How can a Professional Organizer help me?
Similar to personal trainers and life coaches, professional organizers can help you make a commitment to improving your life. You will gain control over your stuff in much less time than you would working alone. We bring experience, helpful tips and a desire to help you achieve your organizing goals and maintain them over time. Plus, like a personal trainer, you are more apt to show up at a scheduled time and do the work with someone guiding you. It’s an investment in yourself.
How does the process work?
First, we will have an initial phone conversation to briefly talk about the organizational challenges you are having. Then we will schedule a no cost 45 minute walk through of your space. This will provide me with insight to your space and help me prepare for our initial session. Finally, we will work together to organize your space. I promise to make the process as fun as possible. Almost all clients claim the process to be more enjoyable then they had anticipated.
How long will it take?
The answer depends on the level of disorganization in your space, as well as your decision-making abilities. Organizers guide you in making decisions, but the decisions are yours. If you have a I do my best to estimate the time needed for a space based on past experience, as well as general time frames.
How did you get started in your business?
I knew through personal experience the positive impact that de-cluttering and being organized can have on everyone in my family. I wanted to share the skills I learned with others. It took me along time to figure out how to get and stay organized. It shouldn’t have to take you that long. Being organized has an immediate impact both physically and mentally and I want to help people experience those positive changes as soon as possible.
How does your background fit into your business?
Having worked as a teacher and in Human Resources before becoming a mom, I learned how to find creative solutions to problems. Teaching taught me that one size doesn’t fit all. Not all kids learn the same and neither do adults. One of my favorite parts of being an organizer is finding out how my clients function and finding solutions that fit them and their life style. I probably won’t suggest the same system for a client with 6 kids that I would for a client who has no children at home.
As a mom, I have been overwhelmed with the toys and the artwork and the sports equipment and all the other stuff. That stuff is everywhere! And somehow, no one but you can find it. It can be so frustrating! I know the feeling and I know the difference being organized can make. It’s amazing how much smoother the house runs when it’s organized. Less chaos, less mess, less wasted time and more calm, more time, more space. It really does make a difference for everyone.
Having been diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 40, I understand first hand the challenges of getting and staying organized with an ADHD brain. It isn’t easy! But it can be done. I have tried and true methods that can make the process easier for clients with the same challenges.
How are you different from other professionals?
All the Professional Organizers I have met are compassionate, caring and non-judgmental. I would recommend anyone you consider working with be a member of NAPO, the National Association of Professional Organizers. That said they haven’t all been in your shoes. Many were born organized and have all always been. They haven’t all made the journey from frazzled to calm. If we work together, you will hear me say, “The way I do it is…” fairly often. It isn’t because my way is the best or will work perfectly for you, but I have tried many solutions through the years and I love to share the ones that have stuck and worked. I have tried many different systems because I haven’t been organized my entire life, but I am now. And that’s what I want for you too.
Who are your clients exactly?
My clients are people who have decided they want to get their homes in order and are committed to becoming and staying organized. Usually they are at-home moms or dads who are tired of having too much stuff. They are tired of wasting valuable time searching for things they need. They don’t want to worry about people coming over and having the house not being presentable. They want to enjoy their homes more and make more time for their families. They want their homes to be their "happy place".
What do you do when you work with clients?
Each client and each project is unique. So I customize how I work depending on your needs. But essentially, the process is similar across the board. We work together to identify the needs of the home or office, the personalities involved and the goals the client has for her home and her family. Then we do the (often times) dirty work of de-cluttering the space. De-cluttering can take hours or multiple sessions. The goal is usually to improve the way the home works, so the focus is on function over fashion. After we de-clutter, we set up new solutions to the challenges in your space. I try to reuse products, containers or other items if possible, to reduce the cost of becoming organized. Finally we work on the tricks to staying organized. Maintenance is key to being successful long term.
What type of personality do you work best with?
I love to work with clients who are open and honest. It helps the process immensely when I know where the organizing challenges are coming from. It’s also important for the client to be honest if something isn’t working. There are different ways to approach any organizing challenge and they aren’t always going to be instant winners. The clients have to be willing to tell me what is and isn’t working. It’s also important to be committed to the process of organizing. It’s not a ‘done in one day’ process. It takes time, effort and an openness to try new ways of approaching problems.
Will you make me spend a lot of money?
I won’t make you do anything! I am there to teach you how to become and stay organized. My goal is for you not to be my client forever. You can be if you want, but ideally, you will have gained the knowledge and the confidence to organize your space on your own.
How much money you spend on being organized depends on where you are starting. Someone who is chronically disorganized will take a lot longer to get to her goal then a client who wants to only focus on one area (like the kid’s artwork or linen closet).
Organizing is an investment in your home, your family, your time and yourself. It’s like working with a personal trainer. I will teach you, encourage you and push you, but ultimately, you are in charge of how successful you will be. A trainer can’t make you lift a weight, just as I can’t stop you from overbuying things or not putting things were they should go, but if you really want to change how you function in your home, you need to put the time and the financial investment into making it happen.
What types of people are a good fit for your services?
If you are currently overwhelmed with the stuff in your home and are committed to becoming more organized, you are a good fit for my services. While I never make you get rid of anything, you will be most successful when you have less stuff. If you are not ready to reduce the number of items in your home, we may not be the best match. I find that simply rearranging things doesn’t solve most organizing challenges.
What makes you think you can help me when I can’t seem to do it on my own?
Simply because most people are not born organized. It’s a skill to be learned. Most likely, you were never taught how to be organized. That’s where I come in. I’m here to teach you how to get organized and stay organized. Plus, I’ve learned a lot of tricks that you may not be aware of and I’ll share them with you.
What do you do that’s different from a cleaning service?
Cleaning services are fantastic and help tremendously. I highly recommend using a cleaning service, if you are able to. But please do not confuse being clean with being organized. They are not one in the same.
Are you affiliated with any professional group or associations? What are these groups?
Yes, I’m an active member of NAPO, the National Association of Professional Organizers. I'm currently serving on the board of the Northern New Jersey Chapter of NAPO as Secretary. I’m part of ICD, the Institute for Challenging Disorganization. They offer weekly teleclasses that I listen to as often as I can. Finally, I am a member of CHADD, Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder. Their publications are fantastic for information on ADHD.
How long are appointments?
Appointments are between 4-6 hours, with a minimum of 4 hours each session. The number of sessions you need depends on your situation.
What do I need to do to prepare for our appointments?
Nothing! That’s the best part. Please do not clean up for me, or apologize for not cleaning up! It’s best that we work in the space as it usually is. Additionally, don’t worry about getting all made up for me either. I recommend you be dressed in comfy clothes and be ready to work!
Will you judge me based on the condition of my home?
Absolutely not, not for a single second would I ever judge someone based on the condition of his/her home. For two reasons…One, I’ve been there and I know how it feels to not be in control of your space and time. How could I possibly judge someone for being where I have been? Also, I have seen a very wide span of organizational challenges and everyone’s back story is different. It’s not my position to judge, it’s my job to help.
Are any contracts involved?
I do have a standard agreement that all clients must sign before we begin working together.
Do you accept credit cards?
Cash, check and credit cards are all accepted.
Do you have a cancellation fee?
I do require 24 hours notice if you need to cancel our appointment. The only exception is if you have a sick child who has to stay home. I’m a mom too, so I know how that goes. If you cancel with 24 hours of our scheduled start time, I will deduct ½ of the session hours from your package.
I’m not sure I’m ready to get started, how can I sample your work at low cost to see if it’s the right solution for me?
Of course! I offer a one-time session of 4 hours. It’s a great way to see if we work well together and if the process is something you are comfortable with.
I really want to do this, but I’m concerned about my spouse’s reaction?
A lot of people share this concern with me. Some have even hired me quietly without telling their spouse. Honestly, I would prefer you be honest with your spouse about hiring me. No one likes sneaking around, especially me. Getting organized is an investment that benefits everyone in the home.
Okay, I’m ready to do this for myself, but I have a couple additional questions. May I call you?
Yes, please call me! I’d love to explain the process more and answer any questions you may have. My cell number is 201-674-1474. You can also email me if you want at [email protected]. I look forward to talking with you!
Similar to personal trainers and life coaches, professional organizers can help you make a commitment to improving your life. You will gain control over your stuff in much less time than you would working alone. We bring experience, helpful tips and a desire to help you achieve your organizing goals and maintain them over time. Plus, like a personal trainer, you are more apt to show up at a scheduled time and do the work with someone guiding you. It’s an investment in yourself.
How does the process work?
First, we will have an initial phone conversation to briefly talk about the organizational challenges you are having. Then we will schedule a no cost 45 minute walk through of your space. This will provide me with insight to your space and help me prepare for our initial session. Finally, we will work together to organize your space. I promise to make the process as fun as possible. Almost all clients claim the process to be more enjoyable then they had anticipated.
How long will it take?
The answer depends on the level of disorganization in your space, as well as your decision-making abilities. Organizers guide you in making decisions, but the decisions are yours. If you have a I do my best to estimate the time needed for a space based on past experience, as well as general time frames.
How did you get started in your business?
I knew through personal experience the positive impact that de-cluttering and being organized can have on everyone in my family. I wanted to share the skills I learned with others. It took me along time to figure out how to get and stay organized. It shouldn’t have to take you that long. Being organized has an immediate impact both physically and mentally and I want to help people experience those positive changes as soon as possible.
How does your background fit into your business?
Having worked as a teacher and in Human Resources before becoming a mom, I learned how to find creative solutions to problems. Teaching taught me that one size doesn’t fit all. Not all kids learn the same and neither do adults. One of my favorite parts of being an organizer is finding out how my clients function and finding solutions that fit them and their life style. I probably won’t suggest the same system for a client with 6 kids that I would for a client who has no children at home.
As a mom, I have been overwhelmed with the toys and the artwork and the sports equipment and all the other stuff. That stuff is everywhere! And somehow, no one but you can find it. It can be so frustrating! I know the feeling and I know the difference being organized can make. It’s amazing how much smoother the house runs when it’s organized. Less chaos, less mess, less wasted time and more calm, more time, more space. It really does make a difference for everyone.
Having been diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 40, I understand first hand the challenges of getting and staying organized with an ADHD brain. It isn’t easy! But it can be done. I have tried and true methods that can make the process easier for clients with the same challenges.
How are you different from other professionals?
All the Professional Organizers I have met are compassionate, caring and non-judgmental. I would recommend anyone you consider working with be a member of NAPO, the National Association of Professional Organizers. That said they haven’t all been in your shoes. Many were born organized and have all always been. They haven’t all made the journey from frazzled to calm. If we work together, you will hear me say, “The way I do it is…” fairly often. It isn’t because my way is the best or will work perfectly for you, but I have tried many solutions through the years and I love to share the ones that have stuck and worked. I have tried many different systems because I haven’t been organized my entire life, but I am now. And that’s what I want for you too.
Who are your clients exactly?
My clients are people who have decided they want to get their homes in order and are committed to becoming and staying organized. Usually they are at-home moms or dads who are tired of having too much stuff. They are tired of wasting valuable time searching for things they need. They don’t want to worry about people coming over and having the house not being presentable. They want to enjoy their homes more and make more time for their families. They want their homes to be their "happy place".
What do you do when you work with clients?
Each client and each project is unique. So I customize how I work depending on your needs. But essentially, the process is similar across the board. We work together to identify the needs of the home or office, the personalities involved and the goals the client has for her home and her family. Then we do the (often times) dirty work of de-cluttering the space. De-cluttering can take hours or multiple sessions. The goal is usually to improve the way the home works, so the focus is on function over fashion. After we de-clutter, we set up new solutions to the challenges in your space. I try to reuse products, containers or other items if possible, to reduce the cost of becoming organized. Finally we work on the tricks to staying organized. Maintenance is key to being successful long term.
What type of personality do you work best with?
I love to work with clients who are open and honest. It helps the process immensely when I know where the organizing challenges are coming from. It’s also important for the client to be honest if something isn’t working. There are different ways to approach any organizing challenge and they aren’t always going to be instant winners. The clients have to be willing to tell me what is and isn’t working. It’s also important to be committed to the process of organizing. It’s not a ‘done in one day’ process. It takes time, effort and an openness to try new ways of approaching problems.
Will you make me spend a lot of money?
I won’t make you do anything! I am there to teach you how to become and stay organized. My goal is for you not to be my client forever. You can be if you want, but ideally, you will have gained the knowledge and the confidence to organize your space on your own.
How much money you spend on being organized depends on where you are starting. Someone who is chronically disorganized will take a lot longer to get to her goal then a client who wants to only focus on one area (like the kid’s artwork or linen closet).
Organizing is an investment in your home, your family, your time and yourself. It’s like working with a personal trainer. I will teach you, encourage you and push you, but ultimately, you are in charge of how successful you will be. A trainer can’t make you lift a weight, just as I can’t stop you from overbuying things or not putting things were they should go, but if you really want to change how you function in your home, you need to put the time and the financial investment into making it happen.
What types of people are a good fit for your services?
If you are currently overwhelmed with the stuff in your home and are committed to becoming more organized, you are a good fit for my services. While I never make you get rid of anything, you will be most successful when you have less stuff. If you are not ready to reduce the number of items in your home, we may not be the best match. I find that simply rearranging things doesn’t solve most organizing challenges.
What makes you think you can help me when I can’t seem to do it on my own?
Simply because most people are not born organized. It’s a skill to be learned. Most likely, you were never taught how to be organized. That’s where I come in. I’m here to teach you how to get organized and stay organized. Plus, I’ve learned a lot of tricks that you may not be aware of and I’ll share them with you.
What do you do that’s different from a cleaning service?
Cleaning services are fantastic and help tremendously. I highly recommend using a cleaning service, if you are able to. But please do not confuse being clean with being organized. They are not one in the same.
Are you affiliated with any professional group or associations? What are these groups?
Yes, I’m an active member of NAPO, the National Association of Professional Organizers. I'm currently serving on the board of the Northern New Jersey Chapter of NAPO as Secretary. I’m part of ICD, the Institute for Challenging Disorganization. They offer weekly teleclasses that I listen to as often as I can. Finally, I am a member of CHADD, Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder. Their publications are fantastic for information on ADHD.
How long are appointments?
Appointments are between 4-6 hours, with a minimum of 4 hours each session. The number of sessions you need depends on your situation.
What do I need to do to prepare for our appointments?
Nothing! That’s the best part. Please do not clean up for me, or apologize for not cleaning up! It’s best that we work in the space as it usually is. Additionally, don’t worry about getting all made up for me either. I recommend you be dressed in comfy clothes and be ready to work!
Will you judge me based on the condition of my home?
Absolutely not, not for a single second would I ever judge someone based on the condition of his/her home. For two reasons…One, I’ve been there and I know how it feels to not be in control of your space and time. How could I possibly judge someone for being where I have been? Also, I have seen a very wide span of organizational challenges and everyone’s back story is different. It’s not my position to judge, it’s my job to help.
Are any contracts involved?
I do have a standard agreement that all clients must sign before we begin working together.
Do you accept credit cards?
Cash, check and credit cards are all accepted.
Do you have a cancellation fee?
I do require 24 hours notice if you need to cancel our appointment. The only exception is if you have a sick child who has to stay home. I’m a mom too, so I know how that goes. If you cancel with 24 hours of our scheduled start time, I will deduct ½ of the session hours from your package.
I’m not sure I’m ready to get started, how can I sample your work at low cost to see if it’s the right solution for me?
Of course! I offer a one-time session of 4 hours. It’s a great way to see if we work well together and if the process is something you are comfortable with.
I really want to do this, but I’m concerned about my spouse’s reaction?
A lot of people share this concern with me. Some have even hired me quietly without telling their spouse. Honestly, I would prefer you be honest with your spouse about hiring me. No one likes sneaking around, especially me. Getting organized is an investment that benefits everyone in the home.
Okay, I’m ready to do this for myself, but I have a couple additional questions. May I call you?
Yes, please call me! I’d love to explain the process more and answer any questions you may have. My cell number is 201-674-1474. You can also email me if you want at [email protected]. I look forward to talking with you!