We do 1 of 2 things, depending on the size of the pot.
We would put river stones or road gravel (the stones only) in the bottom of the pot (to ensure good drainage), then half fill with straight potting mix. We then place the plant on top, then back fill with straight potting mix before giving it a good water. We then top up with potting mix then give it a drink with diluted 'worm castings'.
The other option is if you are using a large pot, or in our case, a tall pot, we turn empty plastic pots upside down in the bottom of the pot to take up a lot of the space, or stand cardboard upright, then fill the space with potting mix. Not only does this method take up space, it gives the roots room to expand, and it saves on potting mix.
The only time we have lost anything is when the plant is hit by unseasonal frost, or it was dying when we purchased it.
At first, do not put plants in harsh sunlight. We initially place ours where they get morning sun, but are in shade during the afternoon. We water every three days, but we give everything a soaking, not just a light sprinkle.
We are in the midst of repotting/replanting/removing our plants, so even though the central area looks like it hasn't changed, the outer surrounds will be completely different. For example, we have removed the grapefruit vine that acted as a wind break and replaced it with a jasmine vine. Same effect, different plant. We also have an assortment of potted yucca, and the rest are Australian natives.
Once re-established, I'll post a photo, but as we are approaching winter, don't go holding your breath waiting. The photo is about 5 months away!