frequently asked questions

How can a professional organizer help me?

A professional organizer can help you declutter, organize, and optimize your living or working space. Michelle will provide expert guidance, personalized solutions, and practical strategies to create functional and aesthetically pleasing environments.

when do you know it’s time to hire a professional organizer?

Knowing when to hire a professional organizer can vary from person to person, but here are some signs that indicate it may be time to seek one out:

Feeling overwhelmed by clutter: If you find yourself constantly stressed, frustrated, or overwhelmed by the clutter in your home or workspace, a professional organizer can help you regain control and create a more organized environment.
Lack of time or motivation: If you have a busy schedule or struggle with finding the motivation to tackle organizing projects on your own, a professional organizer can provide the necessary expertise, accountability, and support to get the job done efficiently.
Inefficient use of space: If you feel like your living or working space is not optimized to its full potential, a professional organizer can assess your space and develop customized solutions to maximize functionality and storage.
Difficulty letting go of possessions: If you have a hard time letting go of items or struggle with making decisions about what to keep and what to discard, a professional organizer can guide you through the decluttering process and help you make informed choices.
Life transitions: Major life events such as moving, downsizing, combining households, or having a baby can greatly benefit from the expertise of a professional organizer. They can help you navigate these transitions and ensure a smooth and organized process.
The desire for a more peaceful and balanced environment: If you long for a calm, harmonious, and aesthetically pleasing space that promotes relaxation and productivity, a professional organizer can assist in creating that desired atmosphere.

Do I need to be present during organizing sessions with Michelle?

It's generally helpful for you to be present during the initial consultation with Michelle so you can communicate your goals and preferences. However, once the organizing plan is established, you may not need to be present for every organizing session. Discuss your availability and preferences with Michelle to find the best arrangement for your needs.

Will my personal information and belongings be kept confidential?

Michelle, as a professional organizer, adheres to strict confidentiality and ethics standards. She respects your privacy and ensures that any sensitive information or personal belongings shared during the organizing process are treated with the utmost confidentiality.

How long does the organizing process with Michelle typically take?

The duration of the organizing process with Michelle depends on various factors, including the size of the space, the level of clutter, and your specific goals. Each project is unique, and Michelle will provide an estimate based on an initial assessment. Regular progress updates and clear communication with Michelle can help ensure the process stays on track.

Do I need to buy organizing supplies for Michelle's services?

Michelle can provide guidance on selecting and purchasing organizing supplies if needed, but it's not always necessary to buy new items. She can often work with what you already have, repurpose items, or suggest cost-effective alternatives. It's best to discuss your budget and preferences with Michelle to find the most suitable solutions.

How can I maintain the organization after Michelle completes the project?

Michelle strives to empower clients with the skills and systems to maintain an organized space. She provides practical tips, personalized strategies, and ongoing support to help you sustain the organization. Regular maintenance and periodic decluttering can prevent clutter from accumulating again.

Can Michelle assist with digital organization as well?

Yes, Michelle offers digital organizing services as part of her expertise. She can help you streamline your digital files, create efficient digital workflows, and organize email inboxes. Discuss your specific digital organizing needs with Michelle to ensure she offers the relevant expertise.

what is the cost of Michelle's professional organizing services?

Michelle offers her professional organizing services at an hourly rate, with a minimum booking of three hours per session. She understands the importance of accommodating her clients' schedules and is willing to work flexibly within those constraints. If necessary, Michelle can dedicate up to eight hours per session to ensure your organizing needs are effectively met. Michelle will discuss pricing and payment options during the initial phone consultation.

Are there any cost-saving strategies or tips to consider after hiring a professional organizer?

Certainly! After hiring a professional organizer, there are several ways you can maximize the value of their services and potentially save money:

Prioritize and plan: Michelle will help you prioritize areas or projects that require immediate attention. By focusing on the most crucial areas first, you can optimize your time and budget.
Assess existing organizing supplies: Michelle will help you Take stock of any organizing supplies you already have before purchasing new ones. Repurposing containers or utilizing items you already own can help reduce unnecessary expenses.
Develop maintenance routines: Implementing consistent organizing and decluttering routines can help prevent future accumulation of clutter. Regular maintenance will reduce the need for extensive organizing sessions in the future.
Learn organizational skills: Michelle will teach you effective organizational strategies and techniques. By acquiring these skills, you can independently tackle smaller organizing projects in the future, potentially saving on professional organizing services.
Sell or donate unwanted items: As you declutter, consider selling or donating items that you no longer need. This can generate some extra income depending on your circumstances.
Homework: one of the biggest ways to save is completing homework between sessions with Michelle. This step is completely optional but will help you achieve your decluttering and organizing goals faster and therefore save money.

How can I sell my items to recover some of the expenses, and what are the recommended methods to do so effectively?

If you're interested in selling items to recoup some money, Michelle is happy to guide you through this process. Michelle can assist you in assessing whether it is worth investing your time and energy into specific items, considering their value and potential returns. Here are a few of her favorite methods:

Online Marketplaces: Platforms like eBay, Mercari, Poshmark & FB Marketplace allow you to sell a wide range of items directly to buyers.
Consignment Stores: Consignment shops accept and sell items on your behalf, taking a percentage of the sale price as a commission. This option can be convenient if you prefer someone else to handle the selling process for you.
Yard Sales or Garage Sales: Organize a yard sale to sell multiple items at once. Advertise the sale locally, set attractive prices, and make sure to have proper signage to attract potential buyers.
Social Media Groups: Utilize local buy/sell/trade groups on platforms like Facebook, where you can reach out to individuals in your community who might be interested in purchasing your items.