Taking Rein
Nicole Walker
SPRING fashion BURBERRY
Cherie DeVaux trainer boss SADDLE UP Girls Trip! Dream Life Ribbonwood BEAUTY
Oh + August Skincare that cares
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lady
The Stronach Group VP Canadian Show Jumper TAA Board Member
BOSSES
PREAKNESS 144
SECO TO SAT MAY 18 BUY TICKETS PREAKNESS.COM
OND NONE
Editor’s note
E
questrian sports are one of the few disciplines that do not discriminate between the sexes. From jumping all the way to racing these competitive athletes have one thing in common, men and women compete against each other under the same guidelines and rules. There are no separate starting points, different heights or time allotments regulating the sexes. We’re all created equal in most of the equine sports represented. Welcome to the #ladyboss issue featuring women who more or less have the same determination in their business life as they do on horseback. Our Cover boss Nicole Walker, represents the newer generation of women who define the change in climate and defy the rules set upon them by previous generations. Here’s to girl power! We thank all of you for supporting EQluxe in this 4th issue and we look forward to sharing our anniversary issue with you this Summer. Thank you for joining the ride!
A big thanks to everyone! Shelli Wright & Christopher Bredesen Editors | Co-founders
EQluxe
TM
© 2019 EQluxe MAGAZINE
SHELLI WRIGHT Editor-in-Chief
CHRISTOPHER BREDESEN Executive Editor
CAPTAIN BUDDY LLC Publisher
LILA GINSBURG Art Director
SHELLI WRIGHT Creative Director
JOHN PIERCE Art Department
MADDY PASQUALINI Senior Lifestyle Editor
SEBASTIANO MARINO Web Master
JAIN WILSON SILVA Advertising
CINDY GELLERSEN Equine Fashion Consult
EMILY MATTISON PR / Marketing
NATALIE DE GROOT Fashion Consult
JODI VAUGHN Beauty Consult
LOU ANDREA GOSS Editorial Assistant
CONTRIBUTORS Gerard Apadula, Barry Pearl, Eddy Donnally, Mike Smith, Bob Baffert, Laffit Pincay Jr, Kendra Barber, Magic Owen, Charlotte Cromer, Tony Leonard, The Stronach Group, Steve Heuertz, Cherie DeVaux, Maddy Pasqualini, Lila Ginsberg, Jain Wilson-Silva, Cindy Gellerson, Chris Bredesen, Patti Davis, Stacey Adams, Lynn Mueller, Sarah Boyd, Nicole Walker, Tiffani Steer, Erin Shea, Erica Hess, Kelli Seliger, Michelle Dick, Patti Davis, Adrianna Cortez, Diane Dick, Karen Perlow, Beth Level, Courtney McKillip and The Parks.
EQLUXE is a registered trademark and is the sister publication of BISOUS Magazine distributed by Captain Buddy LLC of Los Angeles. All Eqluxe sponsorship or submission inquiries please contact director@eqluxe.com www.eqluxe.com
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content
On the cover Show Jumper, Stronach Group Executive, and TAAboard member Nicole Walker shares her path to being a lady boss. Photographed by Shelli Wright, styled by Kelli Seliger, beauty by Michelle Dick. Shot on location in Wellington Florida. Page 38
EQluxe| ladybosses
fEATURES
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A Look Back at the PREAKNESS
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ON TRACK with CHERIE DEVAUX A lady in a racing world
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NICOLE WALKER Taking Rein in our cover story and fashion editorial
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OH +AUGUST skincare that cares catching up with owner Lynn Mueller
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SARAH BOYD and Ribbonwood
EQluxe| ladybosses STYLE BTS w/BURBERRY S2019 TRACK Suitable
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NEVER LOOK BACK fashion editorial shot in Texas. Spring has Sprung.
bEAUTY
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SPRING TRAINING clean makeup and skin care THAT’S A WRAP Bad hair day? Not anymore
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jET SET RANCHO LAS CASCADAS south of the boarder Girls Trip THE RESORT AT PAWS UP
tRENDS
PANTONE Sweetcorn for Spring featuring must-have fashion and riding essentials.
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EDITOR
Your TACK full guide
PRING
The Tailored Sportsman Icefil top $65 www.kaval.com | AMERICAN EQUUS Quik X 24-Karat Gold Plated English Interchangeable Spurs $309 www.americanequus.com PS of Sweden pioneer revolution bridle $273 www.marystack.com | MAJYK EQUIPE Ergonomics Non Slip Impact Pad with Shims $140 www.majykequipe.com ARIAT Capriole Lace Up Dressage Boot $499 www.ariat.com | CWD 2Gs Mademoiselle custom $7650 www.north-america.cwdsellier.com VANNER Hat The Shire $180 www.vannerhats.com | PRAVINS Sellier Wide stirrup leather $135 www.atelierpravins.fr MARY’S BOTANICALS leather cleaner & conditioner $22 www.marysbotanicals.com
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fashion
compiled by EQluxe Equestrian detail is not a new thing for Burberry, and it’s London debut show for Creative Director Riccardo Tisci not only had some EQ influences but according to Tisci “It’s like a patchwork or a mix of the British lifestyle.” The Spring collection had an assortment of what we have come to expect from Burberry but in the details we have equine inspired hoof earrings and silk screened blouses of horse heads, bridle patterns and even a unicorn. I have to say, we’re huge fans of this patchwork he’s sewing together.
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beauty
SIMPLICITY
Tisci debut beauty message was clear: There is strength— and sexiness—in simplicity. In fact, you’d be hard-pressed to find hair and makeup that pairs more splendidly with the British heritage brand’s timeless trench coat. Hairstylist Guido Palau slicked the hair back into high-shine, wet-look knots tailor-made for rainy days, while makeup artist Pat McGrath saturated the lids and lips with soft washes of khaki-hued pigment and sculpted complexions with sweeps of matte bronzer and an occasional red lip.
GET IT Fresh Glow Luminious Fluid Base $48 Tinted Lip Velvet Crush $30 Complete Eye Palette $62 Wet & Dry Silk Eyeshadow $30 Foundation Brush $46 Smoke & Sculpt Brush #14 $36
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BEES & honey photography MAGIC OWEN beauty CHARLOTTE CROMER model ALISSA POLANSKI
Dress GERLI LIIVAMAGI Bracelets JEAGER
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left Dress CODE LE VUSH Necklace RIVER ISLAND Shoes ALEXANDER MCQUEEN this page Dress ERSALINA LIM Bracelets JEAGER Shoes ALEXANDER MCQUEEN
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left Dress GERLI LIIVAMAGI Bracelets JEAGER Shoes:ALEXANDER MCQUEEN this page Cape ERSALINA LIM Shoes ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Ring YSL
Dress JESSICA MA Shoes ESSKA Bracelet JAEGER
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feature
Sunday Silence Preakness photo Tony Leonard
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love
American Pharoah 140th Preakness- Associated Press
dominating lengths. It made me an instant fan of his. So much so, that whenever I am in Kentucky, I make it a point to go see the gentle, bay horse. I even have a piece of his forelock in my scrapbook. Albeit, I hesitate to mention this, but I can probably just utter three words and I’m sure you’ll remember; 2006, Preakness and Barbaro. Barbaro, who won the 2006 Kentucky Derby with one of the largest margins of victory in history, took a bad step shortly after leaving the starting gate in the Preakness and shattered his right hind ankle. I saw the x-rays, the injury was catastrophic. Yet from May of 2006, until he was euthanized in January 2007, Barbaro displayed one of the most amazing wills to live the sport has ever seen. The gorgeous colt fought valiantly for his life through infections, Laminitis and colic. He lost his life in the end, but it was in the Preakness where his remarkable journey to survive began. What about the Preakness of 2008 and Big Brown? Does anyone remember how he blew the race to smithereens with nothing short of a devastating turn of foot, opening up 6, 7, 8 lengths in the blink of an eye from the three sixteenths pole to the wire. That race is still fresh in my mind even though it was eleven years ago.
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photo Associated Press
I can use three words for the next one; 2009 and Rachel Alexandra. This filly, with the upside down exclamation point marking running down her nose, used the Preakness as one of her races in recording the single best year ever by a three year old filly. I couldn’t believe my eyes, although I was a fan of hers. I wasn’t sure she could actually do it, but she did. This race, along with Secretariat’s Preakness and a handful of others, is one that still gives me chills every time I watch it. In 2015, the great American Pharoah, who had a last minute change in
feature
Justify 143rd Preakness photo Steve Heuertz
Secretariat 98th Preakness
race tactics, came out running, assumed command of the race and never looked back on his way to becoming just the first Triple Crown winner in 37 years. More recently, who could forget the anxious moments when a heavy fog rolled onto the track and for several seconds, no one could see what was going on, only to see the hulking Justify emerge with a tenuous lead and fend off not one, but two oncoming rivals in deep stretch on his way to a Triple Crown sweep in 2018? Some years ago, I wrote a piece about Secretariat’s tour de force win in the 1973 Belmont Stakes, a horse and a race that to this day is used as a measuring stick to all others. Braulio Baeza, who was aboard the runner up Twice a Prince was asked for his thoughts about what had just transpired, Baeza said “I am still wondering why no one is congratulating me. I thought I won the race. I mean, I beat every horse I could see”. Baeza summed up Secretariat’s history making race, much like Alfred G. Vanderbilt does when discussing Pimlico and the Preakness Stakes. The former President of the Maryland Jockey Club said “Pimlico is more than a dirt track bounded by four streets. It is an accepted American institution, devoted to the best interests of a great sport, graced by time, and respected for its honorable past.”
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HOPE AND HELP
To make a donation to the PDJF, scan the barcode using your smart phone or visit — www.pdjf.org/donation.php
The Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF) provides financial assistance to jockeys who have suffered catastrophic on-track injuries. These men and women face adversity far greater than their disabilities. Their personal lives and the well-being of their families are changed forever. www.PDJF.org | P.O. Box 803, Elmhurst, IL 60126 | 630.595.7660 Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund is a registered 501(c)3 public charity
THIS IS WHAT WE STAND FOR For 40 years, Lane’s End has helped shape the sport of Thoroughbred racing through our proven stallion formula and roster of legendary sires. Our experienced, passionate horsemen and horsewomen are driven by one mission: helping our partners achieve their breeding, sales and racing goals across the globe.
ACCELERATE | CANDY RIDE (ARG) | CITY OF LIGHT | CONNECT | HONOR CODE | LEMON DROP KID | LIAM’S MAP | MINESHAFT MR SPEAKER | NOBLE MISSION (GB) | QUALITY ROAD | THE FACTOR | TONALIST | TWIRLING CANDY | UNIFIED | UNION RAGS | WEST COAST
written by Chris Bredesen photo by Shelli Wright for EQluxe
We all fall down. Sometimes we get embarrassed
philanthropy
and other times we go to the hospital. As Equestrians, we all accept what can happen and the inherent dangers. Myself, I choose to wear a helmet although many do not. I ride English and others ride Western. I usually get the ridiculing on this one. (Laughs) The point here is we all know that there is a possibility we could get hurt and share the strength to do it anyway. In that way we are a family. Racing is one of those equine sports where the jockeys take great risk and can suffer substantial injuries when something goes wrong. At EQluxe we firmly believe in aftercare for racing’s athletes for both horse and rider. For this issue, we spoke with Jockeys and Jean’s Barry Pearl and spokesperson Eddy Donnally about the work they are doing in helping to raise support for jockeys who have sustained life changing injuries. Jockeys and Jeans is an organization started in 2014 by Barry Pearl, Eddie Donnally and Darrel Brown, a group of former jockeys, to bring awareness to the dangers of race riding and raise funds to support jockeys who have suffered catastrophic injuries. Jockeys and Jeans works in coordination with the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF) which is a non-profit fund providing assistance to injured jockeys in need. Last year Jockeys and Jeans help to raise $310,00 for the PDJF during their annual fundraising efforts. This year their annual fundraiser will be held at Santa Anita in June and tickets are still available. By attending you help Jockeys and Jeans and PDJF to assist financially 60 former jockeys who have suffered catastrophic injuries and has disbursed over $8 million to permanently disabled jockeys since 2006. Most of these injuries are paraplegic or quadriplegic. We asked Barry Pearl a few questions to enlighten us more about the work Jockeys and Jeans does. Pearl was thrilled to tell us about their roster of impressive ambassadors who help in bringing awareness to their fundraiser and the PDJF. Three of their prominent supporters Laffit Pincay Jr., Mike Smith and Bob Baffert took the time out of their busy schedules to meet us at Santa Anita during morning workouts for a last-minute photoshoot. We can only muse about the reaction from the regulars to see these three racing giants hanging out together on what would have been just another Wednesday. I can tell you, it’s a day none of us at the publication will soon forget. We have to thank Jockeys and Jeans for making that memory. Here’s a little Q&A with President Pearl to add some light to their organization.
Q+ A | B a r r y Pea r l Tell us a little about yourself.......where you live, horsey background I live in Juno Beach Florida during the winter and East Norriton, PA during the summer with my lovely wife of 50 years, Dee, We have 3 children and 6 Grandchildren. I have been retired since 2009. I was a Jockey for 10 years starting in 1964 and ending in 1974. I have been a professional Photographer, owned my own real estate holding company and worked for West Publishing as a Law Firm Consultant.
When did Jockeys and Jeans come into fruition? In February 2014, a few exjockeys had seen each other on Facebook and thought it would be a good idea to hold a reunion. Most of these riders had not seen each other for over 30 years, but old friendships just never die. Since most of the riders were now in Florida, it was decided to meet at Tampa Bay Downs. From this reunion, a charity event grew spearheaded by former rider Rev. Eddie Donnally. What is the concept behind the charity? We are the Lucky Ones, We Walked Away Intact. We Will Never Forget Our Brothers and Sisters Who Did Not. Our mission is to publicize the inherent dangers of race riding, honor the courage of those who suffered catastrophic injuries as they rebuild their lives, and raise funds for their ongoing support. How can our readers become involved? For sponsorship and donation information please contact Barry Pearl, President at jockeysandjeans@gmail.com or call (717) 5 03-0182 For info on the fundraiser www.jockeysandjeans.com For more information on PDJF www.pdjf.org
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THE GOLD STANDARD IN THOROUGHBRED AFTERCARE Funds raised by the TAA support 70 accredited aftercare organizations in the TAA network. Since 2012, the TAA has granted more than $13.8 million to organizations accredited through a rigorous process and on-site inspections.
Your support makes a difference in the lives of thousands of horses.
www.thoroughbredaftercare.org | (859) 224-2756 Photos by (from left to right): Square Peg, Erin Shea and New Stride Thoroughbred Adoption.
T
trends
EQluxe EDITOR
rack Suitable Triple Crown? Upscale statements for both of you.
It’s not Halloween, it’s a stakes race
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#ladyboss
Cherie DeVaux Written by Shelli Wright
Racing.
One could argue it’s a predominantly male sport in both rider and trainer with 95% of most trainers being men. So, what drives a woman to pursue a career in training race horses? Honestly, we’d like to find out. Many know Cherie DeVaux as the fashionable assistant trainer who saved the race horse Lady Eli. But did you know after years of working with one of the top 5 trainers in the world, Chad Brown, that she’s launched her own career in training? We did.
Q+A |Cherie DeVaux Tell us a little bit about yourself. Where you grew up, your studies, your current position etc. I was born in Saratoga Springs, New York. A majority of my family was (and still is) involved in Standardbred racing. Around the age of 10, my parents took a sabbatical from that life and moved to southwest Florida. Growing up I spent my time competing in local rodeos. When I graduated high school my family moved back to Saratoga and I stayed to attend Florida Gulf Coast University for two years. I then moved back up to NYC and attended SUNY Albany for two more years. Working with Thoroughbreds was not on my radar until I moved back to New York. I needed a summer job as soon as I relocated and my parents had harness horses across from Phil Gleaves (renting summer stalls) who was in need of a hot walker. After hot walking for that season I got a job galloping at a farm near Albany while attending my fourth year of college. I had lost a lot of credits in transferring between two states and was studying pre-med throughout college to become a physical therapist. I decided against finishing my last year to follow my heart and pursue a career in the horse racing industry. My first job galloping was for Chuck Simon, whose first job with horses was ironically for my father at the harness track. He encouraged me to learn the tools to become an assistant trainer. I worked at his Kentucky base for six years. My next job was for Chad Brown, where I was the Belmont based assistant trainer for nearly eight years. When did you start riding? I basically grew up on the back of a horse. My mother was a riding instructor and no matter what type of horse I was riding, usually old Standardbreds, she was teaching me the basics of equitation. I remember on cold winter nights being thrown on horses that had just raced and riding them up to the barn, fully tacked with a blanket thrown over top of them, while my mother followed in the car. In retrospect, it’s a miracle I never fell off or had a bad experience. When we moved to Florida I was interested in speed events and started to barrel race and pole bend when I was 14. I gave all of that up when I moved back to NY and started galloping. My galloping days were short lived as I had a significant fall early on that resulted in my needing a total knee replacement some time in the future. Tell us about your tenure with Trainer Chad Brown I started working with Chad Brown in June 2010 at Saratoga. At that time the stable was moderately sized and growing. I volunteered to move and stay year round at Belmont Park that winter. Staying at Belmont afforded me the opportunity to oversee the development of two Breeders’ Cup Classic runners and one Kentucky Derby runner. Belmont is also where most of the Breeders’ Cup participants prepared and trained, so it was great to have been an integral part of that. In my time there I was most proud of being a large part of the team that helped to grow the stable. photo Skip Dickstein
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During your time with Brown, you had the disarming task of taking a celebrated Breeders’ Cup-winning filly, Lady Eli, who had the unfortunate development of laminitis after stepping on a nail and helping in the process of mending her back to racing health. Can you tell us more about that? It goes with out saying that Lady Eli is a truly remarkable horse and I am blessed to have been a big part of her journey. When the onset of the laminitis occurred I remember looking up at her munching on her hay net while holding her in the foot tub fighting back tears hoping she was just going to make it. Those memories run in succession to every small mile stone she had, something as small taking her out for her first steps outside of her stall to graze up until she crossed the finish line in her first race back. Thinking about how tenacious she is to overcome so much and to have made a return to the races at a higher level than she left still gives me goose bumps. In the time I spent with her daily during her recovery we developed a special bond. I was one of the few that could get near her without fearing for my limbs! Being able to connect with her will always be one of the most special experiences of my life. Where is Lady Eli now? Lady Eli is at Hill N Dale in Lexington in foal by War Front. I got to visit her last spring and am eager to try to see her and hopefully her foal soon.
Your husband, prominent bloodstock agent David Ingordo, also comes from a racing background. How did you meet? I knew who David was from following industry news and he had been at the barn to go over some business with Chad. The first time I met him and had a chance to speak with him was when he came to look at Gift Box. We hit it off immediately as we had a lot in common. After we we married my in-laws, Dottie and John Shirriffs, told me that before we had met, John told David, “There is a girl who works for Chad Brown, that is the kind of girl you need to marry.” I suppose our fate was sealed before we actually met.
photo Joe Labozzetta
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After working for such a high profile barn what made you decide to embark on your own training career? Training on my own had always been a goal of mine. There is never an opportune time to leave a senior position in a barn of that caliber, however I was feeling like it was time to challenge myself and pursue my own goals. David and I had decided we were going to get married so we felt why not jump in to a new phase of life together. It is profound how my life has changed where I am starting off something brand new, but feel completely fulfilled. It has not come without roadblocks, but I am fortunate to have a husband who not only understands and supports me but believes in me. I also have been blessed to have a network of friends and clients that are equally as supportive. I can’t stress the importance of surrounding yourself with a network of people that promotes positivity.
#ladyboss Now you are training on your own, how many horses are you currently training? Right now I have 12 horses stabled at Payson Park. In the spring we will get a handful more back in off layup and the two-year-olds.
Lady Eli Return photo Susie Raisher
As a woman training in an otherwise predominantly man’s racing world, do you find opposition? I don’t find opposition in the way most people may expect it. The majority of my experience in being a woman on the race track has been a positive one. I am cognizant that there are situations as a female I may face that men don’t face and I have found being direct and to the point to address issues is the best way to handle that. I will note that there is a double standard in some instances, like showing emotion and having a strong personality. If you could share any wisdom on horse racing or women in horse racing what would you tell them? Never lose sight of your goal. Not every job will work out, but that doesn’t mean it’s a failure. Make the most of every opportunity, ask a lot of questions, always be open to learn. Some of my biggest successes would not have come to fruition if I did not “fail,” or if something didn’t work out. Another important piece of advice is to surround yourself with positive, supportive people.
Good Magic headed to post for the Fountain of Youth photo Chino Photos
KEEP U P WIT H C HER IE @ CDevau xR ac ing
photo Joe Labozzetta
EQluxe Fashion
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fashion
LeatherUP EQ Luxury never goes out of style
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#ladyboss
We couldn’t be happier
to present to you our definition of a #ladyboss. Nicole Walker is not only an inspiring rider and business woman but is just about the most gracious person you’ll ever meet. Who says you have to be a ruthless t$@%& to make your way in a man’s world? Nicole is anything but. Interview by EQLUXE | Photography Shelli Wright | Styling Kelli Seliger Beauty Michelle Dick | Location Wellington, Florida
Johanna Ortiz Pearl City off- shoulder bow-back puffsleeve crop top $995 White breeches her own Equiline Golden Goose riding boot Saddle Butet custom jump saddle
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ETRO orange ruffled printed silk-chiffon maxi dress $2970.00 Tom Ford hot pink satin sandal
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#ladyboss Q+A |Nic ole Walker Tell us a little bit about yourself. Name, where do you live, age, any recent accolades you’d like to mention My name is Nicole Walker, but I am better known as “Nikki” and I am 25 years old. Aurora, Ontario, Canada is home for me. I still live on the farm I grew up on and it is where my horse operations are based. When at home I also have a house in Toronto, Ontario that I share with roommates. That being said, when heavily involved in the sport of Show Jumping you kind of adopt the Gypsy Life. I base my winters in Wellington, Florida and travel around to competitions all over the world. Along with my trusty partner Falco Van Spieveld, my most recent accolades include Canadian National Champion in 2018 and double clear in my first Canadian Senior Nations Cup Team in Wellington, Florida, helping team Canada to place. I graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with my focuses on Environmental Studies and Business Management. Currently, I am the Vice President at The Stronach Group (TSG) where I work alongside my mother, Belinda Stronach who is the Chairman and President. I am also a board member of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance.
Was riding something you always wanted to do? Who inspired you to begin a life as an equestrian? Although I don’t come from a family of riders, the passion is definitely in my bloodlines! On my mother’s side of the family the passion runs deep. My “Opa” (Frank Stronach) and “Oma” (Elfriede Stronach) have been heavily involved in breeding and training of race horses for decades. When I was a kid, my Opa would take me on pony rides around the farm. From then on I was hooked! I started taking pony lessons with my childhood friends. My Opa encouraged me to do dressage; however after the first jump in pony club, I was hooked. I love the discipline of show jumping because it is fast paced in the ring, but still requires such a high level of attention to detail and care. I love the bonds that I share with each horse and the challenge of getting to know them and the satisfaction that comes when you really click.
Zadig et Voltaire Peter Trouser in white Theory Black top
You were very successful as a Junior rider, has the transition into the jumping ring and developing your own roster of mounts (a business in its own right) been a difficult transition? Feel free to include your current trainer relationships and how this effects your schedule and focus. In Canada, I had a lot of success in the Hunter and Equitation disciplines as a junior. I later went on to win the U25 Canadian Finals. This gave me a solid foundation to move to the higher ranks. That being said, competition internationally is a whole different ball game. In 2013, I started training with the Olympic bronze medalist Cian O’Connor. That summer I went to Europe to compete for the first time, which was the hardest, but best experience possible for my riding. Going abroad opened my eyes to the sport at a new
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#ladyboss
“I love the bonds that I share with each horse and the challenge of getting to know them and the satisfaction that comes when you really click.�
Johanna Ortiz Pearl City off- shoulder bow-back puff-sleeve crop top $995 White breeches her own Equiline Golden Goose riding boot Saddle Butet custom jump saddle
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Zadig et Voltaire suit Viking Blazer in white $848.00 Peter Trouser in white $498.00 White knit Michael Kors tank $120.00 Hermes twilly $245.00
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#ladyboss
Tom Ford off shoulder Mohair Silk sweater in Pink $1390.00 Helmut Lang Leather legging in Flax $920.00 Tamara Mellon Verve High-heel boot $795.00
#ladyboss
Belinda Stronach and Nicole Stronach Walker 143rd Preakness photo Paul Morigi, Getty Images
level. You have the ability to watch the best riders, jump at different venues and courses. After three summers in Europe with Cian, I now base in Canada during the summers. To this day I still train with Cian-but geographically we aren’t always at the same shows. Cian’s assistant trainer, Mark Kinsella, travels with my horses and he knows Cian’s system inside and out! I made the decision to base in Canada for the majority of the year because in addition to my riding career, I wanted to get involved in the family business, as I know my future will lead further and further down that path. I also have a great group of friends and family in Canada, which is challenging to be away from!
Tell us more about Adena Springs. Adena Springs is TSG’s racing, breeding and training stable based in Canada and the US. It is home to many Eclipse Award champions. We also have the Adena Retirement Program that is the Thoroughbred aftercare division of TSG based in Aurora, Ontario. The Show Jumping divisions in Aurora, Ontario and Wellington, Florida are also under the Adena Springs name. It is wonderful to be at the show jumping ring and see the Adena Springs brand recognized. I love to see the Thoroughbred racing and show jumping disciplines intersect.
Here at EQluxe we are all OTTB owners and care a great deal about Thoroughbred Aftercare, tell us more about your journey in becoming a board member for the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and mention any other aftercares you feel strongly about so that our readers can help in the support. My journey in Thoroughbred aftercare started from a young age and stems from my love for the horses. Back when I was riding ponies, Adena Springs started the Adena Retirement Program. Maria Turner and I now manage the aftercare program out of the same barn we keep the Show Jumpers in Aurora. Over the years we have rehabilitated, trained and rehomed more than 100 race track retirees. At TSG the safety, health and welfare of the horses is our top priority and we take great pride in their care. Through this experience, I was asked to join the board of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA) in 2018. It is a fabulous organization. So much good has come of it already, but the TAA recognizes there is still a long way to go. I strongly support their motto of not making aftercare an afterthought. In addition to traveling your show calendar and training, working with the TAA, you also hold the position of VP at the esteemed Stronach Group. Tell us more about the position and your focus within the company. The Stronach Group (TSG) is a world-class entertainment and real estate development company with Thoroughbred horse racing at the core. TSG is first and foremost a company made up of horse lovers and I feel privileged to be able to combine my passions of business and horses. I usually spend my mornings in the barn and afternoons focused on TSG business. I made the decision to base the horses in Canada for the majority of the year because the TSG headquarters is just around the corner from the Adena Springs Farm. While I try to get into the office as much as possible, we all know that most work can be done remotely so wherever I am is my office for the day. It is not unheard of to hear a horse whinny in the background of a conference call I am on! In regards to my position at TSG, I have a good overarching awareness of all the divisions however my primary focus is on our Racing and Gaming division and supporting the efforts to engage and introduce a new generation of fans into the sport of Thoroughbred racing. It is an exciting time to be part of TSG. Our company is focused on attracting a younger demographic to Thoroughbred horse racing. This photo Mackenzie Clark includes the modernization and upgrading of TSG venues, elevating the food and beverage offerings, simplifying wagering using technology, curating and delivering exciting entertainment programming and introducing fresh marketing approaches that include utilizing technology and
“I love the discipline of show jumping because it is fast paced in the ring, but still requires such a high level of attention to detail and care.�
photo Mackenzie Clark
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social channels to reach a new generation of fans. Events like the $16 million Pegasus World Cup Championship Invitational and InfieldFest, held each year at the Preakness Stakes, are transforming what it means to spend a day at the races by combining A-list entertainment and modern hospitality with world-class Thoroughbred racing. I also work with the social and digital team at TSG on the overall social strategy for the company. Social media is a massive part of our daily lives so by
“At TSG the safety, health and welfare of the horses is our top priority and we take great pride in their care.” extension, is a big part of the modernization of the sport of Thoroughbred horse racing in general. If we are going to engage a new generation, we need to communicate with them in a way that is familiar and accessible to them. There are a lot of great things going on at TSG and we have great team in place. The future is bright!
With all of this work and travel on your plate, what do you enjoy most? Where do you see Nicole Walker 10 years from now? I am incredibly lucky that every day I get to do what I love most. It is rare that I take a day off from riding! When I have time off in the summer, my favourite place is Muskoka, Ontario. I love all types of watersports and being with friends and family at the cottage. In 10 years from now, I hope to continue on the path of being an asset to the Canadian Show Jumping Team. I have no doubt that horses will always be a major part of my life; they fill my heart! I also have dreams of being a #ladyboss at TSG. With so many great things happening at the company, I am excited to be a part of its evolution and carrying out the vision beyond the next ten years. If you could share any wisdom with women of your generation, what would you tell them? Prioritize self-care, be kind and surround yourself with positivity! I have an awesome group of friends, a stellar team at Adena Springs and bright mentors at TSG, which I am incredibly thankful for.
Completely random, we are thinking of creating a little song list of all our #ladybosses, what’s your favorite tune to listen to at the barn? My go to barn songs right now are Permanent by Kygo and all things Frank Walker of course! I am a proud sister and his biggest fan!
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#ladyboss
photo Mackenzie Clark
WELL
shop the shoot
i ngton
ETRO Ruffled printed silk-chiffon maxi dress $2,970 www.etro.com | BUTET Premium Close Contact Saddle www.butet.fr ZADIG et VOLTAIRE Trouser and Blazer $1346 www.us.zadig-et-voltaire.com | TOM FORD off-the-shoulder cashmere and silk-blend sweater pink $1390 www.tomford.com JOHANNA ORTIZ Pearl city Poplin Top $995 www.johannaortiz.co | EQUILINE Ash Breeches with X-Grip Ladies www.kaval.com HERMES maillons twilly $170 www.hermes.com | ISABEL MARANT White Dawell Ankle Boot $785 www.neimanmarcus.com
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EQ
BEAUTY luxe
SPRING UP Photography Kendra Barber
One can hope that Winter has seen its last days for awhile. Now is the time to nourish your skin and think about the sun rays upon you. As an Equestrian, we are met with daily dirt, dust, wind and sunshine. Take the extra steps to keep your skin loving you as much as you love your horse.
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#ladyboss
Wtitten by Shelli Wright
My mother used to tell me
“Beauty is as Beauty does,” it is a statement that has resonated with me through life and compelled me to include Equestrian Lynn Mueller, the brain behind the beauty line, Oh + August skincare in this Girl Power issue. Oh + August is a modern skincare line that infuses your skin with healthly ingredients, leaving you looking and feeling amazing everyday, all while supporting the care and rescue of unwanted pets. In Lynn’s case, beauty knows no bounds.
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#ladyboss
photo Andrew Ryback Photography
Q+ A | Ly n n M u e l l e r Tell us about yourself. Name: Lynn Mueller Korean Name: MinSun Oh Age: 31 Name of Business: Oh + August Location: St Charles, IL, USA Position: Founder Pets: Classy (OTTB mare), Amelia (Bengal cat), Gregory (bearded dragon), Bill (Kenyan sand boa) Fun Fact: I love reptiles and really want a savannah monitor :) Personality Type: Type A all the way (fortunately or unfortunately) People I look up to: Vicky Tsai from Tatcha, my dad Paul
What is your equestrian background? I started riding at a hunter barn at the age of 8 because my parents wanted me to be more wellrounded. The horse bug stuck so I became a working student around 10 and would work off lessons and the occasional ride on the sale ponies. I continued riding but took a break during college and also while I lived overseas in Korea for a couple of years. Upon returning, I got back into horses and leased two before I finally bought my first horse. For those who also didn’t have a “junior” career or bought their first horse “late” - it is NEVER too late! I didn’t buy my first horse until I was in my early twenties and didn’t go to my first show (a mini event) until 24! My first horse was an OTTB who was really in retrospect, not a good fit for me (haha). He was an 18h gigantic (I’m only 5’2”) hothead with his own ideas about everything. However, we did event through Novice level but finally I made the decision to euthanize him at the age of 7 when medical issues got to be too much for both of us to handle. He had complications from uveitis, PSSM, arthritis, and my vet suspected there was EPM as well. I was horseless for about a month and then heard about my current mare, Classy, through one of my friends who had scooped her up off the track. She’s another OTTB. She had just turned 3 a few days before I saw her and I didn’t originally intend to buy a horse that young, but her brain sold me. She’s one of the most chill horses on the planet, and she was (still is, too) tiny - the opposite of my old guy. We started out eventing but I had a lot of mental baggage on cross country from a bad fall on my old guy, so I started pulling her out of fences which a) isn’t safe and b) isn’t fair to her. With massive confidence issues, we switched to straight jumpers, and it was the best career switch in both of our lives. We now do the low adult jumpers and I would love to continue moving her up if she can stay sound and happy. We love your line and how you have positioned your brand with equestrians. What inspired you to create a beauty line? I actually have a background in medical studies as I’m a med school dropout (did the first year and decided this was not for me!), and I worked in dermatology for a while in Barrington, IL - shoutout to Dr. Amy Derick’s practice. I learned a lot about patients’ basic needs and skin aspirations - and then eventually applied that to the niche in the equestrian market (see the next question!) I really was inspired to create a skincare line because I personally had lots of skin issues from middle school through college and beyond. I had grade 3 acne (there are 4 grades, 0 being perfect and 4 being completely covered in cysts) and also suffered with dryness and odd sensitivities. While living in Seoul, I tried a lot of Korean products and started applying the principles of Korean skincare to my own skin - the philosophy is that skincare is a time for you and a time for selfcare, whether that’s 3 minutes or an elaborate 10 step routine - a time to nourish yourself.
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The products also tend to combine both natural and clinical ingredients and the large majority do not have ingredients common in lots of mass market brands such as pore-clogging mineral oils and silicones. My skin cleared up and that inspired me to keep trying different combinations of ingredients back in the US to see what would work the best.
We love how in addition to a great product, you have found a niche in the Equestrian market. What motivated you to market the brand in the equestrian circles? The need for equestrians to actually take care of themselves. Quite frankly, whether we’re at a full service barn or do our own mucking out, we tend to spend lots of time caring for our horses...or our children, our pets, our friends, our coworkers, that project at work, that project at school...and never really find the time to dedicate to ourselves. That being said, equestrians are a special niche with very unique skincare needs, as we encounter a wide range of stressors in a very short time with each barn trip - and especially at horse shows all day in the dust, heat, and sun when you forget to eat and drink water all day. Our skin suffers as a result, and we begin to feel run-down. The Oh + August line is meant to infuse skin with health so we can look and feel amazing - after all, to quote Noelle Floyd, “Success starts with selfcare” and that perfectly sums it up. You originally launched your line as bibimbapskin, can you tell us why the change in name to OH & AUGUST? I actually was lucky to have some great advice from both a buyer at CVS and also the founder of a very successful Japanese skincare line. I went to both of them for advice as I was looking to learn how to succeed from a mainstream beauty perspective, and also because the owner of the Japanese line went through a similar story as myself: Working another full-time job, funding her business with her own funds and business credit cards, getting up early to pack boxes and ship orders, and being in tough positions trying to scale to meet demand but always trying to monitor difficulties with the costs of running a business. I received some amazing packaging suggestions, as well as suggestions on scaling and appealing to more audiences. One improvement, for example, is that all products now ship with tamper-evident labeling to add another element of security to all customers. Another improvement is that packages are COMPLETELY recyclable (all glass), and more Instagrammable, as well as formula updates. They also suggested incorporating more of my own passions into the brand - which leads me to the name change. I’ve long had a dream of combining my passion for beauty with my love of animals, and now I’ve established a division of the company, the Oh + August Foundation, which donates profits from skincare sales to different exotic pet rescues such as hybrid cats, horses, ponies, and snakes. I’m an exotic pet owner myself and want to give back - and then some, by eventually opening my own physical rescue facility. Now, to make things even BETTER for the new business mission and rebrand, the advice I received was to take a risk and change the company name. The risk is that I may lose some customers who prefer the old name - but this is at the opportunity to gain more customers who support the new vision - and with a name that is infinitely easier to pronounce and better embody the mission of the company. The brand statement is simple: “We are Oh + August. Our simple, modern skincare products infuse your skin with health so you can look and feel amazing, while supporting the care and rescue of unwanted pets.” To keep the Korean roots and the original brand story, I added my Korean last name “Oh” to the company name. Meanwhile, “August” has several meanings. First, August is the hottest time of the summer in the northern hemisphere, where our skin really takes a beating from heat and humidity. Secondly, August is in the midst of the horse show season. Third, as fall approaches, we tend to start getting a little down from weather shifts, work (third quarter financials anyone?), etc. - and we may need help from others for our own mental health. This is where the wellness community I’ve built on Instagram (@ ohandaugust) comes into play. Last, August is the last name of my own exotic pet, Amelia Liberty Jane of Augustus who is an F2 Bengal.
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photo Andrew Ryback Photography
What can you share with future #ladyboss entrepreneuers about starting their own businesses? You can plan all you want but the business isn’t going to start itself! It’s definitely going to be scary putting yourself out there, like making your first Instagram post to announce your business and that moment of OH NO when you don’t start getting “likes” on it within the first few minutes - but your business will grow! Good things take time. Plan wisely, remember that lots of businesses aren’t profitable when starting out but gradually it will get there, and there will come a time when you just need to make your first post, introduce yourself to that first potential customer, or place that first stock order of inventory. No one knows what you don’t know! My weak point actually is financials - so I found a way to address that by purchasing a project management/bookkeeping tool called HoneyBook - I plug in expenses and profits, and the tool does the rest. Acknowledge your weaknesses, and you can bet there is a tool (or another person!) out there who can help you. If you could instill some wisdom to fellow women in business and a path to success what would it be? It’s going to sound like a not-fun answer, but make sure you have the proper business insurance lined up, whether it’s just commercial general liability, or that and products liability, or more. These days, even though you can put all the disclaimers in the world on your website, there will inevitably be a one-off claim and you need to be prepared to properly defend yourself and your business so you aren’t wiped out by one person. Make sure you also keep all your paperwork and records in order, as well! Though you may have your hands tied as a small business and may have only a few receipts here and there, even just keeping your books in a simple spreadsheet is better than waiting until tax time and struggling to
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get everything arranged in Turbo Tax or for your accountant. A little preparation will pay off in wonders and save you a lot of stress! What is your favorite product in the line? The CC Serum hands down. This Serum is an improved formulation of the original Bibimbap Serum. It can be used on the eye area and also the entire face, neck and chest. It helps to diminish fine lines (hello sun damage) and dark spots or other hyperpigmentation trouble spots like acne scarring. You’re not supposed to pick zits...but I admit, OK, I do - and this serum helps the inevitable scars fade away. This Serum still has stem cells in it, but I switched the apple stem cells out for citrus stem cells in order to impart more brightening properties and more effective healing and regenerative effects.
Where can we find OH & AUGUST products? www.ohandaugust.com is the website where you can find all the information on the company, mission, and of course the Shop! We also have appeared in several wellness/lifestyle subscription boxes including Cavali Club, the NF.Edit, and Box 4 Equestrians (coming in March). Bibimbap products (our former brand) are additionally still sold at The Cherry Moon, a retail store in London - and the new generation of Oh + August products will be available there soon, as well. Keep an eye out for us to appear at some other events - we are going to be sponsoring the Great Lakes Equestrian Festival in Traverse City, Michigan this summer, and also are in discussions to sponsor the American Gold Cup, as well. Meanwhile, if you would like to retail Oh + August products we are currently accepting inquiries - please contact us at: hello@ohandaugust.com to chat. We’d love to meet you.
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Strainin
pring
beauty
What’s the BIG SECRET? practice + repetition
Getting your skin to permanently look healthy, radiant, and clear isn’t easy. It’s a combination of routine, product and patience. Sound familiar? The good news is that if you’re short on the latter, there are still plenty of quick-fix solutions which is nice to know something in the equine world can be done that way. So we asked our our beauty editor, makeup artists and aestheticians for their all-time best glowy skin tips that actually give results in the long-term and in short for skin, no matter what your dedication or skill level is.
G
Written by EQluxe Beauty Photographed by Kendra Barber Beauty by Beth Level Model Courtney McKillip @omm
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beauty
Y I D
Get the blood flowing. A quick face massage can do wonders to tired skin and can wake up your complexion. Try a serum to get yourself going. Mask it. A perfecting mask makes you look revived and refreshed. Whether you’re jet lagged from coach or flying private, use the mask to fool everyone into thinking the latter. Build your strength. Protecting the outermost layer of your skin is super important. We suggest using an overnight multitasking treatment like a gel mask. Not to be confused with a facial mask. Tone up. Use a toner. Serums and creams can penetrate deeper if your skin is hydrated. Vitamin C. Get yourself a Vitamin C serum and mix it with your SPF. It will help lighten brown spots and even out your skin tone all the while you’re using something to protect your skin daily. Brighten. Try using a glycolic acid peel at night to help your skin become smoother and brighter.
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beauty THANK YOU FARMER back to relax soothing gel mask $38 This is a cooling, moisturizing gel mask that helps soothe irritated, dry skin.The key ingredient pomegranate extract, which contains a high level of vitamin C to help prevent cell damage, speed healing and repair sun damaged/aging skin. Also included are cica, fig, licorice, aloe vera leaf juice extract and other botanical extracts, which contain soothing and moisturizing properties to reduce redness and combat sensitivity to reveal your skin’s natural beauty. OH + AUGUST Detoxifying chacoal Mask $60 www.ohandaugust.com This indulgent formula acts as a magnet to capture deep-set impurities and toxins. While most masks tend to dry skin, this combines the powerful technology of lecithin, which acts as a humectant to retain moisture and provide the nourishment skin needs. The outcome will leave your skin feeling reinvigorated with a healthy glow. SKINCEUTICALS C E Feurlic Serum $166 www.skinceuticals.com A vitamin C serum that provides environmental protection, lightens lines, firms skin and brightens your complexion. This formula improves signs of aging and photodamage to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles while firming and brightening your complexion. Lastly, this powerful formula helps neutralize free radicals. KATE SOMERVILLE Restor8 Replenishing Serum $170 www.katesomerville.com A sophisticated concentration of Vitamins, Nutrients, Peptides, and Antioxidants helps to smooth the appearance of wrinkles and skin firmness, moisturize and plump, even out skin tone, and refine texture. MURAD Rapid Resurfacing Peel $46.00 zzwww.murad.com This extra-strength peel helps reverse signs of aging and detoxify skin with a powerful blend of 10% glycolic acid and vitamin C that instantly smooths and brightens skin and evens skin tone without irritation FRESH Creme Ancient Infusion Treatment Toner $92 www.fresh.com Crème Ancienne Infusion is a conditioning treatment toner that saturates the skin with hydrating and purifying ingredients that help to smooth the texture of the skin and protect against dehydration.
beauty
f car gi S Gi m IM s.co A K ney NI .bar GE ww EU 95 w $1
The scarf thing
MICHAEL KORS SPRING 2019 Again, Orlando Pita carried over the scarf to a modern day look reminiscent of Jackie O days of the past. Retro takes on the accessory have often hinged on smooth, polished lengths, but Pita made the look feel modern by playing up each girl’s natural texture with justback-from-the-beach grit. “Surfer hair is more chunky and stringy but not [too] wet,” he said, adding that he used a shiny texturizing spray to muss up the air-dried lengths while nourishing and defining the tight coils by letting them air-dry or diffusing them with his Well Behaved Anti-Frizz Cream Serum for added volume. TOM FORD Spring 2019 runway Hairstylist Orlando Pita completed the look by slicking the models’ locks back into ornate buns and then holding them in place with silky, ‘70s neutral-toned head wraps. KATE SPADE Spring 2019 Runway there were vintage inspired bandanas.
Compiled by EQluxe fashion
n rba Tu
is nothing new to Equestrians. Hermes made a career out of it as well as Burberry and I’m sure we can all remember wearing them to either protect the hair under the helmet or to keep the hair under control before showing. Well, aren’t we lucky that scarves of all sorts are super popular right now. You can now arrive at the barn slicked, ponied and ready to go with a thin little wrap either protecting what’s underneath, or just keeping it easy for on and off helmeting. The Spring 2019 scarves were all about patterns and bright colors. The great thing about silk scarves is their versatility. You can use them as hair accessories, as wraps for the straps of your favorite bag, as neck accents or even as belts. If we can tell you anything for Spring it’s this…go buy a scarf.
Under Chin
GUCCI
This easy look is ideal for going on a leisurely drive but no need to purchase a convertible. Fold an oversized square scarf in half, place it loosely over your head then knot it under your chin. Now all you need are black sunglasses and you’re Old Hollywood, baby.
KATE SPADE
Twilly Willy
Grab a twilly scarf (the thin long ones) and wrap it around your head like a headband securing it at the nape of your neck, wrap it around your wrist like a bracelet, wrap it around your waist like a belt…you see where I’m going with this right? The Twilly is anything you want it to be.
Pony Wrap
G $4 UC 95 CI ww lig w. ht gu sc cc arf i.c w om ith
sti r
Bandana Tie
Choose an oversized silk square in a chic print, fold it diagonally in half, and tie it over your hair tucking the center corner inside.
VALENTINO
This look feels plucked off the runway. Use a short, thin, scarf and wrap it down your entire pony tail for a high-fashion hairstyle that isn’t contrived.
D Eq ON $1 u N 50 est A ww ria B w. n S do ilk nn Sc ab ar er f S ns un te S in ta .co ll m ion
ru
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H $3 ER 95 M ww ES w. Plu he m rm et es s d .co u m Ro yS ca rf
90
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beauty
photo Kendra Barber | beauty Sadhvi Babu |model Piper Badaracco
GET IT
KEVYN AUCOIN The Expert Lip Color Bloodroses $35 www.kevynaucoinbeauty.com CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN BEAUTY metallic eye color Pyrite 460 $50 www.nordstrom.com 3LAB perfect bb spf 40 $105 www.3lab.com TOM FORD illuminating primer base illuminatrice $74 www.tomford.com NARS pure pops single eye shadows $19 www.nars.com MARC JACOBS see quins glam glitter eyeshadow $28 www.net-a-porter.com HOURGLASS Extreme Sheen High Shine Lip Gloss $28 www.sephora.com
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fashion
D
ON’T look photography Shelli Wright
styling Kelli Seliger | beauty Michelle Dick model A ndriana Cortez Special thanks to The Parks’ of Stinnett Texas, for use of their property and lovely ponies!
Cover page Stella McCartney Ditzy Print 2 tone stud western shirt F.R.S. By Francesca Ruffin Twill Magnolias pant Pink Boots $759 by CityBoots style: The Lovers Lane this page Alice & Olivia by Stacey Bendet dress Isabel Marant white bootie Squash Blossom necklace
Dolce & Gabana denim bustier Stella McCartney flat front shorts Comme des Garcons dressage jacket Gucci patent horsebit heels
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Vintage Blue maxi dress CityBoots beverly turquoise cowboy Tom Ford body suit Brunello Cucinelli Satin cargo pant
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fashion
Jonquil by Diane Samandi peignoir Emanuel Ungaro bolero jacket Ralph Lauren belt YSL bootie
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Ralph Lauren satin skirt Alexander McQueen cape Chloe lace shirt in Iconic Milk Henry Beguelin Boots
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barn envy
A
s an Editor and active horse person I am constantly day-dreaming for myself and searching for that perfect property to feature in one of our issues. One day, I stumbled across an instagram post of what I can only explain to be one of the most stunning equestrian estates I had ever seen. I was mesmerized by the intricate design, perfected jump arena and stunned by what I could only imagine must have been a painstaking ordeal in choosing the tasteful details and laying out the overall flow of the property. I was in love. Shortly after, I reached out to the owner Sarah Boyd and begged her to feature her stunning “what dreams are made of” horse property in one of our issues. I was thrilled when she said yes! After a charming phone conversation with Sarah where she discussed her show jumping and real estate business and her partnership with her husband, who’s a contractor ,I had a wonderful perception of why Ribbonwood was so wonderful, it was the caring and equestrian knowledge that went into it. It was time to put the feature into motion, so I turned the pertinent question asking over to our Lifestyle Editor Maddy Pasqualini and we now present to you….RIBBONWOOD.
R
ibbonwood what dreams are made of photography Shoot 2 Sell
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barn envy
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Carlie Jean Photography
EQluxe trends
SWEET CORN It’s not just for feed anymore. Go ahead try it on
HERMES spring 2019 KEP endurance pearl white riding helmet $340 www.kepitalia.com MAKEBE Anna Gel Grip Breech $269 www.makZebe.it SSG Digital Riding Gloves $37 www.doversaddlery.com STELLA MCCARTNEY Fringed faux leather jacket $1,875 www.stellamccartney.com ALEXANDER WANG Roxy studded two-tone textured-leather bucket bag $495 ARIAT TWO24 Jubilee leather and suede mule $228 www.two24.ariat.com DONNA B Branded Logo equestrian boot socks by dreamers & schemers www.donnabernstein.com JO MALONE London Honeysuckle and Davana Cologne $136 www.nordstrom.com
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Blues the
Photography Norbert Baeres
Styling Christine Bierhals | beauty Arzu Kucuk | model Swanny photo assist Manuel Ringlstatter | capture Stefan Hauck | style assist Alisa Vornehm post production V-PROD
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Denim Vest LIU JO. Jeans fLEVIS. Belt RICH & ROYAL. Feather Crown LOUIS VUITTON. Long Necklace Cuff HERMES. Chain Bracelet POMELLATO. Infinity Necklace TIFFANY & CO Pearl Bracelet TOMMY HILFIGER. Vintage Hat PREVIOUS PAGE Light and dark Denim Shirt 7 FOR ALL MANKIND Leather Poncho and Hat ZADIG & VOLTAIRE Jeans and Belt RICH & ROYAL Wide Cuff with small Diamonds and Skulls ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Charm and grey Leather Band PANDORA Long Necklace with matching bracelet POMELLATO. Braided Leather Necklace and Charm on Hat THOMAS SABO Small cuff MASSIMO DUTTI Ring from MARC O POLO.
Sleeveless Blouse THE KOOPLES Pants VERSAGE. Chain Bracelet SWAROVSKI Leather Bracelet, Pearl Bracelet with Skulls, Silver Necklace THOMAS SABO Braided Leather bracelet fBUDDHA Bracelets with Love Letter Charms from PANDORA Fine Jewelry Ring with black Stone from TIFFANY & CO
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Denim Shirt THE KOOPLES Jeans MAC. Infinity bracelet TIFFANY & CO. Bracelet with black Perls THOMAS SABO. Necklace SWAROVSKI. Bracelet TOMMY HILFIGER. Ring PANDORA. Vintage Belt.
top with fringe ZADIG & VOLTAIRE trouser ISABEL MARANT jewelry THOMAS SABO TIFFANY and CO POMELLATO saddle vintage STUBBEN
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Denim Shirt CURRENT ELLIOT Jeans DRYKORN Belt ISABEL MARANT Black Leather Cuff with big Kristals SWAROVSKI Bracelet Satin Band OLELYNGGAARD Chain Bracelet HERMES. Red Leather Bracelet WEMPE .Big Silver Chain Bracelet TOMMY HILFIGER Bracelets with Perls THOMAS SABO. opposite page crown LOUIS VUITTON ring MARCO POLO jacket LEVIS
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HAPPY HOUR
Mango Mojito will brighten your day and a put a prance in both your steps.
ESCADA spring 2019 PANTONE Mango Mojito LEMIEUX polo wraps $30 www.lemieuxproducts.co VICTORIA BECKHAM Aviator-style gold-tone sunglasses $425 SELF PORTRAIT Floral-print stretch-crepe de chine maxi dress $485 www.self-portrait-studio.com ROMITELLI Saffron yellow full grain calf leather field boot - $650.00 MANGO POP http-//mangoworldmagazine.blogspot.com/2011/08/wow-mango-mojito-popsiclesfor-grown SCHOCKEMOHLE sports jump boot $55 www.marystack.com CHANEL Le Vernis Nail Colour Giallo Napoli $28 www.chanel.com
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globetrotting
Written by Stacey Adams Sometimes a true gem surfaces from nowhere and lands in your lap – and when that gem includes an immaculate small resort setting and some of the best riding offered anywhere – you sit up and take notice!
globetrotting
Nestled in the Highland Countryside About 80 minutes slightly northwest of Mexico City, Rancho Las Cascadas is the oasis attuned to genuine riders who don’t want to sacrifice luxury. The immaculate grounds, rooms, casitas, common areas, and stable are the vision of Ursua (Uschi) Wirprachtiger. Wirprachtiger is a Swiss woman who fell in love with the area and originally purchased it to build her own dream vacation home. Once she started building, she kept building, and eventually opened the the ranch to guests with a love of riding. What she’s built has blossomed into one of the premier ranches in the world.The ranch itself is on a small dirt road perched on a bluff. When relaxing by the infinity pool, in the hot tub, or on one of the terraced patio chairs, the view that unfolds around you is remarkable. You’ll look out onto a sprawling landscape of fields filled with multi colored florals and cactii all set to the soundtrack of the gurgling small river and waterfall that runs just below the ranch (an easy hike to visit).
The rooms, casitas (for families or small groups who want to share a private common space), common areas and courtyards all entertain your eye and imagination with small pools of fish surrounded by native flora and dotted with the colorful ceramic Talavera pottery – happy laughing frog planters, geckos mounted to walls feigning to watch you as you pass by, sunbursts smiling at you – all of which beckon you to take a seat in a nearby chair and just let the peacefulness and serenity of the ranch enter your spirit. Part of what makes this area such a rare gem is it’s microclimate. While the rest of Mexico has temperature swings based on the season, this area generally sees daily temps in the 70s (low to high) at all times during the year. The winter months alone merit a sweater or shawl for the evenings as you sit and enjoy your coffee or espresso under a canopy of bright stars.
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And the riding – fun, varied, fast, breathtaking, invigorating – it’s incredible! The ranch is home to a herd of happy, curious and fit Criollo horses. They love nothing better than to show riders a fun time and leave them laughing from the joy of it all. While most of the rides are geared toward confident riders (they move out at pace – a fast pace), there are ample wranglers onsite to take any newer riders or less adventurous riders on a more sedate trek. The days of riding are dictated by which package you choose and range from daily a la carte riding (half or full days) to a week long point to point ride where the horses move each night but you return home to the ranch for a well earned margarita and a soak in the hot tub. Stays can range from 1-2 nights upward – so bring your friends or family and stay a little or a long time!
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globetrotting
Highlights:
- Long canters on steady horses - Relaxing sunset cocktails on the veranda or in the hot tub - All inclusive resort including beverages - Comfortable, boutique hotel - Good for individuals or families - Open all year, arrive any day, stay any length of time - Easy access to San Miguel de Allende
How to book:
www.activeridingtrips.com 800.973.3221
BARN
FOOT HUGGIES Black Jumper Blue Boot Sock $25 www.foothuggies.com Each pair of socks has a Left and a Right sock designated by the lettering on the outside of the leg. The Ventilation weave around the top of the foot and outer calf allows breath-ability. Our Double knit padding on the inside of the calf helps reduce bruising and the Achillestendon padding along with our choice of a perspiration wicking fabric, COOLMAX®, helps reduce blistering, bruising and irritation.
for BOTH of YOU
PICKS
EQUIFUSE GLEAM $19 www.equifuse.com A moisturizing shine serum for all equine hair types that detangles even the unruliest manes and tails. Equifuse Gleam® is an ultra rich serum formulated to provide superior long-lasting shine while rejuvenating the hair root deep. This multitasking serum blasts through brittle and tangled tresses to result in soft, manageable and healthy manes and tails.
BLANKET SAFE products and pet washes $45 www.blanketsafe.com Blanket Safe is a Horse Blanket Wash that is safe for the skin of your pets and the material. Our washes are detergent free, free of all harmful chemicals and antibacterial.
THE HORSE HOLSTER $32.99 www.thehorseholster.com Big or small, it fits them all! Fits ANY & ALL phone/case combos plus room for other items! Removable leg strap fits on legs & belts! Clip to pocket, belt, waistband, or boot top- Zipper pocket for keys, money, ID, etc.
FINISH LINE Apple-A-Day Electrolyte Equine Supplement $13 www.valleyvet.com Apple-A-Day Horse Electrolyte is the original apple-flavored source of electrolytes and trace minerals for horses. Increased temperatures, humidity and workouts cause your horse to sweat more requiring electrolyte replenishment.
WHYHOTEL WHEN YOU CAN HAVE A PLACE LIKE HOME. L O C AT E D I N | B A LT I M O R E , M D | WA S H I N G TO N , D C | A R L I N G TO N , VA
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Written by Maddy Pasqualini
To say The Resort at Paws Up is magical would be an understatement.
Stretching across 37,000 acres of unspoiled Montana wilderness, trust me when I tell you, this luxury ranch resort is a must visit. I arrived at the tiny and taxidermy filled Missoula airport, and was greeted by my wonderful driver who took me on the beautifully scenic drive to the resort. The span of the resort is truly remarkable, and difficult to grasp with just one, or ten, laps around it. There are endless spans of unimaginably beautiful scenery lined with tall lush pines, flowing crystal clear rocky rivers, and valleys boasting expansive mountain views. Every turn you take reveals another stunning scene that seems too majestic to be real. Special thanks to Ariat for outfitting me and keeping me warm on this amazing journey.
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Accomodations
Just as incredible as the scenery at Paws Up, is the lodging. Accommodating up to 250 guests, the resort’s lodging options are split between 28 luxury homes and 36 glamping tents. Each home and tent is individually decorated with warm, elegant, and rustically chic furnishings that elevate the guests ultimate luxury stay. I am incredibly picky about hotel beds, and I can safely say that my bed at Paws Up was the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in. With its evenly weighted down duvet and perfectly plush pillows, it is referred to as “The Last Best Bed”, and I couldn’t agree more. In addition to the bed I never wanted to leave, each home boasts heated floors, a kitchen, dining table and chairs, a large flat screen TV, a hot tub, and a laundry room with a full washer and dryer.
There are three different types of homes to choose from; the Wilderness Estates, Big Timber Homes, and the Meadow Homes, along with the Morris Ranch House, and the Blackfoot River Lodge, both of which are one of a kind. The 10 Big Timber Homes offer accommodations featuring three, two, and one bedroom homes sleeping eight to four guests. Measuring 2,430-square-feet - 1,440-square-feet, these exquisitely decorated homes feature all the above amenities plus a fireplace or wood stove and a full-length private deck overlooking Paws Up vast meadows. The six Meadow Homes feature 1,100-square-feet of living space perfectly sized for four guests. The home is spread between two bedrooms and two baths, a full living room and kitchen, and spacious decks with a hot tub and views of the surrounding meadows and mountains. I had the privilege of staying in a Wilderness Estate named “Council Bluff”. There are 10 Wilderness Estates to choose from, all of which are spectacular. In addition to all the amenities above, the 3,250-square-foot home can sleep up to eight guests and features three large suites each with an en suite master bathroom, a full kitchen, an enormous private deck with a spectacular view, a magnificent Montana-sized stone fireplace, and a game room. Open in the fall, spring, and summer are the luxury safari style tents. Paws Up quite literally coined the term “glamping”, so you can be assured that these tents are the best of the best. There are six different camps to choose from, each with their own unique location, vibe, and amenities. Moonlight Camp, River Camp, Creekside Camp, Pinnacle Camp, Cliffside Camp, and North Bank Camp are all equipped with large luxury tents from one to three bedrooms featuring en suite bathrooms, electricity, cushy beds, chic decor, and private decks. All camps also have an onsite “camping butler”, private chef, and dining pavilion. Oncamp entertainment includes the best of old fashioned family games like beanbag toss, horseshoes, soccer, football, and complimentary mountain bikes for exploring. Glamping at Paws Up offers a unique experience where the guest is able to immerse themself in the best of Montana’s nature while immersing themself in the most decadent of feather beds, it’s an experience not to be missed.
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Dining
Adding to an already remarkable experience at Paws Up is the food. Did I gain weight eating everything in sight? Yes. Was it worth it? Also, yes. Executive Chef Sunny Jin brings his imaginative culinary perspective to create rustic ranch cuisine that blends sophistication with the freshest meats, produce, and ingredients foraged right on property. Mouthwatering offerings change with the seasons based on availability of the best and freshest ingredients. There are three different dining experiences to choose from on property. Pomp is the resort’s gourmet restaurant which offers continental cuisine with a Western flare for dinner. At Pomp I had one of the best meals of my life featuring lobster rangoon, warm spinach salad with compressed pear and blue cheese, seared halibut with Montana crimson lentil ragu and romesco, elk tenderloin with a locally foraged juniper berry reduction and red wine bordelaise, and a chocolate tart with toasted meringue and blood orange granite to top it all off. Eating every night at Pomp was a true culinary experience, and I enjoyed every last bite of it. Tank & Trough offers a more casual menu and atmosphere for breakfast and lunch. The home-cooked rustic flavors are comforting while being refined. Expect menu items like Eggs Benedict with perfectly sliced ham and brussel sprouts, the famous Huckleberry pancakes, and a to-die-for grilled cheese with the best sweet potato fries I’ve ever had. Open durning the warmer months of the year, the Chuck Wagon combines the best of an authentic Old West dinner with gourmet flavors and classic entertainment. An old-fashioned horse-drawn wagon will pick you up and take you on a scenic ride ending at the banks of the Blackfoot River, where you’ll enjoy your meal. Offerings from Angus prime rib, all-natural chicken, fresh corn, and fresh-fruit cobbler are all prepared before your eyes. If eating out isn’t your style, in-home dining is available in any of the luxury home accommodations.
Spa
Sitting on the edge of a meadow, made up of a small series of white tents stitched together by a wooden boardwalk, the spa at Paws Up is magically peaceful. To make your spa day even more luxurious, each tent features a full bath and heated massage table. Services include massages, full-body treatments, wellness classes, yoga offered in a room with walls of glass, and even children’s treatments. Durning the chilly winter months the spa moves into the stunning Morris Ranch House with all services still available.
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Outdoor Adventures
Arguably the best part of a stay at Paws Up are the outdoor adventures. With 37,000 acres and more than 100 miles of trails at your disposal, the outdoor adventures are unlimited. Activities differ from warmer months to snowy ones, but regardless of the season you choose to visit, there is endless fun to be had. Warmer weather activities include archery, ATV tours around the massive property, boating down the famous Blackfoot River, cattle drives, fly-fishing in some of the most sought after locations, go-karts, hiking, horseback riding, paintball, a private island adventure on your own lake, rappelling down the famed Lookout Rock, ropes courses, sporting clays, whitewater rafting, and wildlife watching where you can spot elk, whitetail deer, moose, bears, mountain goats, bald eagles, golden eagles, and many more. Winter activities are just as thrilling, and my stay was in February so I was able to take full advantage of them. Cold weather adventures feature snowmobiling thru endless trails and terrains with some of the most majestic views you’ll ever witness, snowshoeing along the Blackfoot River, skiing both cross country and downhill, dogsledding thru the woods and along the river, skijoring (skiing while pulled by a horse), ice skating, sporting clays, horse drawn sleigh rides around the property pulled by the sweetest set of Fjords named Pete and Repeat, the Back Country Triathlon, downhill sledding with staff onsite handing out hot chocolate and snowmobile rides back to the top of the hill, horse croquet (learning to work cows in the arena), and horseback riding along stunning snowy trails. Every one of these experiences was unforgettable. From riding my sturdy Friesian cross along the snow covered Blackfoot river, to racing down a trail on my snowmobile while the Paws Up bison herd ran along beside me, winter is beyond magical at the resort.
Everything Equestrian
The entire equestrian program at Paws Up would make any horse lovers heart beat a little faster. Riding around the property is a genuinely spectacular experience. There is an incredible peace the rider finds while gazing at the endless meadows, mountains, and rivers of Montana on the back of one of Paws Up trusted horses. The equestrian program is managed by Jackie Kecskes, an experienced equestrian who has created an impressive and varied program perfect for any level of rider. The 72,000-square-foot Saddle Club boasts a 29,000-square-foot arena, a VIP Sky Box suite with a fully stocked bar, a 52 stall barn, equestrian showers, a tack room that can seat 20 people for private dinners, and acres of outdoor pasture. Equestrian activities range from numerous trail rides thru meadows, rivers, and mountains, cattle drives, cow croquet, arena lessons for kids, instructional trail rides to work on your horsemanship skills, all day trail rides with a lunch stop included, “horse whispering 101” designed to build mutual trust between yourself and the horse, early morning horse wrangling where guests are able to gather the ranch’s herd to work for the day, wagon team driving, a junior wrangler program, and pony rides for the little ones. Adding to the already impressive equestrian program is the brand new Mustang Rescue Program. Early last year Jackie rescued five mustangs from the BLM’s Wild Horse and Burro Program to train and integrate into the Paws Up herd. She works with these new members of her family using techniques based on the vaquero tradition, which is designed to work with the horse’s nature in order to gain ultimate trust and union between horse and human. Jackie hopes to rescue four new mustangs every year to expand the program. If you’re anything like me, and are fascinated by all things mustangs, the resort offers a “mustang mindfulness demo” where guests are able to watch and learn as Jackie works with one of the rescues. Guests will be able to witness how the horse responds to her every move and pitch, in a demonstration of true horsemanship.
Special Events
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Believe it or not, there are even more incredible experiences to be had at Paws Up. Each season the resort’s calendar is packed with exciting special events that are undeniably once in a lifetime. I was lucky enough to experience one of the installments of the song writer series where some of the biggest names in songwriting come to the resort for intimate workshops and performances. As a guest you’ll get to witness these artists perform some of their favorites and tell the stories that inspired them. Sitting in Tank with the fire roaring, a drink in my hand, and three of Nashville’s best songwriters storytelling and singing, felt like one of those perfect nights with best friends that leaves you with the warmest feeling. Events range from culinary to artistic to active, making it near impossible to find one that you aren’t excited about. Highlights from the upcoming seasons include a Spring Wine Weekend with Round Pond Estate, The Wonder Women of Food and Wine with some of the best female chefs and restauranteurs, The Cowgirl Spring Roundup where honorees from the Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame showcase their talents and lead trail rides and cattle drives, the James Beard Foundation Chef Tour Dinner, Campfire Stars featuring some of the best musicians playing right at your own campfire, Montana Long Tables throughout the year featuring extraordinary chefs serving up the freshest food in the most remarkable locations, Wildlife Painting, S’mores Weekend (a weekend I cannot and will not miss), and the Cowboy Experience where guests get to ride along side ProRodeo Hall of Famers. What sets events at Paws Up apart from others is the intimacy. Special guests are at the resort for a once in a lifetime experience, just like you. You’ll find yourself on a trail ride with a Top Chef winner or having an incredible conversation with a famed songwriter at Tank. There are no packed rooms here teeming with admirers. The gatherings are intimate and authentic, truly making these events like no others.
Final Thoughts
The Resort at Paws Up brings something to the table that no other resort has achieved: the experiences you have feel, and are, authentic. Every interaction with fellow guests, staff, tour guides, etc. is a great one. You’ll find yourself having the most wonderful conversations with your server or swapping horse stories with your trail guide. Nothing feels forced, every person you meet is genuinely happy to be there and it shows. Yes, this is a five star luxury resort, but the air of stuffiness is gone. Everyone is able to let their guard down and just be real, something that is surprisingly difficult to find. Maybe it’s something in the fresh Montana air or all those spiked hot chocolates I had, but I’ve never felt so relaxed on a vacation.
Rates, Booking, And General Info Paws Up is located at: 40060 Paws Up Road Greenough, Montana 59832 Rates are seasonal - nightly rates for each accommodation include three meals per day for two adults including soft drinks, house wine, beer and liquor, airport transfers, on-property transportation, snacks, and amenities. Please visit www.pawsup.com or call 406-244-5200 or 800-473-0601 for more information and reservation specialists. You can follow The Resort at Paws Up on Instagram @theresortatpawsup and on Twitter @Paws_Up
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