Hi Vanessa, how is it going?

I started my practice about 18 months ago. I was surprised to find that I needed very little in the way of marketing, but I had been working around for a while and developed lots of connections. I don't have a website or even a yellow pages ad, but I have a very good referral network, contractors, other designers. I totally get that uneasy feeling but really you have nothing to lose by going for it. I am just putting together a portfolio now...

Mostly people will accept your version of yourself unless you really drop the ball (not advised - every client you make totally happy becomes your best marketing). At first I did initial site visits for free but now I charge a consultation fee - helps to sort out the serious clients. also be sure to get a retainer up front upon entering into contract - for the same reason. Take yourself seriously and tell people what _your_ terms are for working for them. I have had some really great clients that were a lot of fun to work with, and it is even better when they pay you on time. :)

and meet as many designers, contractors, etc. as you can, of course. I frequently check in with my other self-employed designer buddies for moral support, etc.

Re licensure, you need a stamp in cities that have robust plan check requirements, but you can usually do planting and irrigation without. what kind of work do you want to do?

vanessa, are you still interested in advice about freelancing landscape design? I noticed there hasn't been much movement on your question and no one's posted since September last year. I have been in business for myself as a landscape designer since 1989. I might be able to send some tips your way ...