Meet Marianne & Vito San Filippo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marianne & Vito San Filippo. They and their team shared their story with us below:

In 2016, trying to escape city life, we discovered a historic ranch in a hidden canyon in the Ventura foothills. The breezes rustling through the trees and all the birds singing at once hooked us on our first visit. Seven years later, we’re on our way to creating an Eden for riders and overnight guests who want to revisit a simpler time where harmony with nature is our primary focus.

Vito San Filippo has been involved professionally in the music industry from the age of nine as a singer-bassist, songwriter, performer and producer. He’s recorded, performed and toured with Joe Cocker, Bob Dylan, Tower of Power, Peter Frampton, the O’Jays and Billy Idol among others, He continues to write, record, and produce original music today.

Marianne’s pre-ranch career started in education and progressed into the cosmetic industry, creating skin and hair care for a range of clients from pop stars to Beverly Hill’s plastic surgeons.

But for both of them, everything led up to finding the tranquility and joy of Ranch life. There’s a tremendous peace in the routine of caring for animals, and we’re constantly challenged to work with nature -whether it’s goats for weed control, guinea fowl for insects, or donkeys for coyote management.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Nature and wildlife are such a source of joy but also test us constantly!

the biggest challenge to date was the St Thomas fire of 2017. We had 30 minutes to move nearly 50 horses to safety while surrounded by fire on every side. A week without electricity was life-changing, and made us realize and appreciate the basics of life here we take for granted!

The heavy rains make a beautiful waterfall under our bridge but can wreak havoc with the walls of the creek and nearby roads.

Coyotes loved the concept of guinea fowl for insect and tick control, decimating our flock in a matter of weeks.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
The Ranch offers an escape from the city, less than 90 minutes from Los Angeles; a slower, friendlier environment where guests can experience open space, nature, and a home-like hospitality while providing a tranquil place for healing though equine therapy and wellness retreats.

We’re less than 30 minutes from the Pacific, wine tastings, fine dining, golf, and cultural experiences.

We’re also devoted to caring for the horses we board and the animals we’ve rescued, donkeys, cattle, goats and poultry.

For equestrians, we offer English and Western training and exceptional care for our horses, who range from much-loved pets to prized champion Arabians and Quarter horses

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
We constantly research online for tips on ranch issues like fly control, hay prices, and animal care. while exploring future projects ranging from glamping structures to planting organic wine vineyards

Pricing:

• Atays at the Ranch range from $265 and up per night

Contact Info:

• Website: WillowCreekRanchVC.com

• Instagram: @willowcreekranchvc