THE RANCH
This gorgeous 208 acres in the Briones Valley was primarily used for raising cattle and as a homestead. The Home Ranch included the hay barn which was built in the early 1920s. A small farmhouse, garage and shop were added throughout the years. As the ranch changed hands, more land was sold off and separated. Our family was able to purchase the 200 acres surrounding the home ranch in 2007. Sadly, the original farmhouse was lost in a fire in 2009. In 2011 the interior eight acres that included the buildings on the property were acquired by the Branagh family. Work quickly began in restoring the ranch to its original beauty beginning with the hay barn, followed by the tractor barn, pump house and grounds. It was named the JBL Home ranch for Jack and Lyn Branagh using their initials and incorporating the original name of “The Home Ranch”.
OUR HISTORY
1900's
1920's
1930's -2000
2007
2009
2011
2011-2020
2023
In the early 1900's, the Briones Valley 208 acre property was primarily used for raising cattle and as a homestead.
The Home Ranch included the historic hay barn which was built in the early 1920s.
A small farm house, garage and shop were added throughout the years. As the ranch changed hands, more land was sold off and separated.
Branagh Family purchased the 200 acres surrounding the home ranch.
Tragically, the original farm house was lost in a fire
Branagh family acquired the additional interior eight acres (including all the remaining historic buildings on the property.)
Restored the ranch to its original beauty beginning with the hay barn, followed by the tractor barn, pump house and grounds. It was named the JBL Home Ranch for Jack and Lyn Branagh using their initials and incorporating the original name of “The Home Ranch”.
Reopens to the public as the Bay Area's premier venue for weddings and special events.
OUR STORY
With Andrew's love of tractors and Anne's love of horses, their vision of a family ranch for all to enjoy came to life. Andrew has worked to make the barns and buildings top-notch. Managing the ranch for their family, Anne's landscaping design has made the grounds visually stunning. Your family and friends will enjoy the old style buildings with attention to detail everywhere you look. We take pride in our family ranch, and hope you will come visit us soon.
Meet the Team
Meet the team dedicated to making your special day a reality!
Anne Branagh
Owner & Ranch CEO
Our JBL Home Ranch is an old gem tucked away in The Briones Valley. I was so excited the day our family purchased this beautiful 208 acres just minutes from Lafayette, Orinda, Pleasant Hill and Martinez. Our horses get the best care possible, and live in our lovely pastures. It is my goal to make your event the best of my ability. Hope to see you soon!
Lauren Sytsma
Onsite Coordinator & Planner
Born and raised in the Briones Valley, Lauren has always had a special place in her heart for the JBL Home Ranch. She has been a part of the events since JBL started hosting them and has been a key part of making client's dreams come to life. Lauren brings experience and attention to detail to plan your next event at the JBL Home Ranch. She knows the property, and how to have your party be the best it can be. Along with her parents, her love for the ranch is evident when you meet her and her horses.
Luis Vasquez
Ranch Manager
Luis has been a part of the JBL family for 9 years now. Luis and his wife Melissa reside on the property and are a key part in why JBL is so beautiful and has all that it does to offer.
THE BARN
Our 1920's restored hay barn is the perfect place for a party. Complete with stone dance floor and western decorations inside, your guests will feel as though they have traveled into the "Old West". We can set up for cocktail hour and appetizers inside or on the spacious deck. Our family spent hours recreating the barn with Jeff Paige Construction paying attention to all of the details using kiln dried cedar boards that matched the original wood. The hardware, stalls, tackroom and old fashion bar set the stage for your event.
