In 2023 the Hefty Heifer was born from the idea of being able to purchase high quality jewellery and accessories at an affordable price. When I was younger I often dreamed of having a beautiful pearl necklace and a pair of pearl earrings or one of those magical turquoise rings. The dream of every young horse girl with a passion for the aesthetic that comes from the working horse industry. I was unable to purchase these goods so thought, “Why not make them myself?”

Having no experience in small business or even jewellery making, I dived headfirst into making whatever I could get my hands on. Simple druzy studs. Polymer Clay. simple little pendant necklaces and then eventually, I found some videos on stringing pearls and how to make bracelets and wire wrapping, the best ways to start and finish a necklace and how to ensure they wouldn’t break in five minutes.

And then came the field testing, wearing all my hours work out riding, showing, mustering, yard work…it didn’t break, and what did got scrapped. It’s been very exciting learning so many new skills, and even looking into more skills as I wade into the depths of leatherwork.

Here’s to threading pearls and riding palominos!