How did you go about turning yourself into a credible garden designer?

I took a BTEC and an RHS course in horticulture, which I passed with distinction. But then I had a very unhappy experience on a garden design training course – the teaching was appalling. It made me even more determined to check out thoroughly who would teach me in future. I did my research, attended a GDS Taster Day, met Moira and Robin, and felt I could trust them to deliver what they promised. I liked the fact that the two main lecturers are successful designers in their own right. I also felt that the structure and content of the course would equip me to start up my own practice.

Of the many new skills you learned on the Diploma course, which did you regard as most important?

Learning how to draw accurately – using the right pens, instruments and applying colour. The work on hard landscaping changed some of my ideas: I certainly stopped thinking that gardens are just about planting! Understanding how to use and adapt to the changing levels in a garden has been really useful – before the course I had always felt a little uneasy about dealing with sloping plots. I also enjoyed the lectures from visiting specialists: they added an extra dimension to the course and dovetailed well with the main syllabus.

And how have you applied these skills in your professional life?

There’s no doubt that good quality plan drawings really bring a design to life for most clients. The detailed construction diagrams and setting out drawings I produce enable clients to either build their own gardens or give a landscaper clear guidance on what to do. I also always prepare planting plans and schedules. There were many useful handouts which I took from the course: I especially like the ones on handling initial meetings with clients and developing a brief with them.

I think the Diploma course gives you the confidence and knowledge to get started on a career in garden design, including how to market yourself and find clients. I also think I learned much more because I was in a group of like-minded, dedicated people.

Since completing the GDS course, how has your business developed?

It was always my intention to get my business up and running straight away and I’m pleased to say that I have never been without work since I gained my Diploma. I have completed garden projects of all shapes and sizes, from a small courtyard to a two acre plot. I’m really excited about my latest commission: a gloriously colourful and highly scented garden, producing wonderful cut flowers for the church.

© 2006 Garden Design School