Riding Instructor Xmas present?

[ArklePig]

Hi!

Just canvassing some opinions on whether this is the done thing or not. I changed riding school after lockdown 1.0 (in NI so private lessons allowed) and I'm coming on in leaps and bounds with my new instructor, I really really appreciate him. I'm wondering if I should give him a small Xmas present-something under 15£. He's been super helpful but I just wanted to check it this was a done thing or if it would be awkward? If it's the done thing I'd love any recommendations on what a good pressie might be! All I know is that he has his own horse he does dressage with. I don't know if he drinks and it seems a weird question to ask! Thanks

 

[tiahatti]

I always give the lady who looks after Tia something that's useful in the winter, nice socks, gloves, hat or a scarf. I think it depends on the person. Would he like gloves?

 

[Red-1]

I used to get some presents, I did private coaching though, rather than a riding school. They were all very much appreciated.

I used to like a bottle of wine, someone used to give home made sloe gin (actually 2 people, but both very much appreciated), gloves and socks.

Maybe a scarf (like a square warm one) or something like that?

Chocolates are always welcome too.

 

[fidleyspromise]

When I worked at the riding school we got a ton of chocolates, some adults gave us wine and one child brought each of us a thelwell mug with hot choc in (I still have the mug) that neighs when you lift it. Gloves and scarfs would always be useful.

 

[Cowpony]

I always get my instructor a Christmas present. Have done scarf, ear-warmer, cast iron horse silhouette with hooks for dog leads, horsey mug and drink mat, gin.....If you don't know him well, alcohol is usually very acceptable!

 

[Equi]

Glad you're enjoying your lessons again a present is a lovely idea. Im crap at gifts (i appologize in advance to my SS lol) but a nice flask is never bad for those cold days.

 

[Trinket12]

I make mine an apple pie ?

 

[ArklePig]

Thank you so much for all the lovely suggestions! So I'm guessing horsey folk seem to like warmth and comfort? I need to find out where I can get the neighing Thelwell mug though I need one for myself!


Thanks equi I definitely am enjoying them, I was doing group lessons pre lockdown and was bored stiff (but the private lessons at that school weren't great for continuity of instruction etc) so I've got this whole new lease of horsey life and am excited and having fun, and he's to thank!

 

[SashaBabe]

What about a horse themed mug personalised with your instructor's name? Various designs available on Amazon and very reasonably priced.

 

[Rowreach]

My best present last Christmas was a Thermos insulated mug. It's the only one I've ever had that really keeps my coffee hot for hours and doesn't make it taste weird. If he's a hot drink drinker he'd really appreciate one I'm sure.

 

[ArklePig]

Thanks everyone for your help! I ordered a personalised thermos mug and then after I'd ordered I saw an ad for buy one get one free for those personalised pet decorations so ended up ordering one for mother in laws cat and one for instructors horse! So that's him sorted for just under 15 and the first present I've bought. (need to get my skates on)!