Following

Not them specifically but we've had homeowners approach us who have paid for online design, even from some "premium" vendors. There hasn't been a single usable plan. Hardscape materials that have no distribution in our area, plants that may say zone 7 but have been proven to die here like it's their job, and pretty appalling space planning. It's almost like they have no understanding of regional context or something. Luckily (for them) most of them have you click to agree to clauses that state that because YOU are providing them the info, they're not responsible for any errors or omissions in the finished design.

As far as a contractor referral from a website, most of them want to know a) do you have insurance, b) do you have a pulse, and c) are you cool with us skimming some off the top of whatever we send you? Those are their criteria. It's not like Yardzen is going to accept ANY liability for one of their "carefully screened contractors" screwing up, they have language for that too.

No, I don't

Beware! Do not use! You list out your top priorities on what you want accomplished and provide pictures for inspiration of the style aesthetic you are looking for and they do not listen to any of it. My experience was awful. Save your money and go elsewhere. They also delete negative comments on their social media and block people. Although they post about how they love to hear feedback from clients, apparently they only want positive feedback. Such a dishonest company. I would think twice about using them.

"Fortunately, the overwhelming majority of our clients are thrilled with their designs and Yardzen experience."

Maybe not as overwhelming as you may think :-)

https://www.houzz.com/discussions/5951106/anyone-have-any-experience-w-yardzen-for-landscape-design-opinions#n=62

Sometimes you get what you pay for.

Just a heads-up—my Yardzen experience wasn’t great. Gave them detailed input for a multi-level deck and covered space, but the design completely missed the mark. Felt like a template with minor tweaks, not a custom plan.

ABSOLUTELY WORST EXPERIENCE EVER!!!! DO NOT BUY!!!