Every garden has a story, and sometimes that story includes a few extra stepping stones, a fountain that no longer fits the vision, or a beloved plant someone hopes to rehome. At Gardens ALIVE Design, I’ve heard this from a few clients recently: a growing desire to share, swap, sell, and seek unique pieces that make their outdoor spaces feel more personal and alive.
That’s why we’re introducing Garden Grabs—a community spotlight for anyone looking to pass along garden items or track down something special for their landscape.
Why Garden Grabs?
Gardeners are natural collaborators. We share advice and celebrate each other’s successes. But many of our clients have told me they also have:
- Extra pots, tools, or décor they no longer need
- Plants that have outgrown their space
- Hardscape materials left over from a project
- A vision for something they can’t quite find in stores
- A desire to buy secondhand, local, or sustainably
Garden Grabs is my way of weaving those needs together into a community-driven exchange. If it belongs in a garden, it belongs in Garden Grabs. Garden Grabs helps match those wish lists with the treasures others are ready to part with.
How to Participate
If you have something to sell—or you’re hunting for a particular item—simply reach out to me with:
- Your name and desired contact information
- A brief description
- Photos (if applicable)
- Your general location
- Whether you’re selling, swapping, or giving it away
- How you have come to know Gardens ALIVE Design
I’ll feature selected items and requests in upcoming newsletters, helping connect gardeners who can support each other’s visions.
Growing a Community, One Exchange at a Time
Gardens thrive on diversity, creativity, and connection—and so do the people who tend them. Garden Grabs is more than a marketplace; it’s a way to build relationships, reduce waste, and celebrate the joy of cultivating something beautiful together.
If you’re ready to share, sell, or search, I’d love to hear from you. Your next garden treasure might be waiting just around the corner.
Ready for the introductory ‘Garden Grab’? Thank you to Eleanor for helping to get this idea rolling and for the kind words!
“This 10’x20’ lofted mini barn is made by Old Hickory and is very sturdy and well built. We purchased it as a shell and built it out to turn it into a home office, but it could be used in any number of ways. It is insulated, wired for electrical and heat, sheet rocked and painted, with a high quality vinyl “wood” floor which is scratch and water resistant. The ladder to the loft was custom built. The exterior is painted with an all weather paint. I have a contact whose business is moving sheds and mini barns. We’re located in Bridle Trails and the mini barn is in a horse pasture adjacent to the house with easy access.
I have worked with Kirsten for a number of years as she’s helped me to improve my own property and give my beds new life, so when I decided to sell this, she immediately came to mind as the perfect person to contact to help this cute little building find its new home. For sure she’ll have great suggestions for enhancing its new space with plants and shrubs. Maybe she can add “match maker” to her long and impressive list of accomplishments!
For more information please contact Eleanor at 425-417-6775. You can call or text that number or send an email to nor.nie@comcast.net.



