Who Are We?
In February 2019, a cloudy day of Black History Month, I decided to create a hair piece for my horse that would showcase the power, authenticity and creativity of the Black cowgirl. This piece was known as “Afrocentric Pony” and sparked a journey of whimsy and fun now known as Mane Tresses.
A Tress Above the Rest
The creation of beautiful and fun, cruelty, and chemical-free hairpieces showcases coordination between horse and rider with style and grace. I went on a mission to develop an easy to install and maintain hairpiece for horses and ponies alike to combine my love for horses, art, and style.
I'm Cowgirl Chanel
My name is Chanel Rhodes and I am a first-generation African American English and Western rider. I have had a passion for horses my entire life. As a young girl, I lived in Los Angeles with my mother who is and has always been supportive and encouraged me to live my life with passion. My mother worked hard to enroll me in lessons when I was in elementary and middle school. Although I was not able to ride consistently, I never lost sight of my dream. My mother told me as a young child “If you want horses, you better pray for one.” I prayed every night for a horse!
I now compete in mostly English competitions and a few Western. I have learned that it is ok to be different and to never loose sight of my goals. I find it a challenge to continue to maintain both styles. I consider English riding to be a solid and helpful foundation for my Western riding. Both of my horses have one English and one Western saddle that I have worked on collecting over the years. I love the challenge of riding two very different mounts in two very different styles. I am determined to improve my riding.
Recently I have developed a new revolutionary product for horses that will be for sale soon. I have invented colorful, easy to install, hair pieces for horses. I truly thought outside of the box for this one, I plan on making my fingerprint on this world. I have been installing my own weaves for years.
My fiancé (Andrew Garces) filmed me as I worked on my horse’s hair. Andrew also edits my videos for my Social Media sites. After posting a few videos and improving my product I was able to share my story on TV shows, podcasts, and in magazines. I am thankful for the many opportunities that rose from my creative idea and look forward to more opening doors.
I want to encourage others to think outside of the box and live their lives with passion. Do not let society rule your mind or ideas. If you are not living your life with passion, then you are not living at all!
