by LaceyKnight | Jun 29, 2025 | Gratitude, Inspiration, Leather goods
As I sat there … in his extensive shop, I could not help but feel like I was sitting with my dad. Tools meticulously arranged along the walls, heavy-duty machinery covered up just waiting to spring into use, and saddles crowding every corner told me I was in the presence of a craftsman.
He began as a silversmith, working on jewelry and all kinds of silver applications. But a chance meeting at a hobby fair would help him find his future in leather. He apprenticed under a pro and was given the gifts of the trade freely.
Larry Royston had a future in leather indeed, as he’s now one of Colorado’s premier saddle and tack repair artists. And he doesn’t just work on the mundane; he’s got a slew of trick saddles and surcingles he’s helping come back to life.
His shop, a zen temple, “I like working with my hands,” he said. I understood. The meditative quality of working with one’s hands is addictive. You start with nothing—scraps. And you wind up with a quiet mind AND a finished product. Who could say no?
The truth is that Larry is drowning in work. He’s too busy to take on many projects and feels bad for having to turn people away.
But Larry didn’t turn me away when I approached him about helping me sew my crystals into browbands. He did me one better: he sat down next to me and taught me how to do it myself without asking anything in return.
I find myself so fortunate to sit at the feet of masters of their trade, and Larry is no different. His affable nature and willingness to work with people make him highly sought after, as it should be.
So I’m not writing this blog to garner more work for Larry; he doesn’t need it. I simply want to point to the angels that flood my path when I open myself to receiving the help I need. Larry Royston is just such an angel.
Thank you, Larry, for your time and attention, and for helping me learn something rather than taking my money to do it yourself. YOU are a true teacher and benefactor of humanity. I am so blessed to know you.
Here’s to a future of bandaids and callouses, and here’s to Royston Saddle & Tack!
P.S. My time with Larry helped me recapture time lost with my dad after his passing. He had an impressive machine shop filled with all sorts of interesting things. As I sat with Larry, even though I’m 20 years older than his daughters, I could not help but feel my dad’s presence. There are no words to express the gratitude I feel.
by LaceyKnight | Jun 28, 2025 | Bitless, Bridles, Browband, Gratitude, Halters
If you’re wondering where to buy Envisioned Equestrian products in Colorado…
At Envisioned Equestrian, we believe that luxury equestrian tack should be as accessible as it is beautiful. That’s why we’re thrilled to partner with two outstanding Colorado retailers—The Rusty Spur Saddle Shop and the Elizabeth Tack Trunk—so you can experience our handcrafted halters, bridles, and browbands in person.
Shop Our Collection at The Rusty Spur Saddle Shop
Located in the heart of Colorado,
The Rusty Spur Saddle Shop is a destination for equestrians who value craftsmanship and personalized service. This family-owned shop is renowned for its friendly atmosphere and curated selection of high-quality tack and accessories. We’re honored to have our unique, nature-inspired pieces featured among their offerings.
Whether you’re searching for a statement browband or a custom-designed bridle, The Rusty Spur team is ready to help you find the perfect fit for your horse. Stop by to see and feel our signature crystal accents, ergonomic designs, and premium materials up close.
Find Us Locally at the Elizabeth Tack Trunk
Nestled in the charming town of Elizabeth, CO, the
Elizabeth Tack Trunk has built its reputation as a trusted resource for riders of all disciplines. Their knowledgeable staff is passionate about helping customers discover tack that truly stands out, making them a perfect match for Envisioned Equestrian’s vibrant, handcrafted collection.
From our soft-padded halters to our distinctive bitless bridles, you’ll find a variety of our products available at the Elizabeth Tack Trunk. If you’re in the area, we encourage you to stop by, explore their beautiful shop, and experience the artistry and comfort of our tack firsthand.
Location: Elizabeth, Colorado
Supporting Local, Experiencing Quality
Shopping at these local retailers not only gives you the chance to see Envisioned Equestrian’s craftsmanship up close but also supports small businesses that are the backbone of Colorado’s equestrian community.
We’re grateful to The Rusty Spur Saddle Shop and the Elizabeth Tack Trunk for sharing our passion for quality, comfort, and equine style.
If you have any questions about product availability or custom orders at either location, feel free to reach out to us directly at
info@envisionedeq.com or (720) 213-8874.
We’re always happy to help!
P.S. If you want to shop our online selection, go
here.
by LaceyKnight | Jun 26, 2025 | Gratitude, Inspiration
It was time for some new breeches. Of course, the algorithm knew this, and the ads were quickly underway.
Fortunately for me, one of those ads was for the Halter Ego. They were having a breech sale. I am very familiar with the brand and even have a bridle of theirs, so I was excited to expand my collection to some breeches.
I found some pairs that I absolutely loved and made my purchase. A few short hours later, I received a text from probably one of the most lovely human beings I have ever met, Miss Maria Garza.
Maria let me know that one of the breeches I had ordered (Ahem, viper print in black) was not in the warehouse. She had searched high and low to no avail. I was disappointed, but I swapped them out for another pair, and two days later, my package arrived.
About a year ago, I was put on a medication that makes one rapidly gain large amounts of weight, so these breeches were more than just breeches; they were a signal that I am still a horsewoman at my core, and hopefully a stylish one at that. And you know what? The best thing that could have happened, DID. They were too big!
I texted Maria, and she gave me instructions for their return. Back in the mail they all went. The day of their arrival in Agoura Hills, CA, Maria texted me to let me know that in the new size, they DID have the Viper! I was elated to hear this, and was now so excited to get the pair I really wanted in the first place. What a blessing this all was.
Maria processed my return easily and without any hesitation. She really made me feel like my exchange was a seamless experience.
Now, you might not think someone like me would be into another brand with whom I am in competition, but not so. Halter Ego sets the bar for our industry in every way. Each time I get something of theirs, I start thinking about how to make my own products better. For that opportunity to rise along with them, I am grateful.
And to Wendy Latham, the owner, thank you, Ma’am, for having such an outstanding business for me to follow in the footsteps of. I will probably never be as great as you guys are, but your standards fill my heart with hope for my own. Thank you for leading the way.
If you want to experience Maria’s excellent customer service and Wendy’s excellent products, just visit ShopHalterEgo and bring home something magnificent!
If you’d like to shop our halters, bridles, browbands, or dog collars, go here.
by LaceyKnight | Jun 10, 2025 | Bitless, Bridle & Halter Fitting, Bridles, Inspiration
When it comes to equestrian tack, few topics spark as much debate as the choice between bitless bridles and traditional bitted bridles. Riders and trainers everywhere have strong opinions, but the truth lies in understanding both the science and the art behind every tool we use—from rhinestone browbands to the most luxurious bitless bridles.
The Bitless Bridle Debate: Science vs. Sentiment
In the bitless bridle debate, there are valid points on both sides. Studies show that horses wearing bits don’t necessarily experience more distress than those without, yet some argue that bits are archaic and cruel. On the flip side, critics of bitless bridles claim they can exert undue pressure on the horse’s face, cheeks, chin, or nose—pressure that shouldn’t be there.
But here’s the reality: any tool—be it a bit, bridle, halter, chain, spur, or whip—can be gentle or cruel, depending on the hands that use it. If you’re a novice, please seek guidance from an equine professional before using any tack, whether it’s a rhinestone browband or a Brilliance Bitless Bridle. Education and empathy are always your best tools.
Lessons from a Horsewoman: Anna Twinney
I once had the good fortune to clinic with Anna Twinney, a renowned natural horsemanship expert, equine linguist, and animal communicator. Watching Anna ride her horse with a bit—something some people consider cruel—was eye-opening. In her skilled, sensitive hands, the bit wasn’t about control; it was a subtle aid in communication. True horsemanship relies on a symphony of cues: seat, legs, hands, energy, and even thought. No single piece of tack defines kindness or cruelty.
Tools and Intent: Beyond the Browband
Let’s talk about other tools, like the humble lunge whip. I use one to bring my herd in from the Colorado foothills—not to chase or strike, but to communicate over distance and wind.
Sometimes, the mere presence of a tool is enough to signal intent. Mine is not to strike them but to crack it until I get their attention in a meaningful way. Once the ears lock on, I stop cracking it. Then, when the heads come up, I stop again. So they understand the whip will crack aloud until they start moving off the pressure, which is in the direction of me and the barn.
The same goes for your choice of browband or bridle: it’s not the tool, but the intent and skill behind it.
Bitless Bridles: A Closer Look
Any bridle, bitless or not, can be used improperly. Over-tightened nosebands, poorly adjusted throat latches, ill-fitting browbands, and bridles lacking anatomical features can all cause discomfort. The lesson? Once we know better, we do better.
Bitless bridles, including our Brilliance Bitless Bridle, offer a gentle alternative for horses who don’t thrive with a bit. I have a horse who tossed his head with every bitted bridle, no matter how softly I rode. After switching to the Brilliance Bitless Bridle, he became quiet and content. Sometimes, it’s about finding what works for the individual horse.
Why Choose the Brilliance Bitless Bridle?
Our Brilliance Bitless Bridle is more than just a pretty face, though its rhinestone browband and crystal accents certainly make a statement in the ring and on the trail. Crafted with soft, ergonomic padding and a reverse cutback caveson, this bridle ensures comfort without impeding your horse’s respiration or pressing on sensitive nasal bones.
The pressure-release system is designed for gentle, diplomatic communication. A light touch on the reins invites your horse to yield, while the anatomical fit and luxury materials provide both beauty and function. If you appreciate the artistry of a rhinestone browband and the practicality of a bitless bridle, the Brilliance Bitless Bridle offers the best of both worlds.
Caution: Skill and Timing Matter
A bitless bridle is not a shortcut to kindness. If your hands are heavy or your timing is off, even the softest bridle can cause confusion or discomfort. We recommend working with an equine professional to develop the feel and timing needed for pressure-release communication, whether you’re using a bit, a bitless bridle, or any other tool.
Never tie, trailer, or leave your horse unattended in a bitless bridle. And if your horse tends to pull or you’re still developing soft, independent hands, it’s wise to wait until you’re ready.
Conclusion: Kindness Is in the Hands That Hold the Reins
In the end, no tack is inherently cruel or kind, whether it’s a martingale, a crystal-studded rhinestone browband, a traditional bit, or a luxury bitless bridle like our Brilliance Bitless Bridle. The difference lies in education, empathy, and the intention behind every action. Tools are just that: tools. Used thoughtfully, they can enhance communication and create beauty and comfort for both horse and rider. Used carelessly, even the most beautiful bridle can cause harm.
So, before choosing sides in the bitless vs. bitted debate, remember: seek guidance, learn from professionals, and always put your horse’s well-being first. At Envisioned Equestrian, we’re passionate about creating handcrafted tack that’s as unique and vibrant as your partnership with your horse, because true luxury is the art of mindful horsemanship.
To watch our video on the Brilliance Bitless Bridle, fit and function, go here.
by LaceyKnight | May 28, 2025 | Bitless, Bridles
When it comes to choosing the best tack for your horse, the bridle you select plays a crucial role in your horse’s comfort, communication, and overall riding experience. Bitless bridles are gaining popularity among equestrians who want a kinder, more natural connection with their horses—without sacrificing style or performance. At Envisioned Equestrian, we believe in combining luxury design with horse-first functionality. Here’s why making the switch to a bitless bridle could be the best decision for you and your horse.
1. Enhanced Comfort for Your Horse
Traditional bridles with bits can sometimes cause discomfort or even pain, especially for sensitive horses. Bitless bridles eliminate the need for a mouthpiece, reducing pressure and allowing your horse to relax. Our Brilliance Bitless Bridle is ergonomically designed with soft padding and an adjustable fit, ensuring maximum comfort for even the most sensitive horses.
2. Improved Communication and Trust
Bitless bridles encourage a softer, more responsive connection between horse and rider. Without the bit, horses can better interpret subtle cues, which leads to improved trust and clearer communication. Riders often notice their horses are more willing and focused when using a bitless bridle.
3. Versatility Across Disciplines
Whether you’re on the trails, in the arena, or training at home, bitless bridles are suitable for a wide range of equestrian disciplines. Our luxury bitless bridles are crafted to perform beautifully in both casual and competitive settings, so you never have to compromise on style or function.
4. Style That Stands Out
Who says you have to sacrifice beauty for function? Envisioned Equestrian’s Brilliance bitless bridles feature stunning crystal accents, vibrant colors, and artisan craftsmanship. Each piece is a unique work of art, inspired by the beauty of nature and designed to turn heads in and out of the ring.
5. A Kinder Choice for Sensitive Horses
Horses with mouth injuries, dental problems, or general bit sensitivity can thrive in a bitless bridle. Switching to a bitless option can help prevent further discomfort and allow your horse to perform at their best.
You may be tempted to drive your horse into contact with our Brilliance Bitless Bridle, but it’s designed for the horse to have a release of pressure at the lightest of touch. Please, be mindful of the fit of your Brilliance Bitless Bridle and work toward ever softer cues with your special, bitless companion.
Ready to Make the Switch?
Explore our Brilliance Bitless Bridle and discover how luxury, comfort, and artistry come together for you and your horse. If you have questions or need a custom design, reach out—every horse deserves tack as unique as they are.
