Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to our most frequently asked questions about our services and organization...
What can I expect during our sessions?
During our initial session, I’ll have you take me on a tour of your space. We’ll discuss what’s working for you, what’s not working for you, any challenges you’re facing and the ultimate goal for your space. Then, after coming up with a plan of attack, we roll up our sleeves and get to work! I come prepared with my own bins, so I’ll be ready to start gathering and sorting immediately. After sorting everything into categories, we move on to mindful purging. This is the part that usually takes the longest. I’m willing to go as fast or as slow as you need, which may take its own session.
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Upon completion of the purging, I will evaluate all the remaining items to determine if additional organizational products are needed. If so, I’ll take measurements of your space and send links for recommended items based on your budget for you to purchase. Once the new products arrive, I’ll do a quick tidying of your space (wiping down surfaces and vacuuming), place all your items in their new or existing containers, label them and put them away for you to be able to quickly and easily find in the future.
Are you going to make me get rid of all my things?
Nope, never. It’s not my place to tell you what items get to stay, and which must go. Instead, my job is to help guide, support and empower you to make these decisions on your own.
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We hold on to items for a plethora of reasons, one being the emotions we feel when we look at or hold an item regardless of whether the emotion is positive or negative. Others feel they may need ‘permission’ to keep an item or let it go. I’m here to give you that permission if you need it.
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That old t-shirt from high school band camp that is covered in stains and has twice as many holes as it did when you got it, but it reminds you of one of the best summers of your life and it’s your favorite shirt to sleep in? It obviously makes you happy. I can hear it in your voice as you were telling me its history. You absolutely should keep that!
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On the other hand, that ugly as sin sweater that you shoved to the back of your closet six years ago and hasn’t seen the light of day since, but you feel guilty getting rid of it because your Great Aunt Tess gave it to you for Christmas? That can go. I give you permission.
How long will it take to declutter and organize my space?
As the old saying goes, “Rome wasn’t decluttered in a day.” This process will take time and that time will vary based on multiple factors, including but not limited to: the size of the room, the amount of clutter, how quickly decisions can be made, and the client’s ability to help during and in between sessions. Smaller spaces such as pantries, laundry rooms, and utility closets can take between 4 - 6 hours, while larger spaces like main bedrooms and kitchens can take between 30 - 40 hours and sometimes longer. Once I’m able to evaluate your space and get a better understanding of what you’re wanting, I’ll be able to give you an estimated time for your space.
What happens if my space just gets cluttered and disorganized again?
I’m going to be completely honest with you – this is a real possibility. And you know what, that’s ok! You’ve made the life-changing decision to get organized and you’ve done the work. That’s awesome and I’m so proud of you! But that doesn’t mean you’re going to wake up tomorrow in a freshly organized space with the inherent knowledge of how to maintain your new space. A little self-compassion goes a LONG way on this journey.
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Together, we will create personalized systems to help you maintain your newly organized space and simple strategies to help you reset your space when life gets a little messy (which it will, because that’s life!)
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Learning to live a more organized and less cluttered life is a new skill and like any new skill, it takes practice. Eventually, practice makes permanence! Remember, at the end of the day, we’re striving for progress, not perfection and progress is rarely linear.
What happens to the items I get rid of?
That is a fantastic question! I’m so glad you asked. All items that you have made the decision to part with will be given to heartening.org, who will donate your items to the many, MANY local causes in the Central Texas area that desperately needs them. Absolutely NOTHING goes to waste! If you would like more information on this incredible organization, please visit heartening.org or check them out on Instagram @hearteningaustin.
What if I only need a few hours of your services, do I still have to purchase a package?
No, you do not need to purchase a full package, but it does offer a small discount when you do. I have a 3 hour minimum at $55/hour.
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Are you able to work around my schedule?
I will do my best to accommodate your schedule. In addition to normal daytime working hours, I can be available evening and weekends if needed.
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Are organizational items such as bins, baskets, etc included in the package price?
No, all organizational items are an additional investment, but I will offer product suggestions based on your budget and overall aesthetic.
Do I need to clean my home before our first session?
Nope! In fact, I’d prefer that you don’t do any major cleaning before our first session. That way, I can see what’s working and not working in your space. With that being said, if we’re working on areas such as your kitchen or closet, it’s helpful to have all the dishes and clothes washed to help me see exactly what we’re working with.
Do I need to be home during each session?
That’s completely up to you! Some clients want to be involved in the entire process while others want to have me do the majority of it for them. The only time I will need you to be involved is the initial meeting and the purging process.
Will this be confidential?
Absolutely. Your privacy is of the utmost importance to me. As a member of the National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals (NAPO), I adhere to their strict code of ethics. All communications, either in person, on the phone or electronically, are between us. I will not sell or share your information with anyone ever. I may ask to take reference photos of your space; however, I will never include personal or identifying information or images.
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What is your cancellation policy?
I ask that you notify me within 24 hours if you need to cancel or reschedule a session. However, I understand that emergencies happen and will do my best to work with you to get your session rescheduled. I do not issue refunds for missed sessions.
What areas do you service
I service Leander, Cedar Park, Liberty Hill, Georgetown, Austin, Round Rock, Hutto and Pflugerville and surrounding areas. Don’t see your area listed? Please don’t hesitate to message me and ask!