In 1979, a simple act of trust marked the beginning of Pacific Coast Landscaping. David Nelson, a recent high school graduate, was entrusted with the care of a neighbor’s yard. When the homeowners returned, they found their lawn greener and more vibrant—a transformation that sparked the creation of a company now known for its commitment to quality and customer service.

Over the next four decades, Nelson cultivated Pacific Coast Landscaping into a respected full-service business, driven by a passion for horticulture and a dedication to craftsmanship. As David headed towards retirement, it felt fitting to keep this long-running company in the hands of those he could trust to run it to his high standards.

The answer came in the form of his family and longtime office assistant. Today, Pacific Coast Landscaping has evolved into a women-owned business, centered around a leadership team that embodies experience, resilience, and a vision for the future.

At the forefront of this transition is Kami Johnson, who joined the company in 2007. When Kami was looking for a new job after the birth of her first daughter, David, her uncle, offered her a job as the office manager. Kami, holding a Marketing degree from Cal State Fullerton, has served as a linchpin in the business. Over the years, she has managed human resources, payroll, scheduling, and client communications, often being the first point of contact for customers. Her dedication to maintaining the company’s core values is evident in both her professional role and her personal life, where she balances work with family duties, including raising her two daughters, Lyla and Stella.

Joining Kami in the leadership team is Michelle Garcia, who began her journey with Pacific Coast in 2015. Starting with contracts and administrative support, Michelle has since transitioned into sales, project management, and design. Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree, she has also raised two children, Isaiah and Iriana and has struck a balance between work and family life through weekend sports and gatherings with her large family.

Completing the leadership trio is Tracy Gamache, Kami’s sister, who joined in 2021 and brings a forward-thinking approach to landscaping amidst California’s evolving environmental challenges. Tracy is committed to promoting sustainability, focusing on water-efficient designs and drought-tolerant plants, and guiding the company toward environmentally responsible practices.

Together, these three women are not just continuing Pacific Coast Landscaping’s legacy; they are redefining it. Under their stewardship, the company has transformed into a vibrant reflection of what women-owned businesses offer: collaboration, adaptability, and a genuine investment in community and environment.

As Pacific Coast Landscaping progresses, its foundation remains rooted in the values established in 1979—care, quality, and trust. However, the narrative is now being shaped by women who are not only cultivating landscapes but also fostering a future where sustainability and leadership intersect. The legacy continues, echoing that first transformed yard nearly half a century ago.