Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Day.
Hi Heather, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was introduced to the world of plants by my agriculture teacher, Eric John. He invited me to join the Future Farmers of America (FFA), and when I firmly refused, he jokingly said, “Well, I just won’t talk to you until you join.” He was an incredible teacher who was quite relentless with his invitation, so I eventually agreed. When I asked what he wanted me to study, he replied, “Horticulture.”
I thrived in FFA’s career development events, particularly in horticulture and landscape design. Mr. John helped me secure my first job at Wolfe Nursery, and I continued working at local plant nurseries for many years. At the age of 20, I became an in-house designer for a nursery called Forever Gardens. The owners, Jon and Patricia Martin, were nurturing and encouraging, guiding me in the professional world of landscape design. I was young and often questioned why anyone would trust me to design their landscape, but Jon and Tricia were always there, patiently waiting for me to overcome my self-doubt. Through gardening, experimentation, study, and the support of my work family, I gradually gained confidence.
In 2021, I started Daydreams Consulting, where the focus is on helping others design, learn about, and enjoy their landscapes. I’ve been absolutely loving building relationships with my clients and guiding them through the process of creating and caring for beautiful, functional outdoor spaces.
Homeowners are not my only clients; I frequently design for landscape companies as well. Our area is home to many skilled contractors, and some of them just need a little assistance with the creative aspects of their projects.
In addition to design work, I’ve also created a website to share information about plants and gardening in Central Texas. The site is very much educational and growing, as I am always learning and eager to share insights about the amazing world of plants!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My biggest struggle was building confidence in design and then starting my own business. It was scary going out on my own, especially because I am a single mom that is also helping to support my aging mother at the same time. It was essential that I start a successful business so that I could gain the flexibility to take care of them without too much of a financial blow.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a landscape designer who specializes in many different landscape styles. Xeriscapes are the most popular right now. I’m proud of being able to blend styles when a couple has very differing ideas and needs a good compromise. I’m also good at reading people and incorporating ideas and layouts that best fit them, even if they didn’t know how to explain what they want.
What sets me apart from other landscape designers is that I don’t do any landscape installations, so the design and client needs are my priority, not what I want to sell them or what I need to get rid of from my stock. I help to place them with a contractor that would best fit their needs, or help them reach out to any contractors they choose to get bids from. I work as their advocate.
I also design for landscape companies, by meeting with their clients and providing a design with a contractor’s package to assist with creating bids.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Trust in yourself, remain positive, and honest. If you think your glass is half empty, it will remain half empty until you decide to fill it up.
I was a glass-half-empty type until I was about 22. I decided then that my life would be better filled with positivity instead of negativity or even just neutrality. That decision was the best thing I ever could have done for myself and those around me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Daydreamsconsulting.com
Image Credits
Heather Day
