In the hustle and bustle of today’s world, sometimes finding peace is akin to finding buried treasure. Creating a place of inspiration and refreshment was a dream of Al’s, fully realized through Willowood Ranch in North Texas. Nestled on 352 acres of rustic tranquility, rolling hills and painted sunsets join with modern comforts to create an unforgettable experience. Al bought the property in 2000, only a lone ranch house sat on the vast landscape. Today, spacious guesthouses can sleep up to 50 people. An 8,000 square foot reception hall is more than enough space to receive 300+ guests at round table seating. Attached to the hall is a full-size commercial kitchen for the artistry of the exclusive, award-winning chef, Robert Aranson, to flourish and create the perfect meal for any event. Yet the pinnacle of the ranch experience is undoubtedly the custom built chapel.

Recently, the people of Grayson County voted Willowood Ranch as the best local wedding venue. The facilities and landscape make it a perfect location for weddings but Al’s wish is that the property functions as an outreach to all kinds of people and groups:

. Corporate groups, including Apple, come to strategically plan their upcoming year in a place free of distraction and clutter. . Authors, speakers and musicians use their time at the ranch to be inspired and replenished. In fact, Kari Jobe recorded her award winning video for “You are For Me” in the Willowood Chapel.

. Hundreds of kids have come with their youth groups for camping trips, day trips and etiquette classes. . Besides youth groups, churches regularly bring their departments for retreats including worship and youth teams, senior staff and women’s ministry groups

. For the past 12 years, the Major League Umpires have been onsite to have their annual retreat, savoring some quiet time during the short break they have from work.

. Passion’s OneDay03 festival was held at the ranch in 2003 and featured Chris Tomlin, Louis Giglio, Beth Moore and John Piper and hosted 25,000 18-26 year olds.

. One of the largest Christian music festivals in the country, LifeLight, has chosen Willowood Ranch as the site for their first ever Texas festival, which is slated to host upwards of 25,000 people.

. Many local high schools have used the hall for their junior and senior proms. . The Chapel is currently the home for a new Sherman church plant.

. Willowood hosts numerous events for the North Texas community, including Christmas concerts, Valentine’s Day banquets and Murder Mystery dinners

In his own career, Al has been able to bridge the gap between secular and non-secular. This talent is evident in the way the ranch is operated as well. People in all walks of life always appreciate being served and valued and Willowood’s strength is personal service. Al and his team strive to make every experience at the ranch a treasured memory and exceed every guest’s expectation.