saddle fitter in Maryland-- I have black country, may need something else?

[alterationstation]

I currently have a Black Country- bought a year ago. Since then my horse has put on a little more muscle and I think it is too narrow on him. I was told when I bought it that the tree could be adjusted by a saddle fitter-- and someone told me that's not possible.
So- if it's not, there's also the likelyhood that I may be looking at a new saddle..
Just to get an idea, I have a VERY short-backed arab/app, slight dip, will be putting on more muscle too- we are coming back from a long lay-off. Lower level- 2nd level tops.
I will be moving to Maryland- North of DC. Need a competent saddle fitter- but I also can't afford an arm and a leg... There's the possibility of County, I think, but I don't want to buy the saddle by brand name, I want to buy it b/c it fits my horse and fits me. I'm also not tremendously experienced in fitting the saddle to myself- but hopefully I will have a trainer who may be able to help me.
Any suggestions?

[dressagediosa]

When are you moving to MD? I'm in Northern VA, and I have clinics with a TOP saddle fitter every so often who works with Black Country saddles, among other brands. She'll actually be here next weekend, and will be doing individual fit consultations as well as an educational clinic. Drop me a PM or an email if you'd like to know more.

[bosox]

melinda rice is an excellent saddle fitter. She fits all saddles and is actually in the "family" business. She is not a rep that fits saddles she sells. She sells no saddles only fittings.

www.equiry.com

you'll have to look up her info and she does live up 270 I think but she does travel

[Bellfleur]

We have a top saddle fitter coming to Riverside Equestrian in Northern VA in Feb. She sells the Black Country saddles in connection with Farmhouse Tack so I know she is familiar with them.

Let me know if you would like to get on the schedule here?

[KnightShade]

Just wanted to add that I have a Black Country, and we had asked a couple saddle fitters about the possibility of fitting it to a different horse at one point. We were told by all of them that the tree could be adjusted to a certain extent (like one size up or down), just not anything extreme. So you may be able to hold on to the one you have already.

Good luck ~

[alterationstation]

I don't have a trailer and am moving 2 weeks from now-- but thank you for telling me!! If I could borrow one I would..

[pharmgirl]

I have a BC Quantum saddle, and have had it adjusted. I don't think it can go massive extremes, but it is one brand that can be adjusted some.
Prudence Heaney of Two Time Tack is a BC rep (among some other brands), but works with any brands. She is based out of Hagerstown, MD but travels to you so you could try contacting her.

http://www.twotimetack.com/

[hollyhorse2000]

I highly recommend Suzy Coffey as a saddle fitter. She is highly regarded in Maryland. PM for her number. Bill Wood, from Virginia, is also a very reputable saddle fitter who travels to Maryland. I believe he represents Black Country, among others, but is primarily a fitter not a seller.

You might also want to call Trumbull Mountain Saddlery (google for Web site). They are a big Black Country rep and work closely with the factory in England. If you get a competent wither tracing, they should be able to help long distance.

[alterationstation]

yes, I love Trumbull Mtn- they are who I bought the saddle from. However, they sent me about 6 saddles, none fit, then I ended up going to Vermont with my boss for a show, and just went to them!! and the first saddle they put on him fit like a glove... maybe I am just incompetent at doing tracings??? But he is very hard to fit- I just think someone in person will be better.

[baylady7]

I second Prudence from Two Time Tack. Shen will come to you and does fast/professional service

[SBF]

[quote=hollyhorse2000;3827903]Bill Wood, from Virginia, is also a very reputable saddle fitter who travels to Maryland. I believe he represents Black Country, among others, but is primarily a fitter not a seller.[quote]

I second Bill Wood. He does work with Black Country saddles as well as several other brands, and you can purchase through him.

[sid]

Susie Coffey is just outstanding.

[Ames]

you can't go wrong with Susie Coffey. I have a BC Vinici and she does a great job and is so reasonable at pricing it isn't even funny. Fits the saddle on the premises. I don't have anything nice to say about Two Time Tack and Prudence so won't say a word ;)

[Cupcake]

I use Carolyn August from Mid-Atlantic saddle fit. She's a local Albion rep, but she works on other brands as well. Will adjust saddles on site.

There are a bunch of people at my barn who use Suzy Cofey and are happy with her services.

[Stacie]

[quote=hollyhorse2000;3827903]Bill Wood, from Virginia, is also a very reputable saddle fitter who travels to Maryland. I believe he represents Black Country, among others, but is primarily a fitter not a seller.[quote]

I second Bill Wood. He does work with Black Country saddles as well as several other brands, and you can purchase through him.

Third recommendation for Bill. He was wonderful with the horse as well. I had him out after the first fitter (one that is mentioned in this thread) said my saddle was fine but then the saddle made the horse's back horribly sore. Bill modified the flocking to fit my guy, right there on the spot. He spent about 3 hours with us and the total bill was so low, I'm afraid to post it here.