We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Yuki Khona. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Yuki below.

Alright, Yuki thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.

You know that moment when you realize you just can’t keep doing the same thing forever? That was me, sitting in traffic for the millionth time, commuting three hours a day to a job I was good at but didn’t love. I’d spent my whole career in corporate America, analyzing data, playing it safe, doing what I was supposed to do. And then one day, it hit me—this isn’t it. This isn’t enough.

So, I did something absolutely insane. I started Kultured Rider.

Now, let me back up a little. My dad has been in the textile industry forever, so you’d think I would have naturally gravitated toward it. Nope. I ran straight in the opposite direction, straight into supply chain, where everything was predictable and structured. But deep down, I always had this creative itch. I wanted to design, to make something beautiful, something people would wear and feel amazing in.

That’s how Kultured Rider was born—a brand for equestrians who want to feel feminine and special. Not just another line of western wear, but a brand that truly gets customization. We don’t just sell clothes; we create exactly what you want. That’s the magic of being our own manufacturer—we can bring your dream outfit to life.

But here’s the truth: it’s still terrifying. I ask myself all the time—do people actually want this? Is there a market for it? Did I just throw myself into the deep end without checking if there’s water? I launched Kultured Rider in August 2024, and let me tell you—it has been a wild ride. We’ve been busy (which is amazing), and I can feel something big building. But I won’t lie—I’m still working my 9-5 while chasing my 5-9 dream. Some days, I wonder if I’ve lost my mind. Other days, I’m so fired up I can hardly sit still.

The risk? It’s huge. But the reward? It’s already showing up in ways I never imagined. Seeing people light up when they put on something we created just for them? That’s why I did this. That’s why I’ll keep pushing, even when it’s scary.

So yeah, I took a risk. And you know what? I think it’s going to be so worth it.

Yuki, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

You know when you hit a point in life where you realize something has to change? That was me, stuck in traffic for the millionth time, commuting three-plus hours a day to a job I didn’t love. I had spent decades in corporate America, playing it safe, following the rules. But deep down, I wanted more. I wanted to create. I wanted to build something of my own.

That’s how Kultured Rider was born—a brand designed for the modern cowgirl who wants customization, class, quality, and something she can actually wear right now. I saw a gap in the industry. The options out there? Mass-produced, stiff, boxy, and lacking soul. I wanted to design something different—pieces that flow, that move, that make women feel feminine, beautiful, and powerful in and out of the arena.

We cover it all—essentials, show-to-street, couture, and everything in between—and because we manufacture our own products, we’re not limited by what’s already on the market. We can create for any discipline—ranch riding, cutters, reiners, barrel racers, ropers, western pleasure riders—you name it. And the best part? These aren’t just show pieces. When you spend thousands on a custom jacket, shouldn’t you be able to wear it beyond the arena? That’s what Kultured Rider is all about—beautiful, high-quality pieces designed to be worn and loved.

Here’s the honest truth: Kultured Rider is still in its early days, and I won’t pretend I don’t have doubts. Is there a market for this? Will people love it as much as I do? Some days, the uncertainty is terrifying. But even with the risk, I know I’m onto something. The excitement, the vision—it’s there, and I’m chasing it with everything I have.

And the crazy part? The industry is already noticing. We made our first big appearance at WESA (Western & English Sales Association), and not only did we show up—we showed out.

We were featured in their fashion shows alongside HUGE brands like Double D, Resistol, and Wrangler. We could hardly believe it! And our capes? They’ve already made a splash, becoming a top seller and even being worn by influencers at NFR (National Finals Rodeo).

We also have some amazing business deals in the works (that we can’t talk about just yet), but let’s just say—we are so excited for where Kultured Rider is headed.

So if you’re looking for something unique, something that fits you, something that makes you feel as unstoppable as you are in the saddle—welcome to Kultured Rider. We’re just getting started, and trust me, you’re going to want to be along for the ride.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

I’ll be honest—when I first stepped into this industry, I knew social media would be important, but I didn’t realize just how much of a game-changer it would be. The ability to gain traction, build a recognizable brand, and connect with the right people in such a short time? It still amazes me. We’re still growing, still finding our stride, but we’ve been very intentional about how we show up online.

One of the smartest things we did early on was aligning with influencers and well-known figures in the western industry. Not just for the sake of having them wear our pieces, but to make sure the right people—people who genuinely love western fashion and performance apparel—saw Kultured Rider in action. Western fashion is a big deal at major industry events, and we wanted to position ourselves where people were paying attention.

I also knew I needed the right team around me. I hired an incredible social media manager who truly understands my vision and helps shape the way we present ourselves online. Right now, we’re heavily focused on Facebook and Instagram, and TikTok has been a surprising success for us—especially with our capes. They catch the light, move beautifully, and, quite frankly, they steal the show. Video has been a huge asset in showcasing what makes our pieces special.

But beyond visibility, social media has done something even more valuable: it’s created real brand recognition. I can’t tell you how many messages I’ve received saying, “I saw Kultured Rider at WESA!” or “I found you through this influencer’s post!” That kind of exposure is invaluable, and so much of it has been organic. That’s something I’m really proud of—we’re not just pushing out ads or shouting into the void. We’re telling our story, and people are resonating with it.

If I could give one piece of advice to someone just starting out, it would be this: Be authentic. Don’t just post to sell—post to connect. Share your journey, your process, your wins, and even the moments of doubt. People don’t just want to buy a product; they want to believe in something. Give them a reason to believe in you.

Social media has played a major role in getting Kultured Rider to where we are today, and I have no doubt it will be a driving force in where we go next.

How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?

One thing about Kultured Rider—you’re never just a number to us. This brand isn’t some massive machine where you get lost in an endless loop of automated emails and customer service reps who don’t actually know the product. You’re talking to me. Directly. Because Kultured Rider is my baby, and I care deeply about every single piece that goes out into the world.

If you’re working on something custom, you’re not just placing an order—you’re having a conversation with me, the designer and the manufacturer. You love one of our styles, but you wish it came in a different color? We can change it. Need the fit adjusted? Done. Want a different button or fabric? No problem. That’s the beauty of Kultured Rider—we solve problems, and we give customers something truly theirs.

Even if you’re not going the custom route and are looking at wholesale options, you’re still getting that personal experience. I am with you every step of the way to make sure the pieces fit your vision, your customers, and your brand.

And that’s something I think people really appreciate—we aren’t some faceless corporation where you can’t get a real person on the phone. We are still small enough to keep that human touch, but big enough to deliver quality, customization, and service that feels elevated. In a world where AI and automation are replacing so much of the customer experience, I want Kultured Rider to be the exception.

That’s why we offer so many options—retail, wholesale, custom designs, private labeling—because I want to help bring your vision to life. Whether you’re looking for something one-of-a-kind or an entire line for your boutique, Kultured Rider is here to make it happen.

At the end of the day, people don’t just stay loyal to a brand—they stay loyal to the experience. And I want the Kultured Rider experience to be one that feels personal, effortless, and entirely unique.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kulturedrider.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kulturedrider/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561108045162
• Other: TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kulturedrider?lang=en

Image Credits

Sherry Smith Photography