For Maggie Dilworth, turning overgrown gardens into outdoor sanctuaries isn’t just a job—it’s what she loves to do! The Starter Company Plus graduate and owner of Gardens Around the Bay specializes in professional garden design and maintenance, helping clients spend less time weeding and more time enjoying their outdoor spaces. From seasonal cleanups to garden planning and regular maintenance, Maggie transforms properties into beautiful spaces worth admiring. Her curiosity and enthusiasm for learning have made her entrepreneurial journey one to watch.
Read on to learn more about Maggie and her business in the Q&A below.
Tell us about your journey as an entrepreneur. What sparked the idea to start your business?
I started the business because I love spending time in the garden. I enjoy what I do, I find it fulfilling on a level that I was never able to achieve as a Senior Marketing Manager at a large corporation. This is reflected in the level of care that I put into my client’s gardens.
What products or services do you offer, and how do they solve a problem or meet a need?
We offer high quality professional garden services, including garden design, installation & maintenance
Who or what do you turn to for creative ideas and business inspiration?
I’m a member of the Simcoe County Master Gardeners group, and I find the other members immeasurably inspirational. I aspire to reach their level of expertise one day, as they set the bar incredibly high.
Why did you apply for the Starter Company Plus program, and what are you hoping to gain from it?
The Starter Company Plus program has helped me literally “put down roots” here, in Collingwood. I had hoped to make connections and grow my business through the Starter Company Plus program. The mentorship portion of the program has been particularly amazing. My mentor, Lil Rourke of Rourke, CPA has incredibly kindly donated many, many hours to helping me and the entire SC+ group.
Describe a moment when you felt really proud of your business.
Honestly, it happens with every project. I’m always amazed by my before and after photos. The transformations never get old, and they remind me why I love this work.
What do you love most about serving your community?
I love being able to use my professional knowledge to help my clients, neighbours and family make their outdoor space more beautiful. Afterall, they’ll be looking at it every day so it’s important they love it.
What do you consider to be your core strengths as an entrepreneur?
Prior to starting Gardens Around the Bay, I spent 15 years in the corporate world. I am honest, organized and professional. My clients appreciate a full summary of work after each visit, including before & after photos and suggestions for the next visit.
What are your favourite local spots to visit on a day off?
My kids and I spend every spare moment at the new Sunset Point Park! What a fun spot.
What’s your favourite way to de-stress after a long day?
After a long day in my client’s gardens, I put my kids to bed and then head out to work in my own garden!
What’s the most memorable feedback you’ve received from a client?
Many of my clients live elsewhere and only visit their Collingwood properties on weekends or during ski season. They are grateful for the photos and in-depth summaries when they are unable to make it up north to care for their property.
What book, podcast, or resource has had the biggest impact on you?
I am currently enrolled in a Greenhouse Operations micro-credential course at Georgian College. We have been lucky enough to complete the lab portion of the course at Rama Community Farm. The farm, the people working there and the instructor have had a massive impact on my gardening mindset!
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Connect with Maggie and Garden’s on the Bay:
Website: GardensAroundTheBay.ca
Email: GardensAroundTheBay@gmail.com
Facebook & Instagram & TikTok: @gardensaroundthebay