Vanessa Bunnell

What started as a teenage job at a local garden center has come full circle. Thirty years later, my love for plants, design and creativity has turned into a career that lets me build meaningful relationships and design outdoor spaces that inspire connection and joy.

Reigniting Passions and Investing in Yourself

Life has a way of putting our personal goals on hold — especially when we’re raising kids and supporting a partner. But every stage of life adds something valuable to who we are. Now in my 40s, with a daughter in the Air Force and a son in high school, I’ve found myself returning to where it all began: horticulture.

Along the way, I invested in myself — earning degrees and certifications in horticulture, landscape design and more. I’m now working toward a BS at SCSU in Interdisciplinary Studies, blending business, wellness and horticulture into one path.

If you’re thinking about making a shift, start small. Go to a workshop, volunteer, say yes to a project that excites you. Keep learning. Look for the resources out there for women in business. Every step you take helps you reconnect with who you are — and who you’ve always been.

Drawing on Experience and Starting Where You Are

Over the years, my work has ranged from hands-on design to teaching and mentoring. Getting started wasn’t always easy — I faced challenges like sexism and a lack of experience. But I had mentors who believed in me. That, combined with a lot of trial and error, helped shape the perspective I bring to my work today.

You don’t need to have it all figured out to start. Look at the skills you already have. Use them to build momentum. Lean into the things that interest you and see where they lead.

• Use the skills you have now and work with others to build credibility.

• Look for opportunities in local schools, programs, or community spaces.

• Take small, consistent steps toward the bigger picture.

Cultivating Inclusive, Purpose-Driven Designs

Landscapes are more than just pretty spaces — they can be places of healing. My recent work with people with developmental disabilities opened my eyes to the power of therapeutic horticulture. Now more than ever, I’m focused on designing spaces that are inclusive, accessible and sustainable. Whether your passion is art, nature or community, bring that into your work. Find purpose in the details.

Action Steps:

• Design with accessibility and well-being in mind.

• Help others understand the value of functional, beautiful outdoor spaces.

• Support and lift up other women in this field—we’re better when we work together.

Embracing Challenges and Moving Forward

Setbacks are part of the journey. Going back to school, launching a new business and juggling family life have tested me — but they’ve also reminded me why I love this work so much. Hold on to the thing that lit that spark in you. Let it grow. Let it carry you forward.

Action Steps:

• Accept challenges as part of the process.

• Celebrate the wins — big or small.

• Share your story. You never know who needs to hear it.

Today, I’m more passionate than ever about designing landscapes and leading gardening programs that bring people together. If following your passion feels scary, remember: it might just lead you right where you’re meant to be.

Women in Landscaping is a column brought to you in partnership with the National Association of Landscape Professionals. Vanessa Bunnell is an active member of the National Association of Landscape Professionals Women in Landscape Network (powered by Stanley Black and Decker) which provides a forum for industry professionals to support each other’s professional growth. The Network is free to all industry professionals.