Making Purchases that Have Lasting Value
by Karen Pickering
Does your horse gear have special meaning to you or is strictly a tool you use to ride or control your horse? Do you recall where you purchased your first saddle or bridle? What are your priorities when purchasing tack? Of course it should fit your horse, but after that what do you look for? Do you prefer to order online or buy at a local tack store? What about consignment shopping ?
For me, a tack purchase is an investment. I want to research, touch it, hold it in my hands or sit on it before I buy. That’s just my preference. With the onslaught of eBay, Craigslist, and other online “stores” there’s a lot more choices now. I may be a bit old fashioned, but I still prefer to walk into a store and see the merchandise. In my case, I make purchases with clients who advertise because I believe in taking care of those that take care of me. It’s not only about price, it’s about the service and knowledge of the person selling you the product.
When I think of all the local stores that support our horse shows, rodeos, expos and other equestrian events, it just makes sense to spend our dollars with those that support the industry. I’ve always preferred a more personal connection, that one-on-one conversation in person or by phone. While I use Facebook and other social media, it doesn’t take the place of “old fashioned” contact with somebody.
Our cover story this month is about the 2nd annual Great Alaska Horse Expo—read the story on page 6! Come to think of it, I wonder how Alaskans make most of their tack purchases? Hmmm. I can understand mail order in a place where it’s much more difficult to drive to the nearest store. I would love some feedback from our friends up north. Enjoy this issue and get out there and do some riding. Don’t forget to clean and check your gear!
Quote: “Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.”
Oprah Winfrey
Published June 2013 Issue
Owner / Publisher | Canfield Certified Trainer
Karen Pickering is a lifelong horsewoman and the founder of The Northwest Horse Source, which began in 1995 as a small equine newsletter and grew into a respected industry publication. With more than 30 years of experience serving the horse community, Karen now focuses on helping equine businesses and organizations build visibility, credibility, and lasting relationships through online marketing, digital promotion, and educational platforms.
As a Canfield Certified Trainer, she blends proven success principles with real-world industry experience, supporting both businesses and individuals navigating change in today’s digital landscape. Karen remains deeply connected to the horse industry and is passionate about serving the community she has helped build for over three decades.
