The gentle crunch of snow underfoot, the rhythmic clip-clop of hooves, and the breathtaking panorama of Lake Tahoe – these are the sensory hallmarks of Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides, a family-owned business that has been weaving magic for over five decades. What began with a raffle-won pony has blossomed into a cherished local institution, offering unforgettable experiences that capture the spirit of winter wonder and the charm of bygone eras. This enduring legacy, now steered by Dianna Borges and her family, is a testament to passion, dedication, and a profound love for both their animals and their community.
The genesis of Borges Sleigh and Carriage Rides, now known as Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides, dates back to 1967. The unlikely catalyst for this enduring enterprise was a pony named Little Joe, won by Sam Borges in a raffle. Inspired by his favorite character from the classic Western series Bonanza, Sam’s vision quickly expanded beyond simple pony rides for neighborhood children. Soon, the family acquired their first horse and sleigh, forging an agreement with Brooks Park to offer enchanting rides across their cattle fields during the winter months. This humble beginning laid the foundation for a business that would become synonymous with festive celebrations and picturesque excursions in the heart of Nevada.
The torch was eventually passed to Dianna Borges and her husband, Dwight, who have continued to nurture and expand the family tradition. Today, their own children are actively involved, ensuring the continuation of the business’s core values and its deep-rooted connection to the community. This multi-generational commitment underscores the profound personal investment that fuels Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides, transforming it from a mere business into a way of life.
A Spectrum of Enchanting Experiences
Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides offers a diverse array of services, catering to a wide range of occasions and seasons. During the festive holiday period, the company affectionately refers to itself as "Santa’s personal Uber," a fitting description for their integral role in numerous community events. They are a beloved fixture at tree lightings, Santa sleigh rides, Christmas caroling events, and other special city gatherings, bringing joy and a touch of holiday magic to thousands.
Beyond the yuletide season, their horse-drawn carriages provide a romantic and memorable backdrop for life’s significant milestones. Birthdays, marriage proposals, and weddings are frequently enhanced by the unique charm of a carriage ride. The company also caters to celebrations such as Quinceañeras and Sweet Sixteens, adding an element of timeless elegance to these important coming-of-age events.
The business operates year-round, offering both one-hour and 30-minute tours. During the winter months, the sleigh rides take place on the scenic north shore near Sand Harbor, providing unparalleled views of the majestic Lake Tahoe. As the seasons change, the focus shifts to carriage rides, which can be city-style tours near local shops and restaurants, or more leisurely excursions that lead down to the lake. The operation currently boasts a team of approximately 15 horses, each meticulously cared for and integral to the company’s success.
A Lifestyle, Not Just a Job
For Dianna Borges, the operation of Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides transcends the traditional definition of employment. “What we do is not a job…it’s a lifestyle,” she states emphatically. The demands of caring for a herd of horses mean that the work is continuous, extending far beyond standard business hours. Daily routines begin at 6 a.m. with feeding the horses and conclude with another feeding at 6 p.m. The responsibilities extend to maintaining pastures, fences, and attending to any unforeseen issues that may arise, even in the middle of the night. This all-encompassing commitment makes quantifying exact work hours a challenge, as the well-being of the animals and the seamless operation of the business are constant priorities.
Despite the long hours and inherent hard work, there is a profound sense of privilege associated with their lifestyle. The Borges family lives on a beautiful property, surrounded by their beloved horses, and engages in work that brings happiness to themselves and others. This duality of demanding labor and deep personal fulfillment defines their professional existence.
Navigating Misconceptions in the Animal Services Industry
One of the most significant challenges faced by Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides, and indeed the broader horse-drawn entertainment industry, is combating public misconceptions. Dianna Borges articulates this struggle, noting the prevalent assumption that businesses like hers exploit their animals solely for financial gain. This, she emphasizes, is a gross misrepresentation of their core values.
“We love our horses and want to see them treated right,” Borges asserts, attributing some of the negative perceptions to media portrayals that have, in her view, unfairly tarnished the industry’s reputation. A critical aspect of their work involves educating the public about the genuine needs and well-being of their horses. Contrary to the notion of forced labor, Borges explains that horses require work and exercise to maintain their health and vitality.
Furthermore, she highlights a surprising truth: their horses often enjoy their work. She shares an anecdote about two horses in their thirties who, due to age, can no longer be worked extensively. However, these horses exhibit signs of depression and lethargy when they lack human interaction, underscoring their social nature and their positive engagement with their roles. Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides adheres to stringent regulations and consistently prioritizes the welfare of their animals.
The lack of widespread personal experience with horses among the general public contributes to these misunderstandings. Borges likens it to judging someone’s affinity for pet spiders without understanding the nuances of that hobby. Transparency is paramount in their communication with customers and the wider community, aiming to bridge the gap in understanding and foster appreciation for the unique bond between humans and horses. The unwavering support of thousands of customers, who recognize and value their passion for their animals, is a powerful affirmation and a driving force behind their continued success. The sight of a child’s eyes lighting up at the sight of one of their magnificent horses makes all the effort worthwhile.
The Role of Technology in a Traditional Business
In an era where technology permeates every aspect of commerce, even a business steeped in tradition like Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides benefits from modern solutions. Patriot Software, a provider of accounting and payroll solutions, has become an invaluable partner for the Borges family. Dianna Borges highlights the software’s user-friendliness, noting that it has been particularly beneficial given their lack of formal accounting backgrounds.
“Patriot has been very flexible for us. It was very easy for us to learn, especially since we’re not accountants,” she states. As a small business where individuals often wear multiple hats, efficiency is paramount. Patriot Software has streamlined their financial management processes, providing a crucial support system that allows them to focus on their core operations.
The accessibility of customer support from Patriot Software is another key advantage. Unlike experiences with larger companies, the Borges family has found it relatively easy to connect with representatives for assistance. This cost-effective and user-friendly solution has been instrumental in reducing their administrative burden, offering one less worry in the complex landscape of running a small business.
Pride in Creating Lasting Memories
At the heart of Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides lies a profound pride in their motto and mission: to make people happy. Their primary objective is to create memories that endure a lifetime, a goal they achieve through the unique experiences they offer. Borges considers it a significant blessing to provide something so special to their clientele. She believes that touching the hearts of guests and creating these memorable moments requires a special kind of person and a dedicated team. Their shared love for their animals and the joy of sharing that passion with guests and team members forms the bedrock of their business philosophy.
Balancing Work and Passion
When not immersed in the demanding yet rewarding work of running their business, Dianna and Dwight Borges embrace opportunities for exploration and family time. They are avid travelers, both domestically and internationally. Antarctica stands out as Dianna’s favorite destination, while Costa Rica holds a special place in Dwight’s heart. Their travels are often intertwined with their passion for horses, seeking out sleigh rides around the globe and engaging with diverse cultures. These experiences foster a deeper understanding of global similarities, highlighting commonalities that often outweigh perceived differences.
Back home, their leisure time is dedicated to their family and, of course, their horses. Trail rides on their own horses provide a welcome opportunity for both exercise and a chance to connect with their beloved animals in a more relaxed setting. This philosophy of “work hard, play hard” encapsulates their approach to life, ensuring a balance between professional commitment and personal rejuvenation.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For individuals aspiring to launch their own small businesses and make a positive impact on their communities, the Borges family offers a piece of timeless advice, a mantra passed down through generations: "Find what it is you love doing and make money doing it." They acknowledge that all businesses encounter challenges. However, a deep-seated love for one’s work serves as a powerful motivator, enabling entrepreneurs to persevere through adversity. The ultimate reward, they suggest, is the feeling of never truly working a day in your life because you are immersed in something you genuinely adore.
Connecting with Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides:
- Website: https://www.sleighride.com/
- Social Media: (Links would typically be included here if available in the original content)
This customer received a gift card as a thank you for sharing their story and unbiased feedback.
This article has been 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.
About the Author
