Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Ostergard.
Hi Amanda, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My business, Gardian Creek, was born out of sitting around horse arenas weekend after weekend. My daughter shows competitively in the Western horse world – ranch horse and cutting, to be specific. There is a lot of downtime at shows and time to daydream. I’ve always loved design and home interiors, so when I started thinking about a business concept, that was one of my first thoughts.
As I continued my brainstorming about what kind of business I wanted, I realized that I had never seen a home goods company at any of the horse shows we attended. Sure, lots of tack and accessories, t-shirts etc. But nothing for the home. So what was there to offer? How would I attract people? Would I stick to just equestrian goods? Then came to that rabbit hole of internet searches and brand research.
What came together very quickly is something I am insanely proud of. We initially offered only resale items from reputable brands that were very specific to the Equestrian lifestyle. We do very well, but we were held in a very niche style category. We slowly incorporated more pieces that were non-equestrian and styled them with our equestrian pieces. I feel it’s very important that we show how to incorporate timeless pieces into your existing style. I had to do that with my own house! So focusing on pieces that aren’t too flashy or trendy seemed to be what I gravitated to most.
2025 was a doozie of a year, to put it mildly. I work a full time career in healthcare, go to school, and my husband and I take care of our daughter, dogs and horse. Because I am always on the go, I added about 35 or so events in my calendar for the year. As we also cared for my dying dad, I needed a creative outlet. So around late summer, we launched “GC Originals”, a product line of pieces made by me. Sitting for hours and crafting has been my way to decompress but also process my grief. So when I say every piece is crafted with love, it’s a genuine sentiment.
As we’re gearing up for 2026 shows, we are focusing on continuing our commitment to quality pieces, whether they’re resale items or handmade pieces. Quality, style inclusivity and affordability are our highest priority. Some of our best sellers range from our hook pillows, our GC Originals wall hangers, and of course, our proprietary blend of soy candles. In fact, our Cowgirl candles are my best selling item!
We look forward to what 2026 brings. More shows, a wider variety of venues, new products geared toward our younger supporters, and just overall growth and support. And above all, my loving family and friends to be there along for the ride to support me and be my biggest cheerleaders.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Oh no, not at all! Setting up the business itself and deciding what to sell? Sure! But I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gone to events expecting to do really well and not even cover the booth fee. Again, the personal struggles of responsibilities to my family and balancing that with also growing a business is not for the faint of heart. And let’s not even discuss my house that has parts of it converted to office and inventory space. Thank goodness my husband and daughter have supported me 120% the entire time, even when it takes me away from them.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
During the day, my career is based in the payer healthcare realm. But my business is Gardian Creek, a home goods and gifts company that specializes in equestrian and ranch decor.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Don’t compare yourself to others to measure your success! That’s the golden rule. When it comes to your products, consider how will you stand out from the rest, but also how will you make yourself appealing to the masses. Personally speaking, I’m still working daily to find that balance.
Pricing:
- Candles and home scents $8-$25
- GC Originals $5-$50
- Pillows $25-$60
- Decorative plates and pieces $10-$60
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Gardiancreek.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gardiancreekgifts?igsh=OGh3ZWpxZHFiejR4&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AmMN15Dke/?mibextid=wwXIfr
