Forging strong partnerships one stride at a time.
Riding lessons tailored to your individual needs.
You’re ready to start horseback riding, expand your riding skills, or explore a new discipline.
Or you may be looking for horseback riding lessons for your child.
Your group may want a riding clinic to learn about working equitation with other riders.
So, you need the right instructor. Someone who understands you and the horse you’re working with.
Melissa Smith is your guide through the unique challenges you’re facing as you mount up and take the reins.
Our Mission:
To help you build a strong partnership with your horse and the skills to enjoy the type of riding you choose
If you want to build a trusting bond and soft connection when you’re riding, you need an instructor who shows you how to create that special relationship.
Whether it’s dressage, trail riding, working equitation, or pleasure riding, you also need a coach with years of practical experience.
As a riding teacher and clinician, Melissa Smith has a passion for helping individual riders reach their goals.
Lessons in Northern VA
For students without horses, Melissa has a number of experienced lesson horses available in Northern Virginia.
For horse owners, Melissa will meet you at your location near Front Royal, Centreville, or locations in and around Loudoun and Fairfax County.
Contact Melissa
Eventing
“She is very positive and supportive, with a knack for knowing when to push you harder. Her flat lessons include a lot of theory which helps you when practicing on your own. And she's been great helping me learn to relax and be confident so my new OTTB can learn to be the same!"
Working Equitation
“Melissa’s working equitation clinics are great. Her obstacle courses help me and my horse communicate better. Being in a group is a great way for barn friends to support each other. They are a lot of fun!”
Special Interests
“I asked Mills to train me to improve my mounted archery. She spotted the problems that were interfering with what I wanted to achieve, and set up some exercises to help me improve my riding. Better riding means better mounted archery.”
Stay In Touch
Get Melissa's Updates and Download Your Free Horse Note Pages
© 2025 SmartAlex Equestrian
