If you are heading to the RDS Dublin Horseshow this week, it’s likely that doing a spot of equestrian shopping (or as I like to call it – “having a taccident”) is probably on your to do list.
I was delighted to see some of my favourite Irish businesses on the exhibitor list for this year.
If you would like to support Irish business and pick up some quality products along the way, may I suggest you stop in at some of:
- Berney Bros Saddlery. Absolutely synonymous with hunting and showing attire and top quality leather craft, this family run business literally know their leatherwork inside out!
- Botanica International. Sean Cooney has harnessed the healing power of nature with his range of equestrian healthcare products which are a stable favourite in most Irish yards. Top tip – while the horse products are fantastic check out the Botanica eye cream for us humans. It’s more effective than anything else I’ve tried for a fraction of the price and for a huge tub!
- Centrepiece Rosettes. This company does so much more than just rosettes. Centerpiece have dived into the customisable equestrian gift market with huge success offering a range from travel mugs to wooden keyrings to stable name plates. One of my favourite products is their rosette hangers – everyone needs one!
- DSE Equestrian Outfitters. From PS of Sweden Matchy Matchy to the fabulous Presteq and SD design range of bridles, Barbara and her crew have got you covered with your passion lies in dressage, showjumping or eventing. Barbara always impresses me with her consultancy style approach to sales.
- Dubarry of Ireland. Like most of us, I love my dubes. Mine have now been relegated to “show / grooming wear” and at years old they owe me nothing so I’ll be scouting the stand for a new pair.
- Equieire. The Equieire brand showcases the passion and vision of Irish business woman Emma Keogh. Focussing on sustainable fabrics Emma has brought her own collection of Equestrian wear from base layers to riding tights to life. Equieire allows riders to make the conscious choice of a sustainable fabric without sacrificing comfort or durability.
- Horse First Supplements. Quality products that really work! Hoof First is my top product recommendation – it has not just a high dose of biotin but also some great supporting ingredients
- Finn O’Sullivan. The stand might be called Horslyx but let’s face it, it’s Finn that we all want to talk to. With a wealth of knowledge around top quality products such as my favourite Equisolv and Horselyx range – they don’t call him “Just Ask Finn” for nothing!!
- SVS Equine – Esther is a vet and Tim is a scientist and both know a lot about horse supplements. I use the excellent flexibility professional by science supplements purchased from SVs Equine on both my horses and couldn’t recommend it enough!
- Tailored Equestrian. Look, I am just going to give you the warning that was given to me – you will love this company, your wallet will bear the consequences. Featuring the divine collection of rugs by Kentucky, Tailored is just a little bit of luxury. I treated Sammy to a faux rabbit fur Kentucky rug from Tailored with his dressage winnings last year and let’s just say neither of us has looked back.
- Tony O’Connor Equine artist. If you haven’t seen Tony’s work in the flesh before can I suggest that you walk his way and let him blow your mind. From incredible paintings to gorgeous calendars and gift cards, you will not be disappointed.
- Vital Horse Care by The Horse Therapist. I am not a customer of Sharon Bronsveld – YET. However, as I am a huge follower of herbal medicine for both horses and humans, having followed her on social media I suspect I will be by the end of this week.