Ron Hakala

Ron is the owner and operator of South Wind Ranch. After years of professional experience as a general manager of Private Clubs across the country with industry leader ClubCorp, Ron’s dream of owning and operating his own business came to fruition. He created and built South Wind Ranch from the ground up on 33-acres of rolling hills in Travelers Rest, South Carolina. Today South Wind Ranch is being recognized as a top-tier Wedding & Event Venue. 

Ron has a reputation as a creative out-of-the-box thinker and has pioneered many special events during his career. Some of his notable events include ClubCorp’s Youth Sports Festival; Sports Challenge of Winter Haven; Billie Lean King’s Hug a Kid Weekend; Wellington Club’s Haunted Hayride; and Holly Tree CC’s 4th of July Extravaganza. Ron was the Regional Manager of over 20 Catering and Special Event Directors while with ClubCorp. Ron has conducted and overseen hundreds of Weddings and Corporate Events. 

South Wind Ranch was the perfect scenario for Ron to maximize his accomplishments and background. Ron is the recipient of several sales awards, has conducted dozens of professional workshops, and traveled the country repositioning private clubs in need of growth assistance. Ron is a trailblazer, purposely creating life rather than simply existing. Just like ClubCorp trained Ron to be one of the top club operators in the country, Ron seeks continuous improvement in everything he does.

How South Wind Ranch is Different

SWR is intentional, meaning it was designed and built with a specific purpose. It was a brainchild of Ron’s after amassing a splendid career in the Private Club business. His initial observation of the Upstate market revealed many venues popping up. Upon further analysis, most were conversion situations with ownership and management performed by mom & pop along with inexperienced hospitality individuals. We believe SWR has the professional hospitality backgrounds needed to run a venue of this caliber. What sets us apart from other venues, besides the attention to detail in all aspects of operation, has been the experience a person has from the beginning to end of their event. We like to say we make people “feel” different.

The South Wind Ranch Membership

Truly sets South Wind Ranch apart! Any South Wind Ranch Bride or Special Event Organizer becomes attached to South Wind Ranch for life with the South Wind Ranch Membership. South Wind Ranch gives back to all we have served throughout the year with special VIP parties and occasions to celebrate. Come back and visit, attend our parties, go fishing or take a hike. Return for family photos, etc. We were blessed to be hosting one of your most precious days of your life. South Wind Ranch helped create that memory. You are always welcome here!