Where dreams come true
What is the St. Francis Friesian Experience?
Well, its anything you want it to be! Let us know what you have in mind and we’ll put together an day with our friesian horses especially for you….
We are a family that is dedicated to breeding and showing these magnificent horses. Raised in the pure Dutch tradition, our friesians are a part of our family. Through the years we have established ourselves as a small farm with high quality. It is important for us to share with others the importance of this rare breed and the strict guidelines of the KFPS studbook that they belong. Friesians are the only ‘TRUE” warmblood and were once on the near extinction list.
We have welcomed visitors from all over the United States to learn more about our Friesian horses. Whether you are considering buying a Friesian and want to do your research first or simply want to spend time around them, groom them, feel what its like to be driven in a carriage or just watch them in the arena, we are happy to welcome you here to spend time with our horses.
We have developed some standard formats for our Friesian days which we have outlined below, but if you cant see one to suit you, just tell us about your dream and we’ll tailor the day according to what you want to get from your time with us.
Friesian Horse Experience Details
The Friesian Experience here at St. Francis is made for a 1/2 day throughout the spring and summer. Either 10:00 am to 12:00 noon or in the afternoon starting at 2:00 and ending at 4:00pm. Please note that in the summer days, the afternoon session may be shifted later in the day to accomodate the heat patterns of our valley.
We have developed some standard formates for our horse experience days which we have listed below. However, if you do not see anything that suits you, just choose the general 1/2 day and give us a call and we can modify the day just for the needs of your fantasy or that of your group. You can have a photo shoot as a queen with a crown and gown if you wish or have a carriage ride ( when available ) and a photo shoot or just have time with the horses. It is all up to you. All of our experiences can be tailored for an individual or a group. .
A typical 1/2 day does not include food service or carriage driving. It is best suited for those that just want to visit with the horses, learn more about this magnificent breed, learn some new ground training techniques and be around the horses on the flat or just see how it is to be on a small horse ranch. Live the life of horse ownership and the love of the horse for a 1/2 day.
Your day may include:
– Meet all friesians, watch then move freely in the arena and spend time getting to know them from the ground.
– Groom, bathe, braid and pamper a friesian or two
– Spend time one to one with a friesian in our round pen learning groundwork
– Watch us working and training some of our friesians
– Leading friesians in and out of their paddocks
– May include newborn foal experience
Individual Experience– ideal for those who prefer a more ‘one to one’ experience with the freedom to do and ask questions about what you would like to experience and have the day just how YOU want it. It’s perfect for anyone a little nervous or returning to horses after a break, or those wanting more in depth horse husbandry knowledge or to spend time with our farrier. This is also the perfect day for a birthday celebration, an anniversary, engagement or a special occasion for the one that you love. This experience is easily complimented by high tea or a birthday cake from our cottage bakery. Any horse interaction will be at a pace you are comfortable. Individual experiences are available Tuesday through Saturdays.
2 Person Minimum. Cost is $300
Shared Experience – these are best suited for small groups of friends or families. This special journey allows everyone in the group to learn about horses and the specific history of the Friesian horse. You will meet with our farrier and discuss the importance of the hoof. We will go on a carriage ride and also meet a foal if there is one on the property. Plenty of Friesian hugs will be available. Complement this experience with a tasting dinner, high tea or a birthday cake form the cottage bakery and you will have a memory that will be unforgettable. Perfect for the Special Occassion – Birthday, Anniversary, Engagement, Graduation, or any other special day. Cost is $150 per person.
The Friesian Horse Experience with Celebration Cake and Beverage Service
This event includes everything above, but also comes with a celebration cake from our exclusive cottage bakery. The sevice is for 8 to 10 participants in our studio and includes tea, coffee or punch. You have your choice of vanilla or chocolate two layer cake or our signature Dutch Tea Ring. The choice is yours. We provide all of the table ware, service and a special gift for each member in your party. This service is excellent for someone celebrating a birthday, anniversary, special occasion or just wants to celebrate life with horses. Please add an additional $20.00 per person.
The Friesian Experience with Carriage Ride and Cake Service Above
This Friesian Experience is the ultimate and includes everything mentioned above plus a Carriage Ride with our of our Champion Mares. We will share with you how to harness a horse and then take you and your party on a small ride in the arena and around the ranch. If you are feeling confident, we will let you have the reins of our carriage horse in the arean for a few strides so you can get the feel of the power of the Friesian. This is an amazing experience and one that is perfect for an anniversary, birthday or engagement.
