The quintessential “American Dream” often begins with the kind of humble start experienced by the founders of Elite Landscape & Outdoor Living. From Vietnam to Highlands Ranch, the Elite story began with a bold dream. This dream shaped the lives of the Van family and their children, including Peter Van, Elite President, and Mary Le, Elite Director. As siblings and business partners, Peter and Mary continue to carry out their parents’ dream and strive to build a lasting family legacy, motivated by their love for their community and each other.
The Van family’s migration to America was difficult. Peter and Mary's parents had to escape Vietnam as their father, who was a Vietnam War veteran, fought alongside American forces against the spread of communism. “He and many others who defended the American troops had to flee from the communists,” Mary shared. They spent numerous years working and living in Hong Kong before securing funds and sponsorship, which ultimately led them to Highlands Ranch, CO, in 1990. After the Van family became American citizens, their dreams of a better life were finally within reach. They spent their hard-earned savings on a lawn mower, edger and blower and began their lawn-mowing business. This marked the beginning of Elite.
Both Peter and Mary grew up in Littleton and have called Highlands Ranch home since 2012. They helped with their parents’ lawn business throughout middle and high school. Mary helped with calling clients and billing duties while Peter mowed lawns with their parents. After graduating from Heritage High School in Littleton, Peter took over the family business, while Mary graduated from the University of Denver with a degree in Finance and Legal Studies before joining the family business in 2013.
Driven by a goal of becoming a trusted industry leader, Peter expanded the vision beyond maintenance into outdoor living construction, rebranding the company into Elite Landscape & Outdoor Living. As President, Peter manages the operational side with his executive team, and his wife, Heidi, serves as Chief of Staff, managing client relations. As Director, Mary primarily manages finance, accounting and marketing.
Elite’s culture is defined by its ability to operate with the capabilities of a large-scale landscaping entity while maintaining the heart and soul of a family business. "We prioritize respect, trust, support and long-term relationships and treat our employees like family," Mary explains. While they produce large-scale results, they never lose sight of the people behind the work and believe in creating an environment where everyone feels valued, heard and empowered.
This culture is directly shaped by the siblings' family background and their parents’ dreams. "My brother and I built this company on the foundation of our parents’ dream — to come to America and create a meaningful legacy," Mary shares. "That legacy was never just about business success, but about family, community and making a positive impact." This foundation drives them to prioritize people and relationships over short-term gains.
Working together as a family has been Elite's superpower, built on a foundation of clear, honest communication and unwavering support. "My brother and I are best friends first and business partners second, and we make a conscious effort to never let challenges, disagreements or outside influences come between us," Mary states. This foundation of trust and unity has enabled Mary and Peter to lead with confidence and build a strong company together.
For Peter and Mary, the Highlands Ranch community is where they have planted roots and feel deeply connected. Their primary office is located in Westridge, and as Mary shares, "Many of our clients have become our neighbors, and we view that as a meaningful responsibility."
Elite is actively involved in the community, sponsoring local events and supporting initiatives that bring people together. A non-profit particularly close to their hearts is Bags of Fun, a foundation dedicated to supporting children facing critical, long-term and life-threatening conditions. "Giving back is an important part of who we are," Mary says.
When not working, Peter, an avid golfer, can often be found at the DU Golf Course in Highlands Ranch or spending time with his wife, Heidi, and their three children: Camden (10), Mackie (7) and Adelynn (2). He chauffeurs them to their local activities like drums, taekwondo and swim lessons. Mary enjoys time with her husband, Dillon, and their daughters: Emilia (6), Elise (3) and Everette, 4 months. They enjoy working out on the Backcountry trails or at local studios. Their kids are also immersed in local activities, including gymnastics, taekwondo and swim lessons. In addition, Mary’s husband also operates a Highlands Ranch business, Ascend Direct Primary Care.
"To say we live in, work in and love Highlands Ranch is an understatement," Mary adds. For local favorites, Mary loves that Highlands Ranch is a bubble, offering everything they need. Their local favorites include: Los Dos Potrillos, Lazy Dog, Smokin’ Fins and Tiger Den.
Mary shares the best piece of advice she’s ever received. "Never lose sight of what truly matters." For Mary, a fulfilling life means prioritizing family and maximizing every opportunity. "We deeply value where we came from and the sacrifices our parents made," Mary says.
Elite measures success not just by business achievements, but by the impact they have on the people around them. "Life is short," Mary concludes. "And that perspective has taught us to appreciate one another, invest in meaningful relationships and stay present in the moments that matter most."
To learn more about Elite Landscape & Outdoor Living: denverelitelandscaping.com