The Journey of Susan and Garland Design Group: Building Dreams One Space at a Time
and paths to founding were anything but linear, reflecting the resilience and adaptability that define their entrepreneurial spirit. For Susan, growing up in Wisconsin and pursuing her undergraduate degree at the University of Wisconsin-Madison was the start of a journey filled with twists and turns. She began in landscape architecture, but the 2009 recession shifted her career path to buying and planning at Macy’s in New York City, and later to personal training at Equinox. Yet, her love for design never wavered.
Preston, on the other hand, was a Colorado native born and raised in Boulder. After completing a dual degree in biochemistry and marketing at CU Boulder, he worked for his family’s company for nearly a decade before deciding to return to CU for an MBA. It was in the Leeds School of Business that Susan and ʰٴDz’s paths finally crossed, forging a partnership that would eventually lead to their entrepreneurial venture.
The CU MBA Experience
Their time at CU Boulder was pivotal. Both Susan and Preston were drawn to the program for its small, supportive cohort, which fostered lasting friendships and collaboration. Susan recalls the “pay-it-forward” culture of alumni helping students navigate the challenges of career building. Case competitions and hands-on learning opportunities further cemented their skills and confidence. Many of their peers and classmates in the MBA program became some of their first clients, showcasing the strong community and networking experience within the program.
This proves that the CU MBA experience is not just about academics, it’s also about community. Many of their closest friendships were forged there, and Susan even credits her time in the program for helping her rediscover her passion for design. With COVID-19 shifting classes online, Susan and Preston made the most of their remote setup by splitting time between Boulder and Gypsum, where Susan worked full-time with an interior design firm in the Vail Valley during her second year.
A Unique Approach to Design
Graduating during the uncertainty of 2021, Susan and Preston took a leap of faith and launched Garland Design Group in July. While most MBA graduates take years to start a business, they chose to dive right in. ʰٴDz’s steady role in his family business provided financial stability while Susan pursued her dream of creating a company that seamlessly integrates interior and landscape design.
As mentioned previously, their first major project came from a fellow MBA classmate, who hired them to transform his unfinished basement into a fully functional living space. From there, the referrals started pouring in. Today, Garland Design Group has
helped families remodel homes, restore spaces after disasters like the Marshall Fire, and even tackle large-scale mountain vacation home projects.
What sets Garland Design Group apart is Susan’s ability to merge interior and landscape design, a rare combination in the industry. “As humans, we experience both interiors and exteriors throughout the day,” Preston explains. Their holistic approach connects these spaces, enhancing the way people live inside and outside their homes. From designing functional outdoor kitchens to reimagining cozy living rooms, their work creates harmony between form and function.
Their personal connections with clients have been a cornerstone of their success. Susan reflects, “It’s wonderful to grow with our clients and help them through different life milestones, from young families to retirees.”
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Starting a business is never easy, but Susan and Preston believe in the power of persistence, adaptability, and connection. “Be willing to pivot,” Preston advises. “What the market needs might not be what you started with.” For Susan, building relationships has been key. “So much of our business is word of mouth. Put yourself out there, network, and don’t be afraid to be a beginner. You learn as you go.”
The two emphasize that Entrepreneurship can be lonely, but finding a supportive network makes all the difference. Susan encourages reaching out to others in your field, even if they’re not direct competitors. “Sometimes it’s about connecting with someone who’s 10 years ahead of where you want to be,” she advises. Networking, joining groups, and fostering genuine relationships can lead to valuable opportunities and collaborations.
Susan recalls how stepping out of her comfort zone transformed her career. “I used to be shy, but I had to rem
ind myself to act like the ‘mayor’ of the gym,” she shares from her personal training days. The same principle applies to starting a business: approach people with authenticity, develop relationships, and don’t shy away from making connections offline. Many of their projects stemmed from simple conversations with contractors and real estate agents.
Looking Ahead
The future for Garland Design Group is bright. The couple envisions expanding their team to include additional interior and landscape designers while continuing to work closely with clients. They hope to take on more out-of-state projects and further establish their niche as a one-stop shop for holistic design.
Whether helping a family rebuild after tragedy or creating a dream vacation home, Susan and ʰٴDz’s work is deeply personal, reflecting their passion for transforming spaces and lives. As they grow their business, their commitment to innovation, community, and client relationships remains at the heart of Garland Design Group’s journey.
In a rapidly changing world, Susan and Preston prove that resilience and vision can turn dreams into reality. Garland Design Group is not just about designing spaces, it’s about creating experiences, fostering connections, and leaving a lasting impact on the lives of their clients.