image source: Olivia Williams wearing PonyTail Bows created for The Plaid Horse
In the summer of 2012, Tracey Currey was asked by a girlfriend to make a set of bows for her daughter to wear in her first horse show. This set was such a hit that she was asked by others to make unique bows for other young girls. Upon researching the market and finiting the craftsmanship necessary to meet her standards, she created her first equestrian collection. Explains Ms. Currey, “I was driving to the barn one day and thought of the name PonyTail Bows. It was then that I really felt I could turn this idea into a company. Six months later, February 2013, we became an official company and I have never looked back! "
Today, PonyTail Bows is known for its extensive collection of high-end beautiful products that are also functional and durable. Respecting the importance of tradition and customization, no detail has been overlooked from design to production. Even the company's website was built with an interactive tutorial tool to assist customers select the perfect style and size of bow to meet an individual rider's needs. Each item is created using a proprietary handmade process to ensure consistency, regardless of the size of the order.
While PonyTail Bows has exponentially grown in popularity, the purpose and direction of the company has become even more focused. Says Ms. Currey, “My mission is inspiration. From donating proceeds of sales to foundations, creating jobs in the community through my bow training program and supporting riders of all ages across the nation.”
Q & A with Tracey Currey
What inspires you to create new designs, collections and/or styles?
I love design; it is my favorite part of the bow making process. My inspiration comes from trainers, parents, customers and riders! I have learned that listening to what they want to wear and buy has helped me create the right products that resonate with our customers. I am also driven by innovation, to create things that are new, even different than what is the standard. I am inspired by trends and all things fashion!
Are certain styles appropriate for only certain ages of riders?
I am committed to sustaining the classic look in the show ring and I feel strongly that bow size does matter. The bow should be a compliment and an addition to the traditional riding outfit; not be sized like a dinner plate bouncing around on the riders back causing a distraction. The styles I see most popular are tails being worn by the widest age group, anywhere from 3-13. Typically shorty bows and pinwheels are worn by older age groups, from 8-13.
Should the bow match the pony or the rider’s coat?
I design bows to compliment a rider’s attire.
What is your top recommendation when choosing a bow for a rider?
Riders need to keep in mind that the judges need to be able to see their numbers while they are in the ring. Bows that take away from that are distracting and can actually take away from how they will place. In 2015, the USEF actually updated the Rulebook to state that judges have the right to not judge and/or eliminate riders in a class where their numbers are blocked by bows.
ORDERING:
The PonyTail Bow Equestrian Collection currently includes 3” Tail Sets, Shorty Sets and Pinwheel Sets. Soon to launch is a boutique line of bows, headbands and Athletic Bows f or lacrosse, softball, soccer and volleyball.
SHOP at www.PONYTAILBOWS.com.
- READY TO WEAR STYLES: Orders of 2 -6 sets are shipped in 1-2 days.
- CUSTOM BOWS: The PonyTail Bow process allows for a customer to add a farm logo, name, even an emoji onto a bow! This also includes matching barn colors or creating a custom look that is individual to the rider. Custom orders are a very fast process, taking only 2-3 days to fulfill.
CONNECT:
Facebook: PonyTail Bows
Instagram: @ponytailbows
