Today we’d like to introduce you to Connor Willis.
Hi Connor, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Like many young people, when I graduated high school, I thought college was the obvious next step. I gave it a try, but quickly realized my heart just wasn’t in it. I wasn’t entirely sure which direction I wanted to go, and I didn’t want to spend years and thousands of dollars trying to figure it out. I knew I needed time, clarity and a little dirt under my fingernails. That time came when I began working for a local tree service. What started as just a job quickly turned into something more. I discovered how much I enjoyed working outdoors, creating clean and beautiful spaces, and knowing the work I did made homeowners feel better about their property, sometimes even safer. The sense of pride I felt after seeing a project through from beginning to end was unmatched.
In 2022, I took a leap of faith and launched Michigan Made Landscaping. From day one, our mission has been simple: treat every yard like it’s our own, and every customer like family. That mindset has carried us through explosive growth each year, and we’re proud to say that a large part of our business now comes from referrals and repeat customers. There’s no better compliment.
When we started out, we focused on the basics; weed pulling, mulch and rock installation, and bush and tree trimming. As we grew, so did our services. Today, we specialize in hardscaping and surface drainage solutions as well. No matter the size or scope of the job, our commitment remains the same: we listen, we care, and we deliver results that make our clients proud of their outdoor spaces.
Every member of the Michigan Made Landscaping team shares the same approach. We do the job right the first time, not just to meet expectations, but to exceed them. We want you to love the transformation, and we’d be honored to be invited back whenever you need us again.
We’re deeply grateful for the support of the Michigan/Ohio communities we serve. It’s your trust, your referrals, and your feedback that allow us to do what we love every day.
Whether you’re envisioning a fresh new look for your landscape or need solutions that protect your property, Michigan Made Landscaping is here to help. We are rooted in passion and built on trust.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Like any growing business, Michigan Made Landscaping has faced our fair share of challenges, but each one has helped shape us into the company we are today. One of the biggest obstacles has been finding the right employees. We set a high standard for the work we do, and we expect our team to share in our commitment to quality and customer care. We’re not just looking for people to fill positions, we’re looking for individuals who take pride in their work and genuinely care about the homeowners we serve. That level of dedication isn’t always easy to find, but we’d rather grow slowly with the right people than compromise on our values.
Of course, the weather in Michigan and Ohio is another ongoing challenge. We work hard to keep our schedule on track and communicate clearly with customers about what to expect. However, Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate. When delays happen, we make it a point to stay in touch, stay transparent, and always follow through on our promises.
Another challenge we’ve come to understand deeply is the importance of gaining a homeowner’s trust. We know it can be unsettling to have strangers working on your property, especially when the outcome matters so much. That’s why we go to great lengths to ensure every member of our team is professional, respectful, and focused on making the customer feel confident in our presence and our process.
While there’s no shortage of landscaping companies out there, we’ve found that our focus on customer service continues to set us apart. Our dedication to clear communication, follow-through, and genuine care has led to a steady flow of referrals and repeat business. Even in a competitive market, our schedule stays full because our customers know we do what we say, and we do it well.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Landscape Design Drainage Systems
Mulch/Rock Delivery & Installation
Bush/Tree Trimming & Removal
Power washing
Gutter Cleaning
Pavers/Edging
Grading & Sod
Sprinkler Systems
Spring & Fall Clean-Up
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
While I may be the owner of Michigan Made Landscaping, this journey hasn’t been mine alone and I’d be remiss not to recognize those who’ve played a role in helping me get to where I am today. First and foremost, I give all the glory to God. Proverbs 16:9 says, “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” I’ve held tightly to that truth throughout this journey. I believe it’s our responsibility to use the wisdom we’re given, work hard, and pursue our goals with integrity. When we do this, God blesses the effort. That’s exactly what I’ve experienced with Michigan Made Landscaping.
Before launching my own business, I worked for a local tree service. That hands-on experience not only taught me valuable technical skills, but also confirmed my passion for working outdoors and creating beautiful, safe, and functional spaces for homeowners. I knew I wanted to take that passion and build something of my own.
For over two years, I saved every bit I could from my paychecks, enough to eventually purchase my first truck, trailer, and the essential equipment needed to get started. It was a leap of faith, but one I felt ready for, thanks to the foundation I had around me.
That foundation includes my parents, who have been absolutely instrumental in my success. Both of them are entrepreneurs in their own right and have a wealth of experience running successful businesses. Their insight, encouragement, and willingness to help were invaluable as I took my first steps. They also played a huge role in getting the word out. My dad, who has run his own business, coached in our local community for over 30 years, and now serves as an elected official and my mom, who has run a business and worked in the nonprofit sector for nearly 15 years, both have strong networks in our area. A simple marketing post on Facebook, shared through their circles, was the spark that really got Michigan Made Landscaping off the ground.
While running a business comes with many challenges, I’ve never walked this road alone. From faith to family to past experience, I’m incredibly thankful for every influence and opportunity that has helped shape this journey and I’m excited to see what’s next.
Pricing:
- Call for FREE estimate
Contact Info:
- Website: www.michiganmadelandscaping.com
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/MichiganMadeLandscaping777
