Interview with Kate Dixon, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: I was a professional horse trainer for 25 years, but I always wanted to own my own tack store. I use most of the products that I sell and know the industry well. I needed a break from horse training, but I wanted to stay connected to the equine industry. Opening a tack store was the perfect career move for me.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: Every employee we have owns horses, competes with horses and is very knowledgeable about the products we sell. We can give our customers personal recommendations, from our experiences. Our store is small, but this allows us to connect with customers — get to know them and understand their needs. We treat our customers as our friends.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: My favorite days are helping out new owners of horses pick out their new tack. They are so excited, happy and filled with love for their equine companion. It feels great to help them and be a part of that excitement.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Space. We are such a tiny shop and we have crammed as much as we can into our tiny space. We do a lot of custom orders for our customers because we are so limited with what can fit in the store. Most of our customers know this and are not shy about asking us to order in specific products for them.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: Most people are surprised that we are not a chain store and have only been open for a year and a half. We are stocked to the ceilings with products and have a huge following. We ship new and used saddles all over the county through our Facebook and Craigslist ads.
Profile
Business: Colorado Tack and Supply Co.
Address: 14368 Lincoln St., Thornton
Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday
Founded: 2014
Contact: 303-280-4721, ,
Employees: 4
