Being a woman in landscaping and waterscaping — industries traditionally dominated by men — has been an empowering, challenging and ultimately rewarding journey. Over the past 25 years, running a woman-owned company like Earth & Waterscapes Inc., has redefined what it means to thrive in a profession that often values strength and endurance over creativity and nurture.
As the world continues to evolve in 2024, it’s essential to reflect on the struggles and triumphs that have led us here.
When I first started my landscaping business in the late ’90s, I was met with skepticism. In an industry where heavy machinery, labor-intensive work and technical expertise were expected to be the domain of men, clients and even peers questioned my capabilities. There was a persistent stereotype that women couldn’t handle the physical demands of the job, nor the technical knowhow needed for complex waterscaping projects.
But it wasn’t just about proving my competence as a woman waterscaper— it was about redefining the conversation. My vision was not just to lay sod or dig ponds, but to create spaces of beauty, serenity and sustainability. Where many saw brawn, I saw an opportunity to balance artistry with function. The blend of meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of natural ecosystems set me apart from the beginning.
Still, those early days involved navigating prejudice, building credibility and constantly justifying my right to stand in the field alongside male competitors.
Growing pains and breakthroughs for a woman waterscaper
Running a business as a woman also came with its own set of challenges. There were times when securing capital or negotiating contracts felt like swimming upstream in a current of bias. Even when I hired employees and began expanding, there was an undercurrent of doubt, with clients sometimes assuming my male staff were in charge.
I had to fight for every bit of recognition — not just as a capable landscaper but also as the head of a thriving company.
Another challenge was balancing the demands of business ownership with my personal life, especially in an era when societal expectations still weighed heavily on women to prioritize home and family. There were moments when I had to work twice as hard to maintain the business while managing a household.
Yet, even as the industry evolves, some things remain the same. The challenges for women in business persist, though the tide is shifting. Today, I see more women entering landscaping and waterscaping than ever before, bringing with them innovation, passion and a fresh perspective. The glass ceiling may still exist, but it’s cracking, and each project, each new hire and each satisfied client is a hammer strike.
Despite these obstacles, I was determined to build a business model that wasn’t just financially successful but also supportive of others — especially other women. As I hired more employees, I sought to create an inclusive workplace where everyone, regardless of gender, could thrive.
My goal was not only to challenge the industry’s standards but also to cultivate a culture that allowed women to excel in fields like waterscaping and landscaping without facing the hurdles I did in the early days.
Empowering others
For all the struggles, the rewards have been profound. Over the years, watching our projects come to life — from sprawling landscapes to intricate waterscapes — has filled me with immense pride. It’s not just about the aesthetics; it’s about transforming spaces, creating sanctuaries and connecting people to nature. The projects that stand out the most are often the ones that others deemed impossible or too complex for a woman-led company to tackle.
Moreover, the joy of empowering others — especially the next generation of women landscapers — has been incredibly fulfilling. Watching female employees and colleagues rise through the ranks, seeing them take ownership of their skills and projects and knowing that my journey helped pave the way for them are a few of my greatest achievements. It’s a reminder that the struggles of the past weren’t just for personal success, but for also creating a legacy of inclusion and opportunity.
As we move through 2024, the landscape industry is changing rapidly. Sustainability is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. Water conservation, ecofriendly practices and sustainable design are at the forefront of what we do. I am proud that Earth & Waterscapes has always been ahead of this curve, advocating for natural, organic solutions long before they were trendy.
Being a woman in this field in 2024 means being a trailblazer, mentor and advocate. It means continuing to push boundaries, challenge assumptions and redefine success. The past 25 years have been a journey of resilience and reinvention, and I’m more excited than ever for what the future holds. If the path we’ve carved teaches us anything, it’s that the combination of passion, perseverance and purpose is unstoppable — no matter your gender.
Looking back, I wouldn’t trade the struggles for anything. They shaped me into the businesswoman I am today, providing the fuel to prove that women belong in every corner of this industry. Today, my work isn’t just about creating beautiful landscapes or functioning water features. It’s about showing that strength and creativity come in many forms. It’s about paving the way for others to follow and leaving the industry a more inclusive, innovative place for everyone.
As I look ahead to the next chapter, my heart is full of gratitude and excitement. The future of landscaping and waterscaping is bright, and I’m proud to be part of that change. Here’s to breaking ground in every sense of the word!