Sarah Kiem.
Founder, Owner, Designer.
As the founder and owner of The Polished Horse Rider, Sarah plans, organises and manages the daily operation of the business, including things such as product development and the Team Rider Program. The PHR pieces you find on this website were all designed by Sarah, with assistance from her mum Lisa.
What’s your personal mantra?
“I have a few, but a powerful one I love is:
‘If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.’”
Sarah has been riding for over 25 years, and currently owns 4 gorgeous eventing horses that live with her on her property in the Mid North Coast region of NSW. As an adult rider Sarah struggled to find riding apparel that fit her neatly, which is where the PHR journey started.
Sarah was surrounded by fabric and sewing growing up, spending hours with her grandmother who was a talented dressmaker specialising in wedding dresses and children’s clothing. She has always been a creative person who loves fashion and believes the greatest style you can wear is your own version, not what others decide is trendy.
What do you love most about running PHR?
"I love designing apparel that allows our customers to express their personality and feel amazing while doing what they love. I also enjoy the community we're building online through our socials. It's a beautiful, supportive group of people. PHR has never been about making a million dollars, but more about being an Aussie-focused community brand with a family feel."
What’s your favourite PHR item?
“I really can’t answer that, I love all of our designs!”
Since studying psychology and criminology, Sarah has been fortunate enough to lead and collaborate with some inspirational people from many different walks of life. Her love for community extends outside of PHR, having run an Army Cadet Unit for adolescents prior to starting her business, and these days enjoying the challenges of the Rural Fire Service and a school publicity role.
Sarah also has a side hustle which is about empowering ladies to be the best version of themselves and know that they are enough.
“I'm really feeling the need to contribute to the movement in this area. There are many aspects to tackle and perhaps our brand can help by starting some conversations with the amazing ladies in our community."
"Since having a profound experience as a teenager I’ve been drawn to anything related to the paranormal or horror genre. Books, movies, tv, documentaries, even real-life ghost hunts. I'm just fascinated by it all!"
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