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Legendary Temecula store offers something for everybody, even in tough times. Big Horse Feed and Mercantile has epitomized one-stop equestrian shopping since opening 22 years ago. It has weathered tough times for all brick-and-mortar retailers in the internet shopping era. In the current time of COVID, the 8,000-square foot store, its owner Rose Corona and its service-driven staff have been beacons of persistence and resilience when it comes to helping customers feed, care for and enjoy their horses and the equestrian lifestyle.
In “normal” times, Big Horse has been a favorite stop for last-minute shoppers, often “horse husbands” looking for that perfect gift for their wives. Because of worldwide issues in the manufacturing supply chain, there will likely be delays in restocking inventory this year. Shopping early is Rose’s advice as last-minute shoppers may be out of luck if restocking isn’t possible.
There is, however, plenty of time to take advantage of one of Big Horse’s most popular offerings: the wish list. Like a wedding gift registry, this service enables horse owners and equestrian lifestyle enthusiasts to visit the store and touch, feel and/or try on items, then make a wish list. A Big Horse team member will keep the list to help when a friend or family member calls or visits the store wondering what that person might like. Rose calls it the “be a hero not a zero” gift giving guarantee and it’s been a big hit for many years.
The wish list system is offered year-round and is particularly popular over the holidays. It has greatly reduced disappointments on the part of the gift receiver and returns to the store. Another tradition that continues is Big Horse’s emphasis on maintaining a knowledgeable sales team and providing great customer service. Situated in the middle of fast growing, but still horse-dense Temecula, the store attracts a mix of shoppers who know exactly what they want and others who appreciate help determining which of the multiple options in every product category best suit their needs. Plus the many who arrive without a firm idea what they want, trusting Big Horse’s reliable promise of having something for everybody. A helpful staff is a big plus over online shopping, as is the ability to compare ingredients, materials and other characteristics side by side. And with tack, apparel and home decor, there’s no substitute for the sensory input of touch and feel.
Big Horse was not able to conduct its famous Corn Maze fall festival this year, a community favorite and powerful fundraiser for military-related charitable organizations. Otherwise, it’s been able to carry on through tough times and keep serving horse owners and enthusiasts. Rose is grateful to longtime loyal customers for their continued support and she encourages all to support local family-owned businesses of all kinds. “It’s not just the owners you’re helping, it’s everybody they employ and every manufacturer we buy from and their staff too.”
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