Welcome to The Backyard Barn Waxhaw
Where our deep passion for horses transforms into a unique and nurturing equestrian experience. We believe in building more than just riders, we cultivate true equestrians.
Our Vision & Philosophy
At the heart of The Backyard Barn Waxhaw is a commitment to the holistic partnership between horse and rider. Our vision is to be a trusted haven for compassionate horsemanship and impactful learning, forming a deep connection with the horse. We achieve this by focusing on Balance, Empathy, and Quiet Aids, teaching riders to communicate subtly and effectively. By Understanding Natural Horse Behavior and practicing Well-Rounded Horsemanship with added horse husbandry we equip students with the knowledge to connect with the horses on a deeper level. We believe in making successful riders in and out of the ring. Our progressive learning incorporates essential horse care making you a better equestrian on the ground and in the saddle.
What Makes Us Unique
We offer a flexible, accessible, and comprehensive approach to equestrian education. Operating on a non-contractual pay as you go lesson program for ultimate accessibility and flexibility. This core differentiating factor ensures you learn at your pace without long term commitments but allows you to continue to grow and stay with our barn family as your goals continue to change and advance. We offer private one on one lessons, and open lessons for those who want to build camaraderie. Personalized instruction: An hour of truly immersive help in the horse world meeting each student at their current level for their specific equestrian needs. We operate strictly by appointment only to ensure focused, uninterrupted instruction, providing a calm and dedicated learning environment. Dedicated & Consistent Teaching: Our instructor provides fun, actively involved, high quality teaching. My personal passion and experience in this approach ensures every student receives dedicated attention and continued learning throughout their equestrian journey. Versatile Riding Pursuits: We prepare students for versatile riding pursuits through varied activities including lessons, trail riding, and foxhunting. Open Schooling Shows: These are fantastic for building confidence, testing skills, gaining experience, and having fun in a low-stress setting.
Who We Serve
The Backyard Barn Waxhaw welcomes aspiring equestrians ready to achieve their riding goals and lifestyle dreams. We cater to: True beginners; students looking to build foundational skills from the ground up. Developing riders; those who have outgrown their current lesson program and yearn to learn more. Ambitious equestrians; students who desire a deeper understanding of riding and are ready for challenges like refined aids, balanced riding, and intuitive communication.
Meet the Instructor
My journey with horses began at the age of seven, quickly turning my family into an equestrian household. We were classically trained by a handful of renowned local trainers, instilling in me a deep appreciation for foundational skills. I used to show hunter jumpers, then fell in love with jumpers, and even had the incredible experience of warming up Grand Prix horses when I was 16. My passion for foxhunting began at age nine. Working my way up to staff whipper-in for Mecklenburg Hounds, where my father became huntsman thereafter. I’ve predominantly foxhunting for the past 13yrs. My own father started riding horses near 40, proving that anybody can start their equestrian journey at any age- he began by watching my lessons and helping me groom as a kid. After having five kids and teaching them to ride, I’m now embracing a slightly slower pace and am incredibly excited to dedicate my time to helping others achieve their equestrian dreams.
Meet the Herd
Get to know our incredible lesson horses who help our students build confidence, master skills, and achieve their equestrian goals.
Aspen
AKA
Staring Blankly
Meet Aspen, our beloved 26yr old Appendix gelding. This remarkable horse is a true gentle giant, embodying “full of heart” in every step. He consistently gives his all to every rider, making him an invaluable member of our family. Aspen is a pillar for teaching basic fundamentals and building beginner confidence. His calm demeanor makes him perfect for those just starting their riding journey, helping them understand horse behavior, grooming, mastering steering, and basic riding cues while equipped with a gentle copper snaffle. He’s incredibly patient and forgiving, ensuring a positive first experience in the saddle.
​Personality: Gently, Patient, and Reliable (always the same comfortable speed)
Favorite Treat: Everything! This boy isn’t picky
Fun Fact: Aspen will smile after you give him a treat
Specializing in : Groundwork, basic horsemanship, and building a solid foundation for all riders.
Xena
AKA
The Warrior Princess
Meet Xena, our stunning 16yr old fleabitten OTTB mare. She truly lives up to her name with her powerful presence and sensitive heart. Off the track, this Thoroughbred has embraced a diverse equestrian life; excelling in foxhunting, show jumping, and trail riding. Xena is a fantastic lesson horse for riders wanting to develop a refined feel. Her responsive nature helps students understand subtle cues, bettering their horsemanship. Whether she’s gracefully jumping a curse or enjoying a quiet trail ride, Xena thrives on partnership. She even rides happily in and out of a hackamore!
Personality: Sensitive and intelligent
Favorite Treat: Molassas- made sweet feed cookies (She’s not a fan of apples!)
Fun Fact: My daughter affectionately nicknamed her “Firefly”
Specialized in: Developing intuitive riders with gentle hands, jumping, and building confidence (and a love for speed!)