El Cerrito Yard Makeover: Designed for Busy Homeowners

When I first launched Your Village, my vision was simple but powerful: to help busy parents come home to a yard that feels like a peaceful retreat, a place where the chaos of the day can melt away. After all, who deserves a little extra love from the community more than the people who tirelessly hold it all together?

That’s exactly why I chose to help one of our very own—Little Hill. If you live in the area, you probably already know her. She’s a force of nature behind so many community efforts: founding fun events like The Summer Kick-Off Festival, building awareness for traditions like The Best of El Cerrito, connecting business owners, and championing local artists through the beautiful murals that brighten our town. Little Hill’s impact is everywhere you look, but with so much energy spent lifting up our community, she often doesn’t have time to focus on extras for herself, and she’d be the first to tell you her yard space needed some love. .

From Weeds to a Whole New Vision

When I started the free mini yard makeover, it was a modest project: clearing out weeds, tidying up a few unexpected “treasures” from the kids (think random seashells and little trinkets), and helping her reclaim her outdoor space. As we worked together, it became clear the project deserved to grow, so we arranged for my very first paid landscaping offer to take it to the next level—a full transformation that reflected her evolving lifestyle and the needs of her busy life.

Step 1: Tackling the Weeds and Rock Walls

We started by clearing the overgrowth and weeds that had taken over. Once we could see the bones of the space, we debated moving the rock walls. We were both a little nervous, but I decided to go for it—and let me tell you, it was a great workout and totally worth it for the modern cleaner layout.

Step 2: Loosening and Refreshing the Soil

After clearing, the next essential step was preparing the soil. We loosened compacted areas to help with drainage and root development, then added fresh soil where needed to enrich the beds and set the stage for new growth.

Step 3: Shopping Local Nurseries

Then came the fun part—plant shopping. We aimed for a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant mix in a soft sage and plum palette with pops of bright green. I visited some of my favorite local nurseries, each with its own strengths:

• Curious Flora (formerly Annie’s Annuals): A plant-lover’s paradise for rare, unusual varieties that bring unexpected charm.

• East Bay Nursery: The go-to spot for California natives and hardy drought-tolerant options.

• Flowerland: A beautifully curated space with perennials and blooms that fit right into a stylish home garden.

• Westbrae Nursery: Great for seasonal selections and organic gardening staples.

Step 4: Thoughtful Planting (Not Overplanting)

With plants in hand, we laid them out before planting to get a sense of how everything would fill in over time. My approach to planting is slower and smarter—don’t overplant. A few intentional choices today can prevent an overcrowded, overgrown space later. We chose spacing that allows the plants to thrive and mature into their full potential—with room to breathe.

Step 5: Checking the Irrigation

Before planting, I tested the existing irrigation system to make sure it was functional and efficient. No sense planting a water-wise garden if it’s being overwatered or not watered at all. I adjusted some zones and ensured coverage for the new layout.

Step 6: Mulching and Finishing Touches

Finally, I topped it all off with mulch—not just for looks, but to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots. It's one of those finishing touches that instantly makes everything look pulled together and helps the plants stay happy.

My First Paid Landscaping Project—And a New Way of Doing Things

This was my very first paid landscaping project, and honestly, I wasn’t sure if I loved working in my own yard because I genuinely enjoyed it—or because it gave me a chance to escape other people and avoid everything else. But it turns out, I like doing it no matter where I am. Helping someone else create a space they love? Even better.

And here's the thing: I’m not trying to build a traditional landscaping company. I want to solve real, everyday problems for homeowners.

You know what’s frustrating? Calling a bunch of people, sitting through quotes, and then finding out that everything you want is wildly out of budget. I’m trying something different—maybe even a little naïve—but it’s built around transparency and trust.

A Flat-Rate, Flexible Approach

I’m offering flat-rate pricing per square foot, so you can actually plan. You know your space, you know your budget—and I’ll help you make it work. Want to start with that one front bed you see every time you pull in the driveway? Let’s do it. Want to carve out a little corner in the backyard that’s just for you? Even better.

Whether I help you kick off your project or walk you through the whole thing start to finish, I’m here to make it doable. And if you want to learn while we go? I’d love to teach.

You don’t need a huge budget to love your home—you just need a plan that works for real life.

Ready to start? Let’s build something that fits your home and your life.
Book your project now or reach out and tell me what you're dreaming of.