Today we’d like to introduce you to EJ Wood.
Hi EJ, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Upon finishing my undergraduate degree, I took advantage of an opportunity to join a prominent landscape architecture firm on their business development team. I did my best to be a “sponge” – to speak less, listen more, and absorb all that I could from those more knowledgeable and experienced than myself. I eventually transitioned to working in the project management and architecture team, where I gained invaluable knowledge regarding how people use spaces and how to thoughtfully respond to the unique priorities and needs of each client. When I was offered the chance to lead the business development and project management teams at Hogue, it felt like a culmination of my experiences on both sides of the industry, and I leapt at the opportunity. I have been blessed with a talented, hard-working team of driven folks to make me look good, and I love being able to deliver transformative outdoor spaces for Houstonians every single day!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Anyone who works in the construction industry can tell you that there are no shortage of hiccups to be had within our field. Certainly, when I was younger, I can vividly recall the times I would call my co-workers in a state of pure panic – “There aren’t enough Holly trees on this truck!” “Our electrician is late!” I was known to turn into a ball of pure anxiety when things did not go perfectly. In hindsight, I feel as though the times when I was the most anxious, or scared, or nervous, are the times that taught me to rise to the occasion and become a more capable and effective leader.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Hogue Landscape Services?
We are a full-service landscape firm providing design, construction, and maintenance services to the Houston area. We love designing low-maintenance, functional, and fun spaces that inspire people to enjoy the outdoors- whether that is lounging in your new pool, grilling in your new outdoor kitchen, or sinking a 10-footer on your new putting green. Our team caters custom designs for each project to suit the space, the wants and needs of the client, and elements of the architecture of the home, ensuring the outdoor spaces are an extension of the indoors. We love native plants, stone harvested from Texas quarries, and organic soils, fertilizers, and mulches.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The biggest lesson I’ve picked up is to listen to the client! It sounds silly, but one of the biggest complaints I’ve heard from clients that met with other firms is that they felt unheard. Understanding how the space will be used, how it will be lived in and enjoyed, and the unique people who will live in it is the most important part of any design. Then, all we have to do is figure out how to make the design a reality.
Pricing:
- Synthetic Lawn and Putting Greens: from $10/SF
- Full Property Conceptual Designs: from $650
- Weekly Landscape Maintenance: from $400/month
Contact Info:
- Email: EJ@HogueLS.com
- Website: http://www.hoguels.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HogueLS/
Image Credits
Hogue Landscape Services, LLC
