Meet the Instructor
More than riding lessons—we’re creating a place where horses, riders and friendships bloom.
EXPERIENCE • HORSEMANSHIP • HEART
Meet Amanda
Amanda is the owner and riding instructor at Dandelion Farm. With more than 20 years of experience in the equine industry as a rider, competitor, trainer, and instructor, she is passionate about helping riders of all ages and experience levels build confidence, develop strong horsemanship skills, and achieve their individual riding goals.
A Lifelong Love of Horses
Amanda grew up on a horse farm in Northern Virginia, where her love for horses began at an early age. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Equine Science with a minor in Equine Business Management and is also a Registered Nurse. During college, she competed on both her school’s IHSA Hunter Seat and Western teams, further developing her knowledge and passion for horses and teaching.
A Well-Rounded Approach
Early in her career, Amanda traveled throughout the East Coast competing, training horses, and coaching riders and competition teams. Since then, she has continued to broaden her experience through a variety of disciplines and instructional settings, including hunter/jumper, western pleasure, natural horsemanship, adaptive and therapeutic riding, and equine-assisted programs serving military veterans.
As part of a military family, frequent moves across the country have also given Amanda the unique opportunity to train under and work alongside respected equine professionals throughout the United States, helping shape her well-rounded approach to horsemanship and instruction.
Where Little Riders Begin to Bloom
After becoming a mom to two wonderful children, Amanda discovered a special passion for introducing young children to the world of horses. She loves helping first-time riders build confidence, learn safe and thoughtful horsemanship, and create positive experiences that foster a lifelong love of horses.
Whether teaching a child’s very first riding lesson or helping an experienced rider work toward success in the show ring, Amanda is committed to providing quality instruction in a safe, welcoming, and encouraging environment where every rider feels supported, challenged, and inspired to grow.