Laura And Wade Spell

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34 – July/August, 2026

By Taylor Fabus

In an industry where longevity often defines success, Laura and Wade Spell have quietly and steadily built something far more meaningful than a resume. At Spell Show Horses in St. Louis, Missouri, the focus has never been solely on winning but on developing horses and horsemen in tandem. Over the past two decades, that philosophy has produced a long line of young prospects that do more than succeed in the show pen. They thrive in partnership with their Non-Pro riders.

It is a model rooted in balance, both in and out of the arena. Laura and Wade bring complementary strengths to their program, creating a well-rounded approach that reflects the diversity of today’s industry. Laura’s expertise lies on the hunt seat side, where she is known for producing polished, competitive horses. Wade, equally accomplished, focuses on the western disciplines, bringing a depth of feel and foundation that traces back to his own upbringing.

For both, horses were never a phase. They were a way of life. Raised on family farms, their earliest memories were shaped by long days in the barn and an innate understanding of the work it takes to build something lasting. While their paths to a professional career took different turns, the pull of the horse industry ultimately proved stronger than any alternative.

Laura pursued collegiate studies at the University of Minnesota in Mankato, and the University of Wisconsin–River Falls. She viewed education as a practical contingency plan. Wade, meanwhile, earned a full-ride baseball scholarship to Southeast Missouri State University as a standout pitcher. But after graduating with a degree in business and marketing, he found himself at a crossroads.

Click here to read the complete article
34 – July/August, 2026