TGIF Farms

"Compete against yourself, not others. It gives them too much control. Just be better than you were the day before."

Our Business

Not your typical show barn

At TGIF Farms, we pride ourselves on the exceptional level of care that we offer. Here, both horse and human can feel as though they are our only client. While we do attend shows, you will find we are "not your typical show barn."

We encourage each client to understand all levels of horse care, from basic grooming to wrapping and braiding. This includes even our youngest lesson student.

We guarantee that you and your horse couldn't be happier here.

Testimonials

 "After more than a 10 year break from riding I was fortunate enough to find Jillian. Being an older adult rider, my confidence was not as secure as in my younger days. With Jillian's positive and sociable personality she took the time and patience to rebuild my confidence in the saddle. She understands the importance of a good foundation before moving onto more technical aspects of riding and jumping. I am a big advocate of seeing both a trainer and their students in action in the saddle to see and understand their teaching style. Both Jillian and her students posses the correct riding capabilities for their current levels. I am very impressed with her abilities both in and out of the saddle. I currently have two of my horses in training with her and have seen wonderful improvements in my stallion's suppleness and responsiveness under saddle. I look forward to continue working with Jillian."  -Sara M.

"Jillian’s knowledge about horses, from caring for them to training them and riding them, and her love of teaching what she knows to her students, is evident from the very first time you meet her.  She immediately puts you at ease, and lets you know that in addition to learning, you’ll have fun at the same time.”   -Gary S.    

 "I have had the pleasure of having Jillian train my horses and show for me for years. She is a kind and charming lady. Jillian is a confident, skilled rider and teacher and not only looks to improve others' riding skills but advancing her own skills as well. She is extremely reliable and dependable. She treats my horses as if they were her own with care and compassion. She is remarkable at instilling confidence, safety and skill to young children - even when the lesson horse is a 1500lb Warmblood." -Dove Butler, Butler Sport Horses

“Jillian and Friday make a great pair.  I would initially have been a little anxious having my four-year old take a horseback riding lesson, but once I saw how gentle Friday was and how competent Jillian was with Friday, my fears were allayed.  My daughter smiled and giggled throughout her lesson, and afterward she was proud that she had been able to ride like a “big girl.” I think what I most appreciated though is that Jillian gave my daughter some context to owning a horse.  It wasn’t just a riding lesson – my daughter learned to brush and saddle a horse, and even how to give a horse a bath.  This gave my daughter a greater appreciation for what it to own a horse.  We can’t wait to visit again!” -Meg F.

Jillian Riese

Jillian has been working with horses since she was eight years old. As a child, she did whatever she could to be around animals, but horses were always her biggest passion.

Though her parents always supported and encouraged Jillian, it was up to her to find more affordable ways to support her habit. Soon, she found a trainer that would let her work off her riding lessons. This experience was incredibly valuable to Jillian, and for that she is incredibly grateful. She was able to not only ride a number of challenging horses and ponies, but she was also able to learn a great deal about horse care.

During and after college, Jillian worked for a number of different trainers, including Sarah Kotchian and Kelly Maddox. For all of their help and wonderful support - she thanks them.

Jillian has also been fortunate enough to find the love of her life - and he has four legs! Friday, her lovable school pony, is the mascot and inspiration of TGIF Farms. Come by to meet him today.