Just One More Horse: A Day In The Life Of A Bander And A Braider
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164 – November/December, 2025
By Megan Sacia Ulrich
Consider this job description: Seeking bander and/or braider. Successful candidates will have the ability to be on their feet all day with a willingness to work ten-hour shifts–with 16 to 20 hour shifts common seasonally. Applicants should have the patience, courage, and determination to wrangle tiny rubber bands onto the hair of 1,000-pound clients who may stand like a statue but also may flail about like a tantrum-throwing toddler. The testicular fortitude to stand behind said customers as a potential human target for their hind legs is also a must. Thus, general good luck is recommended. Artistic ability and attention to detail is required. Interested persons must supply their own materials and tools to complete the job. They should have the flexibility to accommodate clients’ schedules (which may change at the drop of a hat and upend an entire day’s meticulously planned appointments) as well as good communication skills (fluent in human and in horse). No breaks or lunch breaks are provided, so only those able to keep hangriness at bay should apply. Must be willing to work in all weather conditions and gracefully deal with the roller coaster of emotions that accompany horse showing. Blisters, callouses, eau de equine long lasting body fragrance are all perks of the position. Oh, and MUST love horses.
It’s that last bit that’ll get ya’ every time. And that’s exactly what keeps Michelle Swanson and Carly Estreich-Lueck in business full-time. As their days begin, often at 2 or 3 o’clock in the morning, they don aprons and the best shoes they can find or afford, then arm themselves with their tools of the trade–quality scissors, thinning shears, rug yarn, strong bands, a spray bottle, a latch hook, combs, a step stool–and begin their day, fueled by caffeine and their passion for horses.
Michelle Swanson
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164 – November/December, 2025
