How We Got Started
Heather-Rayne Alpacas was established in January 2009 with the arrival of 11 alpacas; two young males, six bred females, and three maidens. We have not looked back since, they are a such a positive impact on our lifestyle.
Prior to June 2008, we had no idea what an alpaca was. While talking with some friends, they mentioned that they had just started an alpaca farm. Curiosity got the best of us so we went for a visit. That was the end, I knew we were going to have an alpaca farm too.
The research started, we visited as many alpaca farms as we could, we read every book that we could get our hands on, we attended alpaca shows and seminars, and we researched the internet.
Todd, being a building contractor, started construction on our barn in October 2008. This is a place where visiting other farms really helps, take notes. You pick up different ideas and implement them into a barn that will work for you. Take the time to layout your blueprint before starting construction, and if you think you have planned for a barn big enough, GO BIGGER. Make sure there's room to grow. By the middle of December, I had my dream barn.
A name, we need a farm name. After many family discussions and ideas, we decided on Heather-Rayne. Yes, it's a little strange, but it seemed to fit and had a nice ring to it. Heather is our daughter's name, and Rayne is the middle name of our special niece. It was unanimous!!
January 2009, the alpacas are ready to move in. Who in their right minds start and alpaca farm in Upstate New York in the middle of January? We were so excited, that the winter weather didn't even phase us.
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