I have been riding with Amanda for almost 4 years now and I couldn't be happier. Amanda knows exactly how much to push you outside your comfort zone to build confidence without scaring you or making you feel unsafe. She will only push once she knows that you are 100% capable of doing what she is asking, and knows you're capable because she makes sure to instill proper fundamentals and emphasizes a good, secure position over anything else.
I found Amanda on Facebook when searching for where to get back in the saddle after an 8 year hiatus. I had never really jumped before, and I'm not sure why I decided that's suddenly what I wanted to do at 30, but in my lessons Amanda made me feel like anything was possible if I'm willing to put in the work. She has the best lesson horses to grow with over time if you stay in her program. She is also great at partnering you with the right horse for clinics, horse shows, etc.
Amanda has an adult riding team that is part of the National Capitol Adult Equestrian League, it's run like IHSA in college, and it's a fun, relaxed, way to dip your toe into horse showing. This league is what initially brought me to Amanda and I was so glad I joined! Everyone on the team is so friendly, welcoming, and encouraging. (You are not required to be on the team though).
When the time came, of course I purchased my first horse through Amanda. We've been partners for almost 2 years now, and it's been great. Of course it hasn't been without it's ups and downs, no relationship is perfect, but knowing Amanda is there when we need her to help us learn a new skill, or course correct if we get off track, is reassuring. As a barn manager, she has also been a great resource, from feeding questions to make sure Olly is maintaining his weight and staying healthy, to whether he needs supplements, to communicating with the vet and the farrier to make sure he has what he needs.
Amenities:
*Indoor riding arena
*Outdoor riding ring
*Cross country field
*Trails for hacking
*Laundry
*Hot and cold wash stall read more