Introduction
Hi, I’m Michele, though many people call me Shelley, and I’m excited to share a bit of my story with you. I’d love to take you on a journey through my passion for gardens and how it ultimately led to the creation of Woodsford Landscapes. This journey is not just about building a business, but about following a lifelong love for gardens and the outdoors. I have a desire to create spaces where people can find peace and joy in their surroundings.
My love of the horticultural world began in my childhood, with memories of long, late summer evenings in the garden, working with my Mother until nightfall. This is where I saw my Mother at her happiest and I saw the effect of how gardens can really nurture our well-being and our mental health.
Personal Journey
After an initial career managing luxury fashion brand sales and PR in London, my passion for the outdoors deepened during my travels. I immersed myself in the diverse landscapes of the South American jungle, the African bush, and the cultivated vistas of Europe. These experiences allowed me to absorb the beauty of various ecosystems, each offering unique inspiration. Through photography, I honed my eye for detail, capturing the essence of these natural environments and bringing that inspiration back home.
Upon returning to the UK, I channeled those experiences into creating outdoor spaces that evoke the same profound connection with nature. Our gardens are designed as sanctuaries—places where one can escape the hustle of everyday life and encounter vibrant flora and fauna.
Now as a Mother of three children, and after studying at London College of Garden Design, Kew, I knew that it was my purpose to be able to provide outdoor spaces that really make a difference to people’s lives.
Company Vision
Over the past decade, Woodsford Landscapes vision has evolved, transforming into a company dedicated to crafting exquisite private gardens tailored to the unique desires of each client we meet. Today, we are proud to work closely with our clients, whether they seek to cultivate expansive landscapes or intimate, smaller spaces. Our focus is on creating beautiful, personalised gardens that not only enhance the natural beauty of their surroundings but also reflect the individuality and lifestyle of those who enjoy them.
Project Highlights
1. We were inspired – we have been inspired by the opportunity to create a tranquil bird sanctuary garden—a serene haven for a client who had recently experienced the loss of her husband. This garden was designed as a place where she can find solace and connection, particularly with the birds that visit. She believes that her late husband returns to her in the form of these birds, bringing comfort and a sense of his enduring presence. Our goal was to design a space that honours their bond, providing a nurturing environment for wildlife while also offering a peaceful retreat for her to reflect, heal, and feel close to the one she has lost.
2. We also designed an enchanting ‘Alice in Wonderland’ themed space in a top London children’s nursery. This magical environment was created as a place where toddlers could dive into the wonders of messy play, discover the vital role that insects and pollinators play in our ecosystem, and witness the fascinating journey of seeds growing into the vegetables they eat. It was a true delight to capture their imaginations with giant dinner-plate-sized dahlias, towering above their heads, nestled under climbing pumpkins that wove through their pergola. The children were captivated by the ‘Premier Innsect’ Hotel, a structure that provided a cozy residence for ladybirds, bees, and other insects, offering endless opportunities for the little ones to observe and learn from nature’s smallest creatures.
Conclusion
I believe we have a fundamental desire to be amongst all living things, to have our feet on the grass or to be observing the busy bees at work and to be in a place that provides respite in a hectic world.
If you are inspired by the idea of creating a garden design for your home, office or commercial space where you can escape the everyday hustle, reconnect and nurture your well-being, we would love to help bring that vision to life. At Woodsford Landscapes, we specialise in designing gardens that are more than just beautiful—they are deeply personal spaces that reflect your unique story and needs. Whether it’s a tranquil bird sanctuary, a whimsical children’s garden, or a serene retreat for your family, we’re here to create a space where you can find joy, peace, and inspiration. Reach out to us today to start your journey towards a garden that not only enhances your home but also enriches your life.