Michelle Istanish

My family loves horse and pony cakes and cupcakes. Over the years, we’ve used them to celebrate birthdays, Halloween parties and riding milestones. They're also perfect for baby showers, Mother's day and any special occasion. My daughter has had a horse-themed cake for just about every birthday and special occasion since she was little—it’s become a fun tradition we all look forward to each year. We also love getting creative with fondant, especially making our own horse and pony toppers for cakes and cupcakes. We try to shape them to look like horses we’ve known and loved—our own horses, favorite famous horses, and even special horses from our barn. It makes each cake feel personal and full of memories. On this page, I’ve gathered our favorite horse-themed cake tutorials, along with a curated selection of decorating supplies. You’ll find a shaped cake pan, a fondant mold, ready-made toppers, and other fun decorating tools—perfect for horse lovers of any age and skill level.

Secretariat was born on March 30, 1970. In 1973, he became a Triple Crown champion and a racing legend the world will never forget. I grew up watching the Kentucky Derby but never paid much attention to horse racing—until the Disney movie Secretariat came out. After seeing it, I instantly became a huge fan of Secretariat. This guide shares the movie along with facts, background, and memorabilia for fans of one of the greatest racehorses of all time.

If your mom or mother-in-law loves horses, a horse-themed gift is always a thoughtful and meaningful choice for Mother’s Day. As someone who’s both received and given many of these gifts — and definitely wouldn’t mind getting a few more — I can say they never get old. As an experienced rider and lifelong horse lover, I know how special it feels to receive something that reflects that passion. No matter her riding discipline — English, Western, or somewhere in between — these horse-themed gift ideas are ones I truly recommend. They’re perfect for equestrian moms of all ages and styles. Take a look and find something she’ll love this Mother’s Day!

These are my personal recommendations — all favorite go-to spots right on the boardwalk and just a little beyond. I live walking distance from the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, so these are places I genuinely frequent and love. Whether you're craving casual bites, fresh seafood, laid-back local gems, or a more upscale dining experience, this list has something for every kind of beach day.

Horse-themed pajamas have always been a favorite in our house. When my daughter was young, she had several pairs at a time, and they were the ones she reached for again and again. Of course, they were for bedtime—but she'd happily change into them early for movie nights and keep them on well into the next day during slow, lazy weekends. Her favorites were always the ones that reminded her of her pony.​ This curated collection brings together some of the cutest and coziest horse pajamas out there—from playful prints to personalized sets—featuring both English and Western riding styles. They're perfect for young horse lovers of all ages and make excellent gifts for birthdays, holidays, or just because.​

Looking for something a little different this Easter? I created this collection of original Easter cards featuring sweet bunnies, playful art, and pretty spring scenes. These are my own designs—each one made to feel special, charming, and a little outside the ordinary. Whether you’re into cute, funny, or beautifully illustrated styles, there’s something here for every Easter vibe.

I’ve always loved celebrating holidays with my horse—and Easter is one of my favorites to get creative with. Over the years, I’ve made Easter baskets for my daughter (who’s just as horse-obsessed), and even dressed up our horses for festive barn photos. This list includes my favorite finds: horse-themed Easter baskets, basket fillers and Easter greeting cards. The cards are my original designs, and the rest are things I’ve personally used or picked with care. If you’re a horse lover (or shopping for one), this list has everything you need to add a little more horse to your holiday.