Meet Our Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

Heather Little: Growing Connections

By Caitlyn Stair, Diamond Certified Research Reporter

For Heather Little, every landscape begins with possibility. Whether she’s reimagining an outdated yard or transforming an empty outdoor space, she sees each project as a blank canvas waiting to become something both beautiful and functional.

Heather’s connection to the landscaping industry began long before she stepped into a leadership role. In 1991, her parents purchased Manzanita Landscape Construction, Inc. and grew it into one of Sonoma County’s most respected landscape construction firms. Heather joined the company in 2004, initially providing administrative support while learning about different aspects of the business. “I ended up going to college for landscape construction and learned about drafting and irrigation,” she adds. “In 2015, I officially took over the company.”

Heather believes successful landscape design begins with listening. Each project starts with an in-depth consultation that explores everything from how the client plans to use their outdoor space to their favorite plants and maintenance preferences. That collaborative approach allows her to translate ideas that some people struggle to visualize into designs that are tailored to their lifestyles. “Not everybody is good at seeing things on paper,” she says. “My job is to fill that gap and create the space they’re imagining. It’s incredible rewarding to take a blank canvas and make it into something beautiful that everyone can enjoy.”

Environmental responsibility is an important part of Heather’s design process. She approaches each project by considering water usage, pollinator habitats, local growing conditions and the long-term impact of each material. “I’m always concerned about the environmental impact of our work because that’s our industry,” she says. “I try to incorporate low-water plants that are good for the area and create spaces where nature can thrive.”

Originally from Utica, New York, Heather moved to Northern California in the early 1990s after her parents sought greater opportunities in the construction industry. It didn’t take long for Sonoma County’s welcoming community, mild climate and convenient location to make a lasting impression on her. “It was a totally different atmosphere and the people were super friendly,” she recalls. “I immediately fell in love with it and I haven’t looked back since.”

When she isn’t designing landscapes, Heather enjoys spending time outdoors; walking local trails; cooking; and playing video games with her husband, Tim. She says she appreciates the creativity they share as a couple—Tim brings his building expertise to Manzanita Landscape Construction’s projects while she develops designs that bring their clients’ visions to life.

After more than two decades in the industry, Heather continues to approach every project with the same mindset that first drew her to landscape design: creating spaces that improve people’s lives while respecting the environment. Even during challenging economic times, she remains guided by one simple philosophy: “Never give up.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: Do you have any pets?
A: We have a Labrador/pit bull mix named Brandy and a long-haired Chihuahua named Ziggy.

Q: Would you rather be somewhere cold or somewhere hot?
A: Somewhere in the middle, like Northern California.

Q: If you could time-travel, would you go to the past or the future?
A: The past. I’d love to experience the ’50s and ’60s to see what life was like when my parents were growing up.

Q: What’s your favorite holiday?
A: Thanksgiving. I love how everyone gathers around good food and takes time to appreciate what they’re thankful for.

Q: What’s your favorite game?
A: “Magic: The Gathering Arena.”