Daily Inspiration: Meet Tess Smith

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tess Smith.

Hi Tess, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always had a love for horses, and it is a privilege that I have been able to continue that love into adulthood. I started my equestrian journey at the age of six and haven’t stopped since. My mom and I started taking riding lessons together when I was young, and a few years later she decided to open her own riding facility. I’ve been a part of the operation that has been open for nearly 20 years. American Dream Farm has had such evolution throughout the years, and it has been such a joy to be a part of it. Being a part of the farm means wearing many hats, including equine care, equine training, farm maintenance, show team captain, teacher, and social media manager to name a few.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I think the point is to evolve, develop, and adapt (and I mean that business wise and personally). As I got older, my roles with American Dream Farm have changed. And as American Dream Farm got older, her roles changed too. When I was younger, kids camps and lessons were the main priority of the farm, and then showing became a large portion of the farm, then came Covid, then came the amazing waitlist of students, and then came social media. Present day, the farm only handles teenagers and adults for lessons, and social media platforms have grown tremendously.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
While I am very present on the farm, I do have a career outside of it. I have been in the animal pharmaceutical industry for years, and it is my way of trying to give back to the animals. I’m most proud of how I juggle everything. It is a lot of work owning and caring for horses, but it’s what makes me smile.

How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Follow American Dream Farm on any social media platform! Or if you would like to be more hands on, then reach out and sign up for lessons!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.americandreamfarm.org/