About Amy

Welcome! I am Amy Jo Magee – an avid equestrian and designer of the leather goods, attire, and accessories sold through Black Diamond Designs.

I got the riding-bug when I was 12 years old after my non-horsey parents finally agreed to let me take lessons. I have been fortunate enough to have many phenomenal experiences competing at some of the country’s most prestigious venues sidesaddle. Everything from National Derbies, jumpers, and eventing – earning National Titles on home-bred mounts I brought up through the levels. Beyond that, I enjoy the sport of fox hunting, steeplechase, and am blessed to live in an area with endless opportunities and events to enjoy horses.

A former ER nurse, I live with my husband and two children in Chester County, PA. We are blessed to have enough acreage where I care for my home-bred horses, enjoy long-distance running, and help my children raise their Nigerian Dwarf dairy goats for 4-H.

Why design tack?

My mom was a talented seamstress and taught me to sew. She helped me develop my skills as I began tailoring my show attire into my adult years. I always had an interest in turnout, and sidesaddle turnout takes the cake in my book!

What started as a goal of customizing my attire, quickly progressed to altering my tack for the perfect fit. While I never got the ability to apprentice with a Master Saddler, I have been very lucky to have several who have taken me under their wing and teach me the skills necessary for success. Most recently I have been working with Michael Stokes of Centaur Saddlery refining my skillset needed to keep these antique saddles in working order. As those close to me know, I take great pride in the littlest details.

I am proud of the products I have created for like-minded equestrians. This is Black Diamond Designs tack, attire, and accessories. I know the energy and love I have spent testing, designing, creating, and tweaking to perfection is reflected in the end product. I thank everyone who has supported and encouraged me along the way!

What’s with the side saddle obsession…

I was always drawn to the ladies aside, and ever since I started riding I wanted to be just like them. In 1991 Joy Carrier came and spoke to my equestrian club in high school, and then we went to watch her show sidesaddle at the Devon Horse Show. I made it a goal to do that one day. In 1992 I got to try it for myself for the first time! In 1995 while on vacation, I found a sidesaddle for sale in a small tack shop. Even though I was on a college student budget, I unknowingly purchased a rare gem – a mint condition Owen, which I still have and ride in today. It was all downhill from there.

In 2001 a horse flipped over on me – breaking my back, pelvis, and left hip. When aside in a near-side saddle, your left leg does practically nothing. Since I have very little strength in my left leg, I actually feel stronger and more secure aside.

I love riding aside -it is my preferred method: I always sit a little straighter and smile a little wider when sidesaddle. It makes me feel elegant and feminine while being secure and safe. As many know, I am always willing to answer questions and help others get started in the sport I so dearly love.

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