Today we’d like to introduce you to Shalanda Cofer.
Hi Shalanda, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I am from College Park, Georgia and I grew up on White City Road. I am a proud mother of two sons and one grandson. I am a Christian. I have worked for Georgia State University for 25 years (started when I was 22 years old), but I had developed a passion for landscaping when I was just a little girl. I grew up watching my mother and father work together doing things around the house and yard (building a porch, installing a fireplace, remodeling the kitchen, adding a room here and there, etc.) My mother and father had 13 children (I’m the youngest) together and they taught each of us many of their skills. I would watch my mother for hours tending to her gardens (vegetable, ornamental flowers, and fruit trees). It wasn’t long before I started to help her and learn from her. She taught me A LOT about gardening. When I purchased my home, it was no surprise that I began gardening and taking care of my yard.
I have been planting for over 15 years now. However, I started my business in 2018. After I had started receiving so many compliments on my yard (the design, the color, etc,) I began posting my work on social media. A couple of my friends and my sister (Debbie Jones) suggested that I should start my own business. So I said why not. Honestly, I was nervous about starting my own business, but through my pastor (Apostle Eddrick High, New Creation Christian Church in Riverdale, GA) God reassured me that starting my business was a part of his plans for me (Jeremiah 29:11). At first, I was just doing simple plant installations. However, I am now designing, consulting, working with other contractors, etc. and working on bigger projects. God has even bigger plans for me and my business! I can’t wait to see what’s next!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
For the most part, it has been smooth. However, I had to learn how to remove the spirit of fear regarding starting something new. I had to get over worrying about if I make a mistake or worrying about not knowing “EVERYTHING.” Also, learning how to digest criticism and correction. I had to do a lot of praying (still praying…) and a lot of mind renewal (daily process). I have to tell myself that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me and BELIEVE it.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Yard Diva is a licensed and insured professional who has over 15 years of experience with planting and garden design. She loves planting, nurturing, and watching beautiful things grow! Yard Diva can also advise you on what will work best for your yard or garden. Mission Statement: Our mission is to display God’s beauty and love through our service and to leave every yard more beautiful than we found it! We believe in operating in excellence and your overall satisfaction is our goal. “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters,” – Colossians 3:23 Services: Plant installation Mulching, plant pruning, hedge trimming Garden Clean-up Service Minor Weed Removal Service Creative Design Service ($50 per design) Container Gardening Spill Pot Decorative Yard Features Border Installation Flower selection/design and more! Yard Diva takes pride in getting the job done neatly but quickly!
It takes between 5 to 6 hours to provide service for smaller yards and 6 to 7 hours for larger yards (depending upon weather conditions and services requested). We can beautify your yard for as little as $400 or more for small-sized projects and $600 or more for mid-sized projects (pricing varies depending upon scope of work needed and your design choices). Designs are FREE when you purchase installation services. There is a %50 retainer fee required to begin work on your project and the remaining balance will be due at the time of completion. Currently serving the metro Atlanta area, which may include (but not limited to): East Point, College Park, Riverdale, Jonesboro, Morrow, Stockbridge, McDonough, Hampton, Fairburn, Palmetto, Tyrone, Senoia, Fayetteville, and Peachtree City. NOW serving some parts of Buckhead, Cascade, and Decatur… more metro Atlanta areas are being added!
Contact Info:
- Email: GOandGROW@yarddiva.com
- Website: www.yarddiva.com
- Facebook: @yarddiva
- Phone: (470) 231-6217
- Other: https://yarddiva.com/tips-and-videos, https://yarddiva.com/contact-our-team
