Riders who stayed, in their own words.

Marika Saarinen

My lessons with Tressa have taught me to embrace the forward and to shape it. My mare, Senja, was compressed during her first years of riding, and when I got her, that compression would come out as bucks and anxiety. That decreased my confidence in riding her, and I had an accident that set me back in my riding. I really had to work through nerves and put my trust in Tressa and her teaching. She has been coaching me in person twice a year at the clinic in Washington, and now through online lessons. I'm excited because we are cantering again, but this time with ease!

Learning a classical way of riding has given us freedom to grow and become the best versions of ourselves. I can't imagine doing it any other way. I'm grateful Tressa has taken me as a student.

Josephine Irene Wright

What I love most about my lessons with Tressa is that it is really about the horse. There is no ego, it's just what is best for them in that moment in the time needed. I love that the lesson is technical AND gives me things I can "feel".

I really enjoy that I have time within the instruction to play with the exercise before moving onto the next or feeling rushed. It really helps me with my personal way of thinking.

I am a "feeling" rider so I often have to feel my way through an exercise many times before I understand the technical aspects. She gives the technical instruction but then gives me time to play with it and find it, and then I can make that feeling "memory."

Morgan Stephans

Taking virtual lessons with Tressa has allowed me to offer better riding and instruction to my training horses and students as well as bring along my personal horse. Regardless of which horse (or mule!) I bring in the arena for our lesson, she is able to meet them and me where we are at and pinpoint the work that will be of the most benefit. She is very tactful in identifying how and when to push a horse and rider for improvement without overwhelming them. Tressa has allowed me to refine my equitation and deepen my horsemanship skills while providing the “how” and “why” behind all of the work that we do so that I can see the whole picture. I’m grateful that she is willing to share her extensive knowledge and experience even from states away.

Steve Ganzberg

Tressa Boulden is more than one special horse trainer; She is one special person. It is clear that her years of working with horses have brought her a connection to the essential deep nature of who our horses are, yes, but also to who we humans are and our relationship to this world we live in. Tressa’s focus is always on the horse’s best interest. In the process of that teaching, she has taught me not only how to ride my horse more correctly, but really how to relate to my horse in such a beautiful way. And in the process, how to relate to myself. In the end, Tressa has taught me that working with your horse is as much about understanding who you are as it is about understanding who your horse is. Once you get that part, the rest is all about the joy of helping your horse be the most athletic, healthiest and happiest they can be. And in their joy, riding becomes a dance of love between your horse and you. I am so grateful to Tressa for giving me this gift. After several years of riding and trying to improve myself as a rider, I now strive to help my horse be the best they can be. And then, improving myself as a rider just comes as a natural extension of being with my horse. Doesn’t get better than that.

Charmaine Brower

Some thirty years ago I had the good fortune to meet Melissa Simms, the head trainer of the Egon von Neindorff Reitinstitut in Karlsruhe, Germany. I began training with her and riding at the Institute. I was amazed at how the school horses all were trained with a softness and lightness I had never experienced before. I knew this was the system I wanted to follow. I called a fellow rider and said: “I found it! I’ve found what we’ve been searching for!”

Over the years, Melissa would spend time in California. She started training at Tressa Boulden’s farm. People would bring horses to Melissa with problems. Problems they didn’t know how to correct. Melissa would have Tressa ride these horses and together they would work to retrain them. I always admired Tressa’s fortitude and courage in riding horses that had been ruined. I observed her perseverance and hard work. Tressa was devoted to Melissa and her most loyal student. Melissa passed down her knowledge to Tressa. When Melissa passed away, Tressa became the keeper of the keys. She continues the classical tradition of the thinking rider. Tressa’s training of the horse and rider happens in a soft, humane, methodical and slow manner. She responds to each horse’s individuality and character, and for the rider she is an excellent teacher who can explain the system so well. I am blessed to know Tressa and look forward to many more years of working together. I highly recommend Tressa and her pure teachings of classical horsemanship.

Amy Skinner

Tressa is a rare find for any dedicated student. Not only does she have the training and experience to work with a wide range of horses at many levels, she also has the ability to clearly explain what she knows. Finding a teacher who both understands the work and can teach it is truly a needle in a haystack. Her commitment to classical principles means a great deal to me. Tressa doesn’t cling to tradition for tradition’s sake; instead, she upholds a value system deeply rooted in the horse’s wellbeing as an athlete—preserving soundness, longevity, and brilliance—while honoring each horse as a unique and sentient being.

Anne Shaw

I have been riding under Tressa's instruction since March of 2025. She has helped me be more balanced and adaptable to my horse and as a result my horse is moving better and is progressing in strength and confidence in me as his rider. I appreciate Tressa's approach to developing a trusting relationship with my horse that values longevity and harmony between horse and rider.

Anne Adair

Tressa Boulden has two special characteristics that she consistently shares with her students: her lack of ego, and her amazing self-awareness. In over 18 months of working with Tressa, I’ve not only improved as a rider, but I’ve experienced a profound transformation in my relationship with my horses. Before working with Tressa, I often left lessons frustrated, feeling as if I wasn’t learning anything new. It’s one thing for a teacher to bark commands. It’s something entirely different for a trainer to explain the ‘how’ and ‘why’ behind each step of proper riding. In this way, she stands apart from any teacher I have previously worked with. She has an innate ability to break things down to their essence so that both you and the horse comprehend. She patiently explains for as long as it takes demonstrating that growth is a gradual process, and riding is a journey. Her authenticity and commitment to classical riding is a display of dedication she eagerly shares with any rider no matter their ability. Tressa carries the wisdom of her past mentors into every lesson as she shares her skills in a way that is both profound and deeply personal--she really listens and meets you where you are. If you’re looking for a teacher who will not only help you refine your riding skills but also guide you on a journey of self-discovery and connection with your horse, I couldn’t recommend Tressa more highly.

Ashley Jantzer

I began riding with Tressa after realizing that I was drawn to the study of classical horsemanship, and wanted to find someone that could help develop me as a rider, and help me develop my personal and training horses. I never set out to take online lessons, but the quality of instruction I was looking for was not available in person, so after hearing Tressa on a couple of podcasts, I decided to reach out about virtual instruction.

Tressa has opened an entirely new world of horsemanship for me, and she has improved my equitation, timing, and feel. Tressa misses nothing, and is able to see nuances and explain exactly what I should be feeling in real time. Her instruction is clear, and she is incredibly gifted at explaining what she is teaching. Tressa has brought so much clarity to concepts that others have not been able to explain, and her virtual instruction is far and above the quality of any in person instruction I could receive.

My personal horse has been disregarded by others because she isn’t “built for dressage.” Tressa has held no judgement of my horse, and has worked with us in a way that I have drastically improved her balance, strength, and suppleness, and she has put no limitations on what I might be able to achieve with my mare.

Tressa is a very rare gift in the horse world. Her guidance and expertise has deepened my horsemanship, and I feel like she’s in the arena with me even though she’s states away. I highly recommend Tressa for those looking for a deeper and more refined way of riding and working with their horses.

Sandra Surber Gaines

I bought my first Friesian in 1988. I showed in ridden and driven dressage. As I am primarily a driver, I soon discovered the advantage of having my horses regularly ridden by an experienced dressage rider. It resulted in much better self-carriage and good muscle development. Many years later, we moved to the Napa Valley and I learned of Traditions Farm and their wonderful staff and facilities. Their goals mesh very well with mine and I can highly recommend them. I am a firm believer in the classical methods of training dressage.

Jason Nichols

My horse and I have traveled through some rough country together. We were once riding in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of Colorado, some of the highest and steepest peaks in North America. When we descended a trail with full saddle bags I noticed how hard he came down on his shoulders. This is the moment I began to wonder how I could encourage my horse to use his body in a healthy way. When the snows fell we made our way home to Sonoma County and my search for answers led me to explore classical dressage and Traditions Farm. In short order I was convinced of the importance of the classical equestrian tradition and the value of Tressa's knowledge and instruction. The practice here has not only improved my horse's musculature, balance and alignment, it has taught me the scope of my responsibility as a rider, especially the ways in which I can make his job of carrying me far easier. In a single year, my horse, "El Caballo Ingenioso Don Coyote de la Nevada" has been transformed dramatically under Tressa's expert tutelage.

Paloma David

I have been riding and working with Tressa for the better part of the past twelve years. I wish I could put into words all the invaluable lessons she has taught me both in and out of the saddle. Having grown up riding, I've had my fair share of teachers and trainers, the care and dedication Tressa brings to her teaching is outstanding and second to none. I had always hoped to find someone with the knowledge and patience required to teach correct horsemanship principles and am grateful to have found it in Tressa. She has an innate ability to meet horse and rider where they are at, while making her vast knowledge palatable and accessible to both. I have had the luxury of working many horses with her over the years and her unwavering dedication to working with a horse's nature instead of against it is truly a rare gift. I would greatly recommend Tressa to any rider seeking to learn more about Classical Horsemanship regardless of discipline.

Susan Yasinitsky

I've known Tressa so long, that after the first 20 years, I've lost count. It all started with a Thoroughbred off the track named "Gene" that many told me wouldn't amount to much in the Dressage ring, but with Tressa's training he became a star! Three horses and many experiences later I now own Hendrik, a Friesian that Tressa hand-picked for me when he was just two. Now at 12 he's perfecting Piaffe and Passage.. What fun! Tressa has been there with me through thick and thin; from Pre Training level schooling shows to upper level USDF shows, to body parts that say "I can't do it!!" The whole while she keeps saying "Oh yes you can!" Whatever the situation she has always believed in me and the horses that I love. She has never once given up on making me the best rider and owner that I could be.. I cannot imagine trusting anyone else to train and care for my horse.

Beverly Chambers

I first met Tressa when I was just a Mom watching her 11 year old take lessons. Never did I think by asking, “Do you ever give parents lessons?”, that an incredible journey of learning would begin. At one time, Tressa had 3 generations of our family at Traditions Farms, myself, my daughter and my grandson. Through the years and many horses, including a racetrack Thoroughbred, warmbloods and now Johan, the Friesian, Tressa Boulden has always held true to her belief in Classic Dressage and what it can do for any horse. I trust her methods, beliefs and management of my horse impeccably. When I ride my supple, forward horse who started out as a fore-handy tank, I know we are both where we should be – at Traditions Farms.

Andrea Lemus

I have been training with Tressa for 14 years, and every lesson some new nuance of training and development of the horse and rider is revealed. She knows all aspects of the horse and horsemanship. She is able to develop both horse and rider in a clear and concise, and consistent manner into a harmonious picture.

Iris Rogers

In my mid-forties, I decided that I would learn to ride. I knew nothing about horses at that time, but I knew that good riding involved good communication and respect for the horse. I found out that the principles of classical riding embraced these ideas and more. I learned that balance and lightness were tools of communication along with a good seat. On the bulletin board of Shaw’s Tack Shop was Tressa Boulden’s card, “Traditional Riding, Lunge Lessons for an independent seat.” My journey began and I started lunge lessons with Tressa as an absolute beginner. It’s been over twelve years now and I not only found learning about classical riding joyful, but with the guidance of Tressa we found and purchased my first horse, a morgan gelding named "Beau". I’ve learned so much about riding, not only as a physically demanding sport that requires strength, coordination and body awareness, but about communication, how to flow, and how to use tact and better timing. I am enjoying this journey immensely. Tressa, and my Morgan horse, Beau, have taught me much, and not just about riding but the principles of classical horsemanship and as a result I have learned better balance, and flow with my horse, Beau is free to develop his natural rhythm and tempo, moving with ease and grace under me. Thank you, Tressa!

Tricia Henry

As a re-entry rider, I first met Tressa in my quest to get into shape for a horse trek in Ireland. After many years of neglecting my body at a desk, the demands of riding for 8 hours straight was unthinkable. Tressa helped me strengthen my back and core, improve my riding skills and horsemanship so that I was able to complete the trek safely and with much joy. Upon my return, she assisted me in finding my personal equine partner for future miles of trail riding at home. At the time, I did not know the differences in various dressage training but during the process of training my new, young horse, I began to realize and appreciate the treasure of Tressa's background and philosophy. Not only with my horse, but with others, I witnessed the transformation of gangly, crookedness and tension to beauty, health, correctness and calmness. I am convinced that the classical dressage training handed down from the old masters like Egon Von Neindorff, to Melissa Simms, to Tressa is one of the best I can hope to strive for and offer my horses. Now as owner of my own equestrian facility, I recommend Tressa to my clients for training.

Meeghan Vermeulen

I have been working with Tressa Boulden for six years. When I arrived at Traditions Farm my goal was to get involved with horses again as it had been a childhood love of mine. Not only did Tressa successfully guide me back into the saddle she also coached me through the process of buying my first horse, now 13 year old Frits the Friesian. Both my horse and I have evolved from inexperienced students in Dressage to earned ribbon holders at rated shows! Training with Tressa has allowed me to grow as a rider and a person. I am honored to be student of Traditions Farm.

Barbara Doane Lassa

I first met Tressa at a local CDS educational clinic that she organized. I had been looking for a trainer that could help me with my seat and I wanted to learn about "Classical Dressage." Even though I had been riding and showing in dressage, I did not know the true meaning of "Classical Dressage."

My beautiful horse and I moved to Traditions Farm and my Journey began. Tressa took away my double bridle, spurs, changed my saddle, even changed my horses shoes. She began teaching me the management of the horse as well as the riding and training.

I now know the meaning of "Classical Dressage." Riding a happy balanced , flexible horse is the most wonderful feeling I have ever experienced. My horse and I are very grateful!

Judy Tamagni

With the purchase of my first Friesian, it was time to step away from the realm of cutting horses and enter into the arena of dressage. Tressa was recommended to me by a mutual friend, Tricia Henry, partly due to Tressa’s experience with baroque breeds and also because of Tressa’s philosophy towards the training of horses and classical dressage. Tressa was willing to take on the daunting task of a newbie dressage rider – me - and a green 4 year old Friesian. With the “newbie” who wanted to do as much as possible herself. Tressa’s first task was to get rid of my “cutters slouch” and eliminate the great “in the dirt” stop I had put on Victor! She also, is still working on convincing me of why in the world anyone would ever want to sit the trot on a horse with such huge movement! One of the greatest accomplishments so far has not been with the Friesian, but with my little Quarter Horse mare. She had developed some lameness in her shoulder and neck that was not relieved by rest, anti-inflammatories, and body work. I was sure that at the age of 11 her riding days were done and destined to be a broodmare/pasture ornament. With the help of Tressa evaluating her and subsequently working with her (and me) getting us straight, supple and collected we are heading towards levels with her I hadn’t of thought possible. Lead changes here we come! There is no better way to convince someone of the benefits of dressage for any discipline of riding than to see their horse come out 100% sound. My goals have not been to make it big on some show circuit, but to continue my journey of constantly learning and bettering myself as a rider and partner with my horse. I am so appreciative of Tressa helping me along this path!

Cynthia Kurosu

I have been a student of Tressa's for over 4 years. I knew I wanted to learn classical dressage, so when I sought out a place to learn I looked for an instructor who taught lunge lessons. This is what brought me to Tressa and her Traditions farm. I discovered riding late in life as a 40 something adult, So needless to say, I had a lot to learn! Under Tressa's careful guidance, everything systematically broken down for me. From tacking up to lunging, to learning how horses think. I ended up part leasing a horse, "Beau", from Iris another student. This has given me flexibility and the benefit of riding a well trained horse.

As a teacher Tressa is incredibly skillful. She knows what to teach and when to teach it and how it should be taught. With her keen eye and tactful guidance, lesson after lesson Tressa manages to get the best out of me.

Laura Bowlby

I began taking lessons with Tressa over a year ago as I wanted to continue building my dressage foundations with the rare trainer who truly embraces the classical dressage philosophy. Tressa continues the legacy of the art of classical horsemanship embodied by Egon von Neindorff and Melissa Simms ­bringing these principles alive for me through our work together (and with lots of patience and humor on her part). I know that what I'm learning through Tressa will make me the best rider I can be for the horse I am riding- no matter if I'm in the training ring, competitions or on the trail. Her Traditions Farm offers a private, individualized training and boarding experience.­ Tressa oversees all aspects of my horse¹s care in addition to our training, how fortunate my wonderful Andalusian gelding, Hechicero, and I are to be in her knowledgeable and caring hands!

Kip Mistral

Five stars out of five stars rating.

I met Tressa Boulden when I was planning to move to Sebastopol with my Andalusian stallion. Tressa invited me to visit her and see her farm, but she also gave me a handful of other candidates for horse boarding in the area. Who does that? I was so impressed with Tressa's ethic and generosity that I went straight to Traditions Farm to meet her.

I was so impressed by the environment and ambience at Traditions Farm that when I considered Tressa's policy of boarding horses only for her students, I elected to become her student because I wanted my horse to be in her care. And, I realized that she would be an instructor who be invested in the well-being of my horse *and* one with whom I could communicate.

It was immediately apparent that her barn help/apprentices were well-organized and well-supported by Tressa, and it was clear that the routines flow smoothly and regularly. Tressa and her help are very observant, and all eyes are always on every horse on the farm. Tressa wants to empower her apprentices and employees. There is a feeling of real stability at Traditions that is sadly missing from most other barns. My horse had his spacious "stallion paddock" and I never worried that there would be any carelessness that might result in any mishaps.

And only when we talked about training and instruction did she reveal that she had been under the instruction of Melissa Simms (head rider at the institute of Egon von Neindorff for many years. In my lessons with Tressa she was always extremely knowledgeable and supportive. She even arranged for Melissa to give some lessons at Traditions, which was a remarkable experience. From those two lessons with Melissa I understood a little about what a rich background in equitation and dressage Tressa has aggregated.