Steve and Beth Slocum are no strangers to the neighborhood—they’ve been part of this community for 22 years. After spending many happy years on Burgundy Drive, they recently moved into their new home in Creekside, and they couldn’t be happier. “This house just feels like home,” Beth says. “We’re surrounded by lifelong friends, and it means so much to still be close to the people we’ve built our lives with.”

When they moved to Rock Maple Drive, the yard had only the basics in place. But Beth, an avid gardener, saw potential. With the help of Heidi Fletcher of Lady Landscape, that potential quickly blossomed into something beautiful. “She and her crew created gardens on different levels throughout our yard, adding rock borders and beautiful accent stones,” Beth explains. “Heidi is so in tune with what her clients want, and she went above and beyond for us. It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had with a landscaper.”

Today, the Slocums’ yard is a peaceful retreat full of vibrant life. Beth’s favorite plants—hydrangeas, peonies, and flowering trees—bring color and charm to every corner. “I honestly love just about any kind of flower,” she told us. “Gardening is such a relaxing and enjoyable hobby. You get to be outside, move around, and breathe the fresh air... what more could you want?”

One standout feature in their backyard is their rain chain, a creative and beautiful alternative to a traditional rain gutter. “We love our rain chain,” Beth says. “It adds such a special touch to the backyard. It takes a little patience to get it installed properly, but once it’s in place, it works great. ”The gentle sound of rainwater traveling down the chain adds another layer of peace to their outdoor space, making rainy days something to look forward to."

A current seasonal highlight in Beth’s gardens are the purple foxgloves, which she treasures every spring. Beth shared “They prefer the cooler temperatures of spring, but if you baby them a little, they’ll keep blooming into the summer.” While she loves all the flowers, hydrangea season holds a special place in Beth’s heart. “I miss my hydrangea garden at the other house, but I’m planting more and more here,” she says. “It’s an obsession and an addiction, I have to admit—but I think it’s a good one.”

With two children and six grandchildren (most of whom live close by), the Slocums often use their beautiful yard as a place to gather, celebrate, and make memories. “Except for our oldest granddaughter, everyone is nearby,” Beth shares. “We love spending time together as a family.”

Steve and Beth also own a business in Braselton, further rooting them in a community they’ve grown to love over the years. For anyone thinking about transforming their own yard, Beth has a bit of advice: “Start with what makes you happy. A garden can be your personal escape—it doesn’t have to be perfect, just yours.”