METIER first came close to the equestrian world in Ecuador during a FEI Panamerican Championship that was held last year in Guayaquil. This event drew many delegations from countries like Venezuela, Chile, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Argentina among all of who recognized right away our world-famous hats. We made sure to share the story with everyone we came in touch with about the wrongly named, perfectly made "Panama Hat" as they called them and how they have always been made in Ecuador. The hats were the most popular item during the 5 day event. On the last day everyone had their own METIER, nobody with the same hat as someone else. Everyone loved their hats. People appreciated the breezyness of the natural straw that provided their faces with shade and felt so light. The one of a kind style each METIER hat has gives everyone the confidence to wear their METIER with great attitude. It was there that someone mentioned Wellington. After having such an enriching intercultural experience with the panamerican event we got really excited about being part of the Winter Equestrian Festival 2012 (WEF), the longest equestrian event in the world drawing olympic, amateur and junior athletes from all over during 12 consecutive weeks.
The WEF has been a priceless experience that allowed us to connect with a passionate, determined, authentic, joyous group of people that have reinforced our mission and motivation to do what we do. It is a stepping stone that has opened so many paths and new opportunities that we'll make sure to share with all of you as we keep moving forward. For now we want to share some of our moments over the past 12 weeks experiencing the equestrian lifestyle.
Have a look at some moments from this experience at: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150803676866323.461956.222674131322&type=1