Happy Holidays y’all! I’m happy to be back blogging for my favorite website GoHorseShow.com, but I am feeling super pressure right now. The end of another year is approaching, and some of us (like me!) are still chasing precious horse show points. The good news is the year ends for me in sunny Florida where I have been lucky enough to hang out since Thanksgiving. The bad news is – YIKES – I haven’t finished my Holiday shopping! Any of you readers need some last minute help like I do? Come on, even Ebenezer Scrooge came through with presents at the end of the story, so there will be no excuse for a Bah Humbug from any of us this year.
Our faithful advertisers, as well as some of my favorite shops are here to help. I have compiled a list of vendors who are able to ship the perfect item or gift certificate to you in time for the holidays. Loyal horse show patrons will recognize most of these great retailers who have promised to work hard to assist your needs! Don’t be deterred by the price points of my picks. These incredible stores have something for every budget! (Prices and estimates subject to change.)
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Hannah Fine Jewelry
(352) 291-6650
http://www.hannahjewelry.net/
Want
to be a hero, and make your best girl feel like a celebrity? Call the
jeweler to the stars! Our BFF Hannah is tops in my book for the finest
in custom jewelry from the affordable to extravagant. Outstanding
selection from traditional to trendy as well as equestrian themed
items. Call Hannah for personal shopping assistance. Delivery available
to the Gold Coast. Whether it is for your ‘ tween daughter or life
partner, this is your one stop shop. Dakota’s pick: A loyal boyfriend
to buy me
this butterfly ring in 18k white gold with black and white diamonds, priced at $3,150…or really ANYTHING from Hannah’s!
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Good Ride Clothing & Accessories
(352) 291-6650
http://www.goodridelife.com
If you followed my blog from the Congress, you know what a huge fan I am of Hannah’s new clothing and accessory line, Good Ride. Huge props to Hannah and Ronnie who just got back from Vegas where Good Ride was named the winner of the Best New Vendor award at the 2009 National Finals Rodeo! How cool is that? Good Ride was also the sponsor of the 2009 World Champion Saddle Bronc rider, Jesse Kruse. If you watched the TV coverage of the NFR you could see Good Ride all over the arena. Good Ride has a great new selection of items from inexpensive t-shirts and hoodies to higher end shirts. Pictured here is a ladies burnout tee with Swarovski crystals featuring Good Ride’s mantra “Life’s a Ride…Make it a Good One” Available Silver w/ silver crystals and Black with teal crystals, $115.00.
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Show Me Again
(602) 284-5616
http://www.showmeagain.com/
Owned by Wendy Habighorst, this is your best place for new & used designer show clothes. Anything not marked Sale Pending or Sold is available for next day delivery until 12/23/09! Orders placed through 12/31/09 offer free standard shipping. Gift certificates can be mailed or emailed. Dakota’s pick: Brand new jacket from Carolina Beverly Hills. Leave it to me to find something from 90210 land! This gorgeous jacket is covered in Swarovksi crystals. It’s $3,500 but you can find items for much less at Show Me Again.
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Connie’s Customs
(918) 346-5560
http://www.conniescustoms.com
Rail
shirts, saddle pads, jackets, handbags, accessories and more! Most
items in-stock except some of the painted jackets. Free standard
shipping through 12/31/09. Overnight shipping available until 12/23.
Gift certificates can be emailed or mailed. Dakota’s pick – you can’t
go wrong with the GoHorseShow Green inspired saddle pad for $385.00!
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Harris Leather & Silverworks
(336) 874-2100
http://www.harrisleather.com/
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to the world of fine handmade show equipment. If you can’t afford one
of their spectacular show saddles, opt for their popular signature
Harris logo jackets or sweatshirts instead! There’s something here for
everyone! Allow 3-4 weeks on custom items, but lots of choices in
stock. Gift certificates available! Hurry though, time is running out.
This great vendor is only open through 12/21, so time is a wasting.
Dakota’s pick: Pocketknife #70 – a must have for every sexy cowboy!
$395.00
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Putting On the Glitz
(229) 854-0404
Great show shirts, jewelry, handbags, accessories, and amazing designer doggiewear. Call owner Cindy who will act as your personal shopper for the perfect item for that special person. Gift certificates available by mail or email, or the owner will personally deliver your item to the Gold Coast on 12/26. Dakota’s pick: My little Chi’s (Chihuahuas, duh) wouldn’t be caught dead without their Louis Vuitton winter coats from this retailer. Did we also say Burberry doggiewear too?
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The Hitching Post
(502) 245-4672
http://www.hitchingposttack.com
Your first stop for fine English tack and apparel. The store is open to take orders until 12/24 at 4:00 p.m., but don’t miss the overnight shipping cut-off on 12/23. Gift certificates available, or John can personally deliver your in-stock items to the Gold Coast on 12/27. Dakota’s pick: Beval Butet English saddle. A quick peak in Nancy Sue’s tack room will reveal it is her choice as well. I know, it is a little pricey, but John makes it worthwhile with some extra perks like free fittings for a limited time only. This foundation item will last a lifetime with the proper care. Remember, the Butet only comes in whole sizes, i.e. 15”, 16”, 17”, etc. with additional customizing in the flap size. Don’t leave sizing to chance – ask for assistance.
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Blue Ribbon Custom Tack
(602) 992-2145
http://www.blueribbontack.com/
My first high point title was won with my cherished Blue Ribbon halter, so I have been a fan since I was a peanut. Blue Ribbon is a custom manufacturer of the finest quality western saddles and accessories. Custom items aren’t available for Christmas shipping, but gift certificates will do the trick. Plenty of other items from saddles to money clips are in-stock and ready for shipping. Overnight shipping until 12/23. The store is closed early on 12/24. Dakota’s pick: My longtime favorite item is their personalized custom 2-1/2” silver western show stirrups. Starting at $360.00, plan to add approximately $25.00 for each gold initial or letter.
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Carolina Moon
(704) 718-6061
http://carolinamooninc.com/
Carolina Moon Home Furnishings offers a wide selection of fine western furniture, home accessories, western art, handcrafted jewelry, decorative pillows, and rugs for the horse enthusiast. Many unique items available to ship now, but furnishings are drop shipped from the manufacturer and won’t make it in time for Christmas. Call for personal assistance from the owners, Mike and Betty Clagg. This is a fantastic place to shop for that hard to please person who has everything. The good news is there is free standard shipping through 12/31/09. Trust me, their goods are worth the wait so buy your gift certificate before Christmas which can be emailed to you in time for the big day. A favorite of my Mom who, trust me, has everything from their lamps to tables. This is the store where you simply can’t go wrong. Dakota’s pick: Similar to the “Cowgirl” pillow shown here is my “Hope” leather fringed pillow that I have in my personal collection!
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Kansas City Steaks
(800) 524-1844
http://www.kansascitysteaks.com/
Around since 1932, here’s the outfit who’s steaks that made Kansas City Famous! A personal favorite of the GoHorseShow.com home office which is based in Kansas City, what trainer wouldn’t love to see this box arrive on their doorstep??? Vegetarian? Don’t worry there are lots of delectable non-meat items in their inventory as well. Dakota’s pick: EVERYTHING is delicious! Don Bell highly recommends their filet.
To get Guaranteed Christmas Delivery with Standard shipping, orders must be placed by 8pm CT on 12/19/09. Orders will arrive on or before Christmas Eve. To get Guaranteed Christmas Delivery after 8pm on 12/19/09 thru 8am on 12/23/09, Overnight delivery must be selected during checkout. Additional fees will apply. Orders will arrive on or before Christmas Eve.
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GoMag
903-651-5615
[email protected]
Okay while I’m bragging on GoHorseShow.com here’s a shameless plug for what I’m hoping to get for the holidays (ehemm…beloved bosses, are you listening?), a gift certificate for pages in GoHorseShow.com’s digital magazine, GoMag! Seriously, it’s the deal and it’s just $130 a page! That’s a no brainer if you ask me! Hope to see you in there.
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Robin Frid Horsemanship Video
http://www.gohorseshow.com/ProductsPage.cfm?categoryID=35
Although certainly not my favorite class, those who want to learn horsemanship from one of the very best need the Robin Frid horsemanship video. Robin coached four of the top seven horsemanship riders at the 2009 AQHA World Championship show including the World Champion. It’s two hours of information which really gives you a roadmap to success. This video is available for shipping in time for Christmas and at $79.00 is an invaluable resource for any level rider.
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Sam’s Club
http://www.samsclub.com
Yes, you read that right. Sam’s Club. Does this sound crazy? There’s a Sam’s in every town. Head out now for Dakota’s pick: A must have for every blue ribbon loving champion! Sapphire and diamond buckle ring – $325.00. P.S. I know someone who is getting this must have item, but I won’t tell. If you are truly last minute, here is a great piece that you can run out and purchase locally that will surely appeal to her senses!
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The Ball Lady
(765) 349-6115
[email protected]
Due to popular demand, it might be too late to ship for Christmas, but these personalized ornaments are GREAT for any occasion. Gift certificates are available in time for the holidays, so your loved one can order a personalized keepsake ornament. Perfect for trainers gifts, farm owner logos, your beloved horse or pets’ image, team colors, businesses, weddings, birthdays, and more! Excellent craftsmanship and quality embroidery at this price point make this an incredible must have item! Prices starting at $15.00 plus shipping.
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Malvern Saddlery, Ltd.
800.850.9980
http://www.malvernsaddlery.com
You will never look like your purchase was last minute from Malvern Saddlery, Ltd. where “The Difference is Quality”. That’s an understatement. Like I said, it is Christmas, and I am divulging all my secrets. Tucked away in a picturesque tony suburb of Philadelphia, the owner, Jill literally scours the corners of the globe to bring the finest unique equestrian items and gifts to her discerning east coast customers. From jewelry to giftware, AMAZING custom show coolers (you know the kind with the big braided trim), equestrian antiques and more! This is worth a trip if you are in the area. In the meantime, you will be blown away by the level of customer service! Great trainer gifts are the customized jump bat with silver embellishments, and silk men’s neck ties. Thanks to all who ask about my colorful assortment of English hunter under saddle helmets which come from Malvern. This gorgeous sleek fitting must have is the Ascot style riding helmet by Charles Owen. Brown is my signature look, but I also own the navy and black. Ask Jill about colors and sizes available through special order with matching gloves. Dakota’s pick: $8.00 equestrian themed brass cabinet pulls (fox, hunt cap, English boot, and hunting horn).
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Amazon.com
http://www.amazon.com
Long before the popular Saddle Club books, there were classic, and well illustrated tales or ornery ponies by Norman Thelwell. Just type in Thelwell Ponies on the Amazon search bar. You can’t go wrong with any of these great children’s books which were introduced to me by my late grandmother, Jane Griffith. I must confess that I still love them and so does my Mom! Two days left for standard Christmas shipping!
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New Vocations Racehorse Adoption
http://www.horseadoption.com
Substitute compassion for consumption this holiday season by making a donation to my favorite horse charity! New Vocations is tops in my book for rehabilitating and adopting out unwanted race horses. They can also be a great resource for your next champion producing TB broodmare, or recipient mare adoption.
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TSC (Tractor Supply Company)
http://www.tractorsupply.com (search for a location near you)
Don’t forget your favorite equine friends too! Pick up some delicious horse treats from Mrs. Pastures at your neighborhood TSC along with other goodies. If all else fails, hit your neighborhood WalMart for a big bag of peppermints.
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Ballard’s Chihuahuas of Venice, Florida
(941) 488-5521
Alright, I am going to wrap this one up with a Dakota moment! This is the ultimate stocking stuffer! Christmas came early for me in the form of my newest darling Chi – little Bindi Sue Griffith. She is adorable – I’m not going to lie. Her litter mates were ready for Christmas delivery, so run down from the Gold Coast and pick up a little precious pup like mine!
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Now I’ve really gotta go! I’m behind on my shopping too, and the deadlines are running out. Today is the perfect rainy day here in Florida for me to tackle my online ordering. Got any other great suggestions? Please give this blog a bump, then add your favorites in the comment section. Do you have a wish list from your significant other? Post it here too! We want to hear all about it! Holiday Hugs from me and the Gang!
xoxo,
Koko
