Cindy and Eliza Sydnor: A Family Dressage Venture
By Amber Heintzberger

Sound Business Advise for The Equestrian Professional

Asked what advice would she give to other people going into business with a family member, Eliza emphasizes that the business aspect needs to be taken seriously. “Sit down with a lawyer, an accountant, and other people whom you admire in the business world and plan out how you want things to work,” she says. “Make a written business plan, make your business a legal entity, keep track of finances, learn how to really be a business owner/operator. We're all in this because we love horses, but if you don't figure out how to make it work for you as a career, it's easy to get burnt out and broke and not know how you got there.”

When she decided to make horses her career, Eliza sat down with a long time client of theirs who was a very successful businesswoman. “I wrote a business plan and had her critique it,” she says. “Then I started working with a wonderful lawyer who helped me create the LLC that is my business and also put together the syndicate that owns one of my young horses. I've never had business classes in college, but I can assure you that I know a lot about all of that now!”

Cindy answers, “First, there has to be a feeling of total trustworthiness and good intentions. Both parties have to want to see success for the other person and for both. If there is jealousy or dishonesty, it would never work, as in any relationship. Secondly, it is very important to outline who does what, so that responsibilities are clearly defined. Thirdly, it is essential to have regular business meetings to discuss goals, plans, and any problems. And lastly, the financial information must be well-kept, accurate, with good business principles, with a profit.”

She advises, “It is actually very difficult to go into business with a family member. One must be honest, considerate, and somewhat unselfish. Otherwise, not only the business will fail but the family bond can be severed.”

For this proud mother and her aspiring daughter, there seems to be no limit to their dedication to learning all that they can and sharing what they learn. In admirable fashion, this mother/daughter team is making a success of their venture. With planning, openness and love for their horses and each other, their business grows and prospers.