Ranch House Designs, Inc. https://ranchhousedesigns.com/ Website Design and Marketing for Ranches and Ag Businesses Wed, 15 Nov 2023 16:04:18 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.2 https://ranchhousedesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/cropped-favicon-32x32.png Ranch House Designs, Inc. https://ranchhousedesigns.com/ 32 32 How Great Thou Art https://ranchhousedesigns.com/how-great-thou-art/ Wed, 15 Nov 2023 16:04:16 +0000 https://ranchhousedesigns.com/?p=33098 HI! This is Rachel, and I’d like to share a bit of my testimony today. ...

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HI! This is Rachel, and I’d like to share a bit of my testimony today. Seeing lots of my friends posting about being in Louisville, and reflecting on all my trips there has been on my heart and I’ve wanted to share.

Louisville about 16 years ago was the biggest turning point in my life and my walk with God. I would categorize that specific show as my rock bottom. My family was very immersed in the Shorthorn open show circuit and I particularly was very into a scene that included very heavy drinking, partying, and pressure for me to look a certain way and weigh a certain amount to attract judges, customers, or potential boyfriends. I saw things done to cattle that I knew was wrong, I overheard constant judge manipulation, nonstop scheming, rampant cheating, and more. Anyone who knew me during this time can easily remember this Rachel. I don’t have to tell you, you saw me first hand. And though I had a spray tan, perfectly straightened bleached blonde hair and weighed 120 pounds, I was flat ugly.

It was at that particular show that I said to myself, this is enough. I don’t want to do this anymore.

I didn’t know where to start and I didn’t have a lot of people in my life who I could talk to about this. My first idea was to try listening to Christian radio. I had been seeing the billboards and bumper stickers so I tuned it to KSBJ and said this is all I’m listening to, cold turkey. That made a giant difference. Just the positive message all day can really help turn your head around. A person I loved very dearly threw a giant hissy fit and didn’t want to ride in my car because he said he didn’t want to listen to that Christian crap. But I kept listening.

The second thing I did is told myself I’m going to be at the Abell Street Church of Christ anytime the doors are open. Sunday morning, Sunday night, and Wednesday nights. This too was hard, because the people I normally hung out with would get mad when I’d leave whatever we were doing around 6:30 to go to church. They made fun of me, and they’d say things like “Oh you went on Sunday morning, you’re covered for the week.” But I kept going.

My grandparents Sloan and Mollie Williams were faithful members at the church, and so I would sit by them every time. They, on the other hand, were so happy I was there. After church, we started doing things like going to get an ice cream at Dairy Queen. It was the complete and total opposite of the crowd I’d been in, but it was fun in its own way.

On the rare occasion my grandparents missed, I’d sit by an older gentleman named Bill Edwards. Sometimes when the crowd was light, Mr. Edwards would lead the singing. One Wednesday night, when we were sitting together, he got up to lead a song. He called out the number for “How Great Thou Art.” He got through the first verse, but he couldn’t get through the last verse. He got choked up and had to stop. And he just kinda smiled and said to the very small crowd “God has just been so good to me.”

When he came and sat back down beside me, he gave me a little side hug. I don’t know what was on his mind, but obviously something was, and that song hit him. And at that moment I said to myself, “That’s the kind of faith I need.” That’s the goal.

I learned that all the bad and embarrassing things I had been doing were wrong, but fixable. I realized that there was a reason I was pushing 30 and never able to have a successful relationship: no one of high character would want to be with someone like me for any long term relationship. I turned from my old ways and turned everything over to God. My very specific prayer during that time was, ‘Lord, help me become a woman that a good man would want to marry.” I tried to model my behavior after my grandmothers, and other very respectable women at that church. I looked at the way they dressed, the way they acted, the kindness they showed to others. I started trying to make that my goal. And I’m not at that level, but they gave me something to aspire to.

It wasn’t too long after that that I met Brandon. He wasn’t perfect either but he was trying to do better, just like me. We started dating but we kept God at the center of our relationship. Not too long after that we got married. And then not too long after that, God blessed us with Mollie, then Annie, and this wonderful life we now have. It hasn’t been easy but any means, but, without a doubt, God has never let us down and he’s always been with us no matter what we went through.

Last Sunday at church, we sang “How Great Thou Art.” I couldn’t get through the song. Actually I couldn’t even start singing it. I stood there thinking, it’s November, it’s about time for Louisville – some people are probably already there. I remembered the person I was then, and the person I am now.

I started thinking of all the girls getting ready for that show who may be in the same boat I was in and prayed, God, please help them. Please let them know that there’s something more than trying to look and act a certain way or do certain things so you can win a show or find a boyfriend who’s a big name in the stock show world.

I thought of Mr. Bill Edwards, and his faith. I looked at my husband and two daughters and where I was 16 years ago, and where I am today. Not perfect, but trying. And I stood there with tears rolling down my face, I thought “My God, how great thou art.”

If this message hits you, I want you to know there is a better way, and a better life, and that no matter what your past looks like, or what today looks like, God is ready to welcome you with open arms, and there is a community of lots and lots of other stock show people out there who are ready to love and support you with open arms too. Take that first step, and begin a new life. The best is yet to come!

Rachel Cutrer

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The Undefeated Calf https://ranchhousedesigns.com/the-undefeated-calf/ Thu, 14 Sep 2023 13:50:16 +0000 https://ranchhousedesigns.com/?p=32849 How much would you pay for a calf that was GUARANTEED TO WIN?  Fall sale ...

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How much would you pay for a calf that was GUARANTEED TO WIN? 

Fall sale season starts this weekend. I know all of our Facebook feeds will be filled with show prospects galore. What if there was a show animal that was GUARANTEED TO WIN? Every single show. Under every single judge. From the first show to the last show — never beaten. 

How much would people be willing to pay for this calf? 

$10k? $20K? $50k? $100k? $1M? 

I can’t even really imagine what that calf would go for.  But, we all know that calf doesn’t exist. Even the most perfect ones get beat. There is no way anyone could guarantee a calf to win every time. 

But what I want to share with you is – there IS someone who is undefeated. Someone who has stood the test of time, and has NEVER LOST. And that is Jesus Christ. He has always prevailed and he always will. He defeated the critics, the gossipers, the haters – he even defeated death – so that we could have the promise of eternal life. 

And while that “unbeatable show calf” might sell for millions of dollars – the gift that Jesus gives is FREE. The gift of eternal life and eternal salvation with him in glory is a gift that Jesus Christ gave his life for – and he gives it FREELY to anyone who believes in him, is baptized, and follows his commands. It doesn’t cost a thing, and God will never leave you. He’ll be with you every step of the way. 

No matter if you’ve never heard of God, never believed in him, never thought you were good enough – there’s a place for you in God’s family. No matter if you’ve drifted away, made mistakes, and think it’s too late — there’s a place for you in God’s family. It’s never too late. There is nothing anyone can do that isn’t forgivable and able to be corrected, fixed, or restored. 

So, when you see those high sellers we’ll all see in the next few days, I want you to remember that the best gift in this life is FREE. It’s the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ. 

If you are ever in need of prayer, or someone to talk to, we are here to help, or to connect you with other believers in the stock show world who are closer to you to help you find out about the UNDEFEATED Jesus or re-connect with him.

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Aron Thayne Joins RHD Team as Marketing Specialist https://ranchhousedesigns.com/aron-thayne-joins-rhd-team-as-marketing-specialist/ Mon, 11 Sep 2023 17:57:40 +0000 https://ranchhousedesigns.com/?p=32836 RHD is proudly expanding to serve more rural businesses with great marketing!   Aron Thayne ...

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RHD is proudly expanding to serve more rural businesses with great marketing!  

Aron Thayne has joined the RHD team as our marketing specialist! Aron brings 20+ years experience in rural lifestyles and marketing.  

Before we start any new project, we like to preferably have a personal phone consultation with each new client. We understand that every client is unique, and we want to ensure that we tailor our services to your specific needs. During these consultations, our team will work closely with you to determine your marketing goals and create a personalized plan that aligns perfectly with your vision.

However, due to the overwhelming demand for clients across America wanting to book projects with us, we were experiencing wait lists of sometimes 4-6 weeks before we could begin the consultations. 

We recognize that many of you have eagerly been waiting for the opportunity to work with us, and we want to assist you sooner rather than later. 

At Ranch House Designs, our mission is to empower and support rural businesses like yours. We are committed to delivering top-notch marketing solutions that drive success for your agricultural endeavors. With Aron’s expertise and our expanded capacity, we look forward to making a positive impact on your business and helping you achieve your dreams sooner.

If you’ve been wanting to get a project going with RHD – like a new logo, new website, social media or email marketing, let’s get going today! 

Together, we’ll build the future of your rural dreams.

Book a call with Aron!

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Meet the 2023-2024 America’s Beef Leaders of Excellence Participants https://ranchhousedesigns.com/meet-the-2023-2024-americas-beef-leaders-of-excellence-participants/ Wed, 23 Aug 2023 13:53:53 +0000 https://ranchhousedesigns.com/?p=32509 Ranch House Designs announced the inaugural group of outstanding students selected to be a part ...

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Ranch House Designs announced the inaugural group of outstanding students selected to be a part of America’s Beef Leaders of Excellence (ABLE) Program. This initiative aims to nurture the next generation of beef cattle enthusiasts, providing them with experiences that will shape their futures and contribute to the advancement of the beef industry.

After a highly competitive selection process and applications from across the nation spanning every major beef breed, we congratulate these remarkable young leaders who have earned their place in the ABLE Program:

  • Kaylee Beason, Thorndale, TX
  • Lauren Bockel, Alvin, TX
  • Hagen Boullion, Giddings, TX
  • Payton Calk, Boling, TX
  • Kanin Cleere, Madisonville, TX
  • Elizabeth Crumm, Anadarko, OK
  • Makenzy Driver, Winnsboro, TX
  • Providence Ezell, Breckenridge, TX
  • Weston Hendrix, Sweetwater, TX
  • Brady Jackson, Foreman, AR
  • Rheagan Karisch, La Grange, TX
  • Lilly Larson, Okeechobee, FL
  • Devon Lockhart, College Station, TX
  • Jennifer Mask, Franklin, TX
  • Marcus Moore, Lovelady, TX
  • Haley Phillips, Lovelady, TX
  • Abby Scholz, Loomis, NE
  • Madison Watson, Liberty, TX
  • Charles Eddie Wilson, Franklin, TX

With diverse backgrounds, a shared passion for the beef industry, and a commitment to personal growth, these individuals represent the cream of the crop among young beef cattle enthusiasts. 

These students will begin their 1-year program in September, and graduate in May 2024. 

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Rachel Cutrer Inspires at the 2023 TAMU Beef Cattle Short Course https://ranchhousedesigns.com/rachel-cutrer-inspires-at-the-2023-tamu-beef-cattle-short-course/ Wed, 09 Aug 2023 20:41:58 +0000 https://ranchhousedesigns.com/?p=32193 August 9, 2023 – The Texas A&M University Beef Cattle Short, the largest and most ...

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August 9, 2023 – The Texas A&M University Beef Cattle Short, the largest and most anticipated beef cattle educational event in the state, saw record numbers of participants, including more than 2200 conference attendees from all over the world. 

Rachel Cutrer, CEO of Ranch House Designs and distinguished rural business expert, captivated over 400 eager participants during her engaging presentation as the coordinator and speaker of the highly anticipated Farm to Table session.

With an unwavering commitment to empowering individuals in the agricultural community, Rachel Cutrer showcased her  insights and expertise in the realm of building her family’s Brahman Country Beef farm-to-table brand and opening a brick and mortar retail store in their hometown in 2022. The Farm to Table session, one of the highlights of the TAMU Beef Cattle Short, offered a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned industry professionals alike to delve into the intricacies of building a successful farm-to-table business.

Rachel’s ability to blend practical advice with innovative strategies left an indelible mark on the attendees, inspiring them to explore new avenues and harness the potential of their farm-to-table ventures. Her insightful discourse encompassed a wide array of topics, ranging from sustainable farming practices to effective marketing techniques, creating a comprehensive roadmap for attendees to navigate the challenges and opportunities within the burgeoning farm-to-table market.

Dr. Jason Cleere, conference coordinator and professor of animal science, expressed his enthusiasm about Rachel Cutrer’s participation, stating, “We are honored to have Rachel Cutrer as a key contributor to this year’s Beef Cattle Short. Her extensive knowledge and hands-on experience in farm to table business development provided our participants with invaluable insights to foster growth and innovation in their farm-to-table enterprises.”

As the founder of Ranch House Designs and a distinguished figure in the agriculture industry, Rachel Cutrer has cemented her reputation as a trailblazer in rural business management and marketing. Her contributions extend beyond the Farm to Table session, as she continues to empower agricultural entrepreneurs through her unwavering commitment to sharing her expertise and fostering a culture of innovation within the rural business landscape.

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Program Overview: America’s Beef Leaders of Excellence (ABLE) https://ranchhousedesigns.com/program-overview-americas-beef-leaders-of-excellence-able/ Tue, 01 Aug 2023 12:52:01 +0000 https://ranchhousedesigns.com/?p=32098 APPLY NOW Presented by Ranch House Designs BRC Ranch America’s Beef Leaders of Excellence (ABLE) ...

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APPLY NOW

Presented by Ranch House Designs BRC Ranch

America’s Beef Leaders of Excellence (ABLE) is a prestigious and transformative year-long mentorship and leadership program tailored for young beef cattle enthusiasts of all breeds, between the ages of 14 and 21. Designed to cultivate leadership skills, enhance industry expertise, and foster personal growth, ABLE offers an unparalleled opportunity for participants to excel in the world of purebred seedstock beef cattle. 

Program Structure:

ABLE’s innovative structure revolves around individualized mentorship in four key areas: marketing seedstock cattle, breeding strategies, cattle judging, and farm to table beef. Each participant will be thoughtfully matched with an experienced and accomplished mentor who will guide and support them throughout their journey.

Program Requirements / Who Can Apply:

Approximately 15 young people from around the world will be selected to be part of the 2023-2024 ABLE group cohort. 

  • Must be between the ages of 14 to 21
  • Must have access to an Internet connection and Zoom for some curriculum requirements
  • Must be fluent in the English language

Mentorship and Leadership Development:

The cornerstone of ABLE is its comprehensive mentorship program, wherein students will be paired with mentors based on their specific interests and goals within the purebred beef industry. Whether participants are passionate about marketing strategies, breeding techniques, international business, cattle judging, or the intricacies of direct to consumer beef, their mentor will be an expert in that particular field. Through regular one-on-one interactions, mentees will gain invaluable insights, personalized advice, and industry wisdom.

Curriculum:

The ABLE program encompasses a diverse curriculum that spans a broad range of essential topics, combining virtual meetings, on-site workshops, travel opportunities and hands-on learning experiences. Participants will engage in interactive group sessions, webinars, and industry-specific seminars to enhance their knowledge and skills. 

1. Virtual Meetings: The ABLE program will include 5 virtual meetings and will create a platform for participants to connect with their mentors and fellow mentees. These sessions will include discussions on industry trends, best practices, leadership development, and challenges faced by young beef industry enthusiasts.

2. On-site Workshops: Throughout the year, ABLE will organize on-site workshops in various locations to provide hands-on training and practical exposure to different aspects of the beef industry. These workshops will include cattle handling, breeding techniques, marketing strategies, and judging simulations.

3. Leadership Training: ABLE understands the significance of nurturing leadership qualities in young individuals. Leadership development sessions will focus on communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making, empowering participants to become effective leaders within their communities and the beef industry.

2023-2024 ABLE Calendar of Events:

  • August 15, 2023 – Applications due
  • September – Recipients selected, matched with mentors, kickoff group zoom call
  • October – Invitation to attend BRC Brahman Days workshop & weekend in Wharton County* 
  • November – In-person function in conjunction with the National Brahman Show*
  • December – 2-day on-site event in Wharton County at BRC Ranch*
  • January – Group zoom meeting
  • February – Group zoom meeting, and Houston Livestock Show*
  • March – Group zoom meeting
  • April – Group zoom meeting
  • May – In person wrap up event over Memorial Day weekend*

*The in-person activities are highly encouraged but optional. Many of these activities will utilize Brahman cattle especially in our hands-on settings. 

Benefits of Joining ABLE:

– Personalized Mentorship: Participants will receive personalized guidance and expertise from seasoned professionals in their chosen fields, accelerating their personal and professional growth. Mentors include Brandon Cutrer, Rachel Cutrer, and Keaton Dodd. 

– Skill Enhancement: Through comprehensive workshops and training, participants will refine their skills and gain hands-on experience in various aspects of the beef industry from pasture to plate.

– Networking Opportunities: ABLE offers an exclusive networking platform, connecting students with industry experts, successful seedstock cattle breeders, and influential leaders, opening doors to exciting future prospects.

– Lifelong Bonds: ABLE fosters a supportive and encouraging community, allowing participants to form lasting friendships and connections with like-minded seedstock enthusiasts of their age cohort group.

Conclusion:

America’s Beef Leaders of Excellence (ABLE) is not just a mentorship program; it is a transformative journey that equips young cattle enthusiasts with the skills, knowledge, and leadership qualities required to excel in the purebred cattle industry. Through the mentorship of accomplished professionals, hands-on workshops, and leadership development sessions, participants will emerge as confident and capable leaders, ready to make a significant impact in the world of purebred cattle.

APPLY NOW

If you or your company would like to sponsor a student (or multiple students) in the ABLE program for 2023-2024, please email haleigh@brcbrands.com. The cost of 1 student sponsorship is $500. Sponsors will be listed in program materials throughout the year. 

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When Others Are Failing, Learn to Thrive in the Cattle Business with Our New Online Course! https://ranchhousedesigns.com/learn-to-thrive-in-the-cattle-business-when-others-are-failing-with-our-new-online-course/ Wed, 21 Jun 2023 12:59:24 +0000 https://ranchhousedesigns.com/?p=31946 We are thrilled to announce the launch of our latest online course at the RHD ...

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We are thrilled to announce the launch of our latest online course at the RHD Academy, “How to Thrive in the Cattle Business When Others Are Failing.” Whether you’re a seasoned rancher or someone interested in entering the cattle industry, this course is designed to equip you with the knowledge and strategies necessary to succeed in this challenging field. With four comprehensive video modules, expert insights, and one year of access, this course is your gateway to unlocking the secrets of thriving in the cattle business.

Course Details:

Duration: 1 hour
Price: $79 (includes one-year access)

Why Choose Our Course?

  1. Expert Guidance: Our course is developed by industry experts who have firsthand experience in the cattle business, including winning the 2022 BIF Seedstock Producer of the Year Award. Benefit from their knowledge and insights to make informed decisions. 
  2. Comprehensive Content: The four video modules cover a wide range of topics, ensuring you gain a holistic understanding of the purebred cattle business from multiple perspectives.
  3. Flexibility and Convenience: Access the course anytime, anywhere, and at your own pace. With one year of access, you can revisit the materials and reinforce your learning.

Embark on a transformative journey in the cattle industry with our new online course, “How to Thrive in the Cattle Business When Others Are Failing.” Gain the expertise and confidence to navigate challenges, optimize your ranch operations, and seize opportunities for growth. With just one hour of your time and a modest investment of $79, you can unlock a wealth of knowledge that will propel your cattle business towards success.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn from industry experts and join a thriving community of cattle enthusiasts. Enroll today at the RHD Academy and take a significant step towards becoming a leader in the cattle business. Together, let’s thrive when others falter!

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Are Websites Still Relevant for Today’s Marketing? https://ranchhousedesigns.com/are-websites-still-relevant-for-todays-marketing/ Mon, 19 Jun 2023 13:32:08 +0000 https://ranchhousedesigns.com/?p=31936 Yes, websites are still highly relevant in marketing today. While the digital landscape has evolved ...

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Yes, websites are still highly relevant in marketing today. While the digital landscape has evolved with the rise of social media platforms, mobile apps, and other online channels, websites continue to play a crucial role in establishing an online presence and driving marketing efforts. Here are several reasons why websites remain relevant:

  1. Brand Identity and Credibility: A well-designed website serves as a central hub for your brand, allowing you to showcase your products, services, and values. It provides an opportunity to establish credibility, communicate your brand story, and differentiate yourself from competitors.
  2. Online Visibility and Discoverability: Websites are essential for search engine optimization (SEO), enabling you to optimize your content and keywords to improve your website’s visibility in search engine results. This helps potential customers find your business when they search for relevant products or services.
  3. Content Hub and Authority: Websites serve as a platform to share valuable and informative content through blog posts, articles, videos, and other formats. By consistently producing high-quality content, you can position yourself as an authority in your industry, attract organic traffic, and engage with your target audience.
  4. Lead Generation and Conversion: Websites provide opportunities to capture leads and convert visitors into customers. With strategically placed call-to-action buttons, lead capture forms, and landing pages, you can guide visitors through the customer journey, nurture relationships, and drive conversions.
  5. Analytics and Data Insights: Websites allow you to track and analyze user behavior, engagement metrics, and conversion rates through various analytics tools. This data provides valuable insights into your audience’s preferences, allowing you to optimize your marketing strategies and improve overall performance.
  6. Mobile-Friendly Experience: With the increasing use of mobile devices, websites need to be responsive and mobile-friendly. By ensuring a seamless browsing experience across different screen sizes, you can cater to the growing mobile audience and improve user satisfaction.
  7. Integration with Other Marketing Channels: Websites serve as a central hub that can be integrated with other marketing channels. You can link your website to social media profiles, email marketing campaigns, online advertisements, and more, creating a cohesive and integrated marketing strategy.

While it’s important to leverage other online channels, such as social media and mobile apps, having a well-designed and functional website remains a foundation for your digital marketing efforts. It provides control over your online presence, enables deeper engagement with your audience, and supports various marketing objectives.

Ready to get started? We are here to help you! Request a quote today!

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What cattle shows are like in Mexico (and other international countries) https://ranchhousedesigns.com/what-cattle-shows-are-like-in-mexico-and-other-international-countries/ Mon, 24 Apr 2023 20:25:45 +0000 https://ranchhousedesigns.com/?p=31621 As a Brahman breeder, I’ve had the honor and pleasure of personally attending and/or judging ...

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As a Brahman breeder, I’ve had the honor and pleasure of personally attending and/or judging Brahman shows a lot in Central America and South America.

Recently I posted a picture from judging the 2023 National Brahman Show in Mexico and a friend suggested I write about what it’s like to show there. I thought it was a great idea so here it is!

  1. The show crews sleep at the barn.
    Just like the old days where the stock shows had “dorms” for the crew to sleep in, Some crews will tie a hammack in the feed alleys and stay with the cattle 24/7.

  2. Crossing country borders requires lots of health documentation’s.
    We take for granted driving through 5 states to get to a major show here. There, if you cross country lines it’s like having to get an import / export paper for each country. For example, I recently attended a show in Panama that had exhibitors from Costa Rica and Guatemala. Those exhibitors had to plan 3 days for travel / health checks. One exhibitor said his cattle spent 1 day at one of the country borders just sitting on the trailer before they could enter. Plus, selling cattle is more difficult too because of the country borders. If you sell an animal at the show, to a breeder from a country other than yours, you have to quarantine the animal for 14 days at the show, and get all the import papers before the new buyer can take the animal home.

  3. The showman are off the charts. But they show much differently.
    Here in the USA we stand still and poised. Stone faced. Stiff armed. In central or South American countries the showman are all over the place. The cattle are so gentle the showman usually drops the halter and literally walks all around the animal. The showman steps far back away from the animal when the judge is near by so the calf is like, just standing there out on its own. They also take a really “low” position, like scrunching down really low to the ground.

    I also see a lot of faith displayed by the showman. Some will quickly kneel on the ground at the let in gate and do the sign of the cross every time they come in the ring. I see a lot look up to the sky and make a symbol of something before going in the ring. You can tell God is a big part of many of their lives.

  4. They take backdrop pictures after every division.
    Here in the USA we all wait til after the champion drive to take pictures usually. There, they stop the show after every single division and take pictures. Some shows stop the show entirely, so the judge can get in the pics. Others keep the show running so that means the judge doesn’t get in any pics, except the champions.

  5. They show cattle much older.
    At the show in Mexico, you could show cattle up to 40 months of age. So, In the last division of females, these cows had their 2nd calf at side.

  6. Start time means nothing.
    The schedule may say the show starts at 10 am. But it might be noon. Or whenever people feel like letting it start. If people had a late night before they’ll just bump the show til noon. Or 2 pm. Or 4 pm. It’s very laid back from a scheduling perspective.

  7. The breeders all support each other.
    Everyone gets in each others winner pictures. It’s like a thing. No matter who wins. The breeders all genuinely seem to like each other and be happy for each other. There’s very little cut throat competitive behavior. I personally think it’s because most of the breeders also have businesses. So, showing is a fun activity but it’s not their sole source of income. So they don’t seem as “desperate” to win as some USA folks do.

  8. They don’t use leather show halters.
    They mostly use cloth halters with a chain, and a long cloth lead strap.

  9. Nose leads aren’t permitted in some countries.
    Due to animal welfare. Which makes it a bit interesting trying to control the 40 month old bulls.

  10. All the showman dress the same.
    This varies from country to country, but in Mexico they all wear a navy blue t shirt with the associations logo. Makes it very uniform, and takes away any of the ranch advertising that influences halter judging.

  11. Differences in brands.
    These countries brand their cattle differently than the USA but there are some things I like. In Mexico for example, there are no brands on the show side. It’s super nice when judging, because as the judge you don’t know who’s cattle it is. There are no brands to distract you, and the showman all look the same. I mean, yes there are ways you could really try to figure out who’s who, like say you knew who certain showman were, but you’d have to work pretty hard to do it. Some ranches did have their name on the band of the show halter but that’s so small again you’d really have to look for it.

    They also shave out the hair around their brands and some put a black paint on the brands to really make them stand out. It looks really cool.

  12. It’s really hot. And really humid.
    You can’t explain the heat. And the amount of sweat you will sweat. Long sleeves are not really an option.

  13. Restrooms are sometimes pretty bad.
    In Mexico you had to pay a nickel for every square of toilet paper you wanted in the inside restrooms that were available on the second show day. On the first show day, there was a port a potty for women, and that was it. Men were on their own. Pretty scarce.

  14. Breeders have their own “sky boxes” to watch the shows.
    Since it’s so hot, some breeders have built permanent structures in the stands like a little skybox. It’ll be air conditioned. They’ll serve food and have their own private restrooms. This is where you want to be if you’re spectating lol. It’s amazing.

  15. The bedding is all sand.

  16. The wash racks suck.
    If there even is a wash rack. It’s a lot of just tying to a tree, with really low water pressure.

  17. The hospitality is off the charts.
    Talk about friendliness and hospitality! It’s amazing. Lots of food, drinks, music, parties. The association usually provides a free lunch for everyone. Super nice. Anything you need, someone will help you. The hospitality is great.

  18. Show banquets.
    Some of the countries have a banquet after the show, like the day after, to present all the awards. So you stay 1 day longer, sleep in, get dressed up in a tux and ball gown, and the night after the show have a big banquet and party and get all your trophies.

  19. The passion when they win!
    It’s hard to describe this with words, but I’ve never seen so much passion when people win. The showman will throw his fist up in the air. He may drop the halter and leave the animal just standing there and run go high five the ranch owners in the stands. Might jump in the air. Might do the splits. (No just kidding I’ve never seen anyone do the splits). But it’s electrifying. Makes you so happy for all the winners. They let their joy shine!

  20. There’s a champion showman for the open show.
    Right after the show all the showman come into the ring (no cattle just the people) and the judge picks a champion showman. For each day of showing. They’ll get prize money. This for me is the hardest part, because all of the showman are so good. They truly are. How can you pick just three.

If you ever have an opportunity to travel abroad and attend a show, I highly encourage it. Traveling to shows in central and South America has helped me so much as a breeder to learn about different environments, breeding programs, and needs of the ranchers. If possible, travel with a group to help with your safety. Contact the breed associations of that country and ask to see if they can help your group with an airport shuttle and hotel shuttle, things like that.

For me, I’ve been to Mexico (3 times), Panama (4 times), Guatemala, Nicaragua, Brazil. Brandon’s been to all those as well as Paraguay and Colombia. These are trips of a lifetime. Going there will change your outlook in ranching and life. I definitely encourage you to travel to an international show if you have the chance.

Or, heck, come with me the next time I go somewhere! I always love company.

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Announcing the 2023 Brand Builders Boot Camps https://ranchhousedesigns.com/announcing-the-2023-brand-builders-boot-camps/ Wed, 29 Mar 2023 15:07:23 +0000 https://ranchhousedesigns.com/?p=31565 We are proud to feature the schedule for our 2023 Boot Camps! Registration for Spring ...

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We are proud to feature the schedule for our 2023 Boot Camps! Registration for Spring and Summer Boot Camps are now open. All Boot Camps take place in Wharton, Texas at The Ranch Downtown. To register visit www.ranchhousedesigns.com/learn

May 12
AM Session: Graphic Design Principles Boot Camp
PM Session: Social Media Deep Dive Boot Camp 

June 12
AM Session: Farm to Table Boot Camp
PM Session: Shopify Boot Camp 

July 10
AM Session: Purebred Cattle Marketing Boot Camp
PM Session: Cattle Photography Boot Camp 

August 11
Ranch Office Managers Boot Camp  

Add our Fall Boot Camp dates to your calendar!
Registration is not open at this time. Our email list will be notified when the registration is open. 
*Join our email list*

September 15
AM Session: Cattle Sale Promotion Boot Camp – $199
PM Session: Cattle Photography Boot Camp – $199
Attend both for $350

October 6
AM Session: Farm to Table Boot Camp – $199
PM Session: Shopify Boot Camp – $199
Attend both sessions for $350

November, TBA
AM Session: Purebred Cattle Marketing Boot Camp – $199
PM Session: Cattle Photography Boot Camp – $199
Attend both sessions for $350

The post <strong>Announcing the 2023 Brand Builders Boot Camps</strong> appeared first on Ranch House Designs, Inc..

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