Laff N’ Lyon, owned by Aaron and Melissa Lyon in Sherman, is best known right now for its horse-drawn wagon rides and for its recently created “glamping opportunities.” But the ranch is on its way to becoming much more.

“The ranch is a work in progress,” said Melissa Lyon. She noted that it not only offers wagon rides for public venues but is moving toward private events such as birthday parties and family gatherings.

Laff ‘n’ Lyon Ranch was incorporated as a public business in 2019, and is developing according to a plan, Lyons said

The couple will bring their wagon to Findley Lake for the Christmas through the village celebration. Rides will be offered on Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. The wagon can accommodate up to 14 people.

The horse-drawn wagon at Laff N’ Lyon in Sherman can accommodate 14 riders.

Of course, their 13-year-old speckled draft horses, Sammy and Susie, will be doing the leg work. For them, Christmas through the village in Findley Lake will actually mean going through the village, over and over and over again.

“That event has always been great,” Lyon said. “It’s a small town and Findley Lake is like our neighbor.”

Lyon noted that the route may be different this year, but it will be about the same distance so everyone who wants to ride will have the opportunity. “We may try to go out to Route 426 and then come back,” she said.

Lyon said they follow the current guidelines regarding COVID restrictions. These guidelines recommend that people who are not fully vaccinated should wear a mask.

“We are a fully vaccinated team,” Lyon said. “Since it is outdoors in open air and the wagon is very big, it is easier. We don’t ask for proof. It’s on an honor system.”

The couple has just begun to offer wagon rides for private services, Lyon said. They booked a wedding at the Chautauqua Institution in the fall and Lyon said that while it is a bit more challenging, she hopes to move in that direction. “I’ll probably be doing some marketing next year,” she said. “In the spring, I think you’ll see more scheduling of private rides, off the ranch.”

The couple has been diversifying the ranch, Lyon said. In addition to wagon rides, they have begun offering an experience in Glamping or “glamorous camping” on the ranch. “One thing we did this past summer was set up a couple of Glamping tents,” she said. “That went very well.”

The ranch has a standing booking for wagon rides during the First Friday celebrations in Westfield. These events are held on the first Friday of each month, June through September and feature live music, artists, games, wine and food. However, the wagon rides are a big attraction.

However, the real purpose behind Laff N’ Lyon Ranch is not just to provide wagon rides or an outdoor experience, but the help to foster the connection between people and horses, Lyon said. “I think horses are one of those animals that are incredibly sensitive to human emotions,” she said. “Every day I learn something new from them.”

Lyon said they are careful to choose their horses based on temperament. Every one of the couples’ horses exudes a “gentle curious spirit.” They recently purchased two new mini-horses named Charlie and Tonga and are hoping to have some foals born at the ranch in Spring, she said.

“I have more grandkids now,” Lyon said. “We are trying to diversify the ranch so the grandkids can have more enjoyment.”