Bringing In New Clients

Bringing in New Clients

You’ve worked hard to build your barn — not just the buildings and the business, but the vibe.

The feeling when people walk in and go, “Oh, this is a good place.”

Whether you’re running a training program, managing a boarding facility, or both, there comes a time when you need to bring in new clients. And when you do, it’s not just about filling stalls — it’s about protecting your space and your sanity.

So let’s talk about it:

→ How do you find the right people?

→ How do you set expectations from the start?

→ And how do you create boundaries that actually stick?

🌱 Not Every Client Is “Your” Client — and That’s Okay

It’s easy to get excited when a new boarder wants in.

Or to feel like you have to say yes because the bills are due.

But if there’s one thing I’ve learned (and watched other professionals learn the hard way), it’s this:

The wrong client will cost you way more than an empty stall ever will.

So before you say yes, ask yourself:

• Does this person get how our program works?

  
  
  
  

• Are they aligned with the kind of barn culture I’m creating?

  
  
  
  

• Do I feel like I’m walking on eggshells just thinking about them moving in?

  
  
  
  

If there’s a gut check moment — trust it.

Sometimes a “maybe” is actually a “no.”

🧭 Clarity From the Start Makes Life So Much Easier

One of the kindest things you can do for a new client and yourself is to be clear right out of the gate.

That doesn’t mean dumping a 12-page contract in their lap (unless you want to!).

It just means saying:

“Here’s how things work around here — so you know what to expect.”

Whether it’s your lesson policy, how turnout is handled, or what your late fee is — putting it in writing helps prevent confusion and resentment later.

People actually like knowing the rules. It helps them relax into the structure — and makes it easier for you to hold the line if something gets off track.

✍️ Policies Aren’t Rude — They’re Professional

I can’t tell you how many equine pros I’ve worked with who feel guilty about having policies.

You’re not being mean when you charge a late fee.

You’re not being cold if you say “No outside trainers.”

You’re being clear.

You’re running a barn — not a summer camp. (Okay, maybe a little of both. 😉)

It’s okay to say:

• Here’s when board is due.

  
  
  
  

• Here’s how lesson cancellations are handled.

  
  
  
  

• Here’s what happens if your horse gets hurt and needs special care.

  
  
  
  

When you’re clear, you’re calm.

And that calm sets the tone for everyone else.

🛑 Boundaries Aren’t Just for When Things Go Wrong

One of the biggest shifts I’ve seen in my own barn and in my coaching clients is this:

Boundaries work best when they’re part of the welcome — not just the cleanup.

Instead of waiting until something goes sideways, set expectations in the beginning.

You can say:

“We really value a peaceful, drama-free barn — so we’re upfront about how things work. That way everyone feels supported.”

You’re not being bossy. You’re being proactive.

And honestly? The right clients will appreciate that more than you know.

💛 You Don’t Have to Bend to Be Booked

It’s easy to fall into the trap of people-pleasing — especially in the horse world, where emotions run high and relationships run deep.

But the more you try to keep everyone happy, the more your own energy starts to drain.

You’re allowed to:

• Say “no” to a client who doesn’t feel like a fit.

  
  
  
  

• Change your hours or policies as your life evolves.

  
  
  
  

• Protect your barn vibe even if it ruffles a few feathers.

  
  
  
  

At the end of the day, your barn is your business — but it’s also your space.

You get to choose how it feels to work there every day.

🐎 Final Thoughts: This Isn’t About Perfection — It’s About Peace

Bringing in new clients is exciting.

It can also stir up old fears: “Will they be happy here?” “Will I lose them if I enforce that policy?” “Am I being too much?”

You’re not being too much.

You’re being a professional with a vision.

If you’re in a season where you’re onboarding new clients, restructuring your barn, or trying to set boundaries that actually stick — you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

At JoyRidge Coaching, I work with barn owners and equine professionals who want to lead with clarity and compassion — without burning out in the process.

📞 Let’s talk. Discovery calls are always free.

💌 Or send me a message @joyridgecoaching

You’re doing big, brave work out there.

And you deserve a barn that feels just as good to you as it does to your clients.