Every Stone Has a Story. It's My Job to Tell It.
Love What You Do
My Story
Stone has become one of my favorite mediums to work with. I am continually inspired by its natural beauty, character, and endless possibilities. I see stone not simply as a building material but as a natural element that belongs within the landscape.
I grew up in Boxford, Massachusetts, where my love for nature and gardening began. By the age of fourteen, I was working with a local landscaper, beginning a journey that would teach me the value of hard work, craftsmanship, and the importance of taking the time to do things well. At the time, I did not realize those early experiences were laying the foundation for the work I would continue doing throughout my life.
Over the past 40 years, I have built Peterson Landscaping on hard work, honesty, and a genuine love for what I do. The company has grown, I have grown, but I have remained committed to keeping the personal connection and hands-on approach that have been part of my journey from the beginning.
I was always working in the dirt. As early as I can remember, I had a shovel in my hand, helping my mother, who was an avid gardener. We would spend time together creating flower gardens, pathways, and beautiful outdoor spaces.
After working with Jerry Olga, a local landscaper, I found not only an opportunity to learn the trade but also a mentor who helped shape the way I approached my work. I am grateful to both my mother and Jerry for the guidance, encouragement, and lessons they shared with me.
After high school, I earned a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Lowell and began building Peterson Landscaping with a small client base. I owe a great deal of gratitude to the people who trusted me with their properties and valued my work during those early years—some of whom I am fortunate to still work with today.
Those early experiences taught me the importance of relationships and hard work, and I am always continuing to learn and grow in this profession. Every day I learn something new.
A Deeper Appreciation for Stonework
Over the years, I completed a landscape design course and apprenticed with exceptional stone masons, learning the trade on a deeper level.
I was fortunate to learn from craftsmen who shared their knowledge, experience, and passion for the work. Their guidance helped me develop a deeper appreciation for the skill, patience, and artistry involved in working with natural stone.
Whether it is a retaining wall, walkway, patio, or a carefully placed boulder, every piece of stone brings its own shape, texture, and personality. Working with these natural elements continues to inspire my creativity and appreciation for the craft.
But after all these years, what is truly the most important thing to me is my family.
Family at the Heart of It All
I am fortunate to share both my life and this business with my wife, Leslie, who works alongside me as my office administrator, trusted sounding board, and partner in building Peterson Landscaping. Her dedication, encouragement, and unwavering support have helped shape both my business and the person I am today. I am forever grateful for this.
I am also the very proud father of two incredible young adults, Madelyn and Zachary, who continue to inspire me and motivate me to be the best I can be. I have been fortunate to spend my life doing what I love. I hope that passion is reflected in every landscape I create.
“The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance; the wise grows it under his feet.”
— James Oppenheim
A Company That Cares
Over the years, Erik has built Peterson Landscaping with a commitment to quality, trust, and doing things with care. Along the way, he has also built a team of dedicated people who share in the pride of the work they do.
Erik values the people who work alongside him and considers his crew an important part of the Peterson Landscaping family. Their dedication, reliability, and care for each project reflect the standards that have been part of the company from the beginning.
At Peterson Landscaping, we believe great landscapes are created through teamwork, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to our clients. We take pride in the work we do and the relationships we build along the way.
Because Quality Matters.
We believe in enhancing your outdoor space by letting the natural flow of the landscape be our guide. While nature itself isn't perfect, we strive for flawless execution in everything we build. Above all, we want our clients to be completely wowed by the final result. We truly love what we do, and it shows in our work.