Morgan and Natalie opened Shredder Bend to bring their lifelong love of snow sports, movement, and the outdoors to the families of Central Oregon. Their story began in California—Natalie after relocating from Charleston, South Carolina, and Morgan after returning to his hometown of Manhattan Beach following years spent living and traveling abroad in Australia and New Zealand. What connected them immediately was a shared passion for adventure: snow sports, surfing, travel, and exploring new places together.
That passion ultimately led them to Bend, a community that reflects the lifestyle they value most—active, family-oriented, and deeply connected to the outdoors. In 2023, they welcomed their daughter, Margot, which further shaped their vision of building a business rooted in community, growth, and meaningful family experiences.
Natalie grew up in gymnastics and understands firsthand the importance of having a supportive, skill-focused environment where kids can build confidence through movement. Morgan brings more than a decade of experience organizing and leading international student expeditions across Latin America and Asia, helping young people develop leadership, resilience, and teamwork while navigating new cultures and challenging environments. Together, they saw Shredder Ski School as the perfect blend of their backgrounds—an engaging, low-pressure space where kids can learn, progress, and have fun.
Shredder’s philosophy immediately resonated with them. The emphasis on foundational skills, confidence-building, and age-appropriate instruction aligned exactly with what they wanted to offer Bend families. As Morgan and Natalie put it, “We’re excited to open Shredder Bend and look forward to welcoming you and your family into our Shredder community.”
Why They Chose Shredder
Opening Shredder Ski School was a natural extension of Morgan and Natalie’s shared values and experiences. They wanted to create a business that reflects the heart of Bend—one that celebrates exploration, supports an active lifestyle, and helps kids develop skills that last far beyond the slopes.
Morgan’s years in global education reinforced a belief that the best learning happens through movement and play. Shredder’s indoor slopes provide an ideal environment for children to learn skiing and snowboarding fundamentals in a fun, stress-free setting that builds confidence before ever stepping onto the mountain. Combined with Natalie’s background in youth athletics, Shredder offered a program that felt both intentional and impactful.
Three Reasons to Love Shredder Bend
Developing Confident, Capable Kids
Shredder Bend gives kids a supportive space where falling, trying again, and progressing at their own pace is encouraged. Beyond skiing and snowboarding skills, students develop confidence, resilience, body awareness, and a sense of accomplishment—skills that carry into every area of life.
Connecting Active Families to the Outdoors
More than a ski school, Shredder Bend is about fostering a love for movement and the outdoor lifestyle that defines Central Oregon. Morgan and Natalie are passionate about helping families stay active together and build a lifelong connection to the mountains and beyond.
A Tailored Learning Experience
Shredder’s curriculum is built around age- and skill-specific instruction, grounded in PSIA-AASI industry standards. This personalized approach ensures each child receives the guidance they need to progress safely and confidently, with skills that seamlessly transfer to real mountain environments.