As we continue our coverage of the buildup to The Dublin Horse Show. We have the privilege of interviewing the founder of one of Ireland’s best up and coming equine clothing brands, Emma Keogh from EquiEire. Emma is an absolute powerhouse and is building an incredible sustainable and eco-friendly fashion business from here in Ireland.

It is safe to say; we are huge fans of Equieire here at The Grassroots Gazette. We heard Emma was going to have a stand at the RDS when she joined the Equitas team for a Livestream recently. We felt we had to get an interview with her about her journey to the Dublin Horse Show. And, here it is folks!!

Tell us a little about who you are and what you do?

Horses and all things equestrian have always been at the centre of my world. I followed my childhood passion and have been working professionally in the industry since 2002. 

I have a track record of successfully working within the Equestrian industry for nearly 20 years, in many affiliate sectors. As a result, I have built a strong equestrian network and gained valuable first-hand experience and knowledge. I am also a professional educator, coach, mentor, and team leader within the industry. In addition to having professional qualifications in Psychology, Leadership, Education and Training, Facilitating, Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Enterprise.

In 2021 I founded my own company ‘Equieire’ which is an innovative sportswear brand on a mission to create positive change in the equestrian industry. 

Our collection features elegant European tailoring combined with comfortable styling using sustainable technical and eco-friendly fabrics. All of our products are designed and rigorously tested in Ireland by equestrians. 

Tell us about your business, and what you’d like from the event?

Equieire was established in early 2021, but it has taken until now to launch because we had issues sourcing sustainably produced goods. “It has been difficult to source factories that use recycled fabric and produce well-made clothes, “We spent a long time testing the clothes and researching how they perform when worn by a rider. “Eventually, we sourced ethical manufacturers that make sportswear from regenerated fabrics.

“It was worth the effort. The processes they use in the production reduce harmful emissions by up to 50%.” We were also determined that the factory conditions were good. “We could have gone down a cheaper road, but it was important to me that workers were treated properly.”

We are looking forward to meeting our followers; I have got much support from the equestrian community over the last 2 years. I also think it’s important for people to be able to feel and touch our products, especially as a new brand. I also personally enjoy listening to customers’ feedback and insights about our products. 

Why are you excited about the RDS?

I am so excited! I can’t believe we are attending this year. We don’t have a very big collection but it is amazing to see how far Equieire has come; it has taken nearly two years to get to this point, and it is important to remember and celebrate these moments. Either way, I love the horseshow I have ridden at the event a number of times in the past and there is always such a positive atmosphere, which I am really looking forward to being part of. 

What has the buildup and preparation been like for you and your business?

Like all new ventures it has been a little stressful, I suppose when you hadn’t done something like this before and you’re doing it for your own business there is always extra pressure. I am lucky to have good supports around me that have really helped ease the nerves. I think it’s like entering the ring before the bell you can feel your heart beating so hard, and then once you jump the first fence you get into your rhythm. 

How does it feel as a business owner having a stand at one of the biggest shows of the year?

It’s a great feeling to see all the little things come together, there is so much work behind the scenes to get to this point, and we are going to use this event as an opportunity to celebrate our journey. Seeing a vision come to life is amazing, like all things with horses it hasn’t been the easiest road and I’ve definitely ended up with more than a bruised ego at times. It’s the resilience you learn from horses that kept me going most of the time. In addition, being chosen to feature in the Horse Show magazine was a dream come true. 

What are the key messages you’ll be trying to relay to the people you meet at the event?

Mainly brand awareness, having chats, and letting people touch, feel and see the products. I think this is very important. 

Where can people find you at the event, and what days will you be there?

We are located in the Main Hall – stand C16, very close to a lovely coffee area, that is new for this year. I will be there all 5 days and really hope you can drop over for a chat or to see our products. 

Where can people get updates or follow you online?

We are on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok and of course our website www. Equieire.com