Horsing around for seven years, Langley junior Sarah Anderson decided to go into business for herself. Anderson is a competitive horseback rider and she recognized a potential for a business in horsebows.

Little girls who compete in horse shows typically braid their hair into two braids and put bows on the ends of both braids.  “For these girls, there is a demand for big, pretty and distinctive bows in order to help them stand out in the show ring,” said Anderson.

In March 2013, Anderson’s business became a reality and her product was immediately recognized. “The local horse tack shop in Great Falls, The Saddlery, Inc., wanted to stock ‘show bows’ so I decided to teach myself to make them and offered to supply them to The Saddlery, Inc. to meet their need, as well as to sell them on my own,” said Anderson.

Anderson has mastered the process of making these horse show bows. “To make my bows, I first have to buy quality ribbon from a craft store. Then I fold ribbon over itself into two bows and secure the two together with more ribbon and glue a barrette or ponytail holder onto the back. Lastly, I have to trim the ends and make sure the product looks nice to be sold,” said Anderson.

One pair of bows is sold for $25. She puts this money towards the costs of horseback riding. To advertise her array of bows, Anderson created an Instagram account and a Facebook page. She also travels to local horse shows to sell her bows.

Her business has been thriving and those who know her are not surprised. “If there were to be any high school students to start a business and become successful it would, without a doubt, be Sarah Anderson,” said junior Katie Altman.

Many Langley students realize the importance of work experience that is similar to Anderson’s business. “Having a business allows you to have a real life experience in the business world,” said senior Nika Rahini.

While running a business can be stressful, it proves very beneficial for Anderson. “The most beneficial aspect of having a business for me has definitely been learning about and catering to the laws of supply and demand, as well as the importance of distributing a quality product,” said Anderson.

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Photos courtesy of Sarah Anderson