The HorseHairz Journal
- Patricia Hooton
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Beyond the Ribbon: The Story Behind HorseHairz Equestrian and Livestock Awards

In the horse and livestock industry, awards represent far more than a placing in a class. They symbolize dedication, perseverance, long days at the barn, early mornings feeding animals, miles traveled, and the countless hours exhibitors invest in preparing both themselves and their animals for competition.
At HorseHairz Equestrian, that understanding is built into every handcrafted award. What began as a passion for horsehair keepsakes and equestrian craftsmanship has grown into a nationally expanding custom awards business focused on creating meaningful awards exhibitors genuinely want to keep long after the show season ends. Traditional ribbons often end up tucked away in trunks, hanging forgotten in tack rooms, or eventually discarded altogether. While they serve an important purpose, many exhibitors today are searching for something more personal — awards that reflect the significance of the accomplishment itself.
That philosophy became the foundation behind HorseHairz Awards. From engraved leather ribbons to custom ear tag keychains and placing discs, slate trophies, cowhide banners, engraved brushes, journals, personalized plaques, wood trophies and handcrafted wood and leather pieces, every item is designed with the goal of blending craftsmanship, functionality, and lasting memories. Each piece is created with attention to detail and an understanding of the equestrian and livestock worlds because these aren’t simply products being mass-produced. They are designed by people who understand show mornings, arena nerves, livestock barns, muddy boots, horse trailers, and the pride that comes with hearing your class called.
Our awards are all designed in house. From there they are hand crafted through a collaboration between HorseHairz Equestrian and CJ Hooton Woodworks, allowing for a high level of customization while maintaining a handcrafted feel that reflects the agricultural and equestrian industries they serve.
As HorseHairz continues to grow, one thing remains the same: the belief that awards should tell a story.
A champion banner should remind an exhibitor of the moment they worked toward all year. A leather ribbon should feel significant in their hands. A custom trophy should become part of a display they’re proud to look back on years later. Because beyond every ribbon is a memory. And beyond every award is the story of the people who earned it.
A New Chapter: The HorseHairz Journal
The HorseHairz Journal was created as a place to highlight not only handcrafted awards, but also the people and communities behind them — from horse shows and ranch events to youth livestock exhibitions and agricultural programs across the country.
The journal will feature:
• Behind-the-scenes looks at award creation
• Spotlight stories from exhibitors and organizations
• Event features
• Product launches
• Livestock
and equestrian lifestyle inspiration
• Small business and craftsmanship stories
• The meaning behind the traditions that bring the agricultural community together
Because HorseHairz isn't just about awards. It is about preserving the moments behind them.

Comments