but are within their reach, always encouraging progress while maintaining a sense of achievement. I started my equestrian journey in dressage, so equitation and proper form are central to everything I teach. However, my program focuses primarily on western disciplines, including trail, pleasure, and equitation, where I emphasize the importance of communication between horse and rider.
For those looking to expand their skills, I offer advanced training in horsemanship, barrel racing, western games (such as patterned speed or gymkhana events), and competitive trail riding. My goal is to help students and horses work together as a team, whether they’re focused on perfecting their form, increasing speed, or navigating challenging obstacles.
Ultimately, my training approach revolves around respect, dedication, and a commitment to long-term success. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine advanced skills, I believe in building strong foundations, setting clear goals, and creating a positive, productive learning environment for both horse and rider.