11/09/2026
Diary of a Garden Designer 🌿
Here are a few notable moments from the past couple of days…
I’m genuinely delighted that we’ve finally had some rain. Our gardens certainly needed it, although the timing felt less than ideal when I arrived to meet a potential new client and discuss their garden design and build project in the pouring rain!
It’s an interesting space and one that I believe would really benefit from having a garden designer involved from the outset. I’m hoping we’re given the opportunity to help bring everything together.
Of course, not every initial conversation develops into a project. On the same day, I heard from another potential client who had decided to move forward with a landscaper and leave out the design stage.
A garden designer isn’t right for everyone, and running a small business teaches you to accept the “no’s” positively. Not every enquiry will become a commission, and that is simply part of the journey.
Having recently returned from a couple of lovely short breaks, I’m now back in the studio preparing for two upcoming projects: a bespoke garden lighting and irrigation scheme, followed by a new planting design complete with its own irrigation system.
There is always a considerable amount of work happening quietly behind the scenes before the more visible and exciting site work begins. Research, sourcing, ordering, invoicing, scheduling and regular client communication may not be the most glamorous parts of the process, but they are essential.
My view has always been simple: invest care and attention in the preparation, and the entire project has a far greater chance of progressing smoothly.
Even while I was away, a couple of new enquiries arrived, and I now have dates arranged to speak with both potential clients. Before every conversation or site visit, I like to carry out a little desk-based research so that I arrive with an initial understanding of the property and its surroundings.
And I must admit, I do love a little tour of the site via Google Earth before seeing it in person. It’s one of those small but invaluable parts of the design process, and often where the first ideas quietly begin.
