For those unfamiliar with the equestrian world, explaining the depth of this passion can often lead to bewildered expressions. Yet, a dedicated group of riders manages to not only live within this intricate equestrian bubble but also seamlessly integrate it into their public lives. Teddi Mellencamp, a wife, mother, accountability coach, and accomplished equestrian, recently joined the cast of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. An episode showcased Teddi’s dedication to her sport, featuring an excursion with the housewives to watch her compete in a horse show. This article offers a glimpse into how Teddi Mellencamp expertly balances these diverse aspects of her life.
Teddi Mellencamp, daughter of the renowned musician John Mellencamp, began her equestrian journey at the tender age of 3 in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Her early fascination with horses quickly blossomed into an enduring passion. By age 7, she was consistently competing on the A circuit, guided by esteemed trainers such as Don Stewart and Jack Towell. Her junior career was marked by considerable success with a variety of talented ponies and horses. At 17, she relocated to California, choosing to step away from riding temporarily to explore life in Los Angeles.
After a six to seven-year tenure at a talent agency, Teddi found herself drawn back to her love for horses. She reconnected with her former trainer, Don, to resume riding in California, eventually finding a mentor in trainer Archie Cox. For approximately ten years, she thrived as a professional rider, dedicating her days to schooling numerous horses and attending competitions almost every weekend. The arrival of her children presented new challenges, making it difficult to sustain the demanding schedule of a professional rider alongside motherhood. Consequently, she opted for a year-long hiatus to regain amateur status, allowing her to continue showing as an adult amateur.
Mellencamp shared that taking a break from riding was one of the most impactful decisions she made. These years provided her with valuable perspective, enabling her to discover her identity as an individual outside of the equestrian sphere. This renewed mindset proved beneficial upon her return to the sport. Today, riding serves as her anchor, providing a sanctuary where life’s stresses dissipate. Regardless of external pressures, the simple act of mounting a horse allows her to focus solely on the profound connection between herself and the animal. This practice has also cultivated a greater sense of presence, as any lapse in focus can directly impact her performance. As a highly competitive rider, Teddi admitted to experiencing pre-show jitters, as seen in a recent RHOBH episode, due to the fear of disappointing her trainer, horse, and herself. Demonstrating her enduring skill, she ultimately won her class.
Unseen by the viewers was Teddi’s precise pre-show routine: consuming three small cups of water, adjusting her breeches, mentally rehearsing the course three times, offering her horse a reassuring pat, and then entering the ring. Her core advice, both for herself and others, is simple yet profound: “Your one job today is to stay the same pace.” This mantra, she explains, allows her to perform as if she had never taken a break from showing.
In the spirit of New Year’s resolutions, when asked about her equestrian goals for 2018, Teddi expressed a preference for riding out of genuine passion rather than imposing pressure on herself or her children. This approach aligns perfectly with her structured daily schedule: waking around 4:30 AM for a workout before her children and husband rise, followed by school drop-offs, work with her accountability clients, riding sessions (if time permits), after-school activities, and family dinners.
Naturally, the conversation turned to equestrian fashion. Teddi’s preferred equestrian brand is Callidae, alongside pieces from Valencia Saddlery. She elaborated on the outfit she wore during the RHOBH episode’s horse show: the classic Callidae breeches in stone, which she finds both flattering and versatile for transitioning from the stable to social engagements. She also sported The Show Shirt by Callidae in White Dobby, describing it as both classic and chic. Teddi noted the challenge of finding show shirts that are simultaneously comfortable and stylish, and she believes this particular shirt achieves that balance. Rounding out her ensemble was the Callidae C2 Belt, which she found more comfortable for jumping than her Hermes belt.
Callidae kindly provided the same outfit, and I can personally attest to the exceptional quality of these garments, further enhanced by a favorite team jacket. Teddi and I concurred that the bomber jacket’s perfect cut—neither too long nor too short—complements the breeches beautifully. Included are photographs of me wearing Teddi’s exact ensemble, showcasing the exquisite details of the Callidae pieces.
I am immensely grateful to Teddi for sharing her insights into her diverse ventures, both equestrian and otherwise. Having experienced the demanding culture of Los Angeles, meeting someone as accomplished, humble, and grounded as Teddi was a refreshing experience. You can follow her on Instagram here, and don’t miss her appearances on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills on Bravo, Tuesdays at 9 PM.
xo, Bethany
Wearing Callidae breeches, show shirt and bomber with Katharine Page ballet flatsWearing Callidae breeches, show shirt and bomber with Katharine Page ballet flats
