A Family Legacy Built from the Ground Up

Humble Beginnings (2006 – 2013)

Soares Landscaping began in 2006 when Carlos Soares picked up an old, broken lawnmower left on a curb and started cutting grass after work. What began as a small side job quickly grew through hard work, word-of-mouth, and a reputation for dependability.

As Carlos’ client base grew, so did the scope of the work — from lawn maintenance and seasonal cleanups to sod installation and full lawn renovations. His dedication to quality earned steady referrals from Green Horizons Sod Farms, helping him build a loyal network of homeowners who appreciated his craftsmanship and care.

A Turning Point (2014)

By 2014, demand had grown enough for Carlos to take the leap and dedicate himself fully to Soares Landscaping. That same year, his son Michael began working alongside him, bringing fresh ideas and energy to the company.

Michael spearheaded early digital marketing efforts, posting ads on Kijiji and connecting with new clients. Later that year, through a vendor representative, Carlos and Michael were introduced to the Landscape Ontario Trades Association, where they began attending workshops and learning from experienced business leaders.

That exposure reshaped their understanding of what it meant to build not just landscapes, but a professional, sustainable company rooted in craftsmanship, systems, and client care.

Education and Growth (2016 – 2017)

In 2016 and 2017, Michael completed his Horticulture Technician Apprenticeship Certificate through Fanshawe College, formalizing his technical education and trade expertise.

He continued to expand his skills through workshops and certifications with ICPI, Techo-Bloc, and Landscape Ontario, staying current with the latest installation methods, tools, and materials.

On the business side, Michael participated in numerous industry events and business development programs — learning how to refine operations, enhance client experience, and build a company that works as well for its customers as it does for its team.

Becoming a Full Design-Build Company (Late 2010s – Present)

Armed with years of hands-on experience and industry education, Carlos and Michael transformed Soares Landscaping into a full-service design-build firm.

Their focus evolved from basic maintenance to comprehensive outdoor transformations — including patios, retaining walls, stonework, grading, planting, and full outdoor living spaces. Every project was guided by the same principle that started the business: build it once, build it right, and build it to last.

This philosophy led to the introduction of a 5-year hardscape installation warranty, nearly double the local industry standard — a reflection of Soares Landscaping’s confidence in its craftsmanship and commitment to long-term value.

Today, the company designs and constructs six-figure outdoor projects that blend beauty, function, and durability, proudly serving homeowners across the Kitchener–Waterloo region and beyond.

Why They Do It

For the Soares family, landscaping has never just been a trade — it’s a way of life deeply connected to their Portuguese heritage and their roots in the Azores.

In the Azores, life happens outdoors. Meals, gatherings, celebrations — nearly everything takes place in the open air. Even when inside, doors and windows stay open, letting the breeze in and blurring the line between house and nature.

When the family immigrated to Canada, that cultural connection to the outdoors came with them. Whether on screened-in decks, beside backyard pools, or around evening fires, outdoor spaces became places for laughter, rest, and connection — essential to family and community life.

Carlos began his Canadian journey in 1990, working as a labourer for a commercial landscaping company. The work suited him — it allowed him to be outside, to build with his hands, and to see tangible results from a day’s effort. Those early experiences instilled the same respect for craftsmanship and perseverance that later became the foundation of Soares Landscaping.

As the business grew, Michael discovered his own connection to the outdoors. Having grown up between his mother’s love for technology and his father’s love for working outside, it took time to realize why landscaping felt so meaningful: it’s about creating spaces where people can reconnect — with nature, with family, and with themselves.

At its heart, Soares Landscaping exists to help people enjoy life outside. To eat, laugh, relax, and make memories in spaces that recharge the spirit. Each project is designed with that purpose in mind — to build environments that are beautiful, functional, and truly restorative.