Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Holder-Szkolnicki.
Hi Stephanie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Southern Garden Solutions began in 2020 with a simple goal: helping people create outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and purposeful. I’ve always believed landscapes can be so much more than something to look at. They can provide fresh food, support pollinators and wildlife, conserve natural resources, and become places where families genuinely enjoy spending time together.
As the business has grown, so has my vision for how I can best serve my clients. While I still enjoy bringing designs to life through installation, I’ve found that some of the greatest value I can offer comes through consultations, garden coaching, and custom landscape design. I enjoy helping homeowners understand the potential of their property, solve challenges, and develop a plan that fits their goals, budget, and lifestyle; whether they complete the project themselves or work with me through future phases.
One of the things I love most about this profession is that every property and every client is different. Building relationships, creating thoughtful designs, and helping people feel confident about investing in their outdoor spaces continues to be one of the most rewarding parts of what I do. Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue growing Southern Garden Solutions while pursuing a master’s degree in Horticulture and Human Health.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Definitely not. Like many small business owners, I’ve learned that building a business comes with plenty of uncertainty, and there have been seasons where balancing work, family, and life felt overwhelming.
One of the biggest challenges came early in the business when I unexpectedly became a single mom. Raising three children while growing a business required me to become much more intentional with my time, my priorities, and the way I approached work. There were plenty of long days, difficult decisions, and moments where I questioned whether I could keep everything moving forward.
Looking back, those experiences shaped Southern Garden Solutions into what it is today. They taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of meeting people where they are. Every client has different goals, budgets, and priorities, and I believe those experiences have made me a better listener, designer, and coach.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Southern Garden Solutions specializes in creating landscapes that are both beautiful and functional. While we offer landscape installation, much of our work begins with consultations, garden coaching, and custom landscape design. I enjoy helping homeowners understand the possibilities of their property, develop a clear plan, and make informed decisions that fit their goals, budget, and lifestyle.
Many of the landscapes I design incorporate edible plants, native species, pollinator habitat, and sustainable gardening practices, but every project is unique. Rather than applying the same formula to every property, I believe the best landscapes reflect the people who live there and the way they want to use their outdoor space.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the educational side of the business. My goal has never been to simply install plants; it’s to empower clients with the knowledge and confidence to care for their landscapes long after the project is complete. Whether someone wants ongoing garden coaching, a detailed design plan, or a full installation, I want them to feel informed and excited about the process.
I hope people see Southern Garden Solutions as more than a landscaping company. My goal is to be a trusted resource for homeowners who want thoughtful, well-designed outdoor spaces that will continue to provide beauty, function, and enjoyment for years to come.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
One thing I’d encourage anyone to remember is that creating a meaningful outdoor space doesn’t have to happen all at once. Some of the most beautiful and rewarding landscapes evolve over time. Whether you’re planting your first vegetable garden, adding a few native plants, or planning a complete landscape renovation, every step contributes to something larger.
I also hope more people discover the value of spending time outdoors and building a connection with the spaces around them. A thoughtfully designed landscape can provide beauty, fresh food, habitat for wildlife, and a place to gather with family and friends. Those are lasting investments that continue to grow and give back for years to come.
Thank you to everyone who has supported Southern Garden Solutions over the years. It’s been a privilege to be part of so many homeowners’ journeys, and I’m excited to continue helping people create outdoor spaces they truly love.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.southerngardensol.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southerngardensolutions/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/southerngardensolutions/
