Highlights From our 2025 Annual Cattle Show: Not Just Any Industry Event
Video Credit: Ampersand Family
All Photography Credit: Jensen Sutta Photography
“Our annual cattle sale is always something we look forward to because it's a chance to catch up with old friends and make new ones.”
Our Owner and Operator of Spruce Mountain Events, Tara Ames, rang in this year's cattle sale with this perfect summary of why this event means so much to us at Spruce Mountain Ranch. This year's celebration perfectly captured that spirit, bringing together approximately 200 guests for an authentic Colorado experience that showcased the heart and soul of Spruce Mountain Ranch.
What many people don't realize is that Spruce Mountain Ranch isn't just a premier event and wedding venue—we're also a fully functioning cattle company! This unique combination of working ranch and world-class event space creates something truly special, and our annual cattle sale is the perfect celebration of both sides of our operation.
A Rich History Rooted in Colorado Tradition
The land that is now Spruce Mountain Ranch has a rich agricultural heritage dating back to 1871, when it was part of the expansive "Ben Lomond Ranch." This historic property passed through several pioneering Colorado families, including the Higginson family who raised Hereford cattle and farmed wheat and oats on the land for decades.
The modern story of Spruce Mountain Ranch begins in March of 1999, when Tom and Lois Ames purchased the property with a vision that honored its past while planning toward the future. They thoughtfully allocated 100 acres to a stunning housing development called "Spruce Mountain Estates" and creatively renovated the remaining acreage with dual purposes: sustaining a purebred Angus seed stock operation while creating a distinctive landscape and resort-like atmosphere where family, guests, and the community could gather, relax, and celebrate life's most important events and milestones.
More than two decades later, that vision has become a reality that continues to bring people together in the most meaningful ways, honoring both the land's agricultural heritage and its role as a gathering place for celebration. In 2009, Tom and Lois’ daughter, Tara, began the idea of turning a portion of the ranch into a dedicated event venue. In 2010, she became the owner of Spruce Mountain Events and began managing the wonderful venue so many of us have come to love.
An Unforgettable Evening of Colorado Hospitality
This year's cattle sale celebration treated guests to an authentic Western experience that highlighted the best of Colorado culture and hospitality. The evening began with a welcoming cocktail hour featuring passed appetizers and plenty of time for socializing, allowing guests to reconnect with old friends while also making new, lasting connections.
Throughout the hour, guests enjoyed a variety of activities that captured the spirit of the Old West. The old-time photo booth provided memorable keepsakes, while Vincent's shoe shine station added an authentic touch that guests absolutely loved. A live gift customization station from Peak Edge Designs allowed attendees to create personalized mementos, and the root beer float station provided a nostalgic treat that delighted guests of all ages.
For those looking for entertainment, saloon games provided friendly competition and laughter, while the cigar rolling demonstration and whiskey tasting offered sophisticated touches that elevated the entire experience.
Special Moments and Meaningful Words
The evening's program included heartfelt remarks from Tara Ames, who welcomed guests and shared her appreciation for the community that makes events like this possible. "Our annual cattle sale is always something we look forward to because it is a chance to catch up with old friends and make new ones," she shared, perfectly capturing the spirit of the celebration.
Tom Ames also took the stage to share touching words about his life, work, and family, giving guests insight into the passion and dedication that built Spruce Mountain Ranch into what it is today. The evening took a delightful turn when a John Wayne impersonator led everyone in singing "Happy Birthday" to Tom, followed by a celebratory cake cutting that had the entire crowd smiling.
Entertainment That Kept the Energy High
After a delicious buffet dinner, the celebration continued with live music that had guests moving to the beat. Professional line dancing instructors were on hand to teach newcomers the steps, ensuring everyone could participate in this quintessentially Western tradition regardless of their experience level.
As the evening reached its peak, guests were treated to a spectacular drone show that lit up the Colorado sky—a modern twist on the traditional Western celebration that left everyone in awe.
The actual cattle sale and auction took place the following Saturday, allowing the Friday evening celebration to focus purely on fellowship, fun, and the community connections that make Spruce Mountain Ranch so special.
A Team Effort That Made Magic Happen
None of this would have been possible without our incredible vendor partners, who brought their expertise and passion to create an unforgettable experience. We're grateful to everyone who contributed to making this celebration exceptional.
Event Coordination & Design:
Catering & Beverages:
Entertainment & Experiences:
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Carbone Entertainment (John Wayne Impersonator)
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Matt Brooker (National Anthem singer)
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Peak Edge Designs (live customization)
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Fun Productions (pool table and games)
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Hire UAV Pro (drone show)
Technical & Design Support:
Photography & Videography:
Floral Design:
Each of these partners brought their unique talents to create an authentic Colorado experience that our guests will remember for years to come.
More Than Just an Event
The annual Spruce Mountain Ranch Cattle Sale represents everything we love about Colorado living—the connection to the land, the importance of community, and the joy that comes from bringing people together to celebrate life's special moments. It's a reminder that some of the best celebrations happen when we honor our roots while creating new memories with the people who matter most.
Whether you joined us for this year's celebration or are hearing about it for the first time, we hope you'll consider being part of our extended Spruce Mountain Ranch family. After all, there's always room for new friends around our table, and we'd love to welcome you to future celebrations that showcase the very best of Colorado hospitality.
Here's to another year of authentic connections, genuine hospitality, and the kind of celebrations that remind us what truly matters. We can't wait to see what next year brings!
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