Choosing to work with a Professional Organizer is a significant but scary step. Often when I say that I am a Professional organizer the first response is usually, “Oh, I need you.” But the second is often a version of, “So what does that look like?” There are plenty of shows now that portray one or more versions of hiring an Organizer, but there is a lot more work going on behind the scenes.
Every organizer has a little bit different process. Let me take a minute to tell you about my philosophy for getting organized. My strong suit is decluttering. So my process focuses heavily on this particular step. Don’t fret… it’s not all about getting rid of everything, but taking the time to evaluate the things that you have so that the things you love aren’t lost in the clutter. Once we remove the unnecessary stuff the things you love have room to show off. I also lean very heavily on the “done is better than perfect” thinking. Although I am quite capable of pulling off a Pinterest-perfect pantry (the alliteration, was just too fun to pass up) my goal is to create a maintainable space with systems that fit your lifestyle.
“The first step in crafting the life you want is to get rid of everything you don’t.”
– Joshua Becker
The Consultation
I like to start with a free no obligation consultation either in person or virtually. It is usually less than an hour. As I mentioned earlier every Professional Organizer is different, so this is a good time to make sure that my philosophy fits with what you are trying to achieve. I will sometimes take a few pictures and measurements, but it is mostly to get to know each other and find out what your vision and goals are.
How a session works
The first session with Sugar & Space is all about decluttering. We will start by sorting your belongings into TRASH, DONATE, and KEEP bins. Items to be donated will be bagged up and hauled away at the end of each session. The items that you are keeping will be sorted into like items.
A big part of decluttering is working through a series of questions that help to solidify what is truly necessary and loved in each space. During this time I will also get to know what the goal of the space is and narrow down the styles that each client prefers. It is all about creating a personalized organizational system and solutions that are easy to maintain for each individual. This is also when I will snap a few more pictures (usually of extra problem areas) and get measurements.
After the first session, if a package has been booked, I spend some time planning and researching to put together a wish list of products and solutions with prices and options. Once I have the approval to move forward I will go shopping and bring all the supplies to the next session. If a single session has been booked I will send a wish list that includes quantity and recommended purchase location and detailed notes on how to utilize each suggestion.
“Decluttering is infinitely easier when you think of it as deciding what to keep, rather than deciding what to throw away.”
– Francine Jay
Good suggestions
Our things can stir up emotions. And they almost always do. Feelings and emotions are real and valid. We will always take the time needed to work through “the feels”. We will always take time to talk or give space if needed. There is no judgment. For some, I think this part comes as a surprise, but it really makes complete sense and these feelings do not need to be avoided.
Organizing is hard work. So I try to make sure my clients stay fed and hydrated. Our time frame tends to go through at least one meal time frame. I make sure to have a good meal before my sessions and have snacks available to me. Have a good meal or snack before I get there or feel free to stop and eat and always have water nearby.
Any distraction slows down the process. I have already mentioned that organizing is hard work so we want to make sure we remove as many hurdles as possible. before. Unless DND so that each client gets my full attention. Having Littles cared for will also help the process move more smoothly. (I have worked one on one with children in the past – so this is always an option.) I am totally fine with pets, in fact, I love working alongside dogs and cats. But if they will be a hindrance to the project they should be safely contained.
“Be a curator of your life. Slowly cut things out until you’re left only with what you love, with what’s necessary, with what makes you happy.”
— Leo Babauta
I think that covers it for now. If you are ready to start the process without any obligation click the button below.