Business Spotlight

Tradition in Every Stitch Every Stitch

Photos by SCB Photography

Hand craftsmanship, quality and Tradition In Every Stitch. This is the legacy of Freedman Harness. A story that started 200 years ago in 1802 and continues today with the same promise, the same commitment to excellence. Six generations of harness makers later, the modern-day Freedman's is a brand known for its legacy work in horse harness, but also for its ingenuity in show horse tack and furnishings and emerging trends in handbags, belts and performance riding apparel. The lost art of leather artisans is not so lost at Freedman's, where each piece of leather is hand-stitched after being sourced from some of the best tanneries in the world. The vision of these master craftsmen is to create something profoundly different from those that came before them; a piece that is comfortable and high quality; a fashion item that is eco-friendly and well-made; a handbag that is uniquely Freedman's. Our mission at Freedman's is to provide safe, comfortable and well-made horse furnishings, rider apparel and fashion goods that meet the standards of excellence that our company has come to be known for. Our greatest acomplishment is being able to help (horse) riders and drivers meet their own goals. Being part of an industry of athletic and beautiful horses has engaged our way of thinking in ways that have enriched our brand beyond just what the horses need to wear, but also what the human athletes need; their riding apparel, their fashion sense, the accessories they prefer to carry. From harnessing World and National Champion ponies and horses, to making saddles for the trotting breed horses, from the famous Budweiser Clydesdales to making harness for the Royal family, we strive to accomplish quality every step of the way. Tradition In Every Stitch. furnishings and emerging trends in handbags, belts and The lost art of leather artisans is not so lost at Freedman's, where each piece of leather is hand-stitched after being sourced from some of the best tanneries in the world. The vision of these master craftsmen is to create something profoundly different from those that came before them; a piece that is comfortable and high quality; a fashion item that is eco-friendly and well-made; a handbag that is

While the products have changed over time, the essence remains the same; quality craftsmanship with the very fi nest materials. This story is uniquely Freedman's.

We continue to work to build our equestrian luxury legacy brand, which includes bags, belts, accessories and home furnishings. With the work ahead of us and potential products to be made and developed, there's a long runway of needed equine equipment and apparel in the future. Today, our Boutique is in the heart of horse country, in downtown Midway, Kentucky. While our manufacturing and craftsmanship of products remains in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, our storefront is full of our latest work and trending products. If you walked into Freedman's, you would find not just horse furnishings and equipment, but an assortment of hand-stitched belts, small leather goods and accessories and unique hand and travel bags. At Freedman's, our motto is "Tradition in Every Stitch." This means our product is defined by classic styling, attention to detail, hand craftsmanship, fit, function, service, performance and, of course, a dedication to the horses and people that we serve. We've recently taken on the mantra 'there for every ride, every ribbon, every time' because we want our customers to know that we are here to serve them with the quality of product that they have come to know. To be successful in our line of work, one must know horses and leather and the art of crafting it. Our products are unique because we know both. We personally source tanneries overseas

"This isn't something you tend to think about until is has already happened. n years of late this craft has a orded me to be able to do what I love every day. I have been able to enrich my life and the lives of others with my passion and skills that have been passed down to me. Leaving a legacy and a positive mark in this world has enriched my life and given me purpose."

-David Freedman for certain types of leather that are best for different pieces of equipment. What is used for reins or bridles may not be the same as what is used for harness and saddles. Handbag leather is very different from leather that is used for halters. Knowledge of the product and of the horse industry allows us to deliver on the promise of quality that we offer our customers and clients. As a leather craftsman himself, our current owner David is able to expertly direct the artisans that work in the shop because he also knows the trade from lifelong influences such as his grandfather Isaac, and father Sam. But it doesn't end there. Nicole Freedman, who serves as the company's Vice President and manages the U.S. operations in Midway, also has roots grounded in the horse industry. As a breeder and exhibitor, her experience in the sport is invaluable to serving that same industry. In fact, many of the team members of Freedman's have spent a good part of their life loving horses and working in the industry; from the marketing staff to the sales staff, to the Boutique personnel - horses are always top of mind. They know the lingo, have learned the customer's desires and take input from the professional horsemen and women they interact with daily. This creates an environment, a product and a brand that has become renowned in the show horse industry.

To learn more a out our finely crafted products visit our we site at freedmanharness.com or come visit us in store at ain treet in idway entuc y. We'll be happy to answer any questions you have!