Landscaper:
Gerber Landscaping
This award-winning landscape designer has its own garden center and a majority of its plants, tree, shrubs and perennials are grown in house, says Joe Vogelpohl, designer and estimator. “All designs are custom. Each property is like a snowflake; there are no two alike, and it makes you be creative,” he says. “Landscaping comes down to using the right plant at the right time in the right location.” Vogelpohl says an outstanding foundation of trees is paramount to every yard. Here are his suggestions for maintaining upstanding trees:
• Use flowering dogwoods and Japanese maples in shaded areas. These two ornamental trees inject color and texture into a landscape.
• Use magnolias in sunny yards. This hardy tree offers year-round interest and is a sort of hybrid between a shrub and a tree, so it doesn’t grow very tall.
• Red sunset maples are the traditional standby for those who admire taller trees. 
• European Hornbeam is “one of my favorites,” Vogelpohl says. “You can plant two to flank the entrance of your home to give it a very stately look.”
620 S. Abbe Road, Elyria, 440-366-9557, landscapingbygerbers.com

Home Remodeler:
Creative Construction Solutions
When remodeling your home, Andy Simon and Dave Sooy are the guys to see. With 40 years of combined experience, these partners always keep an even keel. From building a 2400-square-foot house in 30 days to adding on a grass roof, this company can tackle any job.34985 Detroit Road, Suite B, Avon, 440-937-2278, ccsteam.net


Day Spa:
Exhale, EMH Center for Health and Fitness
Whether it’s the first to bring nail trends to the area — think shellac manicures — or offering the latest product lines — think Jane Iredale makeup — Exhale is a thriving spa located just inside EMH’s fitness center. Don’t miss out on reflexology, reiki or a specialty massage with tuning forks.1997 Healthway Drive, Avon, 440-988-6811, emh-healthcare.org/body


Manicures/Pedicures:
A David Anthony Salon & Spa, Lorain
A David Anthony Salon & Spa pampers you while you’re getting a manicure or pedicure. The nail area is decorated in an Asian theme, complete with relaxing Asian music. The treatments come with hot towels on the hands and feet and a massage.6401 S. Broadway, Lorain, 440-233-8570, adavidanthonysalon.com


Dry Cleaner:
Ridge Cleaners
Too busy to drop off your dry cleaning? Ridge Cleaners has free pick-up and delivery at homes in certain locations. Leave your clothes on the porch and, two days later, your shirts will be dropped off clean and ready to wear. The staff, which has a combined experience of more than 100 years, also provides alterations and tailoring. One-day service is standard  for drop-off dry cleaning.32488 Center Ridge Road and 36016 Center Ridge Road, N. Ridgeville; 32805 Pin Oak Parkway and 146 Lear Road, Avon Lake; 440-930-7300, ridgecleaners.com


Car Wash:
Avon Laser Car Wash
This all-computer-run facility measures each vehicle separately and uses arms that stay 14 inches off the vehicle. Owner Randy B. Fratianne explains this technique relies on chemicals that adhere to dirt and remove it from the body, rather than brushes that scratch new-car finishes.37545 Colorado Ave., Avon, 440-934-8220, www.avonlaserwash.com


Pet Pampering:
Forever Friends Pet Center
From gourmet meals to 28 square kitty townhouses, this place gets tails wagging. When pets aren’t lounging in their luxurious accommodations, they can be groomed or treated by veterinary staff. There’s even a doctor certified in animal acupuncture. YIt’s so good your pet may not be as excited to see you when you pick it up.36469 state Route 303, Grafton, 440-926-3231, foreverfriendspet.com