Braiders for Dressage Shows

[adelmo95]

I know it is common for there to be braiders at hunter shows but I have never noticed any at dressage shows. Just curious if it is just around my area (Alberta) that there arn't any or if it is just not something that is common in dressage. Also curious if there would be any interest in paying a braider for horse shows.

[cyndi]

There have been braiders at every dressage show I've been do this year. (Texas) You may have to ask the show secretary beforehand - as it's not always included in the premium list. Often I have seen braiders' phone numbers posted in the show office. I have a 'usual' braider and I usually email her prior to a show to see if she's going to be there, and sign up for her services. Although I dothe braiding myself about half the time. Depends on how hot it is and how lazy I am feelilng. ;)

Around here, braiders often give a discount if you sign up early, since it gives them more opportunity to schedule their time efficiently.

[myvanya]

I groom for a trainer so I do all her horses. I also sometimes get hired by people from my barn but haven't really advertised since I am fairly new to it, but they are out there. I know many of them do try to schedule ahead of time so they don't have conflicts on who needs braids when, as some riders really want their braids done as last minute as is reasonable. So, if you need a braider you might ask a trainer or ask around a bit before the show. Once you get a braider you like they often can get your show schedule and stick with you, which can be nice as then they know what you/your trainer like. I knwo for the trainer I groom for she has one horse she likes smaller braids on, one that gets more medium sized braids, and one that gets larger braids; they all get taped braids rather than ones done with yarn. I know another trainer who will only have braids done with yarn....so its nice to have one braider who knows what you need/like. Just some thoughts....fwiw.

[joiedevie99]

All of my trainer's assistant trainers and working students braid. They are usually too busy to post anything, but the secretary usually knows where to direct people who ask- and they are usually grateful to make a few extra bucks. Occasionally, the secretary will make an announcement over the speaker that so and so is in need of braiding services, and someone is usually over there setting up an appt. within 15 minutes.

[PaulaM]

I do believe there is a call for in, in fact, at both August shows I went to, I had an arrangement with one of the Junior riders, I cleaned her tack for her and in return she braided my horse. Not sure what I am going to do for Provincials/Western Regionals as I don't believe she is going to be there. (going to University)