For over half a century, Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides, a venerable Nevada-based enterprise, has been weaving a tapestry of magical experiences for its patrons. What began as a humble raffle prize and a child’s pony ride has blossomed into a multi-generational family business synonymous with breathtaking scenery and cherished memories. This enduring legacy, rooted in a deep affection for both horses and the joy they bring to people, is celebrated by Patriot Software, a company dedicated to empowering small businesses.
The genesis of this unique venture traces back to 1967, a time when the spirit of Western adventure still resonated deeply. Sam Borges, the patriarch of the family, received a pony named Little Joe—a nod to a beloved character from the iconic television show Bonanza—as a raffle prize. This seemingly serendipitous win sparked an idea that would captivate imaginations for decades to come. Initially, Sam offered simple pony rides to neighborhood children, a small beginning that foreshadowed the grander ambitions to come. The evolution from pony rides to horse-drawn sleighs was a natural progression, fueled by Sam’s growing passion and vision. He soon acquired his first horse and sleigh, and in partnership with Brooks Park, began offering scenic sleigh rides across his cattle fields during the crisp Nevada winters. This early collaboration laid the groundwork for the business’s future, establishing a tradition of providing unique, season-appropriate entertainment.
The reins of the family business were eventually passed down to Dianna Borges and her husband, Dwight. Today, their children are actively involved, carrying forward the family’s dedication and shared passion. This multi-generational involvement is not merely a matter of tradition but a testament to the deep-seated love for their work and the animals that are central to it. The Borges family expresses profound gratitude for the longevity of their enterprise, a sentiment underscored by the enduring appeal of their services.
Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides offers a diverse range of experiences, positioning themselves as the premier provider of enchanting excursions. During the festive holiday season, they become an integral part of community celebrations, often referred to with affection as "Santa’s personal Uber." Their services are frequently sought for pivotal events such as tree lightings and Santa-themed sleigh rides, bringing an unparalleled sense of wonder to these occasions. This year alone, the company has been a key participant in numerous tree lighting ceremonies, Christmas caroling events, and other special city gatherings, contributing significantly to the holiday spirit.
Beyond the yuletide cheer, the company provides bespoke carriage rides for a variety of significant life events. These include celebrations of love, such as marriage proposals and weddings, where the elegance of a horse-drawn carriage adds an unforgettable romantic touch. Their services have also been embraced for milestone birthdays and cultural celebrations like Quinceañeras and Sweet Sixteens, further diversifying their clientele and the celebratory moments they help create.
The company’s offerings extend throughout the year, with options for both one-hour and 30-minute tours. During the winter months, the allure of sleigh rides near Sand Harbor on the north shore of Lake Tahoe, with its spectacular lakeside vistas, draws many visitors. As the seasons transition to summer, the focus shifts to carriage rides that offer a more urban exploration, meandering through areas dotted with charming shops and restaurants, and also providing picturesque routes down to the lake. The operational fleet currently comprises approximately 15 horses, a testament to the scale and demand for their services.
Dianna Borges articulates a profound perspective on the nature of their work, stating, "What we do is not a job…it’s a lifestyle." This philosophy encapsulates the all-encompassing commitment required to manage a business centered around live animals. The daily routine begins before dawn and extends well into the evening, characterized by constant care and attention. Feeding the horses is a twice-daily ritual, occurring at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Beyond feeding, the upkeep of pastures, fences, and the general well-being of the horses demands vigilance. Unexpected events, such as a horse escaping its stall in the middle of the night, necessitate immediate attention, underscoring the 24/7 nature of their responsibilities. Consequently, quantifying the exact number of work hours per week is a challenge, as the business operates continuously, adapting to the needs of their animals and clients.
Despite the demanding schedule, the Borges family views their lifestyle as a privilege. They operate year-round, with adjusted hours during the winter, but the commitment remains unwavering. The hard work is balanced by the profound satisfaction derived from their beautiful surroundings, their beloved horses, and the joy they bring to others. This dedication is a cornerstone of their business, transforming arduous labor into a fulfilling way of life.
One of the most significant challenges faced by Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides, according to Dianna, lies in public perception and industry misconceptions. There exists a prevalent assumption that businesses in this sector prioritize profit over animal welfare. Dianna vehemently refutes this notion, asserting that their deep affection for their horses is paramount. She attributes a portion of this negative stereotyping to media portrayals that have, in her view, tarnished the reputation of the horse-riding industry.
A key aspect of their mission is to educate the public about the vital role that work and exercise play in maintaining a horse’s health and happiness. Dianna emphasizes that their horses genuinely enjoy their roles, often exhibiting signs of distress or listlessness when not engaged in their work. She cites examples of horses in their thirties, too old for strenuous work, who still crave human interaction and engagement, highlighting their intrinsic desire to be part of the team. The company rigorously adheres to all relevant regulations and consistently prioritizes the welfare of their animals. The prevailing misapprehensions surrounding horse ownership create an ongoing challenge, necessitating a commitment to transparency and open communication with clients and the broader community. Dianna likens the public’s lack of understanding to judging someone for keeping spiders as pets, suggesting that personal biases can cloud objective assessment. The unwavering support of thousands of customers, who recognize and appreciate their dedication, is what sustains the business. The visible delight in a child’s eyes upon encountering one of their horses serves as the ultimate affirmation of their efforts.
In navigating the complexities of running a small business, particularly one with such unique operational demands, reliable administrative tools are essential. Patriot Software has proven to be an invaluable partner for Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides. Dianna highlights the software’s flexibility and user-friendliness, noting its particular benefit for individuals who are not professional accountants. As a small business that requires its owners to manage a multitude of responsibilities, the efficiency provided by Patriot Software is highly valued. The ease of accessing support from Patriot has been a significant advantage, especially when contrasted with experiences with larger software providers where customer service could be cumbersome. Patriot’s cost-effectiveness and intuitive interface have streamlined their administrative processes, freeing up valuable time and mental energy to focus on the core aspects of their business. The software has become a trusted tool, alleviating concerns about financial management and allowing them to dedicate more attention to their horses and clients.
The pride of Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides is deeply intertwined with their guiding motto and mission: to bring happiness to people. Their primary objective is to create lasting memories for their customers, a mission they consider a profound blessing. They believe that offering such a special experience requires a unique skill set and a genuine connection with their guests. The team at Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides is dedicated to fostering this connection, sharing their love for their animals and their passion for their work with both guests and each other.
When not immersed in the demands of their business, Dianna and Dwight Borges engage in a lifestyle that mirrors their adventurous spirit. They are avid travelers, exploring both domestic and international destinations. Dianna’s personal highlight is Antarctica, while Dwight’s favorite is Costa Rica. Their travels often involve seeking out sleigh rides in various parts of the world, an activity that allows them to connect with new cultures and people. These journeys have reinforced their belief in the fundamental similarities that bind humanity, revealing more commonalities than differences across the globe. Their personal time is also dedicated to their family and their horses at their ranch, where they often embark on trail rides for leisure and to provide their horses with additional exercise. This approach embodies their philosophy of working hard and playing hard.
For aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a meaningful impact on their communities, the Borges family offers a piece of wisdom passed down through generations: "Find what it is you love doing and make money doing it." They acknowledge that all businesses encounter challenges, but a genuine passion for one’s work provides the resilience needed to overcome them. The core message is that loving what you do transforms labor into fulfillment, making the pursuit of a business endeavor feel less like work and more like a calling.
Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides’ commitment to customer satisfaction and their enduring legacy of enchantment continue to define their presence in the Nevada landscape. Their story, a blend of entrepreneurial spirit, animal husbandry, and a deep-seated desire to create joy, serves as an inspiration to small businesses nationwide. The company’s ongoing success underscores the value of passion, perseverance, and the unique magic that can be created when dedication meets opportunity. The article was updated from its original publication date of December 13, 2019, to reflect the company’s name change from Borges Sleigh and Carriage Rides to Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides, a testament to their evolving identity and continued growth.
Connect with Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides online: [Link to website or social media would typically be here]
This customer received a gift card as a thank you for sharing their story and unbiased feedback.
About the Author
