For over five decades, the picturesque landscape surrounding Lake Tahoe has been the backdrop for magical journeys courtesy of Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides, a family-owned business that has woven itself into the fabric of the region’s tourism and community. What began as a humble raffle prize and a child’s pony ride has blossomed into a cherished enterprise, now helmed by Dianna Borges and her family, who continue to deliver unforgettable experiences to generations of visitors. This enduring legacy, rooted in a deep love for animals and a commitment to creating joy, serves as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in the small business landscape.
The genesis of Borges Sleigh and Carriage Rides, as it was initially known, can be traced back to 1967. The improbable start came when husband Dwight Borges’ father, Sam Borges, won a pony in a raffle. This small stroke of luck, coupled with a fondness for the popular television show Bonanza, led to the naming of the pony "Little Joe." What followed was a natural progression from offering pony rides to neighborhood children to acquiring the first horse and sleigh. Sam and his wife, Rosie, then established an agreement with Brooks Park, utilizing their cattle fields for enchanting winter sleigh rides. This early foundation laid the groundwork for what would become a multi-generational business.
The torch was eventually passed to Dianna and Dwight Borges, who have since embraced the family tradition with unwavering dedication. Their commitment extends beyond mere business operations; it’s a lifestyle. "What we do is not a job…it’s a lifestyle," Dianna explains, underscoring the constant demands and profound rewards of their work. The daily rhythm begins at 6 a.m. with feeding the horses and concludes with another feeding at 6 p.m. This routine, however, is just the surface of a far more intricate operation. The care of the horses involves maintaining pastures, tending to fences, and responding to the unpredictable needs of these magnificent animals, which can extend to late-night rescues from escaped stalls. The hours are long and often unquantifiable, as the well-being of their equine partners takes precedence.
Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides offers a diverse range of experiences, adapting to the seasons and catering to a wide array of special occasions. During the festive holiday season, they transform into "Santa’s personal Uber," participating in local tree lightings, Santa sleigh rides, Christmas caroling events, and other community festivities. Their involvement in these events not only brings cheer to the community but also provides a significant portion of their annual business. Beyond the holidays, the company provides carriage rides for a multitude of celebrations, including birthdays, marriage proposals, and weddings. They also cater to significant cultural milestones like Quinceañeras and Sweet Sixteens, adding a touch of elegance and magic to these important events.
Throughout the year, they offer both one-hour and 30-minute tours. In the winter, the rides take place on the north shore near Sand Harbor, offering breathtaking views of the lake. As the weather warms, the focus shifts to a more urban-style carriage tour, weaving through areas with shops and restaurants, and extending down to the lakefront. The stable currently houses approximately 15 horses, each playing a vital role in delivering these memorable experiences.
Despite the picturesque nature of their business, running a sleigh and carriage ride company presents unique challenges, particularly concerning public perception. Dianna highlights the persistent misconception that their industry exploits animals for profit. "A lot of people assume that the majority of us only work our animals to make money. But, that couldn’t be further from the truth," she states emphatically. The reality, she explains, is that the horses thrive on the work and the human interaction it provides. Many of their older horses, even in their 30s, show signs of depression when they are not engaged in their work and interacting with people. This deep connection and understanding of their animals’ needs is a cornerstone of their operation. They adhere to stringent regulations and prioritize the well-being of their horses above all else, a fact often overlooked by those unfamiliar with the industry. This transparency and dedication to animal welfare are crucial in combating negative stereotypes perpetuated by misinformed media portrayals.
The financial and administrative aspects of running a small business are often less glamorous than the public-facing services. For Dianna and Dwight, who readily admit they are "not accountants," navigating these complexities can be daunting. This is where their partnership with Patriot Software has become invaluable. Dianna praises Patriot’s user-friendly interface, noting its ease of learning for individuals without a formal accounting background. "Patriot has been very flexible for us," she remarks, emphasizing the software’s efficiency for a small business that must manage numerous operational facets. The accessibility of customer support has also been a significant advantage. "Getting hold of people at Patriot for help has been relatively easy," she notes, contrasting this positive experience with less responsive interactions with larger software providers. The cost-effectiveness and ease of use provided by Patriot Software have relieved a significant administrative burden, allowing the Borges family to focus more on their core business: creating joyful experiences.
When reflecting on their accomplishments, Dianna points to their overarching motto and mission: to make people happy. The core objective is to provide customers with memories that last a lifetime, a mission they believe is a profound privilege. The ability to offer such a unique and heartwarming service, touching the hearts of their guests, is a source of immense pride. This accomplishment is a shared success, attributed to their dedicated team, their beloved animals, and the joy they collectively bring to others.
Beyond the demanding yet fulfilling work, Dianna and Dwight embrace a spirit of adventure and exploration. They are avid travelers, with Dianna citing Antarctica as a favorite destination and Dwight favoring Costa Rica. These journeys, often undertaken with their family and horses on their ranch, provide a balance to their demanding work schedule. Even on days off, they might be found riding their horses on trails, offering their equine partners a change of pace and scenery. Their travels also extend to experiencing sleigh rides around the globe, a way to connect with different cultures and people. This global perspective reinforces their belief in shared human experiences, highlighting the similarities that bind people together across diverse backgrounds.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those looking to make a positive impact on their communities, the Borges family offers a timeless piece of advice, passed down through generations: "Find what it is you love doing and make money doing it." While acknowledging that all businesses face challenges, they emphasize that a deep-seated love for one’s work is the fuel that sustains individuals through adversity. The sentiment, "If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life," encapsulates their philosophy and their enduring success.
Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides stands as a vibrant example of a small business that has not only endured for over half a century but has also thrived by staying true to its core values. Their story is one of family, passion, dedication to animal welfare, and an unwavering commitment to creating magical moments for their customers. As they continue to navigate the evolving landscape of tourism and small business operations, their legacy of enchantment and enduring passion serves as an inspiration, proving that with love, hard work, and a touch of magic, dreams can indeed come true, one sleigh ride at a time. The company’s ability to adapt, from its humble beginnings to embracing modern business tools like Patriot Software, while staying rooted in its foundational principles, positions it for continued success in the years to come. Their story, a blend of historical charm and contemporary business acumen, is a powerful narrative within the broader tapestry of American small businesses.
About the Author
