Meet Julie Vance | Founder Sundance Farms Equine Rescue Boutique
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We had the good fortune of connecting with Julie Vance and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Julie, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
It was really a very spontaneous decision. I had been doing lessons, summer camps etc with the rescue horses. After several years I was really getting burned out and the horses were as well. I have a strong retail background. I have worked with Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and an upscale specialty store. So I decided to combine my love of horses and the equestrian lifestyle and my mobile boutique came to life. I started with a 10×10 pop up and have expanded to a 10×40 in 4 years! The equestrian community has been incredibly supportive. All proceeds from the boutique directly benefit my 501c3 non profit equine horse rescue. I’ve never been happier!
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Sundance Farms Equine Rescue was established when I was approached by animal control. They had been investigating a hoarding situation of 22 horses. The horses were going to be seized and they needed assistance with the stallions. They were aggressive and most officers are not all that familiar with handling stallions. So I agreed to help. When I asked what the fate of the horses was once they were seized. All of them were going to be euthanized. I was devastated. These poor horses had lived in Hell for years and now they’re going to be put to death? So after some frantic phone calls and quick legal work I agreed to take than all! Crazy, yes I know but once seeing these lovely creatures I knew I couldn’t let them die. So it took us 3 days but we got them all moved safely. Not one of them hesitated to get in the horse trailer. They were so hungry and weak but I’m happy to report all are doing great! We became a 501c3 non profit in 2016.
To support the equine rescue I started a mobile equestrian lifestyle boutique. 100% Of the profits benefit the rescue.
I travel to horse show venues all over California. The equestrian community has been so supportive and I’m so grateful to be able to combine my love of horses and retail. Helping horses in need has become a passion. I’m so excited to go to work everyday! I’m so proud of saving 67 horses to date and hope to do much much more.
The boutique is very unique in that we make many custom items. Such as jewelry and Jean jackets. We also have luxurious sweaters, handbags and much more.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I live in one of the most beautiful places in California. One hour below Lake Tahoe.
My best friend and I would start with a decadent breakfast with eggs Benedict and mimosa’s at The European Cafe. Then we would head to Lake Tahoe to stay at The Everline Resort and Spa for a few days hiking, biking, trail riding and of course some lovely meals and some spa treatments.
Then we would head to Carmel and enjoy the beach and stroll through the shops.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The hunter/jumper and Dressage riders and spectators have been incredibly supportive. My family has also been amazing in supporting my crazy horse life! My best friend Ailsa has been such a cheerleader and support of the business.
The horses are my world and to be able to combine my mission to help horses and have a retail boutique is a dream come true.
Website: https://ShopSundanceboutique.com
Instagram: Sundancefarmsrescueboutique
Facebook: Sundancefarmsequinerescueboutique
Other: Julie Vance
916-508-4626
Sundancefarmsrescue@gmail.com
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