"Garden Ideas and Designs was awarded the contract to conceptualize and implement a therapeutic garden for Union Villa’s courtyard serving our 160 residents, particularly those suffering from various forms of Dementia.  We wanted the gardens to be beautiful, but also a concentrated therapeutic place; a Healing and Sensory Garden.

What impressed me first off was Tara’s excitement about her expertise in garden design.  Her knowledge about her product is incredible.  She knows the bloom time, colour, texture, height and care requirements of each and every plant she spoke of.  The second thing that impressed me was the energy she put into getting to know her client.  She listened well and thoughtfully to our specifications for the job.  She went away and researched dementia & what triggers reminiscence for those with such an illness.  She looked into the past investigating the popular plants typically used in gardens from the 1940’s.  She showed incredible commitment to the goal of creating not just a pretty place to be, but a healing and sensory garden.  Leaving no stone unturned, she returned to the project with a detailed, to scale plan for the garden which incorporated plants that affected every sensation a person has.  She also planned to invite butterflies and birds to the space through her strategic placement of flowers and protective bushes. 

Tara was always patient, professional and full of ideas.  She treated the garden space as a blank canvas and exercised her true gift of artistry.  She was generous and cost effective.  Wherever possible, she re-used existing plants, moved them to other areas that made more sense, or packaged them up carefully and gave them away to eager onlookers.  She always answered questions and received comments with excitement as staff, family members and residents watched the masterpiece come to life.   

Not only is Tara an artist, she is an excellent business woman who knows how important customer satisfaction is.  She was always punctual and followed up with Management every time something was added or changed with the project.  I witnessed Tara spending 10 hour days in mid summer heat bringing her vision to fruition.  Tara worked with diligence and a consistent commitment on this project and the result is breathtaking.  "

Thank you Tara!

Diana Hood

Manager, Programs and Services

Union Villa

“Dear Garden Ideas and Designs,

I just wanted to send you a thank you for your assistance with our garden last fall.  As you know we had our entire property landscaped by a large company from Markham.  They came and planted some lovely plants but neglected to provide us with any information on those plants.  Your detailed and comprehensive analysis of our yard was invaluable. 

The package that you put together for us on the care and maintenance of our plants will ensure that we are able to enjoy our garden to the fullest for years to come.  We truly appreciate your attention to detail, your professional manner as well as your very quick turn around time.  Because of your promptness we were able to implement most of your suggestions before the snow was upon us.

Thank you again,

Warm Regards,
Aeryn and David McCulla”

“I could not be more pleased with the garden design that Tara from Garden Ideas and Designs created, and was most impressed with the professional service I received. Tara’s knowledge and creativity was exactly what I needed to complete my landscaping renovation. Her attention to detail was amazing, everything was well planned and very organized. I highly recommend the services of Garden Ideas and Designs!”

Debbie Miller




“We are so pleased with Tara from Garden Ideas And Designs!  Tara had so many creative ideas for our garden design that works well  with our lifestyle and our ability to maintain the garden.  Her attention to detail and fast turn around time was wonderful.  Thank you Tara"

Sincerely,

John and Elaine G.



"Tara from Garden Ideas and Designs provided a curriculum-rich, hands-on experience for the students that they will not soon forget.  The workshop provided a touch and interact portion that was particularly age appropriate, and the children left with a lovely keepsake lavender to care for and watch grow.  From the Venus Fly Trap to the planting of the Lavender, this garden workshop was a fantastic learning experience for my students."

V. Boyden
St. Bridget Catholic School

“Tara was recommended to us by a mutual friend to redesign our front garden beds. I am happy to report that we are very pleased with the result. She listened to our vague ideas and translated them into a sensible plan, adding some practical and good ideas of her own. She was thorough in the planning, ensuring that everything was understood and agreed. All her work has been to a very high standard, both in the execution and in the finished result – and it shows. On a personal basis, we found Tara to be an engaging person, reliable, trustworthy, and a hard worker. We would definitely ask Tara to quote for any other work we require in the garden, and have no reservations in recommending her to anyone else. “

D.Burns & S.Bowness

I have been admiring Tara's work for some time now and decided it was time to do something with my front yard.   I decided to ask for her help. Tara recommended that a contractor come in to do a front walkway (which Tara designed) and once completed she would continue with the garden plan. After spending time to get to know my hectic summer schedule, Tara suggested a low maintenance garden one that required very little attention.  I wanted one that only needed watering. 

q Tara knew I liked my garden to flower in the spring and fall, therefore picked out flowers and shrubs which would work best for me. She asked what colours I liked and what colours I didn't want to see in my garden. Tara's knowledge and ideas are excellent! She provided me with a list of plants, took the time to explain in detail about each and every plant and even came by to offer support when it was time for my family and I to plant. I am very pleased with my garden. I find that I am spending more time on my front porch now to enjoy my garden!  Tara's work ethic, knowledge and customer service are excellent. I would recommend Garden Ideas and Designs to everyone.

Michele M