Eddie and Shelby Gutierrez: Don’t Discount Your Daydreams
At the heart of Ruidoso are the people who call it home. Whether multigenerational residents, essential workers, merchants, makers, or relocated retirees, their stories, experiences, and passion for our beautiful mountain town are invaluable. That's why we set out to introduce you to a few Ruidosoans who make our village special.
In the heart of Ruidoso, New Mexico, lies a testament to the power of passion, community, and grit: Downshift Brewing Company. Founded by Shelby and Eddie Gutierrez, this brewery isn't just about crafting exceptional beer; it's a reflection of their deep-rooted connection to their hometown and their unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the community they love.
The story of Shelby and Eddie's journey to Ruidoso begins with their shared roots in the town. Shelby hails from Houston, Texas, but visited Ruidoso with her family throughout her childhood until they moved to the village during her eighth-grade year. Eddie was originally from Silver City, and his family moved to Ruidoso when he was in high school. They briefly dated in high school and kept in touch throughout college.
In 2010, they both found themselves single and quickly started building a life together. Eddie, graduating with a Master’s Degree in Engineering from NMSU, pursued his passion for brewing by taking a position with Saint Arnold Brewing in Houston. Shelby went into real estate as an agent, building a successful career in Houston. After having their first child, COVID hit, and Shelby and Eddie reevaluated their life trajectory. “We had these dreams but were living a different life. In order to live our lives, feel fulfilled, and have the time to spend with our kids, we had to bite the bullet and pursue the dream,” says Eddie.
The idea for Downshift Brewing Company took hold as Shelby and Eddie envisioned a brewery in a community where they could make an impact. They wanted the business not only to produce exceptional beer but also to serve as a catalyst for positive change in their community. They recognized that Ruidoso offered a unique opportunity to carve out a niche in the craft beer industry and also to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around them.
As often happens when someone is on the right path, things quickly fell into place. Shelby and Eddie bought a home in Ruidoso in July 2021 and the Hidden Tap in August, all while renovating and selling their house in Houston. Shelby, pregnant with their second child, moved to Ruidoso in November, while Eddie commuted to Houston. In February 2022, four days after their second daughter was born, Downshift brewed Resignation Porter, their first beer. During their hospital stay, the recipe for Snowday Hazy IPA was written in honor of the snowy Ruidoso winter day. By April of that same year, they released Gratitude, which gave a portion of every sale to McBride Fire recovery efforts. Sales from Gratitude continue to contribute to local nonprofits, with recent recipients including Heal, The Nest, ENMU, Food 4 Kids, and the Community Foundation of Lincoln County.
Eddie and Shelby were settling into the busy life of two small children and a new business when the Sacred Grounds building on Sudderth came up for sale. “We weren’t looking for Riverside when it became available. But the building may have been part of the reason we wanted to come back. The idea of being outside in enjoyable weather, on the river – painted a picture we wanted to be a part of. We couldn’t pass it up, even though we weren’t ready for it.” They purchased the building on April 17, 2023, right before Steve Stucker, longtime Albuquerque news anchorman, visited to do a Ruidoso feature. With 30 days to redo the building, people, including the former Sacred Grounds staff, came out of the woodwork to help with the renovation. It was a successful whirlwind, and they were able to open on May 17.
From the onset, Shelby and Eddie were driven by a vision rooted in quality, community involvement, and personal connection. Downshift Brewing Company has become a hub for community engagement and gathering. Shelby and Eddie's deep-seated commitment to giving back is reflected in the brewery's involvement in various local initiatives and events, from hosting Nest Fest to supporting local musicians and artists.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Downshift Brewing Company is its impact on the local economy and tourism in Ruidoso. With a team of 34 employees and plans for future growth and expansion, the brewery has become a driving force for economic development in the area. Shelby and Eddie's decision to invest in their hometown has created jobs and helped put Ruidoso on the map as a destination for craft beer enthusiasts.
As Shelby and Eddie reflect on their journey, they acknowledge the challenges they've faced along the way. From the pressures of starting a business to the unexpected hurdles of navigating insurance and taxes, the road to success has been anything but easy. Yet through it all, they've remained steadfast in their belief that anything is possible with devotion, perseverance, and a strong support system.
“I’m still passionate about making beer and enjoy what we do. I want the business to be healthy, but it has to be for your family as well. It has to be for the people. The ones who work for you and the ones who visit. The ones who do something here and go on to do something else. It’s really amazing,” states Eddie. Shelby agrees, tearing up as she tells of her proudest business-owner moment being one of joy for an employee buying her first home.
Whether it's seeing an employee find success or witnessing the joy and camaraderie at events like Oktoberfest, the true measure of accomplishment lies in the connections they've forged and the lives they've touched. Looking to the future, Shelby and Eddie see endless possibilities for growth and innovation. With plans for a new production facility and a commitment to staying true to their values, they're poised to continue making waves in the craft beer industry while remaining steadfast in their dedication to their community.
In the end, Shelby and Eddie Gutierrez's journey is a testament to the power of chasing your dreams, embracing the unknown, and finding strength in the bonds of community. As they continue to brew their dreams into reality one pint at a time, Downshift Brewing Company stands as a beacon of inspiration for all who dare to follow their passions.