Also the second payment:  The next time you see us we will have a preliminary plan to look over based on all the concepts that we went over in our first meeting.  Stage 2 is the most important stage!  This is where we go over all of the layout and details with you until it is right!

This could include everything from the hardscapes to the planting plan and the lighting locations, etc. – whatever is needed reflecting our first meeting.  In some larger jobs it may be deemed better to just put in the hardscapes first (patios, walkways, pools, patio covers, outdoor kitchens, retaining wall… etc.), before adding the planting plan.  I like the full plan myself so you get the total vision immediately.  Each designer sets their own presentation.

For this preliminary Stage 2 meeting, if some or all of the plantings are going to be presented, we will provide plant photos.  Also, this will usually include pictures of specific materials and structure concepts so you can truly see our vision a lot clearer.  A lot of people see the concepts immediately in the plan and others need visual examples of what we’re talking about… this is especially the case for plants as not too many people know plants as we the designers do!  Now remember this is just the preliminary stage and the true starting point to the design.  We will generally to go over your thoughts, potential changes, or decisions.  If needed, we will leave the initial concept with you to go over and we will schedule a follow-up meeting – this will give you time to go over things.  Remember to take your time – and remember we have time to get your plan right.  If the preliminary plan (in rare case!) is not where you want it, we will correct it and reschedule a second Stage 2 presentation at no extra charge!  NOTE:  If there are major changes to the design, the designer will assess any costs they may incur. 

Also, if you, as the client, require additional 3D renderings or perspective sketches at anytime during the design process, that will incur additional charges.  Your designer might not do sketches, so talk it over with them first, and have them talk to the office.

Also the third or final payment:  Now that we have gotten through the preliminary Stage 2 process, it is time to present to you the final version of the plan.  This will usually include 2 full-size to-scale copies (usually 24″x36″) of the plan.  Also, you can request a full-color version of the plan in a pdf format.  This final plan will have all the details included to suit your individual needs.  It will meet the requirements for you to get contractor bids, phasing in your landscape project, and it will also be easy to implement.  If contractor bids are required at this point, we will submit your plan to our trusted Designer’s Choice contractor in your area or forward it to anyone you need to give a bid on your plan.

Remember, once you have the completed design, it is still subject to any changes that you may need.  If the changes are minor, it will be done a no extra charge.  However, if there will need to be more, it will be assessed under Additional Design Modification as agreed and contracted upon by you and your designer.