Im Kathy,and have recently put in a wildlife pond.I keep chopping and changing my mind!
I used aquatic compost for the plants...big mistake,the water was green.I moved the majority of compost,from the margins,and used gravel,for the plants to root in, instead.Its nice and clear 4 days later.
I did cheat though,and replaced the majority of the green water (so I could get to the the margins properly)
im waiting for the rain to fill the rest of it now,so its still not properly finished. There are large rocks,for the birds and frogs to access the pond,and also for frogs to exit,which are on the margins.Ive put water cress on the edge,to also act as a step/ledge/hiding place for frogs too.

Prior to the pond,I had a submerged washing up bowl, for frogs!Around the edges of this,I have patio plants,so decided to use this around the edge of the new pond,to disguise the edges.
I put gravel around the edges of the pond,for now,until the plants grow (dont know why,I just had lots left over!) I will change that soon,Im never happy. I Just with the plants would grow now! Thats it,for now. I will put some pics,of the progress!

Sounds like you are learning fast, Kathy.

Good move to get rid of the cmpost nutrients.

Many ponders get rid of the gravel as it collects muck. Plants then
end up rooted in pots of various sorts. Then the muck moves more
freely into the filter.

You did not say how large your pond is.

As you keep changing it, keep writng. People will have lots of
comments from their experience. Actually, you can search the archives
to find comments on most things.

Enjoy your pond!

Hello and welcome to the forum.!!
It's really a nice meeting with you and good to have you with us.Hope you will enjoy your stay here..!!