History
Jordie and Joyce purchased the 15 acre land in 1991, with the dream of raising their kids on a hobby farm. Each weekend would be spent at the auction, purchasing animals from chickens, ducks, and turkeys to cows, pigs, sheep and goats. But, the best purchase by far was the little pony which I proudly named Dutchess (inspired by my book Black Beauty).
By 1993, the vision for the farm changed to a ranch. Jordie, the dreamer and builder in the family, began putting up building after building. It started with a boarding stables, riding arenas & lean-twos then moved to hitching posts, tack rooms and bunk houses.
In 2000 new opportunities opened up for Jordie in the booming world of construction, and rather than barns he began building houses. Joyce started to persue her love for helping the "at risk" youth in the community by opening up a youth centre, so Matsqui Stables was put on hold.
That's where I really come in. I'm Denise, the oldest daughter. I had just graduated when the family business closed down, so I started teaching riding lessons. I figured I may as well make use of the horses, tack, facilities and great reputation Matsqui Stables had built in the community.
So, slowly I began to re-build the business, one client at a time. By 2002 I got back into horse camps & 2003 married Paul who then became my life and business partner. Paul and I had dreams to one day buy the ranch. We started building, buying and selling real estate right out of the gates in order to gather the deposit for the ranch.
Finally in Spring 2007 we wrote up a purchase agreement for our dream property!! There was no time to lose! Immediately plans were drawn for the new barn and riding facility. Our primary goal was to turn Matsqui Stables from a ranch to a top notch equestrian centre. We are well on our way there, but have miles to go before our final vision is a reality.