Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jenna Johnson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Jenna thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Do you take vacations? Why or why not?

Yes! As a business owner, taking vacations is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and preventing burnout. One of the great benefits of working for yourself is that you can plan for time-off and have complete flexibility and freedom in choosing how you spend your time. For me, that was one of the main reason I wanted to start my own business in the first place. I don’t work a typical 9-5. I homeschool my kids with my husband and travel is a big priority for us.

Start preparing for your vacation well in advance. This includes informing clients and contractors about your availability, setting up automated responses for emails, and ensuring that all necessary tasks are completed, and often includes working part time while traveling. Communicate with your clients and let them know when to expect the next deliverables.

Jenna, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hello, everyone! I’m Jenna Johnson, a passionate landscape designer with a mission to bring creative visions to outdoor living. My love for the outdoors and nature has been the driving force behind my journey into landscape design.

I am an avid enthusiast of hiking, and camping, running, swimming, and gardening. This deep connection with nature inspired me to delve into the world of landscape design, where I could translate my love for the outdoors into creating beautiful and functional spaces for families to enjoy.

At the core of my business, is the desire to help people spend more quality time outside. I specialize in creating outdoor spaces that maximize the use of functional spaces, encouraging families to embrace the beauty of nature right at their doorstep.

I believe in designing with a purpose, and that includes incorporating edible plants into the landscape wherever possible. Every client gets their personalized herb garden. Native and drought-tolerant plantings are a priority, not only to create stunning landscapes but also to contribute to the well-being of our planet. It’s my way of making a positive impact on the environment while enhancing the outdoor experience for my clients.

What sets me apart from others in the field is not just the design aspect but the genuine care I have for my clients. I take pride in creating spaces that not only meet aesthetic needs but also contribute to a healthier, happier outdoor lifestyle.

My goal is to bring joy and functionality to your outdoor spaces; where you can connect with nature, make lasting memories, and truly enjoy the space right outside your door.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

The fact that a significant portion of my business comes from referrals is a source of great satisfaction for me. I attribute a significant portion of my success to a strong emphasis on client satisfaction, which is a testament to the positive relationships I’ve cultivated with my clients.

One key factor that has contributed to my reputation is my commitment to listening to my clients. Understanding their desires, preferences, and the unique aspects of their lifestyle allows me to create designs that are a direct reflection of their vision. This personalized approach ensures that each project is tailor-made to meet the specific needs of the client and their family.

I take pride in providing a custom space that goes beyond aesthetics. By considering the amount of time, energy, and money my clients want to invest in the project, I can deliver designs that not only enhance the visual appeal but also align with their practical requirements.

Referrals indicate that I’ve had happy clients, and that they are confident in recommending my services to others. This word-of-mouth promotion is invaluable in a competitive market.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Embarking on the journey of starting my own landscape design business was a significant turning point in my professional and personal life. Prior to venturing out on my own, I was working for another business in the same industry. However, I found myself making below competitive wages, working long hours that kept me away from my family, and dealing with a lack of flexibility in my schedule.

The demanding work hours took a toll on my ability to spend quality time with my kids, leaving me unsatisfied with the trade-off and work-life balance. It became clear that I needed a change to strike a better balance between my professional and personal life.

The decision to start my own business was not without its anxieties. The prospect of having enough clients, generating sufficient income to support my family, and ensuring the success of the venture loomed large. The uncertainty was daunting, and the leap into entrepreneurship was undeniably scary.

However, I not only succeeded but thrived in my new endeavor. Today, I am typically booked out 5-6 months in advance. The leap into entrepreneurship not only improved my financial situation but also granted me the freedom to design my schedule according to the needs of my family. I am now in control of my working hours, allowing me to strike a harmonious balance between pursuing my passion for landscape design and enjoying precious moments with my family. The happiness derived from making this transition reinforces that taking the risk and stepping into the unknown was undoubtedly the right choice.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @jennajohnson.designs
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenna-johnson-7218642a/

Image Credits
Jenna Johnson