For over five decades, the majestic landscape surrounding Lake Tahoe has been the backdrop for enchanting sleigh and carriage rides, a tradition meticulously preserved and passionately continued by Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides, formerly known as Borges Sleigh and Carriage Rides. This family-run enterprise, rooted in a serendipitous raffle win and a shared love for horses, has evolved into a cornerstone of local tourism, offering guests not just a ride, but an indelible memory. Patriot Software, a provider of accounting and payroll solutions for small businesses, recently highlighted the enduring success of Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides in its #PatriotSpotlight customer success series, underscoring the dedication and unique lifestyle of its owners, Dianna and Dwight Borges.
The genesis of this enduring business traces back to 1967, a period when the allure of the American West was still palpable. Sam Borges, Dianna’s father-in-law, experienced a stroke of luck when he won a pony in a raffle. This seemingly small prize ignited a grand vision. Inspired by his favorite character, "Little Joe" from the iconic Western television series Bonanza, the pony was christened with the same name, marking the beginning of a unique family endeavor. Initially, Sam offered simple pony rides to neighborhood children, a humble yet significant start. The dream soon expanded, and Sam acquired his first horse and sleigh. A pivotal moment arrived when Sam and his wife, Rosie, forged an agreement with Brooks Park, securing permission to conduct sleigh rides across his cattle fields during the winter months. This partnership laid the groundwork for a business that would not only endure but flourish through generations.
The torch of this cherished family legacy was eventually passed to Dianna and her husband, Dwight. Their stewardship has ensured the continuation of the Borges family’s passion for horses and customer delight. Today, the business is a true intergenerational effort, with their children actively participating in its operations. This shared commitment and deep-seated affection for their work are palpable, creating an atmosphere of warmth and authenticity that resonates with every guest. The company’s longevity, spanning over fifty years, is a testament to their unwavering dedication and the timeless appeal of their offerings.
Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides specializes in creating magical moments for a diverse clientele, functioning as a unique transportation service often described by Dianna as "Santa’s personal Uber." During the holiday season, the company becomes an integral part of local festivities, providing services for tree lightings, Santa sleigh rides, and other community events. Their involvement in these celebrations contributes significantly to the festive spirit of the region, offering families cherished experiences during this special time of year. Beyond the holiday rush, the company’s services extend to a variety of special occasions. Marriage proposals, birthdays, and weddings are frequently enhanced by the romantic and picturesque charm of a sleigh or carriage ride. The business has also catered to cultural celebrations like Quinceañeras and Sweet Sixteens, adding a distinctive flair to these important milestones.
The operational scope of Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides is impressive, with approximately 15 horses actively engaged in providing services. Year-round, they offer both one-hour and 30-minute tours. During the winter months, the north shore of Lake Tahoe, particularly near Sand Harbor State Park, becomes a breathtaking venue for sleigh rides. The stunning vistas of the lake and surrounding snow-capped mountains provide an unparalleled backdrop for this classic winter activity. In contrast, the summer months shift the focus to a more urban-style tour, meandering through areas rich with shops and restaurants, and offering scenic routes down to the lake’s edge. This adaptability allows them to cater to a wide range of preferences and seasonal opportunities.
The life of an owner-operator at Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides transcends the traditional concept of a 9-to-5 job. Dianna describes their involvement as a "lifestyle," emphasizing that the demands of caring for their horses and managing the business are perpetual. The day begins early, with feeding the horses at 6 a.m., and concludes with their evening meal at 6 p.m. Beyond feeding, the responsibilities encompass maintaining pastures, ensuring the integrity of fences, and addressing any unforeseen issues that may arise, even in the middle of the night. This unwavering commitment means that the "work hours" are often fluid and difficult to quantify in conventional terms. While the business operates year-round, winter months typically see a reduction in operating hours, yet the dedication to the horses and the business remains constant. Despite the considerable effort, Dianna expresses profound gratitude for their "privileged lifestyle," one that combines hard work with the joy of living amidst natural beauty and the satisfaction of bringing happiness to others.
One of the most significant challenges faced by Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides, and indeed the broader horse-drawn carriage and sleigh industry, stems from public perception. Dianna articulates that misconceptions about the treatment of working animals are a persistent hurdle. The pervasive assumption that these animals are exploited for profit stands in stark contrast to the reality of their deep affection and dedication to their horses’ well-being. Dianna attributes a portion of this negative perception to media portrayals that often fail to capture the nuances of responsible animal care in this industry.
A core challenge lies in educating the public about the vital role that work and exercise play in maintaining a horse’s health and happiness. Contrary to some beliefs, Dianna asserts that their horses genuinely enjoy their roles. She cites examples of older horses, some in their thirties, who, while no longer able to work extensively, exhibit signs of depression and a longing for human interaction when removed from their working routines. The animals are described as integral members of the team, actively participating and deriving satisfaction from their tasks. The business rigorously adheres to all relevant regulations and prioritizes the welfare of their animals above all else. The persistent misunderstanding, often fueled by a lack of direct experience with horses, necessitates a proactive approach to transparency. Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides strives to be open and communicative with customers and the public, aiming to demystify the realities of horse ownership and work.
The profound impact of their customer base is not lost on Dianna and her team. The thousands of individuals who have experienced their services are seen as vital to their sustained success. The genuine passion they hold for their animals is recognized and appreciated by their clientele, and the sight of a child’s face lighting up with wonder upon seeing one of their magnificent horses is the ultimate reward, validating the immense effort and dedication involved.
In managing the administrative aspects of their operation, Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides has found a valuable ally in Patriot Software. Dianna highlights the software’s flexibility and ease of use, particularly beneficial for a small business whose owners wear many hats and are not professional accountants. The efficiency and user-friendliness of the platform have proven instrumental in streamlining their operations, providing a crucial layer of support that allows them to focus on their core business. The accessibility of Patriot Software’s customer support has been another key factor. Compared to past experiences with larger software providers, Dianna notes that connecting with Patriot for assistance has been a far more straightforward and less arduous process. The cost-effectiveness and simplicity of the software, once mastered, have significantly reduced a layer of complexity in managing their business, affording them greater peace of mind.
The pride of Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides lies in their unwavering motto and mission: to bring happiness to people and create lifelong memories. This central objective fuels their dedication and underscores the unique value they provide. The ability to offer something so special, to touch the hearts of their guests through the magic of their horses and the beauty of their surroundings, is considered a profound blessing. It is a testament to the unique skills and empathetic nature of their team, who not only love their animals but are adept at sharing that love and passion with their guests and their own team members.
When not immersed in the demands of their business, Dianna and Dwight embrace a spirit of adventure and family connection. They are avid travelers, exploring both domestic and international destinations. Dianna’s personal favorite has been Antarctica, while Dwight holds a fondness for Costa Rica. These journeys often involve seeking out sleigh rides in various parts of the world, an endeavor that allows them to connect with new cultures and people. These experiences reinforce a broader perspective, revealing the commonalities that bind humanity and highlighting the similarities that often outweigh perceived differences. Back home, they cherish spending time with their family and, of course, their horses, often embarking on trail rides for exercise and enjoyment. This philosophy of "working hard, but also playing hard" encapsulates their approach to life and business.
For aspiring entrepreneurs aiming to make a significant impact within their communities, Dianna offers a piece of advice, a principle passed down through her husband’s family and now shared with their children: "Find what it is you love doing and make money doing it." She acknowledges that every business encounters challenges, but stresses that a genuine love for one’s work provides the resilience needed to overcome them. The ultimate measure of success, in her view, is not solely financial, but rooted in the fulfillment derived from pursuing a passion. When one truly loves what they do, the concept of "work" transforms into a source of joy and purpose, making each day feel less like a chore and more like a fulfilling pursuit.
Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides continues to weave its spell over visitors to Lake Tahoe, offering a timeless experience that blends natural beauty, animal companionship, and a deep-seated family legacy. Their commitment to excellence, coupled with their unwavering dedication to their horses and their customers, ensures that this enchanting tradition will continue to create cherished memories for generations to come.
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 include the company’s name change.
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