Hiring a landscaping designer is very important to make your dream garden a reality.
In your search, you will find that each designer has their own methods, style and techniques in landscaping.
Their experiences will vary greatly.
It is up to you to select the most capable and suitable landscaping designer to fulfill your requirements.
As much as you are excited to start with your landscaping project you need to choose your landscaping designer with care because their performance can either enhance or ruin the look of your home.
Where can you find a landscaping designer? You can start by asking your nearby relatives, friends or neighbors for a referral.
You may also check the list of landscaping designers in your area through your local landscaping association.
After you have a made short list of prospective landscaping designers, your next step should be to meet them in person.
Make sure to schedule the meetings separately.
Invite the designer to your home so he or she can evaluate the area to be landscaped.
Usually initial consultations are free but be sure to ask if there are any fees.
One of the most important things you need to ask is the type of garden that the designer specializes in, especially if you have a good idea of what type of garden you want.
For instance, if you are looking to have an English garden, a landscaping designer who specializes in Japanese Zen gardens is obviously not a match.
Interviewing a landscaping designer gives you the chance not only to get the know the person's style and approach to landscaping but also to find out if you two have the right chemistry.
It is important that you are comfortable with your landscaping designer so you can freely express your own ideas and to make the project enjoyable.
The ideal candidate would be someone who is willing to listen to your needs and wants, answer your questions, and give you honest opinion.
During your selection process, you need to find out about the education, training, and experience of the prospective landscaping designer.
Make sure to request for references and ask if you could see a portfolio of previous projects.
If possible, visit the places he recently worked on so you can see first hand the quality of the designer's work.
Even if the first landscaping designer you meet seems to be perfect for your needs, meet with at least two more designers so you can compare their services and skills.
You should choose a landscaping designer just like you would any other professional.
It is important to ask questions and learn as much as you can about the background of the person to ensure a satisfying experience.