For over a decade, my mom, Tammy Tappan, has been sculpting the beauty of the equestrian world in clay—translating movement, power, and connection into timeless bronze works. But no matter how refined the piece, visitors to her studio would always ask the same question: “Is that chocolate?”

We used to laugh it off. The earthy texture of the raw clay, the rich color—it did kind of look like dark chocolate. But somewhere along the way, that recurring question planted a seed. Tammy began to wonder: What if we actually did make them into chocolate? Not just any chocolate—artful, finely crafted bars inspired by her original sculptures.

The idea floated around for a while until it finally stuck—and then it took off.

That’s where I come in. I’m Taylor—Tammy’s daughter, and the founder of Equestrian Chocolate Company. I’ve spent years in the food service industry, and while my mom is the horse and sculpture expert, food is my language. When she asked me to take the reins of this wild, delicious idea, I couldn’t resist. It felt like the perfect fusion of our worlds—her artistry, my culinary roots—and a rare opportunity to build something of my own that still felt deeply connected to where I come from.

Chocolate has always been special to me. It’s nostalgic. Luxurious. Comforting and celebratory all at once. The kind of thing you savor, like a fine wine—complex, expressive, and deserving of intention. That’s the spirit we bring to Equestrian Chocolate Company: thoughtfully sourced beans, elegant molds crafted from Tammy’s original designs, and a level of detail that speaks to both the craft and the story behind it.

One afternoon not too long ago, our kitchen turned into a full-blown chocolate experiment zone. Tammy, my three-year-old daughter Harper, and I were pouring sample bars at home—making messes, laughing, and figuring it all out as we went. I honestly don’t know who I had to yell “Stop eating the product!!” at more—my mom or my toddler.

Throughout this journey, we’ve been lucky to work with Indigenous Chocolate—a husband-and-wife team run by Brent and Monique, who just so happen to be regulars at the restaurant where I wait tables. As a small business themselves, they’ve been incredibly generous with their time, knowledge, and support. Their guidance on the chocolate side of things has been essential in helping us shape this idea into something real—and something we’re truly proud to share.

At its core, Equestrian Chocolate Company is a small, woman-run business rooted in craft, connection, and creativity. We want you to feel a little moment of wonder when you unwrap one of our bars. To see the soul of the horse in the sculpted design. To taste the care we’ve poured into every detail.

Whether you’re a lifelong rider or simply a chocolate lover with an eye for beauty, we hope our bars bring you that feeling of delight—that “wait… what is this?” moment—followed by something even sweeter: the joy of discovering something truly original.

- Taylor Stewart, Founder