Wild to Willing Horsemanship - Santa Ynez, California

Jamie W.

Wild to Willing Horsemanship, led by Nicolette Birnie, is an incredible place to learn and grow as both a horse enthusiast and a person. Nicolette is an amazing horsewoman with a deep passion for working with Wild Mustangs and an impressive knowledge of various horse disciplines.

What sets Nicolette apart is her patience and kindness, not only with the horses but also with her students. She has a unique ability to connect with every horse and person she works with, allowing them to learn and progress at their own pace. Her training methods are thoughtful, compassionate, and effective, creating a trusting and positive environment for everyone involved.

As a volunteer at Wild to Willing Horsemanship, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how dedicated and skilled Nicolette is. Her approach inspires both confidence and respect, and it’s truly rewarding to be part of the incredible work she does.

If you’re looking for expert training, a deeper understanding of horsemanship, or an opportunity to work alongside someone who genuinely cares about her horses and students, Wild to Willing Horsemanship is the place to go. I can’t recommend Nicolette Birnie highly enough!

Diana F.

Watching Nicolette interact with her horses is like a dance set to music. Whether a symphony is playing or rock n roll she is present, kind, respectful and patient. I have witnessed her Mustangs respond in kind , slowly they trust, feel safe and relax in their herd. Participating in her Work to Ride program I have also experienced her commitment to sharing her love of horses and horsemanship skills with others . I have learned so much and will continue to do so.
Nicolette has spent a lifetime developing her equine communication skills , that is evident . She may though have an advantage, I’m sure part of her DNA is horse.

Tiffany M.

Nicolette is so gentle and patient. I feel like she really takes her time to teach us (as humans) how to handle and connect with these beautiful and amazing wild horses. Nicolette is so passionate about what she does and her authenticity shines through!

Allyson C.

Nicolette is gentle and thorough. Great at starting young horses and addressing issues with others. Highly recommend.

Pet D.

Nicolette's communication with mustangs is nothing short of miraculous. She commands their respect and cooperation through patience and mutual respect - and an innate understanding of horse psychology. She can read what a horse is thinking with a shift of its weight, a flick of an ear, a look in its eye. This kind of communication is the result of keen observation and long hours of practice. Truly impressive to see how her horses love to work with her.

Emily K.

Had such a wonderful experience! Nicolette is so talented and passionate in what she does! I learned so much from her and her horses.

Thomas S.

Incredible facility, people, and mission!

Helena M.

Wild to Willing ist mehr als nur eine Ranch. Es ist ein friedvoller Ort für Tiere und Menschen. Du kannst hier lernen zu reiten, Pferde zu trainieren nach Natural Horsemanship und auch den Umgang mit Wildpferden lernen. Gleichzeitig ist es der perfekte Ort für Urlaub, da es schön ruhig und toll gelegen ist. Du lebst hier mitten zwischen den Ranch Dörfern und neben Solvang. Von Santa Ynez aus kommst du zu den schönsten kalifornischen Stränden oder in die wundervolle Stadt Santa Barbara. Nicolette Birnie ist die beste Trainerin, die ich je gesehen habe. Sie hat unfassbar viel Erfahrung und die große Liebe zu den Tieren. Ich kann es von Herzen empfehlen.