COWGIRL November-December 2023

CELEBRATING SOUTHWEST HERITAGE

Bringing

PEYOTE BIRD SANTA

FE

Photo: © Lady West Photography

THE WORLD’S PREMIER WESTERN & ENGLISH MARKETPLACE

Dallas is home to WESA’s International Western/English Apparel & Equipment Market and the American Equestrian Trade Association International Trade Show. These premier global events showcase equestrian, western, and rural industry products from leading manufacturers across a variety of categories including: apparel, tack, footwear, gift, home, accessories, and more.

JANUARY 17-20, 2024

ww w.dallasmar ketcenter.com @dallasmar ket

Inspiration Starts Here.

Hippie Cowgirl Couture x Good Babes Co.

shop the collaboration at Cowboy Christmas booth #20904

54 COWGIRL ICON

COWGIRL gets the story on two of the industry’s iconic business leaders: Lisa Lockhart, Champion Barrel Racer, and Mary Jane Carpenter, Director of Brand Marketing, Resistol. By Carly

Billington

58 BEHIND THE LENS

Capturing the Thrills and Glory of Rodeo Life—Meet the Unsung Women Heroes of Rodeo Photography.

By Carly Billington

64 LAINEY WILSON

Unleashing the Unapologetic Voice of a Country Cowgirl Renegade. COWGIRL sits with the rising country superstar to discuss the path to her meteoric musical career.

By Wendy Wilkinson

Photography by Aubrey Wise

72 SOUTHWESTERN ALLURE: FASHION

Inspired by the spirit of Santa Fe, embrace the time-worn traditions of the West with a touch of playful creativity.

Photographed by Ken Amorosano

Curated and Styled by Andrea Thorp

82 COWGIRL HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Though gifts aren’t the only reason for the season, they certainly help spread joy this time of year. We’ve scoured the Western landscape to find our favorite gifts for cowgirls, cowboys, cow-kids, and even your four-legged friends.

By Carly Billington

Lainey Wilson COWGIRL On The Cover

Caviar Cowboy Cap, $45, Eleven Eleven, eleven–eleven.com; Bronco Ribbed Bralette, $63, Bronco Ribbed Bike Shorts, $67, Milton Menasco, shopmiltonmenasco.com; Oversized Denim Shirt, Editor’s Own; Jewelry, COWGIRL by Peyote Bird Designs, shopcowgirl.com; Red Lace Up Boots, Justin Boots, justinboots.com.

lifestyle&culture

Vintage Squash Blossom, $7,200, doubledranch.com.

38 UPDATE

Lainey Wilson signs on with Wrangler; Art of The Cowgirl returns to Queen Creek; Wrangler National Finals Breakaway Roping returns to South Point Arena; Elizabeth Poett releases The Ranch Table

40 BOOKS

The Ghost Illusion by Kat Martin; Mountain Woman by Greg Lalire; Signature Dishes of America by Sherry Monahan.

42 FIRST LOOK

ShopCowgirl, Ariat, Liberty Black, Double D Ranch, Vintage Cowgirl Cases, Wrangler, and Remuda Leather.

Curated by Andrea Thorp

46 TRENDS

Four trends to get you ready for the WNFR in Las Vegas, including On The Strip, Cowboy Christmas, Rodeo Ready, and The After Party

Curated by Andrea Thorp

50 IN LOVE

Replace the classic wedding headpiece with a staple Western accessory for a modern Cowgirl bridal look.

By Carly Billington

DOUBLE D RANCH

Photo by Ken Amorosano

COWGIRL HOT LIST MOBILE APP FOR WNFR

BE IN-THE-KNOW WITH THE MOST EXTENSIVE FINGERTIP GUIDE TO THE 2023 WRANGLER NFR IN LAS VEGAS.

If you’re heading to Vegas for the 2023 Wrangler NFR you obviously live the Western way of life and enjoy the country side of things. Need to find an upscale steakhouse or a kitschy burger joint? Need a new straw or a 100x beaver felt hat, exotic boots, turquoise, or a hankering on where to go to meet and mingle with your great extended family? Then download the COWGIRL Hot List WNFR Las Vegas app for 2023, and have it all at your fingertips. Take the guess work out of having fun! And you don’t have to be a cowgirl to use it! Cowboys who want to know where all the action is need to look no further!

The COWGIRL Hot List WNFR Vegas app has got the schedule of everything happening from the rodeo performances, buckle presentations, watch parties, and the most extensively curated list of exhibitors and entertainment at the mega shopping shows like Cowboy Christmas, Country Christmas, Cowboy Marketplace, and the Western Gift Show at the South Point. Don’t know where to go after the rodeo? The COWGIRL Hot List WNFR Las Vegas app shows you the way with another carefully curated selection of restaurants, night clubs, and hot spots. You’ll also receive up-to-the-minute social report push notifications on where the action is and who is making it happen all in real time.

The COWGIRL Hot List WNFR Vegas app covers it all and delivers it right to your fingertips 24/7...and it’s absolutely free to download for either iPhone or Android on the App Store or Google Play.

COWGIRL ON THE RISE

As the year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on 2023, a year that truly felt like the year of the cowgirl. We've been dedicated to our mission of empowering women within the Western industry for quite some time now, and the impact is becoming increasingly evident.

While cowgirls have been an integral part of the cowboy tradition since its inception, their spirit and contributions have gained even greater prominence in recent years. In the world of sports, the growth of breakaway roping and its inclusion in the NFR have brought about significant changes. In the realm of fashion, we've transcended the realm of basic blue jeans, capturing the admiration of a global audience. Powerful women in agriculture and business, who have always been present, are finally receiving the recognition they rightfully deserve.

In the music field, there's one also rising. Lainey Wilson has grabbed the attention of the mainstream with her down-home lyrics and cowgirl style. She is leading the way in that field and we are proud to feature her in this issue.

The COWGIRL brand has also experienced remarkable growth. Our magazine's pages are expanding, and our digital reach now connects with over a million people each month. It's heartening to witness organizations and media outlets embracing women in our industry more than ever before. This shift is likely driven by the realization of the strength and influence that women in our industry wield when it comes to purchasing power, travel decisions, and business choices, both at home and in the o ce.

Our COWGIRL 30 Under 30 program has seen significant growth as well, and as we approach our 5-year anniversary next year, we are excited to recognize 150 exceptionally talented young women who are making significant contributions and leading our industries to new heights. Cowgirls have always been here, and it's high time they receive the recognition they've earned. Thankfully, that recognition is happening now, more than ever.

As we at COWGIRL continue our mission to empower, we encourage you to join us in shining a light on this formidable female force that is so vital to our Western family and industries. Wishing everyone happy holidays!

Ken Amorosano EDITOR & PUBLISHER ken@cowgirlmagazine.com

Western Wedding Rings & Gifts

Lainey Wilson

November/December 2023

Volume 15, Number 6

Editor & Publisher

KEN AMOROSANO

Associate Publisher

LUCINDA AMOROSANO

Digital Marketing Manager

Features Editor

CARLY BILLINGTON

Fashion Editor

ANDREA THORP

Shelter Editor

CHRISTY NIELSON

Book Editor

CHRIS ENSS

Social Media Manager

JULIA AYRES

Aesthetics, Hair & Makeup

JULIE KOETH

Contributing Photographers

KEN AMOROSANO

DIXIE DIXON

ABBY LINNE

KIRSTIE MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

AUBREY WISE

Contributing Writers

KATIE ARMSTRONG

JULIA AYRES

CARLY BILLINGTON

JENNIFER DENISON

JULIA DONDERO

CHRIS ENSS

CHASE REYNOLDS EWALD

LAUREN FLAHERTY

EMILY FOUGHT

ANDREA THORP

WENDY WILKINSON

Advertising Director CALLIE TICE (817) 269-1240

CALLIE@COWGIRLMAGAZINE.COM

Advertising Brand Managers

GEENA MARCUZZO (831) 915-0355

GEENA@COWGIRLMAGAZINE.COM

CHRISTINE KOEPPEN (719) 728-0835

CHRISTINE@COWGIRLMAGAZINE.COM

COWGIRL neither endorses nor is responsible for the content of advertisements in its pages. The contents of this magazine may not be reproduced in whole or in part without consent of the copyright owner.

Printed in the United States of America Copyright 2023 by Modern West Media, Inc.

Subscriptions, Renewals, and Address Changes 847-504-8468 • cowgirl@omeda.com www.cowgirlmagazine.com

COWGIRL® is a registered trademark of Modern West Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

ON THE COVER

LAINEY WILSON

Lainey Wilson is a powerhouse country artist whose meteoric rise to the ranks of superstardom is no overnight sensation. As you will discover in her sit-down interview with Wendy Wilkinson later in these pages, Lainey’s road to success has been a long one. From living in her 20-foot bumper pull camper trailer to now constantly on the road in a full-suited Prevost tour bus, the young and extremely talented singer/songwriter has found her stride, and there’s no turning back. COWGIRL spent a day with Lainey and her devoted tour team during a break in her schedule in Salt Lake City. The Lainey team and COWGIRL Magazine crew teamed up to produce the exclusive images on the cover and in the feature. A rustic AirBnB cabin in snow country served as the perfect setting for the amazing essay photographed by Lainey’s touring photographer, Aubrey Wise. The Team also included the talents of Stylist Vanessa Powell and hair and makeup artist, Jeni Chua. A special thanks goes out to Wrangler for providing some of the wardrobe that is also part of the megadeal Lainey and Wrangler recently consummated for an ongoing endorsement relationship. It’s no secret COWGIRL is a big Lainey Wilson fan and will be proudly distributing copies of this issue to attendees of her four scheduled shows at the Virgin Hotel, during NFR, December 13-16.

CONTRIBUTORS

WENDY WILKINSON has been a writer in the celebrity horse world for more than a decade. She co-authored the New York Times best-selling book People We Know, Horses They Love and several years later partnered with Morgan Freeman on Morgan Freeman and Friends, Caribbean Cooking for a Cause. A contributor to Cowboys & Indians magazine, her cover stories have included Freeman, Tom Selleck, Hugh Jackman, Tommy Lee Jones, and Leonardo DiCaprio, to name a few.

ANDREA THORP is a Western Creative Director and Fashion Editor and Curator for COWGIRL. A native Iowan, Andrea grew up chasing rodeos around the West until settling in Fort Worth, Texas, where she spends her free time two stepping, sipping fine bourbon, and adding to her alwaysgrowing turquoise collection.

CARLY BILLINGTON is COWGIRL’s Features Editor and Digital Marketing Manager. She graduated from New Mexico State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing, as well as a Master’s of Business Administration. In her free time, Carly enjoys pursuing her other passion, rodeo, where she competes in Breakaway Roping and Barrel Racing.

AUBREY WISE is a photographer based in Nashville, TN. She has worked with artists like Willie Nelson, Lainey Wilson, Miranda Lambert, Lukas Nelson, and more. She has a strong passion for storytelling, music, the Western lifestyle, and people and she loves getting to mesh all of these in her work.

LAINEY WILSON IS ON WITH WRANGLER

Lainey Wilson is the new female face of the Wrangler brand’s Fall/Winter 2023 Women’s Collection featuring jeans, tops, and jackets, and will support the brand via campaign imagery, social media content, onstage denim exclusivity, and select meet-and-greet appearances.

When asked what she loves about Wrangler, she simply said: “I have been devoted to the Western lifestyle all my life, and there’s nothing that feels more like home than a pair of Wrangler jeans. You look at childhood pictures of me, my sister, and family riding horses and we were all wearing Wranglers. The partnership feels authentic, and during this whirlwind time, it is important to me to keep my feet on the ground. It’s exciting to realize that I am going to be the female face of Wrangler’s Women’s collection.”

“It is super exciting to be working with a talent and persona like Lainey and it makes my job that much easier,” says Vivian Rivetti, Global Brand Designer for Wrangler. “She is a dynamic and strong-willed young woman who will probably bring more younger buyers to Wrangler.”

Looks includes the Holiday Satin Shirt with Wrangler icon details, floral patterns, wide leg flairs, traditional denim bell bottoms, and Wrangler Retro jeans with the signature “W” on the back pockets, which Lainey wears so well.

NFBR TO RETURNS TO THE SOUTH POINT

The fourth Wrangler National Finals Breakaway Roping will take place at the South Point Arena & Equestrian Center in Las Vegas, December 5-6. The Top 15 breakaway ropers will compete for prize money of $250,000 during the two-day, 10-round performance. The South Point Hotel is the place that cowboys and cowgirls call their home away from home during WNFR. Other Breakaway events around town during WNFR include the ALL IN Breakaway Dec 1013 at The Orleans Arena, Rope For The Crown Dec 8-9 at The Plaza Hotel Core Arena downtown, and the Resorts World Breakaway Championship December 7-9. Visit southpointcasino.com for more NFBR info and download the COWGIRL Hotlist NFR App for a full schedule of all WNFR events and happenings.

ART OF THE COWGIRL RETURNS

ART OF THE COWGIRL will once again celebrate the American cowgirl when Montana cowgirl and event founder Tammy Pate’s dream comes true at Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre in Queen Creek, Arizona, January 17-21. The five-day festival of cowgirl culture will bring together a curated collection of authentic master artists, silversmiths, braiders, saddle makers, and horsewomen to demonstrate and share their skills with an enthusiastic audience of women and men who love the Western way of life. COWGIRL Magazine again sponsors this year’s Women’s Ranch Rodeo, in which ranching women compete in events typically witnessed in real-life ranching scenarios. Art of The Cowgirl not only provides entertainment and honors women of the West, but also offers fellowships to individuals to further their knowledge with master artists in their trade of choice. Events scheduled include an art auction, concerts and entertainment, the Art of The Cowgirl Elite Horse Sale, as well as the World’s Greatest Horsewoman competition. A Cowgirl trade show will also anchor the event with exhibitors selling art, jewelry, apparel, and equine products, as well as a variety of specialty food vendors. To get tickets and plan your Art of The Cowgirl attendance, visit artofthecowgirl.com.

THE RANCH TABLE

From the star of Magnolia Network’s Ranch to Table, and former COWGIRL cover girl, Elizabeth Poett pens a love letter to the rhythms and flavors of ranch life.

A seventh-generation cattle rancher in the rolling hills of California’s Central Coast, Elizabeth Poett unites a passion for land and animal stewardship with joyous gatherings fueled by fresh, seasonal food. At Rancho San Julian, the 14,000-acre ranch that has been in her family since 1837, Elizabeth hosts culinary gatherings that vibrantly encapsulate the generosity, history, and deliciousness of the land.

And so, with her debut cookbook, THE RANCH TABLE: Recipes from a Year of Harvests, Celebrations, and Family Dinners on a Historic California Ranch, it only made sense for the pages to span a year, capturing the rhythms of the land and the honest conviviality of ranch life.

Indeed, with each chapter spotlighting an event or a special day—springtime branding, dinner in the lavender fields, holiday cookie bake-offs with the kids, the quiet beauty of a winter evening spent at the kitchen table—the recipes and storytelling transport readers and cooks to this beautiful corner of California.

With a focus on seasonal ingredients—including vegetables and meat grown and raised on the ranch and fish from California’s Central Coast—Elizabeth’s food is rustic and homey, both accessible for weeknight cooking and easy enough for larger gatherings.

THE RANCH TABLE draws in readers with both expansive photos of the ranch today and archival images of its past, bringing a sense of place to Elizabeth’s cooking.

Elizabeth Poett Modern Rancher, as featured on the cover of COWGIRL in January of 2017.

THE GHOST ILLUSION

By Kat Martin | (Kensington Books)

WITH LAZIER days and more time indoors to escape the cold, winter comes with the distinctive benefit of having more time to spend with a good book and New York Times bestselling author Kat Martin’s, The Ghost Illusion, is that book.

The enchanting and tantalizing tale begins with a haunting mystery. “My name is Eve St. Clair. I’m an American living in England. I think there is something in my house, something dark and sinister that is not of this world. Can you help me? I live alone. I’m not crazy, and I’m not making this up. Please help me if you can.”

Billionaire businessman Ransom King and his team of paranormal investigators arrive on the scene to lend a hand at solving the ghostly mystery and, along the way, he becomes romantically entangled with his desperate client.

The Ghost Illusion is filled with unexpected twists and plot turns. Kat Martin’s characters are well crafted and her writing style is engaging and enthralling.

The Ghost Illusion is no ordinary ghost story. It’s an edge of your seat thrill ride with an incredible truth at the heart of the tale.

MOUNTAIN WOMAN

HOW SHE DEFIED THE ODDS IN THE TIME OF THE MOUNTAIN MEN

By Gregory J. Lalire | (Thorndike Press)

NOT ALL OF the early 19th-century trappers who wandered through the Rockies in search of beaver pelts were called mountain men. One mountain woman, Bet Hex, is the subject of a unique tale told by her daughter, Bathsheba Hex, in 1901. In 1819, Kentucky-born Bet Hex ventures up the Missouri River with a fur-trading expedition. Captured first by Arapahos and then by Pawnees, she is rescued by a French voyageur. After his death, she sets out alone to make her home in the wilderness. The Blackfeet called her “White Woman Who Never Dies” and she lived up to that name, surviving

wildfires, harsh winters, and the dangers of both animal and human predators. In the Bitterroot Mountains, she befriends a Salish man, raises a little girl, and deals with Blackfeet raiders and Black Robe missionaries. While she would rather swim with the beavers than kill them and rather love a man than fight him, Bet Hex does what she must to survive as the one and only mountain woman.

The life and hard times of Mountain Woman Bet Hex is a gripping broad adventure from start to finish. Greg Lalire’s sharp characterization will enthrall readers of character-driven fiction.

SIGNATURE DISHES OF AMERICA

RECIPES AND CULINARY TREASURES FROM HISTORIC HOTELS AND RESTAURANTS

By Sherry Monahan | (Globe Pequot)

CULINARY HISTORIAN and award-winning author, Sherry Monahan’s stunning book Signature Dishes of America pays tribute to the trademark dishes served at some of the most celebrated locations in the nation. The book is not only useful for travelers who know from experience that exciting food in historic atmospheres is often the highlight of a trip, but it’s equally serviceable to stay-at-home gourmets who like to try their hand at emulating some of the country’s best chefs in their own kitchens.

Recipes from the Kingston Inn in Kingston, Rhode Island, to the White Restaurant in Salem, Oregon, and many points in between, are included in Signature Dishes of America. Connoisseurs who want to eat like they’re at one of the land’s finest eateries can choose to recreate dishes such as Date Nut Bread, a favorite from the Inn at Death Valley, German Potato Salad, a popular treat from the Alpine Inn in Hill City, South Dakota, Stu ed Peppers Creole Style from the delightful Old Southern Tea Room in Vicksburg, Virginia, or delicious Coconut Cream Pie from the Willows in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Monahan does an exceptional job at seasoning Signature Dishes of America with information about the historic inns and restaurants where the various recipes originated. Readers will also find directions to the notable inns and restaurants featured if they’re planning to visit. The recipe credits at the end of the hard cover volume and the index itself are immensely helpful. The book is filled with photographs of the historic sites and colorful images of the finished foods. History never tasted so good.

Reviewed by Chris Enss, COWGIRL Book Editor, and a New York Times best-selling author who writes about women of the Old West.

BOOT SOCKS EVER

Southpoint NFR Trade Show

The Rowdy Rose

Las Vegas Convention Center

NFR Cowboy Christmas

The Good Babes Co #20904

SKBrazile #331

WesternIdeas #1413

Teskeys #1521

RodeoQuincy #22725

NCHACuttingFortWorth,TX

Davis Boots

Rawhide & Roses Specialty Boutique

COWGIRL & THE BIRD

The COWGIRL/Peyote Bird Designs exclusive line of curated turquoise and silver jewelry pieces were made with the burgeoning collector in mind. Curated to stack, layer, and style together, these pieces are ideal for day-to-day wear and become immediate heirlooms that only increase the value of your personal collection and style.

shopcowgirl.com

When it comes to recognizable boot styles, the Dixon from Ariat is unmistakable. The classic slit-side bootie was a sensation upon its release and was made in many colors and prints over the years. These new metallics may be our new fave! Available in beautiful, bright hues, the metallic Dixon will be on repeat for all your holiday outings.

ariat.com

AT LIBERTY

Boot lovers have spoken about the need for wide-calf boot options and Liberty Black heeded the call with the unveiling of their expansive wide-calf boot line! A ectionately titled, “Wide and Proud,” this collection has brought the well-loved tall and over-the-knee styles to cowgirls with a more athletic calf.

2 Ds FOR YHE HOLIDAY

Double D Ranch steps into timeless Westernwear this season with their 2023 Holiday Collection featuring the brand’s signature velvets in rich jewel tones, and curated silver accents, not to mention the luxe leather and fur statements. E ortlessly dress to the nines for every event and celebration this season.

doubledranch.com

VINTAGE VIBES

Pack your bags for endless adventures with a true Western twist. Teresa Johnson, owner and designer of Vintage Cowgirl Cases, is redefining the idea of cowgirl travel with her original travel cases that possess as much style as they do function. Made with e ciency in mind, each case serves a unique purpose — from jewelry storage to makeup caboodles and even full luggage—there’s an option for everyone.

vintagecowgirlcases.com

STAYING IN LAINEY

These jeans fit just right! Lainey Wilson has teamed up with Wrangler to create the denim drop of the season. This collection is the ideal mix of timeless staple pieces and laid-back boho influence that is quintessentially Lainey. Throw on a pair of classic flares or a denim vest for the Lainey Wilson concert in Vegas during the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo this December!

wrangler.com

COLOR MY BELT

Ask any cowgirl, a topquality leather belt is a musthave in her daily get-up. What if you could have one in every color? Remuda Leather Co. is making that dream a reality with a vast selection of premium leather belts available in every color under the sun. From their ever-popular hot pink to neutral buckskin, you can truly have a belt for every occasion, handmade to order!

remudaleatherco.com

ON THE STRIP

MARRYING TIMELESS COWGIRL CLASSICS—UNIQUE LEATHER, COWHIDE, AND SILVER SET THE STAGE FOR A HEAD-TURNING STYLE STATEMENT.

1. CROPPED TURTLENECK SWEATER, $17.99, H&M, hm.com. 2. MARYAM HAIRCALF LEATHER COAT, $2,250, Banana Republic, bananarepublic.gap.com. 3. ALVIN YELLOWHORSE MULTISTONE BOLA TIE, $3,600, Garland’s, shopgarlands.com. 4. STERLING SILVER AND SPINY OYSTER DROP EARRINGS, $59, Turquoise Network, turquoisenetwork.com. 5. PLEATED FAUX LEATHER WIDE-LEG PANTS, $340, The Frankie Shop, modaoperandi.com. 6. INES FULL-QUILL WESTERN BOOT, $469.95, Tony Lama, tonylama.com. 7. ELVIRA BILL SONORAN TURQUOISE CUFF, $1,450, Samsville Gallery, samsvillegallery.com.

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8. FAUX LEATHER WIDE-LEG PANTS, $425, Simon Miller, saksfifthavenue.com. 9. GAMBLER HAT, Starting At $1,700, Montecristi Hats, montecristihats.com. 10. ROYSTON TURQUOISE POST EARRINGS, $159, Nizhoni Traders, nizhonitradersllc.com. 11. NAVAJO TURQUOISE CLUSTER BELT, $1,880, All Tribes, alltribes.com. 12. 1950s TURQUOISE SUNFACE CUFF, $1,700, Garland’s, shopgarlands.com. 13. GENUINE BURMESE PYTHON HANDMADE SLIDES, Contact For Pricing, Tomasso Arditti, tomassoarditti.com. 14. NOLA CLUTCH, $1,400, Heritage Brand, heritagebrand.com. 15. ROGUE LEATHER T-SHIRT, $300, Banana Republic, bananarepublic.gap.com.

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Booth 1643 downstairs

Booth 22725 upstairs

1. MURPHY HIGH NECK WIDE LEG JUMPSUIT, $650, A.L.C., bergdorfgoodman.com. 2. PENCIL RIM FELT HAT, $147, American Hat Makers, americanhatmakers.com. 3. IBIZA GLITTER BLAZER, $129.99, Gusaino, gusaino.com. 4. CHIMAYO CLUTCH PURSE, $34.49, Red Casita, etsy.com/ shop/redcasita. 5. SANTO DOMINGO MOSAIC NECKLACE SET, $1,350, Pueblo Direct, pueblodirect. com. 6. WHITE COBRA TURQUOISE CUFF, $875, Malouf On The Plaza, maloufontheplaza. com. 7. VINTAGE PANTEAH ZUNI INLAY CUFF, $3,485, Silver Star Jewelry, silverstarjewelryaz.com. 8. BLUE JEAN BABY BOOT, $260, Liberty Black, rivertrailmercantile.com.

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THE AFTER PARTY

PUMP UP THE PANACHE IN JAW-DROPPING MONGOLIAN WOOL AND COLORFUL ACCESSORIES FOR CONCERTS AND AFTER-PARTIES AROUND TOWN.

9. ABIQUIU SKY SHEARLING DUSTER, $3,000, Lindsey Thornburg, lindseythornburg.com. 10. THE CARD DEALER HAT, $650, Six Hand Hats, sixhandhats.com. 11. SANTO DOMINGO DEPRESSION ERA BIRD NECKLACE, $1,750, Peyote Bird Designs, peyotebird.com. 12. JODIE V-NECK SILK SLIP DRESS, $495, L’Agence, bergdorfgoodman.com. 13. TALL TURQUOISE COWBOY BOOT, $269.99, JRC & Sons, cavenders.com. 14. FRANNIE GARCIA TURQUOISE NUGGET WRAP BRACELET, $69, Lantern Dancer, lanterndancer.com.

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BEYOND THE

veil

REPLACE THE CLASSIC WEDDING HEADPIECE WITH A STAPLE WESTERN ACCESSORY FOR A MODERN COWGIRL BRIDAL LOOK.

Photo by RW Photography. Hat: Gigi Pip.

COWGIRL CLASSIC

Wedding veils are synonymous with a timeless tradition, but many brides are seeking alternatives that better fit their wedding aesthetic. A classic silhouette gives you the ability to fully embrace your cowgirl roots with a piece that can be incorporated into your everyday wardrobe post “I dos.”

1. SHASTA 10X COWBOY HAT IN BUTTERSCOTCH, $440, Stetson, stetson. com. 2. CUSTOM HAT IN SAGE, starting at $799, Greeley Hat Works, greeleyhatworks.com. 3. 50X ROBINS EGG SMOKE, $879.99, JW Brooks Custom Hats, nrsworld.com. 4. 40X ARENA SILVERBELLY, $649.99, Resistol, nrsworld.com. 5. CUSTOM 50X WHITE HAT WITH PEARLS AND CRYSTALS, starting at $1,300, Shorty’s Caboy Hattery, shortyshattery.com.

PUNCHY POP

Bold brides, don’t shy away from donning a vibrant lid on your big day. As they say, go big or go home! Pops of color lend themselves to different seasons and color palettes while accentuating your wedding aesthetic. Whether it be deep, rich tones or a vibrant variety, a colorful lid brings something unexpected and different to your bridal look. Even if the color you choose isn’t part of your primary wedding scheme, complementary colors can add so much dimension.

NEUTRAL NUPTIAL

Despite whatever is “in” right this very second, you can always fall back on a neutral color palette. The extremely adaptable color palette never goes out of style and gives your ensemble a crisp look that is anything but bland. Pair with striking accents for extra cowgirl flair.

1. GLITTER COLORFUL PAINTED HAT, contact for pricing, Yaya Kieu, beyondthecanvasbyyaya.com. 2. CUSTOM COYPU FELT HAT, contact for pricing, Glacier Rim Hats, glacierhats.com. 3. MIDTOWN, $149.99, Stetson, stetson.com; HAT ACCESSORIES, contact for pricing, Peyote Bird, peyotebird.com.

4. INDIGO BLUES, $600, Holler Hat Co., hollerhatco.com.

5. “BLOND TELE”, $685, Lone Hawk Hats, lonehawkhats. com. 6. FLING, $125, Charlie 1 Horse, charlie1horsehats.com. 7. CUSTOM BURNED HAT, contact for pricing, The Fringed Hussie, instagram.com/thefringedhussie.

Photo by VFineeMoments

EXTRAORDINARY EMBELLISHMENTS

No matter the hat color or style, intricate details like statement hat bands or audacious accents are sure to wow your guests and tie your bridal look together. When searching for hat accessories, consider the rest of your bridal ensemble. Look for pieces that’ll beautifully complement your personal style and wedding theme.

COWGIRL & COWBOY

PAC BOOTS

The Cowboy blends the warmth and comfort of a traditional rubber bottom pac boot with a special designed outsole featuring a stirrup rail for sliding in and out of standard stirrups with ease. An open tread pattern allows for serious bite in snow and mud, but there is enough open space to make the sole “self-cleaning”. Whether you’re leading your horse down the trail or doing a little winter fence mending, they’ll keep your feet warm and happy.

8. STERLING SILVER AND WHITE BUFFALO HAT BAND, $1,399, Hippie Cowgirl Couture, hippiecowgirlcouture.com. 9. JOE EBY BIRD & ARROW BRIM SLIDE, $175, Peyote Bird, peyotebird.com. 10. KINGMAN TURQUOISE LEATHER SUNFLOWER & FEATHER HATBANDS, contact for pricing, Casey Curtis Designs, caseycurtisdesigns.com. 11. SLEEPING BEAUTY HAT PICKS, $105, Lauren-Isms, lauren-isms.myshopify.com. 12. DESERT SANDS HAT BAND, $325, Peyote Bird, peyotebird.com. 13. VINTAGE ZUNI PETIT POINT PIN, $1,650, Peyote Bird, peyotebird.com. 14. CUSTOM MONTANA HAT FEATHER, $65, Montana Silversmiths, montanasilversmiths.com.

By Carly Billington

In the world of professional rodeo, only a small handful of barrel racers have had a historic career like Lisa Lockhart. With over $3 million in career earnings and 17 consecutive trips to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, the South Dakota cowgirl is one of the most beloved and iconic barrel

racers to ever grace the arena.

Ever since her first taste of competition at local junior rodeos, her passion never wavered. “I had the opportunity to live on a ranch and farm and always had horses. I was mesmerized from an early age. I wanted to learn more and do more, and here we are today. We all want



LISA LOCKHART

Champion Barrel Racer

to rodeo to the utmost level that we can. With that, you are only as good as your horsepower. In barrel racing and any timed event, or even the roughstock, the livestock is an integral part of the program. It’s been a pretty grand career for the last 18 years.”

Not only is Lisa deeply passionate about the sport, but she finds immense joy in building strong relationships with her equine partners. “I love learning everything about them as unique individuals. It becomes very personal for me. Maybe it’s the mother in me or the nurturing part of it, but it’s rewarding to me as well,” she says. “It makes me happy to know those horses to the best of my ability inside and out. We’ve got a ranch and they, for the most part, usually retire here. That brings me joint satisfaction. I’m glad I’m in that position to be able to do so.”

Lisa credits her amazing support system and strong mental fortitude to persevere through the highs and lows of the rodeo season. “My husband is the greatest, and I have three wonderful kids. I’m a mom and a wife first, rodeo is what I do and what I love. It’s hard to keep it in perspective when you’re trying to win and you have a goal in mind, but you just gotta keep pushing forward. You have to be driven and motivated and take it all in because it’s a rollercoaster, you better be along for the whole ride.”

“Stay humble. Stay in your lane. Have your own program and follow it. Make it suit where you wanna go, what fits your horses, not what everybody else is doing,” she advises. “Be realistic, it’s a process. We’ve all started at the bottom. Some get to step faster and higher more quickly, but you really have to be patient. Just keep striving for your goals and just don’t get caught up in everything else and everybody else around you. Stay true to yourself.”

While Lisa doesn’t have a favorite horse she’s ridden in her career, there’s no denying the dynamic partnership she had with her great horse, Louie. “My horses have longevity. Louie was in the limelight for a lot of years, and he had a very successful career. I always got to say that his reputation far preceded mine, and I was good with that. He was so consistent, and he always tried his heart out. He had a great reputation just because of his genuine love for his job. It was crazy. If we’re ever blessed with a horse of a lifetime, obviously he was it. It was a great journey to be on.”

By Carly Billington

MARY JANE CARPENTER

Director of Brand Marketing, Resistol

From the day she got her first horse and entered her first junior rodeo at 9 years old, Mary Jane Carpenter has been hooked on horses and the Western lifestyle. The Mississippi cowgirl was just as disciplined in the classroom as she was in the arena, graduating with her MBA in Business and a minor in Marketing.

After college, she worked for a Fortune 500 company, Bryan Foods, a division of the Sara Lee Corporation, as a Brand Manager in Marketing. “My time there provided great professional guidelines and knowledge that I was able to carry with me throughout my marketing career,” she says. “While working there, I was a weekend warrior in barrel racing and rodeo and began raising a family. It was a balancing act to work in a professional career, which was primarily a man’s world, and learn to be a wife and mother. Not many women held management positions at that time, so you just had to figure it out. But take note, ladies, you can do it all and it’s all worth it! It’s so cool now to see so many women thriving in the Western industry and the support they have for each other.”

In 1995, her Western roots brought her to Mossy Oak Camouflage, where she worked closely with then-PBR President, Randy Bernard, to merge the hunting and outdoorsmen lifestyle with the Western world. Together, they created the memorable Mossy Oak Shootout program that paid out huge amounts of prize money and created so much brand exposure. All the PBR competitors were required to wear Mossy Oak shirt patches, a new concept at the time, along with introducing an endorsee team and the sponsorship of the infamous bull, Mossy Oak Mudslinger.

For Mary Jane, it has been a full circle moment to be working for Resistol. “I have always worn a Resistol, but never thought I would have the privilege of working for such an incredible brand and company in the Western industry,” she praises. “ I sincerely thank Ricky Bolin and Dustin Noblitt for bringing me on board 8 years ago and having the faith in me to lead the Resistol brand and the marketing team. The fact that many of our employees both live the Western lifestyle and work in the industry led us to create the tagline ‘We live it every day.’”

The NFR is not only the “Super Bowl of Rodeo” for the contestants and fans, but for sponsors and brands as well. “This is the backbone of our brand, rodeo cowboys, and ranchers are who we make our product for. Resistol is one of the legacy sponsors of the PRCA, for 64 years, which we are all so proud of. There is a lot of marketing and branding going on, so it takes a lot of planning, detail, and coordination to make it happen. My favorite sponsorship program is the PRCA Resistol Rookie of the Year program. In the last 8 years, we have taken the program from a sponsorship where the rookies were awarded a buckle, to a program that has given winning this achievement the recognition it was due.”

Mary Jane’s hope is to keep working on projects that promote the Western lifestyle and pass it on to the next generation. “Kent Haley and I have horses and cattle and ranch daily. We go to team ropings and enjoy our family and our work. Passing on the passion for the Western and outdoor lifestyle to my sons, Jake and Cooper Orman, has been my greatest blessing.”

Through

challenged, learn

things, laugh, have fun, create friendships, build confidence, and find healing and peace in your soul. Adventure

BEHIND THE LENS

CAPTURING THE THRILLS AND GLORY OF RODEO LIFEMEET THE UNSUNG WOMEN HEROES OF RODEO PHOTOGRAPHY

BY CARLY BILLINGTON

The bright lights of the arena, the rattling of the chutes, the roar of the crowd, and the click of a camera. Rodeo photographers must have a vast knowledge of not only their craft, but the Western lifestyle. They have to adjust to di erent situations—indoor versus outdoor arenas, varying weather conditions, where to stand, and what to look for. For them, there are no second chances or re-rides.

The ladies of professional rodeo photography travel mile after mile during the year to get the perfect shot of competitors and livestock. They’ve captured world records, world champions, and world-class talent all across the country. Their e orts and expertise immortalize a moment in time forever and preserve the lifestyle we love so dearly.

With a ranching and agriculture background combined with heavy involvement at the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, Kay Miller has always been immersed in the Western way of life. She has always enjoyed photography and got

more involved while hauling her daughter to high school rodeos. In 2017, she went to a rodeo photography workshop with Terri Abrahamsen, a PRCA photographer, and filled her permit the following year. “I am very honored and proud to

be one of the many very talented PRCA Photographers. I love documenting the history of the sport through the lens of a camera.”

Kay has had the privilege of photographing the WNFR the last three years as a media photographer, as well as the Prairie Circuit Finals, The American, and numerous other events throughout the season. “I love seeing a contestant do good and win. Being able to capture that moment in time with a photo for them is priceless.”

MALLORY BEINBORN

While Mallory Beinborn grew up riding and showing horses with her mom in Wisconsin, her mind wandered to rodeo and the Western lifestyle. About 15 years ago, she began taking a little Sony camera with her to horse shows, capturing photos of her friends and people there.

A few years later, she began her career as a traveling horse photographer,

and was introduced to the Cervi family. “I was 100% hooked. I started going to any rodeo I could. I’ve had the privilege of working for some incredible people in the 15 years I’ve been blessed to be in this industry.”

Mallory has seen a lot over the years, but some of the most cherished are from the rush of brand new experiences. “The reward for me comes from when I’m in the moment shooting. The high you get from interacting with the people and the horses to create an image that you can’t believe you actually got.”

ALAINA STANGLE

South Dakota cowgirl Alaina Stangle grew up on her family’s ranch and competed in multiple rodeo events before shifting her sights to photography. “When I was about 14 years old, my mom encouraged my dad and me to go to local roughstock practices. My mom let me try out her camera to capture the action. I seemed to have a knack for it and I was hooked from then on.”

She finds a great reward in helping keep the Western way of life alive. “Capturing rodeo action and memories is what I love to do,” she says. “Supporting the rodeo committees, contestants, stock contractors, and the stock by capturing their best moments is my passion.”

“Be persistent, but be patient,” she advises. “You don’t always know how things will end up, but trust everything will work out even if it’s not as expected. It’s good to embrace the journey through its trials and joys.”

HAILEY RAE

Hailey Rae might’ve not been born into the Western industry, but there’s no doubt in her mind it’s where she belongs. She had always held an interest in photography, but in her late teen years realized that was how she could fully immerse herself in the Western world.

“I started out shooting Western events, 4-H shows, and cattle sales but stumbled into rodeo photography in college and fell in love. When I graduated, I knew it was exactly what I wanted to do, so I worked towards my PRCA card and am now a full-time Pro Rodeo Photographer.”

Knowing that she has a huge role in helping save the rodeo history that is created today is incredibly inspiring and motivating for Hailey. “It gives me chills thinking about the fact that in one hundred years guys like Stetson Wright will still be a household name and that his accomplishments will help be remembered because of the time we preserved.”

Jackie Jensen grew up on her family’s ranch and began competing when she was about 6 years old. In 2008, she began creating senior portraits and photographing western Weddings. Business took o , and she decided that opening a full-time photography studio was

the logical next step.

Becoming a PRCA rodeo photographer combines Jackie’s love of travel with the sport she holds so near and dear to her heart. “I love to travel and have been to both Africa, with Doctors Without Borders, and Europe study-

NATALIE MCFARLAND

Natalie McFarland grew up involved in 4-H, rodeo, and a wide variety of equine competition. After graduating from Oregon State University with a degree in Pre-Veterinary Medicine and getting a job in the field, she decided to take a di erent path. Wanting to combine her love of working with large animals with her lifelong passion for the camera and the Western lifestyle, she established McFarland Productions.

JACKIE JENSEN

ing the great works of Western civilization. In the last 10 years, I have photographed Cheyenne, Pendleton, The American, and the National Finals Rodeo.”

“When a grandmother calls and thanks me for the memories on her wall, it is so rewarding. I am a storyteller by nature, and photography allows me to tell a complete story in a single image.”

For Natalie, the most rewarding part of her career is being able to serve clients to the best of her ability and getting to see the di erence her services make in their companies and individual lives.

“Helping people, companies, and organizations grow through true strategy is something that gets me out of bed in the morning,” she says.

“In the part of my work that involves photography, it is my way of thinking that a photograph is not just art. We are producing images that paint our clients and the industry in an authentic way.”

Roseanna Sales grew up a farm and ranch kid, always loved rodeo, and wanted to be a part of it. She fell in love with photography and the ability to capture moments that tell a story in the industry she loves so much.

The three-time NFR photographer and

PRCA Photographer of the Year advises aspiring photographers, “Learn your camera, practice your craft, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you want to do it full time, take some business classes to learn how to manage it correctly.”

ROSEANNA SALES

“I think about sitting in the stands as a kid and wondering what it would be like to be on that arena dirt. I get a lot of messages from women telling me that I inspire them to chase their dreams and, as cheesy as it sounds, if I can make a di erence in one person’s outlook of being able to believe in themselves, it’s worth it.”

TANYA HAMNER

Lyman, WY, cowgirl Tanya Hamner grew up raising Columbia Sheep and a small herd of cows with her family. A lifelong lover of rodeo, when she found out rodeo photography was a viable career, she was all in. She focused her Master’s thesis project on the American Cowboy, titled, “You Don’t See Him from the Road.” She traveled across Wyoming, helping and capturing the working cowboy. She still pursues this work by creating an annual calendar and publishes a co ee table book.

While countless hours on the road may get boring for some, she gets excited to meet new people and foster new relationships. “I just love every minute being out in the arena capturing the best photos of each athlete at the rodeo. Being able to capture the animal at its most athletic moment is so rewarding to me. Sometimes I find myself just watching the animal instead of photographing it because they are just that amazing.”

LOUISE SERPA & MIA LAROCQUE

The woman who started it all. Louise Serpa grew up in New York City, attended Vassar, and went West at the first opportunity. She started with a $27 camera shooting local cowboys and junior rodeos, marking the beginning of a career that would span over half a century. She was the first woman sanctioned by the RCA to photograph rodeo inside the arena, and passed that legacy on to her daughter, Mia.

Together, they became the first and only mother-daughter duo to capture the sport, Mia recalls. “When I was in my twenties, I finally asked her to show me how to use a camera. So, we went to a hunter jumper show. I used to jump horses, and I knew what the image looked like because I dried the prints all the time with mom.”

She continues, “We went back and

then she had me take time o work for the Tucson Winter Classic Show. The next thing you know, she asked me to shoot the Tucson Rodeo because she double-booked herself. I think she lied to make me go because she was there the next day.”

For Mia, it was flattering to be onehalf of the iconic pair. “It was the best four years where we were shooting sideby-side or comparing things. I got to where I was doing all her printing and stu for her too. We had a blast together, an absolute blast.”

“The Tucson Rodeo General Manager, Gary Williams, always said mom was the “Ansel Adams of Rodeo.” There was a journalist I used to shoot with, and he changed it up when he wrote an article about mom’s passing, and said, “No, she’s the Serpa of Rodeo.”

Photo by Jamie Manser, Zocolo Magazine

Justin Macha, “Slack Line”, Mia Larocque 2015

LAINEY

UNLEASHING THE UNAPOLOGETIC VOICE OF A COUNTRY COWGIRL RENEGADE

BY WENDY WILKINSON PHOTOGRAPHED BY AUBREY WISE

Listening to a Lainey Wilson playlist brings out the best in free-spirited and well-crafted cowgirl country from “Things A Man Oughta Know” and “Atta Girl” to “Heart Like a Truck” and the more somber “Wait in the Truck,” which focuses on domestic abuse. Raised in Louisiana, Lainey’s music is also rooted in a vintage Southern sound which she has managed to make all her own.

Wilson’s single “Heart Like a Truck” from the Album Bell Bottom Country, hit No. 1 on the country music charts in early April, where she continues to perform the beloved song and several other hits on Awards Shows and at concert venues across the country.

It’s no wonder that the accolades and awards just keep coming for Wilson, one of Nashville’s hottest and most buzzed-about new artists, who has also landed the plum role of Abby on Season 5 of the mega-hit television series Yellowstone. “It’s been a whirlwind in the best kind of way,” Wilson says.

First meeting up with Lainey in April in Jackson, Wyoming, for her Wrangler partnership photo shoot, COWGIRL also got a chance to catch up with her this summer about Wrangler news and to find out what else is happening with this multi-talented performer, including Yellowstone and her music.

The audience is first introduced to local musician Abby in Yellowstone’s first episode of Season 5. She performs at the Yellowstone Ranch for John Dutton’s (Kevin Costner) inaugural celebration as the new governor of Montana. The series co-creator Taylor Sheridan had an idea to create a character specifically for Wilson, where she was able to wear her bellbottoms, sing her songs, and pretty much be herself.

Although the character of Abby first appeared on the show’s fifth season, the singer’s relationship with the show goes back much further. Seven of her songs have been featured on the Yellowstone soundtrack, which dates to season two.

Most recently, Wilson has been nominated for nine CMA Awards and was named ACM Female Artist of the Year. Lainey is now the only artist in CMA Awards history to lead the nominations in the first two appearances on the ballot, the first female artist to win New Artist and Female Artist, then be nominated for Entertainer of the Year the next year, and tied with Merle Haggard and Miranda Lambert with nine nominations in a single year!

A six-time CMA Awards nominee and Academy of Country Music New Female of the Year 2022 winner, Wilson was crowned by Billboard magazine, the music industry’s go-to publication, as “Top New Country Artist of 2021,” earned CMT’s “Breakout Artist of the Year” award for 2022, and landed her first No. 1 with her Platinum Certified ACM Song of the Year “Things

A Man Oughta Know.” According to the CMA, Wilson is just the fourth artist—after Glen Campbell, Brad Paisley, and Kacey Musgraves, to be nominated for six awards in her first appearance on the ballot for Nashville’s most prestigious awards ceremony.

“This journey has been crazy for me, and I’ve been bound and determined not to let anything stand in my way,” says Wilson. “I have missed friends and families’ birthdays and other special occasions, but when I call home and tell my family about the successes, they say ‘dang, she’s really doing something.’ At the end of the day, I’ve always been a girl with stars in her eyes and dreamed of going places, and there has been a lot pain that goes along with following my dream.”

Wilson’s first paying gig as a singer was at the grand opening of a convenience store in her tiny hometown of Baskin, LA. She was 9 years old, and the job paid just twenty dollars. Wilson, her sister, mother, and father lived together in a house with a prefab trailer grafted onto the side that served as the sister’s bedrooms, and in the morning, she would help her father get ready for work by pulling his jeans down over his boots. And Wilson still has her first horse Tex, who is nearing the age of twenty-five. “I was nine years old when my daddy gave Tex to me, and he had never been ridden. When I go home now and saddle him up, it seems like Tex does not miss a beat—he’s a good one, and my daddy taught me how grab the reins and hang on tight.”

“Country music for me and my family, it was more than music. We lived the words to those songs,” she told The Advocate several years ago. Fast forward ten years to when the fledgling musician and songwriter took the scenic route to her dreams, moving to Nashville in 2011 in a 20-foot bumper-pull camper trailer she called home for many years. She then had no idea what in store for her, first playing in small venues and working on her songwriting.

“When I moved from Louisiana to Nashville twelveyears-ago, I wanted to tell stories through my music and wasn’t thinking about winning awards,” Wilson explains. “I wanted to do the things that made me fall in love with Country Music and with the success I’m now having with my peers and fans, it just seems like another notch on my belt.”

Naive was her middle name, and Wilson just assumed when she moved to the country music capital of the world, she would land a record deal. Having written her first song before the age of ten, she thought that by nineteen she had paid her dues, “but the Lord had other plans.” However, those several lean years served her well and she released her first album in 2014 and eight years later she won Album of the Year.

“We won Album of the Year, for Bell Bottom Country, but I still think back to that girl who moved to Nashville in her camper-trailer, and I know I still have so much more to do.”

“WE WON ALBUM OF THE YEAR, FOR BELL BOTTOM COUNTRY, BUT I STILL THINK BACK TO THAT GIRL WHO MOVED TO NASHVILLE IN HER CAMPER TRAILER, AND I KNOW I STILL HAVE SO MUCH MORE TO DO.”

Right: Lainey performs at Stagecoach 2023.

Photo by Ken Amorosano

AAccording to the CMA, Wilson is just the fourth artist—after Glen Campbell, Brad Paisley, and Kacey Musgraves, to be nominated for six awards in her first appearance on the ballot for Nashville’s most prestigious awards ceremony. “This blows me away,” Wilson continues. “It’s hard for me to wrap my head around this success and I am very proud of my team. And my team started with my parents who believed in me, and I have continued with a team who wouldn’t want to change me for the world.”

After winning Top New Country Artist of 2022, and CMT’s “Breakout Artist of the Year,” Wilson felt like she was starting to get more respect in the country music world. “At the end of the day people who hear you on the radio don’t know that you’ve been in Nashville for twelve years or that I eat and breathe country music. I feel that when you win awards like that, a light might go o in my listeners’ heads, knowing that I am respected by my fellow musicians.”

Bell Bottom Country hit Number 1 on the Country Charts in early Spring, as did, “Heart Like a Truck,” which was spotlighted on the album, and garnered her the 2023 CMT Female Video of the Year award.

Written by Wilson and her close friends Trannie Anderson and Dallas Wilson (no relation), she compares her life’s journey to an old beat-up truck.

“I wrote “Heart Like a Truck” with Trannie and Dallas in the middle of the pandemic, and what started out as an upbeat badass song, turned into words that embraced the scrapes and bumps along the road and sometimes feel that they know what I’m trying to say better than I know myself. My job as a songwriter is to tell stories that make sure people don’t feel like they are alone, and “Heart” has become kind of an anthem for all kinds of people.”

So popular was “Heart Like a Truck”, where Wilson was driving a Ford F250 Truck in the music video, that Dodge came to her about endorsing their truck and doing a commercial for the brand. “I’m rockin’ my Dodge Ram,” she laughs.

“We had plans to go to radio with that song but then Hardy came along with “Wait in the Truck,” which was one of those songs that reminded me of why I fell in love with Country music to begin with. I knew I had to be part of this song, as it is storytelling at its’ best.”

Another song that has resonated with fans is “Atta Girl,” a letter that Wilson wrote to herself when as a young girl, a boy broke her heart, and she was having a lot of dark days. The song is about a girl who has broken up with her partner and is starting a new chapter in her life, determined to move forward and pursue her big dreams.

“There were some hard times when I was living in that camper-trailer, and this boy had done me wrong,” says Wilson. “Writing songs can be therapy and that is what “Atta Girl” is all about. I was revisiting those feelings, and reminded myself that there was going to be brighter days around the corner, and it was all going to be okay.”

When asked how she was able to cut out some of the ‘noise’ surrounding a skyrocketing career and be just Lainey, she replied. “I think it’s one of those things that you must be very conscious of, and I still try to do some of the things that makes me, me. This includes saddling a horse, going on a trail ride, and keeping in close contact with my family. If anyone can keep you humble, your family can.”

Wilson concludes “that in the end it is just a lot of hard work, and we are just getting started!” WW

“I WROTE “HEART LIKE A TRUCK” WITH TRANNIE AND DALLAS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE PANDEMIC, AND WHAT STARTED OUT AS AN UPBEAT BADASS SONG, TURNED INTO WORDS THAT EMBRACED THE SCRAPES AND BUMPS ALONG THE ROAD. MY JOB AS A SONGWRITER IS TO TELL STORIES THAT MAKE SURE PEOPLE DON’T FEEL LIKE THEY ARE ALONE.”

SOUTHWESTERN ALLURE

INSPIRED BY THE SPIRIT OF SANTA FE, EMBRACE THE TIMEWORN TRADITIONS OF THE WEST WITH A TOUCH OF PLAYFUL CREATIVITY.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY KEN AMOROSANO

CURATED AND STYLED BY ANDREA THORP

MODEL: SACHIKO LEILANI | HAIR AND MAKEUP BY BRITANI QUINTANA CREW CHIEF: CARLY BILLINGTON

ON LOCATION: SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO

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Dennis Hogan Squash Blossom, $4,800, Revival Coral And Silver Earrings, $1,300, Debra Favour Graduated Bead Necklace, $1,595, Debra FavourSterling Silver Bead Necklace, $825, Italian Coral Squash Blossom Necklace, $7,950, Vintage Navajo Italian Coral Bracelet, $1,695, Vintage Zuni Inlay Cuff, $3,500, Linked Spiny Oyster Collar Necklace, $477, Leo Feeney Cluster Ring, $550, Mother Of Pearl Shield Ring, $195, Peyote Bird Designs, peyotebird.com; Rib Structured Tank, $24.99, Rock & Roll Denim, rockandrolldenim.com; Scarlet Rock Point Aviator, $3,600, Lindsey Thornburg, lindseythornburg.com; High Rise NonStretch Flare Jeans, $84.99, Rock & Roll Denim, rockandrolldenim.com; Suede Dixon Booties, $199.95, Ariat, ariat.com.

“Midtown” Burgundy Hat, $149.99, Stetson, stetson.com; Rick Montano Sterling And Turquoise Hat Band, $1,350, Chili Rose Beaded Hat Band, $775, Vintage Zuni Flower Cluster Pink, $1,600, Carved Turquoise Thunderbird Hat Pin, $95, Jesse Robbins Inlaid Turquoise And Spiny Oyster Earrings, $875, Jesse Robbins Coin Silver Pendant Necklace, $1,250, Vintage Navajo Turquoise And Coral Cuff, $3,250, Vintage 5-Strand Italian Coral Necklace, $3,600, Turquoise And Silver Ketoh By Buffalo, $1,650, Vintage Zuni Petit Point Ring, $695, Fritson Toledo Inlaid Turquoise And Abalone Shell Ring, $595, Vintage Navajo Turquoise Ring, $1,200, Stacked Turquoise Ring, $225, Peyote Bird Designs, peyotebird.com; Lady Lux Layering Top, $40, Free People, freepeople.com; Black Silk Slip Dress, Editor’s Own, Embroidered Jacket, Contact For Pricing, Elysian, elysianbyem.com; Lovely Hair-On Boots, $559, Old Gringo Boots, oldgringoboots.com.

4 Stone Royston Clip-On Earrings, $800, 20” Graduated Saucer Necklace, $1,089, 23” Graduated Sterling Pearl Necklace, $1,109, 26” Rose Martin Sterling Pearl Necklace, $1,398, Adjustable Kingman Warrior Head Ring, $375, Adjustable Single Stone Royston Ring, $550, Hippie Cowgirl Couture, hippiecowgirlcouture. com; Bernalillo Top, Contact For Pricing, Double D Ranch, doubledranch.com; Leggings, Editor’s Own, Verlie Dusty Blue Grey Boot, $244.95, Justin Boots, justinboots.com.

Vintage Zuni Squash Blossom, $4,950, Jessie Robbins Half Dollar Pendant Necklace, $450, Vintage Stamped Navajo Cuff, $1,700, Vintage Zuni Turquoise Row Cuff, $3,600, Vintage Zuni Needlepoint Ring, $625, Stamped Turquoise Ring, $425, Bead Ball Turquoise Accent Ring, $295, Linked Turquoise Cluster Earrings, $475 , Peyote Bird Designs, peyotebird.com; Ralph Lauren Silk Button Up, Editor’s Own; Sausalito Coat, $244.95, Ultra High Rise Jazmine Wide Leg Jeans, $84.95, Ariat, ariat.com; Spider Web Copper Boot, $620, Old Gringo Boots, oldgringoboots.com.

Harrison Jim Sterling Silver Naja Necklace, $4,500, Vintage Navajo Box Bow Squash Blossom, $9,000, Turquoise Concho Earrings, $695, Inlaid Turquoise Collar Necklace, $895, Vintage Zuni Needlepoint Ring, $850, Labradorite Stone Ring, $625, Turquoise Stamped Silver Ring, $795, Peyote Bird Designs, peyotebird.com; Harding Shale Shearling Coat, $2,995, Lindsey Thornburg, lindseythornburg.com; Mauve Silk Slip Dress, Editor’s Own; Verlie Cream Boot, $244.95, Justin Boots, justinboots.com.

holiday

GIFT GUIDE

Though gifts aren’t the only reason for the season, they certainly help spread joy this time of year. We’ve scoured the Western landscape to find our favorite nifty gifts for cowgirls, cowboys, cow-kids, and even your four-legged friends. Here’s to making the holiday season a happy one.

1. HIGH DESERT CREATIONS “Dancing In The Field” Necklace, $385, highdesertcreations.com. 2. KELLY HERD Dancing Stone Horseshoe Dangle Pendant, $159, kellyherdjewelry.com. 3. BROKEN BAR BOUTIQUE Golden Spur Necklace, $82, brokenbarboutique.com. 4. ANTLER RINGS The Magnolia Springs, $500, antlerrings. com. 5. HIPPIE COWGIRL COUTURE Kingman Lariat, $5,400, hippiecowgirlcouture.com. 6. DOUBLE D RANCH Vintage Squash Blossom, $7,200, doubledranch.com. 7. MONTANA SILVERSMITHS Empowered Montana Legacy Bracelet, $100, montanasilversmiths.com. 8. VOGT SILVERSMITHS The Bonnie Cuff, $489, vogtsilversmiths. com. 9. CARROLL SPUR CO. Oval Turquoise Diamond Halo 14K Gold Ring, $1,325, carrollspurco.com. 10. BUCKAROO BLING Copper Aspen Leaf Earrings with Turquoise, $110, buckaroobling.com. 11. VICTORIA’S SOUTHWEST DESIGNS Spiny Oyster Orange Necklace, $599, victoriassouthwestdesigns.com. 12. COWGIRL CONFETTI Around We Go Ring, $17, cowgirlconfetti.com. 13. WILD LACE BEADWORK Compact Interchangeable Trophy Buckle Bag, $395, wildlacebeadwork.com. 14. COWGIRL CONFETTI Maggie Barrette, $19, cowgirlconfetti.com.

15. JENNIFER PONSON JEWELRY Turquoise Belt Buckle, $500, jenniferponson.com. 16. WEATHERED SOUL Ride ‘Em Cowboy Earrings, $139, weatheredsouljewelry.com.

17. CH DESIGNS Custom Horse Head Pendant, starting at $170 each, chjewelrydesigns.com. 18. TWO BAY HORSES DESIGNS Mackie Bracelet with Green Apatite, $67, twobayhorsesdesigns.com. 19. ROCKY FAYE HATS Whiskey Arrow, $635, rockyhatcompany.com.

1. TASHA POLIZZI Everest Blanket Coat, $285, shopretrowest.com. 2. DUSTY’S ORIGINALS Sunset Gus, $659.99, dustysoriginals.com. 3. OLD GRINGO Normandia, $767, oldgringoboots. com. 4. JRC & SONS Jacqueline Full Quill Ostrich Snip Toe Boot, $399.99, cavenders.com. 5. ROCKIES REBELS Grotto Falls, $1,780, rockiesrebels.com. 6. BLACK STAR BOOTS Paradise, $379.95, blackstarboots.com. 7. HARVEST HOSTS One-Year Membership, $69, harvesthosts. com. 8. CEDAR CREEK COWGIRLS The Au Naturale Palette, $50, Cheek and Highlighter Palette, $40, cedarcreekcowgirls.com. 9. TWISTED X Women’s Slip-On Kicks, $99.95, twistedx. com. 10. AMY PENDINO BOOKS, “Wild Horses: A Novel”, $17.95, amypendino.com. 11. LUCKY CHUCK Western Performance Socks, $22.99 each, luckychuck.com. 12. COWGIRLS OVER COFFEE Connecting Rural Women, join at cowgirlsovercoffee.com.

13. DAN POST BOOTS Aretha, $334.94, danpostboots.com. 14. CORRAL BOOTS #A4404, $258, corralboots.com. 15. HERITAGE BRAND Fyra Sling Bag, $1,500-$2,500, heritagebrand. com. 16. CHARLIE 1 HORSE Fling in Red, $125, charlie1horsehats.com. 17. BAR W GUEST RANCH Montana Ranch Vacation, contact for pricing, thebarw.com. 18. CABOOTS Priscilla Patent Leather Cowboy Boot, $600, rancholocoboots.com. 19. RODEO QUINCY Horse Girl Vest, $85, rodeoquincy.com. 20. PLANET COWBOY Candy Cane, $495, planetcowboy.com. 21. JUSTIN BOOTS McKean Red Lace-Up Roper, $199.95, justinboots.com. 22. WRANGLER Bold Bucking Cowboy Western Snap Shirt, $49.99, wrangler.com. 23. DURANGO Lady Rebel Pro, $207, durangoboots.com. 24. FRINGE SCARVES Bronco Buster, starting at $69, fringescarves. com. 25. LIBERTY BLACK Allyssa, $398, rivertrailmercantile.com.

GIFTS for her saddle pals

1. DOUBLE J SADDLERY Hand-Tooled Rope Bag, $1,210, doublejsaddlery.com. 2. PROFESSIONAL’S CHOICE Overreach Boots, $35.99, teskeys.com. 3. PROFESSIONAL’S CHOICE 2XCool Sports Medicine Front Boots, $120.99, teskeys.com. 4. HOBBY HORSE HH Premium Saddle Blanket, $199.98, hobbyhorseinc.com. 5. KERRY KELLEY BITS & SPURS 65 Johnny Bit, $1,650, kerrykelleyspurs.com. 6. CACTUS ROPES Tsunami Breakaway Rope, $47.99, nrsworld.com. 7. EQUINE HEMP SOLUTIONS Equine Derm Spray, $16, equinehealthsolutions. com. 8. EQUINE HEMP SOLUTIONS Equine Hempflavin Pellets, $60, equinehealthsolutions. com. 9. ALLEGANY MOUNTAIN SADDLERY Custom Saddle, starting at $2,440, alleganysaddlery.com. 10. BW BRAIDING Mohair Halter, $85, bwbraiding.square.site.

11. USHER BRAND Boutique Spurs 005, $275, usherbrand.com. 12. RAFTER T RANCH CO. Zuni Turquoise Browband Headstall, $149.99, raftertranchco.com. 13. 5 STAR EQUINE PRODUCTS Limited Edition “The Legend” Saddle Pad and Spur Straps, contact for pricing, 5starequineproducts.com. 14. SIGNATURE QUARTERS Dream Trailer Conversion, contact for pricing, signaturequarters.com. 15. SADDLE BOSS The Ultimate Saddle Rack, contact for pricing, saddleboss.com.. 16. RAFTER T RANCH CO. Zuni Turquoise Dog Collar, $34.99 – $49.99, raftertranchco.com. 17. OUTBACK TRADING COMPANY Clancy Oilskin Canine Coat, $79.99, outbacktrading.com. 18. PASEO ROAD Serape Dog Bed, $100, paseoroad.com.

1. KENETREK Stone Glacier Solo Backpack, $655, kenetrek.com. 2. VOGT SILVERSMITHS The Sawyer Gold Ring, $242, vogtsilversmiths.com. 3. ARIAT Men’s Hilo, $79.95, ariat. com. 4. CINCH Concealed Carry Vest, $109.99, cinchjeans.com. 5. R. REBELLION Cadillac Cowboy Cologne, $40, rrebellion.com. 6. AND WEST Tooled with Basketweave Billets Belt, $63, andwest.com. 7. TWISTED X 13” Reserve Boot, $449.95, twistedx.com. 8. AMERICAN BONFIRE CO. Lariat Sunglasses, $86.95, americanbonfireco.com. 9. CAVENDER’S Green Sueded Caimen Exotic Cowboy Boot, $549.99, cavenders.com. 10. 7 BAR BOUTIQUE Pendleton Perfect Brew Pour Over Set, $59, 7barboutique.com.

11. FRONTIER RODEO COFFEE Saddle Bronc Blend Medium Roast Coffee, $14.39, frontierrodeocoffee.com. 12. TONY LAMA MERRIT 17” Buckaroo Boot, $309.95, tonylama. com. 13. CAVENDER’S JRC & Sons Men’s Cognac Full Quill Ostrich Exotic Wallet, $99.99, cavenders.com. 14. CODIGO 1530 George Strait Origen Tequila, contact for pricing, codigo1530.com. 15. DUDE RANCHERS’ ASSOCIATION Dream Ranch Vacation, contact for pricing, duderanch.org. 16. WRANGLER Sherpa Contrast Cowboy Jacket, $119.99, wrangler. com. 17. ROCK & ROLL DENIM Panhandle Slim Fit Geo Print Long Sleeve Snap Shirt, $54.99, rockandrolldenim.com.

GIFTS for the ran

1. DOUBLE D RANCH Vintage Western Oil On Canvas, $1,600, doubledranch.com.

2. SAVANNAH SEVENS x DESIGNER’S BREW, Hancock Fringed Swivel Chair, $5,599, designersbrew.com. 3. OCTOBER DESIGN Lazy Susan Equestrian Tray, $235, octoberdesign. com. 4. L & H BRANDING IRONS Custom Miniature Steak Branding Iron, starting at $87, lhbrandingirons.com. 5. HOME FOLK Pendleton Chimayo Throw, $199, homefolk.com. 6. ANTLER RINGS Straight Edge Stag Steak Knife Set, $325, antlerrings.com. 7. PASEO ROAD Stella Faux Silk Velvet Quilt Set, $290, paseoroad.com. 8. ROD’S Red Panja Stool, $269.95, rods. com. 9. RIOS INTERIORS Buffalo Head Leather Pillow, $269.50, riosinteriors.com.

GIFTS for the kids

10. JONI FRANKS “Corky Tails”, $12.99, jonifranks.com. 11. WRANGLER Girl’s Southwestern Sherpa Full Zip Jacket, $44.99, wrangler.com. 12. TWISTED X Cook Children’s Collaboration, $49.95, twistedx.com. 13. CINCH Boys “Match Dad” Vest, $74.99, cinchjeans.com. 14. CINCH Boys Dark Stonewash Slim Fit Jeans, $47.99-$49.99, cinchjeans.com. 15. TWISTED X Infant Driving Moc, $49.95, twistedx.com. 16. ARIAT Round Up Wide Square Toe Western Boot, $99.95, ariat.com. 17. THE WHOLE HERD Next Gen Tumbler, $30.99, thewholeherdbrand.com. 18. COWBOY LADY & CO. Duffle Bag, contact for pricing, cowboyladyco.com. 19. THE CLASSY CACTUS & CO. Boots Bell Sleeve Onesie, $23, shoptheclassycactus.com.

ROAST LAMB WITH GARLIC-ROSEMARY RUB

A leg of lamb with mint sauce is a classic dish for a holiday dinner, especially if you use some rosemary and garlic to bring out the meat’s flavor. I make it in a mortar and pestle, but you could use a food processor if you like; the texture will simply be a bit rougher. Just make sure to get it all on the meat; this is not a sprinkle situation!

From The Ranch Table by Elizabeth Poett

Photography by BJ Golnick

ROAST LAMB

Serves 8-10

Ingredients:

One 4-pound leg of lamb (bone-in or boneless), at room temperature

Mint Sauce (recipe follows)

6 large garlic cloves

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 teaspoons fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped, plus 2 to 3 whole sprigs

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

SPECIAL TOOLS

Mortar and pestle Meat thermometer

Directions:

1. Put the garlic, olive oil, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper into a large mortar and mash them together with a pestle until the garlic is crushed and everything is fragrant (it will still be pretty coarse).

2. Place the lamb in a large cast-iron pan. Rub half the garlic mixture all over it, covering the meat. Spread the remaining half of the rub on top of the roast evenly so that it forms a 1/4-inch-thick layer.

3. Let the roast rest for 1 hour at room temperature or (preferably) refrigerate it overnight.

4. If you’ve chilled your lamb, take the meat out of the refrigerator and let it sit for at least 1 hour, so that it comes up to room temperature. Top the roast with the sprigs of rosemary. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

5. Roast the lamb for about 1 hour and 20 minutes (to 125°F) for medium rare, 11/2 hours (to 140°F) for medium well, or to your desired doneness.

6. Let the lamb sit for at least 20 minutes before cutting into the meat to let the juices redistribute; the meat’s temperature will also rise a little as it sits.

7. Cut the lamb into 1/2-inch-thick slices and serve it with the mint sauce.

MINT SAUCE

Ingredients:

1 cup red wine vinegar

1 cup granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1 cup finely chopped mint leaves

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Directions:

1. Heat the vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small saucepan on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved. Simmer to reduce the liquid by about one-third, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the mint to the pot and stir just until it has started to wilt, about 30 seconds. Add the lemon juice and stir again, just to combine the ingredients.

3. Transfer the sauce to a heatproof container and let it cool to room temperature before serving (or refrigerate overnight and bring it back to room temperature before serving).

From The Ranch Table by Elizabeth Poett.

Copyright © 2023 by Elizabeth Poett.

Reprinted by permission of Magnolia Publications/William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. Photography

© BJ Golnick

ICONIC

By Chris Enss

Awell traveled trail rests peacefully between the rich forested hillsides around the town of Cascade, Montana, and snakes seventeen miles west to St. Peter’s Mission. The road, as well as the mission itself, was the hub of activity in 1895. Back and forth along the route, Mary Fields, a former slave from Tennessee, drove a stagecoach carrying mail for people in the central area of the state. Mary was the first Black American to deliver the mail and the oldest woman to ever take on such a job.

Fields was born in 1832 and lived with her parents on the Dunne Plantation in Hickman County, Tennessee. Shortly after the Civil War ended, Mary became a free woman. At the urging of her good friend, Dolly Dunne, Mary headed west to Montana. Dolly had become a nun and founded a boarding school there for Native Americans called St. Peter’s Mission. She invited Mary to visit and consider staying on if she liked.

Once the tough, six-foot-tall Fields arrived, she discovered the mission to be in a state of disrepair. She organized a team of men to work on the school and make repairs and improvements. One of the workers resented a black woman telling him what to do, and in a fit of rage backhanded her across the mouth. Just as he was going for his gun, Mary pulled her own six-shooter first and shot and killed him. The altercation led to her being asked to leave the mission.

Mary then applied for work as a mail carrier on a new route opening into the Cascade Mountains. After proving she could defend herself and her cargo from highwaymen, and demonstrating her talent with horses and driving a stage, she was o ered a job. She was sixty years old.

Stagecoach Mary, as she would come to be known, transported letters and packages to and from pioneers for five years. She left the United States Mail Service in 1900 and opened a laundry business in Cascade. The business was a huge success.

Mary Fields is recognized by the United States Postal Service as being the second woman in history to drive the mail across the Western frontier. She and her mule, Moses, delivered important correspondence that helped advance the land-claim process and bring about the development of a considerable portion of central Montana.

Referred to by the Native Americans in the region as “White Crow,” Fields proved a woman could do anything a man could do in the untamed territory beyond the Rockies. Among her many admirers were actor Gary Cooper, who knew her when he was a little boy growing up in her neighborhood in Cascade, and sculptor, illustrator, and painter, Charles M. Russell. Russell made a pen-and-ink drawing of the pioneer in 1897. The image entitled, A Quiet Day in Cascade, features Mary being knocked down by a hog and spilling a basket of eggs.

Mary Fields was a proud, independent woman who never wanted to be an inconvenience to her friends and neighbors. When she became seriously ill in late 1914, she snuck o to a quiet spot outside her home and laid down to die. Children playing in the area found her and she was taken to the Columbus Hospital in Great Falls where she died of liver failure shortly after being admitted. The numerous townspeople she had befriended over time escorted her casket to the Hillside Cemetery near Cascade.

She was eighty-two years old when she passed away on December 5, 1914.