Plaiting your way to a successful career

BGA member, Tabby Oliver explains how she has used her fantastic attention to detail and her love of perfect turnout to create a thriving business as a sought-after freelance groom.

Tabby grew up with horses; her parents were both horsey and, between them, they made sure to have her on board a pony as soon as she could sit up.

Tabby learned to plait horses at an early age and would sit threading needles for her mother when she was little.

Many years of practice later and she has made grooming her career and offers a top-quality plaiting service specifically tailored to every horse and discipline.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING WITH HORSES?

 “I have been working with horses since about 2018. I launched Tabby Oliver Equestrian Services in 2019 offering plaiting, clipping, trimming and pulling alongside riding.

I offer plaiting at most of the big shows, such as RIHS and the BD winters, which has proven very popular so far. I plaited 20 at RIHS last year and 30 at the BD championships in April. ”

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF THE JOB?

 “It’s hard to pick a favourite part but I love show grooming. I always have such a variety of things to do on a show day and never get bored.

I adore plaiting and getting the ponies ready for the ring. I love doing quarter marks and make up, just generally making them look a million dollars.”

HOW IMPORTANT IS BEING PROFESSIONAL IN YOUR WORK?

“Professionalism in the industry is very important to me. My clients pay me good money for my skills, time and expertise, it would be a disservice to be anything less than professional.

I am a stickler for time keeping and hate being late to clients. I am always friendly and love a good chat with my clients, but I am there to do the best job possible.”

HOW DO YOU KEEP YOURSElF PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY STRONG ENOUGH TO KEEP UP WITH THE JOB?

“Physically, I enjoy yoga every morning and evening, even if it’s just 15 minutes, I find it helps to keep my body supple. I also run every other day. Mentally, I meditate every morning and run through a short list of things I’m grateful for, which puts me in a good frame of mind for the day.

WHY WOULD YOU RECOMMEND GROOMS JOIN THE BGA?

“I joined the BGA for the fantastic insurance and the discount on the KBIS liability insurance which provides a peace of mind, that I am covered, should I need it. I love the educational section of the website and the brand discounts are always a win too!”

Did you know that our SILVER membership option will cover you in the event of Temporary Total Disablement for up to £250 per week if you are unable to work due to an accident at work. Our Platinum member option provides TTD for up to £350 per week. 

Tabby also writes a blog on her website and shares her experiences regularly on her Instagram page. Make sure to give her a follow! 

If, like Tabby, you would like to become a BGA member, have a look at our membership options, from as little as 49 pence per week. 

BGA MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS