• How do you actually work with someone?

• Do I have to show you all my embarrassing piles and dirty little secrets
• hiding behind closed doors at the in-home assessment?

• I get overwhelmed just thinking about the mess! How can I get
• through this?

• How long will it take?

• Will you just come in and set up your organizing system that I
• will have to learn?

• Will I have to buy a lot of expensive organizing systems and baskets?

• Sure, it’ll look great when you leave, but will I be able to keep it
• that way?

• I know someone who's house is a disaster! Would they be offended
• if I got them a gift certificate?

• Simplifying and decluttering sounds great, but what do I do with
• everything left over?

• What does "green" mean, and what does that have to do with
• organizing?

• Should I hire a professional organizer, or can I just have a friend
• help me out?

Q. How do you actually work with someone?
You can take the first step, by sending us an email right now! We will then arrange a free 15-minute phone consultation to discuss how we can be of assistance. You may be ready to dive right in and we can begin organizing with your first appointment. For more extensive jobs (“Geez, I need my whole house done!”), we can start with an in-home assessment to create a plan, complete with schedule, budget, and projects. For coaching clients, we establish your general goals in the initial call and schedule future sessions from there.

Q. Do I have to show you all my embarrassing piles and dirty little secrets hiding behind closed doors at the in-home assessment?
Yes, it’s like ripping off a bandage, but with a great bedside manner! We’ll start off slow to get a clear understanding of your situation and then move through your space quickly. We will evaluate your current situation, make suggestions along the way, and create a plan towards your clutter liberation. This can be more fun and far less painful than it might sound, and in the end you’ll be on the road to recovery!

[back to top]

Q. I get overwhelmed just thinking about the mess! How can I get through this?
You are no longer alone in this; enlisting our support is a huge step. We bring focus, motivation and support, as well as a light-hearted attitude. We’ll laugh and cry, and have more fun than you might imagine. We’re going to break it down into manageable tasks—taking action is the key, no matter how small! Before we do any of this though, we’ll sit down and flesh out your ideal goals. You’ll have clear intentions and we’ll keep coming back to those throughout the process. Focusing on the positive, creating the space you desire, and knowing you are literally making room for your life, uplifts your attitude and makes the work so much fun.

Q. How long will it take?
This is a great question and something everyone wants to know. Unfortunately, we can’t give a general answer. Many factors go into the length of a job. How long has it been this way? How ready are you to release items? How big are those piles? Whatever your situation is though, we find a way to work within your budget and time frame.
““““““““ “You rush a miracle, you get lousy miracles.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Miracle Max, in The Princess Bride

[back to top]

Q. Will you just come in and set up your organizing system that I will have to learn?
Not really. We believe that each person and situation is unique and it’s our job to setup a way that works for YOU. Do you like to have things out where you can see them or have a clear surface to work at? Do you have a PDA or a calendar? Do you like drawers or hangers? Each person has a unique way, and our job is to find it.

Q. Will I have to buy a lot of expensive organizing systems and baskets?
Hopefully, not. True to our commitment to the earth, we strive to utilize what you already have. Our approach is not about little boxes that make you appear organized. We’ll sort and prioritize your belongings and determine the function of each space. If there are specific items that will support you, we can address that then. We can recommend earth-friendly products and systems, but we are not independent consultants for any particular closet systems or suppliers.

[back to top]

Q. Sure, it’ll look great when you leave, but will I be able to keep it that way?
Our job is facilitating you in organizing your space according to your life and priorities. We can teach certain skills or systems. The foundation of your intentions and motivations will keep you on track for the long haul though. The time you have to play with your kids, the peaceful tone of a morning routine, the ability to do things you love with the extra cash, the abundant energy and fulfillment you feel will be well worth the upkeep. Even with all that, some people need a little extra support to keep on track. We want you to succeed and reap the most of your life, so we gladly offer maintenance visits at a discounted rate, whether it’s once a month or once a year.

Q. I know someone whose house is a disaster! Would they be offended if I got them a gift certificate?
We think it is always best to talk before purchasing a gift certificate for organizing services. Being surprised, even with the best intentions, could be awkward or even offensive. We all know people who could use an organizer, but not everyone is ready to accept help. Yet, a gift certificate given with love (and a little humor even), could be just the incentive your loved one needs. You could tell them about how helpful you found working with someone was, and ask if they’ve ever thought of it. Ask how they are feeling. What’s going on for them? This could be an opportunity to open a great discussion. They could then be in a place to receive your kind gift and your relationship can deepen even more.

[back to top]

Q. Simplifying and decluttering sounds great, but what do I do with everything left over?
Chances are that you are going to have at least a little bit of stuff you no longer want or need. We have services and resources to help you with what’s left as well. First, you’ll determine what can be reused; these items are destined for garage sales, ebay and donation centers. Next, we’ll pull out what can be recycled and take care of that. Hopefully what’s left will be a small pile to head to the trash. Check out our waste removal resources for ideas on how to safely discard large or hazardous items.

Q. What does “green” mean, and what does that have to do with organizing?
Green is a short way of saying that something is good for our environment and is sustainable over time. It includes recycling, decreasing our carbon footprint, reducing waste and toxins, increasing sustainability (like planting trees). Learn more about “green organizing”...

Q. Should I hire a professional organizer? Can't I just have a friend help me out?
It depends on your situation, your friend, your goals and both of your skills to get there. Check out this great quiz to help you determine which would support you the best right now. Although, why not have both?

[back to top]