About Us

Mary Chapman Donovan, The Color Authority, began her design career handling only interior design projects. Over time, her clients convinced her that they needed her help with all areas of their properties. First it was, "Mary, can you tell us what colors to repaint the house?, then it was "Mary, can you tell us what plants and plant colors we need in our containers?", "How about our annual flower beds?", then it was "Mary, can you help us with our entire landscape?". At that point Mary returned for her second college degree this one in Environmental Horticulture with a specialty in Landscape Design.

Today, Mary Donovan is an experienced, multi-talented residential designer, national speaker, published writer, and college educator who takes pride in helping each client with their individual design concerns whether they need just a couple of hours of advice or want to spend several years consulting with her on larger projects.

Considered both a Color and a Design Trend Expert she is routinely interviewed by local, regional and national publications. As a professional speaker, Ms. Donovan enjoys providing continuing education seminars for colleagues as well as giving interesting, educational talks to local clubs and associations.

Mary Donovan's Credentials:

State Registered Interior Designer - Georgia - ID000188
Professional Member - ASID - American Society of Interior Designers - 31923
Certified Member - NCIDQ - National Council for Interior Design Qualification - 004144
Chapter President 2006-2008 - Association of Professional Landscape Designers / Georgia - Carolinas Chapter
Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist - The National Association of Home Builders
Faculty Advisory Committee Member - Gwinnett Technical College - 2006-2008
Member - Georgia Perennial Plant Association
Two College Degrees: BS - Florida State University; AAT - Gwinnett Technical College