For over half a century, the picturesque landscape surrounding Lake Tahoe has been the backdrop for enchanting sleigh and carriage rides, a tradition meticulously cultivated by the Borges family and now carried forward by Dianna Borges and her family at Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides. What began as a simple raffle prize in 1967 has blossomed into a beloved enterprise, offering not just transportation, but a journey into a world of breathtaking scenery and cherished memories. Patriot Software, a provider of accounting and payroll solutions for small businesses, has recognized the enduring spirit and dedication of this Nevada-based company through its #PatriotSpotlight customer success stories, highlighting the unique challenges and profound rewards of operating a business deeply rooted in family heritage and a passion for animals.
The genesis of Borges Sleigh and Carriage Rides, as it was formerly known, traces back to a serendipitous win in a raffle: a pony named Little Joe. This humble beginning, inspired by a favorite character from the iconic television show Bonanza, sparked the imagination of Sam Borges. Initially, Little Joe provided pony rides for neighborhood children, a charming introduction to the world of horse-drawn adventures. The dream, however, soon expanded. Sam acquired his first horse and sleigh, and in partnership with Rosie Borges, he struck an agreement with Brooks Park to offer sleigh rides across his cattle fields during the winter months. This early collaboration laid the groundwork for what would become a multi-generational business, a testament to the family’s vision and commitment.
The torch of this unique enterprise was eventually passed to Dianna Borges and her husband, Dwight. Their stewardship has not only preserved the legacy but also nurtured its growth, with their children now actively participating in the daily operations, sharing in the family’s deep-seated passion for horses and the joy they bring to others. This continuity is a cornerstone of Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides, ensuring that the authentic experience remains at the forefront of their offerings.
A Spectrum of Enchanting Experiences
Today, Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides serves as a veritable "Santa’s personal Uber," particularly during the festive holiday season. The company is a sought-after participant in community events, contributing to the magic of tree lightings, Santa sleigh rides, Christmas caroling, and various other city celebrations. These events not only bring joy to the community but also provide a significant portion of the company’s annual business, underscoring their role as a vital contributor to local holiday traditions.
Beyond the winter wonderland, the company’s services extend to a wide array of special occasions throughout the year. Their horse-drawn carriages are a popular choice for birthday celebrations, romantic marriage proposals, and elegant weddings, adding a touch of timeless romance and grandeur to these momentous events. The unique appeal of their services has also led to their involvement in Quinceañeras and Sweet Sixteens, offering a memorable and distinctive way to mark these significant coming-of-age milestones.
The core offerings of Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides include both one-hour and 30-minute tours. During the winter months, the company provides breathtaking sleigh rides along the north shore of Lake Tahoe, near the stunning Sand Harbor State Park. The serene beauty of the snow-dusted landscape, with the crystal-clear waters of the lake as a backdrop, creates an unforgettable experience. As the seasons transition to summer, the focus shifts to carriage rides offering a more urban perspective, meandering through areas near local shops and restaurants, with options to journey down to the lake’s edge. The operation currently utilizes a team of approximately 15 horses, each carefully selected and trained to ensure the safety and enjoyment of their guests.
The "Lifestyle" of Dedicated Care: Beyond the 9-to-5
For Dianna Borges, running Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides is far more than a typical job; it’s a profound lifestyle choice that demands unwavering dedication and a deep connection to their animals. "What we do is not a job… it’s a lifestyle," she explains. The notion of simply "turning a key and switching on some lights" is a gross oversimplification of the constant commitment required. The day begins early, with feeding the horses at 6 a.m., and concludes with their evening meal at 6 p.m. This routine is just the tip of the iceberg. The upkeep of pastures, the maintenance of fences, and myriad other daily tasks are integral to the operation. Unforeseen events, such as horses straying from their stalls in the dead of night, necessitate immediate attention, often requiring the owners to respond in their pajamas. Quantifying the exact hours worked becomes a near-impossible endeavor due to the 24/7 nature of animal husbandry and business oversight.
While the business operates year-round, hours may be adjusted seasonally, with a generally shorter schedule during the winter. However, the sheer volume of responsibilities makes defining a standard workweek elusive. Despite the demanding schedule and inherent labor, Dianna emphasizes the profound privilege of their lifestyle. "We work hard and long hours, but we live on a beautiful piece of property with our beloved horses and we do a job that makes us and others happy," she states. This intrinsic reward, derived from both their environment and the joy they bring to others, fuels their enduring commitment.
Navigating Misconceptions: Championing Animal Welfare
One of the most significant challenges faced by Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides, and indeed the broader animal attraction industry, stems from public perception and widespread misconceptions about the ethical treatment of working animals. "The hardest part about running our business is the public’s opinions about our type of business and the industry that we’re in," Dianna reveals. The assumption that animals are exploited solely for financial gain is a persistent and hurtful stereotype that she actively seeks to dispel. "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. We love our horses and want to see them treated right," she asserts, placing a portion of the blame on media portrayals that have, in her view, unfairly tarnished the industry’s reputation.
A critical aspect of their advocacy is educating the public about the health benefits of work and exercise for horses. "One of the biggest challenges we face is helping people understand that horses need this work and exercise to stay healthy," Dianna explains. She further emphasizes the genuine affection and enjoyment the horses derive from their roles. She points to two horses in their thirties who, due to age, can no longer be worked extensively but exhibit signs of listlessness and depression when deprived of human interaction. This highlights a symbiotic relationship where the horses are not merely tools but valued members of the team, who thrive on engagement and purpose. The company adheres to stringent regulations and consistently prioritizes the well-being of their animals above all else.
The persistent misconception, Dianna observes, stems from a societal disconnect with animals, particularly horses. "The truth is, not enough people are around horses to understand them," she muses, drawing an analogy to individuals who keep spiders as pets, suggesting that judging others’ passions without understanding them is unproductive. The unwavering support of their clientele, who witness firsthand the family’s dedication and passion for their animals, is what sustains them. The radiant joy in a child’s eyes upon encountering one of their magnificent horses serves as a constant validation of their efforts and a powerful antidote to any negativity.
Leveraging Technology for Efficiency
In the intricate ecosystem of running a small business that demands a wide array of skills, efficient operational tools are paramount. Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides has found a valuable partner in Patriot Software, whose accounting and payroll solutions have streamlined their administrative processes. "Patriot has been very flexible for us," Dianna states, highlighting the user-friendly nature of the software, particularly for those without an accounting background. As a small business where every team member wears multiple hats, the efficiency offered by Patriot Software has been a significant advantage.
The accessibility of Patriot Software’s customer support has also been a key factor in their positive experience. "Getting hold of people at Patriot for help has been relatively easy," Dianna notes, contrasting this with past experiences with larger companies that often involved more complex and time-consuming support channels. The cost-effectiveness and ease of use, once the software is learned, have provided a crucial benefit. "Patriot is cost-effective and it’s super easy once you learn the software," she concludes. This technological support has been instrumental in allowing them to focus on their core operations and their passion for providing exceptional experiences, giving them "one less thing to worry about when it comes to running our business."
A Legacy of Happiness and Lasting Memories
At the heart of Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides lies a profound pride in their motto and mission: to make people happy and create memories that endure a lifetime. "We’re proud of our motto and mission: to make people happy," Dianna affirms. This core objective guides every aspect of their operation, from the gentle demeanor of their horses to the scenic routes they traverse. The ability to offer such a unique and joyous experience is viewed as a profound blessing, a privilege shared by a select group of individuals capable of touching guests’ hearts in a deeply meaningful way. The entire team at Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides embodies this commitment, cherishing their animals and delighting in the opportunity to share that love with their guests and each other.
When not immersed in the demands of the business, Dianna and Dwight embrace a spirit of adventure and exploration. They are avid travelers, exploring both domestic and international destinations. Antarctica holds a special place in Dianna’s heart as a favorite travel experience, while Dwight leans towards Costa Rica. These journeys are often intertwined with their passion, as they seek out sleigh rides around the globe, immersing themselves in new cultures and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. These travels reinforce a fundamental belief: that despite superficial differences, humanity shares more commonalities than distinctions. Their travels also provide opportunities for their own horses to enjoy some leisurely trail rides, a well-deserved respite and a continuation of their bond. This approach to life, characterized by hard work balanced with enthusiastic leisure, embodies their philosophy of "work hard, but also play hard."
A Guiding Principle for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Dianna offers a timeless piece of advice, inherited from her husband’s family and passed down to her own children: "Find what it is you love doing and make money doing it." She acknowledges that all businesses encounter challenges, but a genuine love for one’s work provides the resilience needed to overcome obstacles. "All businesses have their challenges. But if you love what you’re doing, you’ll make it through them," she states. This profound philosophy underscores the idea that true fulfillment in entrepreneurship stems not solely from financial success, but from the intrinsic satisfaction of pursuing a passion. When one’s work aligns with their deepest interests, the distinction between labor and leisure blurs, leading to a life where, as she eloquently puts it, "you’ll never work a day in your life."
Connect with Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides online:
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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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