Educating the next generation of equestrians
Owned and operated by Jen Simmers, Budding Equestrians is committed to fostering the correct foundations for both horse and rider, emphasizing communication, balance, and correct dressage fundamentals to carry over to the jumping disciplines. We believe that learning all about horses, including the way their bodies work and the way they behave is just as important as the riding skills that are taught. Here, our mission is not just to make you a better rider, but a better horseman/woman. We are located at a beautiful facility just outside the village of Waterford, VA.
Testimonials
“I first had the privilege of riding with Jen when I was a preteen who’d suffered a bad fall and a resulting knock in my confidence, and Jen was early into her professional career. Jen was exactly the teacher I needed then; understanding of my fears, and able to work around them while finding exercises to improve my riding and raise my confidence. She introduced me to the principles of dressage, and as such, showed me how I can influence a horse to move well and be in tune with my aids, which ultimately made me feel safer in the saddle. Years later, now a young professional myself, I have joyfully watched Jen develop green horses and riders of all types, fostering wonderful relationships with all her students and horses through her positive approach to training, and she remains a valuable resource to me in both teaching and training methods.”- Juliana
“Jen is an amazing teacher. I first started riding at different places and never advanced as quickly or enjoyed it as much as I have riding with Jen. I remember one of my first lessons and, I’ll be honest I didn’t have much skill, she asked if I played instrument, if I sang, different personal questions to get to know me better. She didn’t criticize me for my bad position or inability to trot, she just taught me. I shouldn’t say ‘just’, I should say she... she...I don’t have a word for it. But simply put, it made me really happy. My sister rode as well for a time and when she wanted to quit Jen didn’t criticize, she wasn’t mad. She was understanding. She always is. I have the hardest time with people but it’s very easy being with Jen. You can unload your problems with her, which let me tell you I have done plenty a time without complaint from Jen. Or just be quiet with her. She genuinely cares about each of her students and treats each differently. I went from being 8 not being able to trot and riding in sneakers to now being 13 and being able to jump 2’3 and going to shows and winning a few. But I’ll be honest, it’s not all Jen. There’s also her horse Picante. He is the best. I have an unlimited amount of words to describe him. Sweet, chill, handsome, absolutely adorable. He’s hard sometimes, but in the best of ways. You’ll never find a horse like Picante. He’s one of kind. As is Jen.” - Maddie
