Kathy Williams of Mendon, Ohio is known for one thing in the industry: TAILS! She is the go to gal for anything horse hair and tail related. During the upcoming Reichert Celebration, her booth can be seen in a new spot located in the upper level of the north side of the coliseum.
Over 18 years ago, Williams started making tails of her own when she decided she couldn’t afford to buy one herself. Her business continued to grow and has turned into a very successful venture for Williams. The prices range from $200-400 depending on the color–white hair extensions are the rarest due to there being limited number of gray horses and the fact that white horse hair is also used for violin strings.
The length of the tails run 24 to 40 inches, although most are 36 inches. Exhibitors searching for a match can bring in a swatch of their horse’s hair or Williams can visit the horse in its stall during the show. There’s black, gray-whites, chestnuts, auburns, flaxen, and everything in between. If a client cannot find a match, Williams can create one to perfectly match the horse’s current tail color. Williams travels to all the major shows and sets up a booth of her tails and carries a line of horse show clothing–Kevin Garcia Originals. “I love the lifestyle and the horses,” Williams said. “I don’t show anymore, but I still get to be around horses and visit with my friends.”
Weighted tails are also a huge bestseller for Williams. “I started designing tails a few years back that can be used with a weight or without at the top of the tail,” she said. “The weighted tails have been a great success story because it has reduced the number of people that are blocking horses tails. It is an alternative solution to a huge problem that has been rampant in the industry.”
An interesting fact about Williams that you may not know is that her son is KC Knoch, who is Darol and Karen Rodrock’s ranch manger. “While some pregnant women played music for their babies when they were in their belly, I actually rode horses while I was pregnant. My son got his passion for horses from me,” Williams chuckles. “I look forward to remaining in the industry for years to come. Like most, it is in my blood, and I love the people and the horses.”
Please stop by and visit Williams at her booth and take a look at the wide variety of tails that will be available. She will also be more than happy to custom order one for you if necessary. Kathy can also be contacted at 419-771-0037.
