My name is Angie, and for many years landscaping was just a hobby for me, a way to relieve stress after a long day at work. But in time, I couldn't deny my calling, and I decided to go back to school to study Ornamental Horticulture. Having grown up on a farm, my Dad couldn’t understand why I would rather plant trees over corn, or flowers over soybeans, but he was satisfied that as long as my hands were in the “dirt” I couldn’t go too far wrong. I graduated from Kishwaukee College and went on to work two years at a Garden Center and three years at a Nursery. The experiences were invaluable as I learned more about design, plants, and people. It was a leap of faith “branching out” on my own, but I was confident that if I really listened to my customers, I could give them that beautiful yard which made them feel at home.

The most dedicated Branching Out team member that has been with me from day one, is my black lab, Hunter. If the weather is not too hot, chances are you will find him riding shot gun. His irresistible personality has probably sold more jobs than I care to admit.

The greatest arrival to the team was Fermin. From sod farms, to nurseries, to garden centers, he has done it all. Fermin worked 14 years at RLE where he was in charge of building retaining walls, patios, dry creek beds, fire pits, and more. He is particularly gifted in working with natural stone. He never ceases to amaze us with his techniques and creativity. We refer to him as our resident Mayan. Although Fermin can handle a job of any size (as you can see from the photos), he has a passion for Bonsai trees and enjoys Japanese Gardens the most.

I think it is good for you to know a little background about Fermin and I because we are the ones that will be handling your project from start to finish. Sure we have other help, but we want you to know that when you hire us we don’t send someone else (who you can’t communicate with) to do the dirty work. With Branching Out, you receive the big company capability with the small company personal touch. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about us. Please call if we can be of service to you.