WINNIPEG – A popular Manitoba wedding attraction is closing down after decades of business and countless events.
A 15-minute drive north of Winnipeg on Highway 6, Hitch’n Post Ranch has been hosting events since 1984.
After years of good times, Kyle Anderson, the son of the original owners, is closing its doors.
“Of course it wasn’t an easy decision. We’ve been around for a while. We wanted to come out and be honest and honest with people because we’ve always been,” said Anderson.
Closed for the past year and a half, the COVID-19 pandemic and health restrictions finally took their toll.
“It was great for up to 35 years and then unfortunately the pandemic struck. The lockdowns and restrictions hit our industry the hardest,” said Anderson. “We don’t have the help most people get. We have been overlooked and after 17 months without a business. We just can’t go on.”
Anderson said he and his wife Louise were campaigning for the province to allow safe events to be attended, but nothing came of it.
“There comes a point where you have to make a decision that is right for you and we have to put ourselves first at this point,” said Louise.
The couple announced the graduation announcement in an emotional Facebook live on Thursday evening.
Louise and Kyle Anderson both said they really appreciate the support they are receiving.
“There has been so much support and so many people want to open GoFundMe pages, and I just want to thank everyone who offers it. We have no words, ”said Louise.
Among those thinking about the good times at the ranch is Amanda Edmonds, who got married there in August 2007.
“I’ve thought about it a lot,” she said. “When I saw the video, I had tears and yes, I’m just so sorry.”
A photo of Amanda Edmonds and her husband at their wedding at Hitch ‘n Post Ranch in 2007. (Source: Amanda Edmonds)
Edmonds said it was the perfect location for a wedding and hoped to show their children around soon.
“It was pretty. It had old cars, old buildings, the fence, the beautiful scenery. It really was the perfect place,” Edmonds said. “I’m really sad and disappointed that you have to close.”
The Andersons said they will end the last half of the wedding season with the best possible events.
“We have brought nearly half a million people from all over the world and from all walks of life to this courtyard. Everyone has a story and a memory of this place and I just hope that you keep these memories in your heart and smile, “said Kyle.
The couple said they will now focus on new business ventures and interests while continuing to advocate the wedding industry.
The actual ranch remains empty for the time being because it stays in the family.
