Within APHA, talented members participate in countless different ways. Jennifer Bishop from Richland, Michigan, is carving out her role in the Paint Horse world as an owner and exhibitor, as well as the founder of LUXEQUINE, an equestrian-inspired belt company now sold in APHA’s PH Barn Door.
Jen started showing Paints as a child and competed through her time at Michigan State University, where she served as the captain of the equestrian team. After graduation, Jen stepped away from horses for about 11 years. Trainer Kelly Boles Chapman helped guide the horsewoman back into the world of APHA and showing. Now, Jen is active in not only her local Zone 8 community and board, but also as part of APHA’s Eastern National Championship Task Force. Jen competes in all-around events aboard her Paints. They include her main partner Hes Pure Sultry and her up-and-coming mount Heza Whole Vibe. Her son also started showing Paint Horses, which truly makes APHA a family affair for Jen.
Calling Jen multitalented would be an understatement. Outside of showing Paints, she founded her business LUXEQUINE six years ago, and it has continued to evolve. LUXEQUINE is a company based on affordability and providing premium products to people in the Western industry. Jen prides herself in taking the time to research the proper materials and suppliers in order to produce the best products. She designs the company’s belts herself, which makes them not only special but also unique. LUXEQUINE quickly became her creative outlet and allowed Jen to stretch her mental muscles. She prides herself on LUXEQUINE’s affordable prices, fashionable options and the versatility of the belts themselves.
“You can pick a belt for every outfit, which is what I really love about LUXEQUINE,” Jen said.
LUXEQUINE belts are sold at PH Barndoor—both online and in its Fort Worth Stockyards retail store—which has helped Jen gain exposure from audiences around the world. Jen’s looking forward to hosting a pop-up shop at her stalls during the APHA World Show, complete with shopping, sips and socializing. She appreciates how the business has allowed her to make connections both in and beyond the equine industry.
“Being a part of APHA is really my favorite thing in the world,” Jen said. “When I was looking to get back into showing, I knew I wanted to come back to APHA. For me, it was a no brainer because it’s where my heart is.”
Article by Jacie Pennington
Top photo by Brittany Callahan Photography, inside show photo by Ruehle Photographix; both courtesy Jennifer Bishop
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About APHA
The American Paint Horse Association is the world’s second-largest international equine breed association. Since it was founded in 1962, APHA has registered more than a million horses in 59 nations and territories. APHA promotes, preserves and provides meaningful experiences with Paint Horses. Learn more at apha.com.