Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a professional organizer?

A: The National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) says "Professional Organizers use tested principles and expertise to enhance the lives of clients. By designing custom organizing systems and teaching organizing skills, they help individuals and businesses take control of their surroundings, their time, their paper piles, their lives!" We can help you purge items, sort them and find permanent homes for them so that you can find your stuff when you need it. We can also work with you to maintain your success after the initial organizing sessions.

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Q: Why should I hire a professional organizer?

A: Disorganization leads to higher stress levels and reduced productivity. Think of all the time you waste looking for your keys, that bill you need to pay, your son’s permission slip and more. In your office, can you find all your files? Organization helps us get stuff done. But it’s a skill that we’re not taught in school. Hiring an organizer can help if you have one big project to tackle, such as your garage or attic, or if life circumstances have caused disorganization throughout your home and your life. For many, organizing is a lifelong struggle, and some may find it helpful to schedule a block of time and work with an organizer each week or each month to achieve and maintain order.

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Q: What are the benefits of hiring a professional organizer?

A: A professional organizer will work with you, at your pace, to help find systems and places for your things. An organizer will have new suggestions or solutions for your organizing needs. While your friends and family may want to help, it might be tough for them not to criticize. Organizing professionals are not there to judge. In addition, while you may recognize the need to donate items, it can be a difficult and emotional time. A professional organizer will be your coach at this time, pushing you when needed, stepping back when necessary and providing a guiding hand throughout the process.

 

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Q: How long does it take to get organized?

A: That depends on how much space we’re organizing and how quickly you make decisions. Each organizing session is different and each person is different. Organizing is a process, not an end result.

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Q: What should I expect when hiring a professional organizer?

A: A professional organizer will not judge your or your disorganization. An organizer will keep your information confidential. You should expect friendly, courteous discussion of your items, questions about your goals and daily habits and suggestions for systems and ways of making organizing easier. You should be prepared to work. Your input and help are very important to the organizing process, and both you and the organizer will sort through your items to get started. Do not expect your professional organizer to clean, unless he or she offers that service in addition to organizing.

 

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Q: How can a professional organizer help me with the moving process?

A: Moving is hard work, and many of us cannot afford to hire the full services of a moving company. If you can't, a professional organizer can help you downsize, categorize and sort items to be packed or left behind. In some cases, organizers can help you label and pack boxes. Not all organizers will do this due to liability issues, so check ahead of time. Even if you can hire professional movers, it's always a good idea to prepare for your move by sorting out what you want to take with you and what stays behind and a professional organizer can help with that process.

 

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Q: We're moving to a smaller house but have too much stuff. Can you help us downsize?

A: Yes. We'd love to help guide you through the process of sorting and purging.

 

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Q: We're moving in together, can you help us combine our households?

A: Yes. Two of everything means you will end up with a lot of stuff! We'd love to help you sort through everything and find homes for your things in your new home.

 

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Q: What can I do to prepare for your visit?

A: Many people are embarrassed about their clutter or perceived disorganization. Don’t worry! We’ve seen it all. There is no need to pre-organize before our visit and we bring all necessary tools with us. Eat a good meal that day and be sure to dress comfortably. If we are organizing your garage or attic, you might want to wear clothes than can get dirty or dusty. Be ready to sort and make decisions.