Question
I would like to know how to figure how many plants I would need, is there a special way to plan a garden or is it just like 1 plant per sq. ft. I have 2 new raised beds and I want to plan it all out on paper first. Please help and thanks for the assistance.  

Answer
Evelyn,
You got the first thing exactly right.Put it on paper. I take photos of my area first but if they are just square raised beds,then just measuring the beds will do fine.When you put it on paper just make your beds feet into inches on paper.Go on the internet to some sources to look for plants and their sizes,then write down the ones you like so you can look for them in local garden centers or nurseries. If you are unsure of how large the plants will get,ask a knowledgable landscaper or worker where you buy the plants.
And have a great time!

SOURCES ON THE WEB: Bluestone Perennial, White Flower Farm, Jackson & Perkins,Shady Oaks Nursery, Forest Farm,Musser Forests,Wayside Gardens

SOURCES FOR BULBS: Van Bourgondien, Van Dycks,Dutch Garden,McClure & Zimmerman