established in 1925

Our Story

At the corner of Shaffer and 32nd Street stands a remarkable property once known as the old Tassell Ranch — or Stormy Creek Ranch — now home to one of the most unique venues in the greater Grand Rapids area.

Originally a 700-acre cattle ranch owned by the McFarlane family, the estate’s beautiful mansion was built in 1925. In the mid-1950s, Leslie Tassell purchased the property, constructing his tool-and-die plant on the northeast corner and transforming the land into a personal haven. With his deep love of animals, Mr. Tassell filled the ranch with show horses, buffalo, and even zebra. Over the decades the land was gradually developed, leaving behind a 23-acre parcel with the original barns, indoor arena, and mansion. Eventually the home sat vacant for more than 15 years — a quiet remnant of its storied past.

In January 2016, Dwight and Karen Strayer discovered the long-empty property and saw the potential to give it new purpose. They envisioned it as a home for Equine Assisted Development (EAD), a nonprofit that used horses in non-riding programs to help empower at-risk families, underprivileged children, and survivors of human trafficking. To make that vision possible, they formed 3TwoRanch, a for-profit-for-non-profit organization, and began restoring the property. By May of that same year, EAD moved its horses and operations to the newly revitalized ranch.

Although EAD has since completed its mission and closed its doors, its spirit remains a cornerstone of Venue3Two’s story. The impact of its work — healing, hope, and restoration — continues to inspire everything that happens here.

As the Strayers continued restoring the historic 1920s mansion, their vision expanded. They transformed the home into Venue3Two, an elegant event space designed to bring life, joy, and connection back to the property. What began as a place for horses and healing has grown into a place for celebration and community — a venue where beauty and purpose meet.

Every event booked at Venue3Two supports local organizations that empower, heal, and uplift our neighbors — including those who have experienced trafficking, abuse, neglect, or hardship. When you host your gathering here, you become part of a story that continues to give back and make a difference.