Questions + Answers
Booking + Scheduling
I placed my order, now what?
First—thank you! We’re so excited to style your stoop.
Once your order is confirmed, you’ll receive an email from us the week of your installation to coordinate any final details like access instructions, timing preferences, or hose location.
Do I need to be home during planting?
NOPE! There’s no need to coordinate schedules. Just make sure we have clear instructions for accessing your stoop or outdoor space — there’s an information box at checkout for gate codes, hose access, and special instructions.
Once everything is complete, we’ll send over a finished photo along with a seasonal care guide to help your containers stay fresh and thriving for weeks to come.
How far in advance do I need to book?
Our schedule tends to fill quickly during peak seasonal transitions, especially spring and fall. We recommend booking 2–4 weeks in advance when possible.
Do you service Evanston or any suburbs?
For spring and summer plantings, we’re able to service Evanston and Chicago’s northern suburbs for an additional travel fee.
Due to the scale and logistics of our fall pumpkin installations, autumn services are currently limited to Chicago neighborhoods only.
If you’re unsure whether you’re within our service area, feel free to reach out before booking.
Do you decorate for other seasons and holidays?
YES! While Gold Coast Stoops is best known for our signature fall pumpkin installations, we also offer seasonal container plantings, winter greenery, garlands, wreaths, and holiday styling throughout the year.
Seasonal offerings vary throughout the calendar, so we recommend joining our email list for first access to new launches and availability.
Looking for something more custom or event-specific? We’re always happy to discuss bespoke projects.
Containers + What’s Included
How do I know what size to order?
We recommend measuring the interior opening of your window box or the diameter of your planter before ordering. If you’re unsure, feel free to send us a photo or measurements and we’re happy to guide you toward the right fit.
What if I already have plants in my containers?
No problem! We offer removal options during checkout for existing seasonal arrangements.
If your containers currently contain a previous Gold Coast Stoops installation, removal fees may be waived depending on the season and timing.
Do you sell outdoor planters?
We don’t stock or deliver any planters, but we’re more than happy to help you source the right containers for your space.
If you’d like some shopping help, we also share curated planter recommendations and favorite sources.
What’s included in my planting service?
Each installation includes:
Custom plant selection based on your space and lighting conditions
Professional planting + styling
Soil refresh
Slow-release fertilizer
Cleanup after installation
Our goal is for your containers to feel polished, balanced, and seasonally abundant from day one.
Do I need to provide soil or plants?
Nope — we source and provide everything needed for your installation unless otherwise discussed.
Can you work with my existing containers?
Of course! Most clients already have planters or window boxes in place.
We’ll tailor the planting design to your container size, sun exposure, and overall aesthetic.
Design Expectations
Can I request certain colors or flowers?
Absolutely. During checkout, you’ll be able to share preferences, inspiration photos, or favorite colors.
That said, plant selections may vary slightly based on seasonal availability and what’s thriving at the time of installation.
What if I don’t know whether my space is sun or shade?
Don’t worry — most clients don’t know exactly, either.
A few photos of your space (plus approximate sunlight timing) are usually enough for us to determine the best planting approach.
Will my containers look exactly like the photos online?
Not exactly — and that’s part of the beauty.
Every installation is customized based on your containers, lighting conditions, seasonal availability, and the natural variation of living plants. The photos on our website are intended to reflect the overall style, fullness, and color palette you can expect.
Seasonal Expectations + Plant Care
How long do spring plantings last?
Spring arrangements are designed as an early-season refresh and typically last around 6–8 weeks depending on weather conditions.
As Chicago temperatures warm up heading into summer, many spring varieties naturally begin to fade.
How often will I need to water my containers?
Most summer containers require watering at least once daily during peak heat — especially rooftop or full-sun locations.
Wind, sun exposure, and container size all impact watering needs, and we’ll always select plants appropriate for your space and lifestyle when possible.
Do you offer maintenance or refresh visits?
Yes! We offer optional mid-season refresh visits that may include pruning, fertilizing, deadheading, reshaping, and replacing stressed blooms when needed.
These can be added during booking or scheduled later in the season.
We also offer watering services if you’re going to be out of town! Availability is limited, so definitely reach out as soon as you know your vacation dates.
Custom Projects + Commercial
Do you decorate businesses or do corporate installs?
Absolutely — we love working on storefronts, restaurants, boutiques, office entries, and branded outdoor displays.
Please fill out our contact form or email us directly for custom commercial inquiries.
Can you help with in-ground garden beds too?
Our primary focus is container gardens and outdoor styling, but depending on the scope of the project, we may be able to assist with garden beds as well.
Feel free to reach out with photos and details about your space.