AMBER-LEA MARIE
NEWS Contributor
Family and supporting the community are all part of the big picture of operating a local business, says Bridles and Bits Feed and Tack owner Keirsti Lambert.
"I've been rolling hay around since I was big enough to push bales," said Lambert. "I grew up on this farm."
Over the past two decades, the Bridles and Bits' reins have been held tight within the family; Lambert's father passing them down to her in late 2011.
"My dad bought it when I was 17 as kind of a little make-work project to keep me out of trouble, and give me something to do," said Lambert.
As success took its course, Lambert decided to take the reins into her own hands.
"I ended up taking over the business and ownership about five years ago," said Lambert. "Numerous kids and employees later, and here we are still today."
From north Qualicum near the family acreage, where her father is happily retired, Lambert said her three horses, Apollo, Sapphire and Victor, are happy and healthy living there as well.
"It's God's country," said Lambert.
In harmony with equestrian apparel and tack, Bridles and Bits also carry barn supplies, feeding and nutrition in accordance to the likes and needs of farm owners and animals of all kinds, she said.
"We carry about four to five different types of hay year 'round," said Lambert, adding that delivery is also a possibility for customers.
In addition to hay, (sold by the ton or bale), the farm also provides nutrition for pets.
"We carry grain-free pet foods," said Lambert. "And bag feed for every critter known to man."
As the crew at Bridles and Bits feels fortunate to have attracted such loyal clientele, they're doing their part to support the community as well.
"We sponsor the 4-H kids and the pony clubs," said Lambert.
"Every annual 4-H auction and all of that good stuff. We try our best to support the community."
While on topic of support, Lambert offered a big thank-you to the community for keeping Bridles and Bits in business over the past 20 years.
"If it wasn't for them we wouldn't be here," said Lambert. "We'd love to thank all of our customers."
For more information on products, apparel and delivery, please visit Bridles and Bits in-store, at 600 Church Road, in Parksville or browse online at
www.bridlesandbits.com.
You can also call (250-248-7202) or email (info@bridlesandbits.com).
Bridles and Bits is open Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Sundays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. They are closed on stat holidays.