Minima receives lots of emails, so I’ve decided to share the knowledge via our new-ish “Q&A” series. We get this one a lot, and I recently had an indepth convo with an aspiring organizer so it’s fresh in my mind.
Question — How do I get started as a Professional Organizer?
I’m interested in organizing as a career and have been reading books about organizing, but I feel like that’s not enough. How did you get started?
Answer — The absolute best way to acquire Professional Organizing skills is to train with a Professional Organizer.
I was lucky and got hired by Katherine Lawrence with Space Matters in February of 2009 after attending a NAPO Richmond chapter meeting. I took her training class and she provided me with a list of required reading. I worked as her apprentice for three to six months before she sent me out on my own with clients. We had weekly team meetings (she had three or four employees at the time) where we helped each other with any client challenges we were facing. It was an amazing resource for me.
On that note, I highly recommend attending your local NAPO chapter meeting. It’s a great way to network with local organizers, find out if anyone is hiring, and see who you connect well with. If no one in your area is hiring, NAPO and ICD have great classes you can take.
The challenge with my job at Space Matters was that the hours were unpredictable and never full time, so I always had at least one other job. In October of 2010, I decided to branch off and form Minima. There were no hard feelings and Katherine and I still team together on large jobs.
Minima is not currently hiring (I get that question a lot), but we might be in the next year or so! I’m always available for coffee or lunch if you want to pick my brain — I’m very open about what I do and how I do it. Just shoot me an email via hello@minimaonline.com and we can chat!
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Saturday, April 28, 2012
3 Clutter Free Gift Ideas for Mom
Mother’s Day is a mere two weeks away — May 13! Our suggestions focus on creating experiences rather than giving stuff.
1. Make a date — Most moms want to spend time together more than anything else. Dinner (or brunch/lunch) and a movie? Yes please. The Byrd ($2/ticket), Bowtie and Westhampton Cinema are great local theaters with a lot of character. Some of my (and my Mom’s) favorite local spots to dine are Balliceaux, Ipanema and Akida. Other date ideas: a long walk, a museum tour, or a day at the spa together.
If Mom lives far away or time is an issue, you can also give her any of the above experiences via gift certificate for her to enjoy on her own or with another friend.
2. Give a service — Offer to clean, do yard work, cook, etc. You can also hire someone to do it if you’d prefer. If Mom wants help getting organized, we offer gift certificates for our services and you can buy them online via our “gift us” page.
3. Go digital — Electronic things are clutter free in nature because they don’t take up physical space. Think a subscription to Netflix, or an iTunes gift card. Does Mom have a ton of old printed photos and VHS tapes? Preserve those memories forever by transferring them to digital format for her. Local business Revolve can do the job at a very reasonable price.
Happy Mother’s Day!!
1. Make a date — Most moms want to spend time together more than anything else. Dinner (or brunch/lunch) and a movie? Yes please. The Byrd ($2/ticket), Bowtie and Westhampton Cinema are great local theaters with a lot of character. Some of my (and my Mom’s) favorite local spots to dine are Balliceaux, Ipanema and Akida. Other date ideas: a long walk, a museum tour, or a day at the spa together.
If Mom lives far away or time is an issue, you can also give her any of the above experiences via gift certificate for her to enjoy on her own or with another friend.
2. Give a service — Offer to clean, do yard work, cook, etc. You can also hire someone to do it if you’d prefer. If Mom wants help getting organized, we offer gift certificates for our services and you can buy them online via our “gift us” page.
3. Go digital — Electronic things are clutter free in nature because they don’t take up physical space. Think a subscription to Netflix, or an iTunes gift card. Does Mom have a ton of old printed photos and VHS tapes? Preserve those memories forever by transferring them to digital format for her. Local business Revolve can do the job at a very reasonable price.
Happy Mother’s Day!!
Monday, April 16, 2012
Minima’s Website Updates
Hey friends! We just wanted to let you know that we’ve made some user-friendly improvements to our website. The Minimalist blog is now a part of Minima’s professional organizing website (moved from previous location here).
To keep things simple, there are only three main options for navigation in the upper right corner — “about”, “work” and “blog”. The current page option is hidden (i.e if you are on the “work” page, “work” is not shown as an option). You can also view our external sites from the same upper right navigation — Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Please let us know what you think in the comments section below. We love feedback!
“Work” and home page — image thumbnails show full saturation with mouse hover
“About” page with sub-navigation options to the left
“Blog” page — you are here!
To keep things simple, there are only three main options for navigation in the upper right corner — “about”, “work” and “blog”. The current page option is hidden (i.e if you are on the “work” page, “work” is not shown as an option). You can also view our external sites from the same upper right navigation — Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Please let us know what you think in the comments section below. We love feedback!
“Work” and home page — image thumbnails show full saturation with mouse hover
“About” page with sub-navigation options to the left
“Blog” page — you are here!
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Word on the Street: From Ashley
Hot off the press. Our client Ashley gave us a wonderful review today that we just have to share.
“Kristen helped me tackle specific problem areas in my home — the kitchen, dining room, master bedroom, my children’s room, bookshelves, and the attic. The end result has been amazing! Her ideas about using space more effectively have made the house look bigger and feel more comfortable. My home environment is no longer stressful — I feel like a huge weight has been lifted. Kristen is so easy to work with and though parting with things can be hard at times, she helped me work through the process so I always felt in control. She has great ideas and is tremendously resourceful when it comes to recommending organizing products. I would describe the experience as life-changing, empowering, and worth every penny. I recommend her to anyone wanting help reorganizing, decluttering, or reinventing any space (big or small) in their home.”
Thanks Ashley! See more client testimonials here.
“Kristen helped me tackle specific problem areas in my home — the kitchen, dining room, master bedroom, my children’s room, bookshelves, and the attic. The end result has been amazing! Her ideas about using space more effectively have made the house look bigger and feel more comfortable. My home environment is no longer stressful — I feel like a huge weight has been lifted. Kristen is so easy to work with and though parting with things can be hard at times, she helped me work through the process so I always felt in control. She has great ideas and is tremendously resourceful when it comes to recommending organizing products. I would describe the experience as life-changing, empowering, and worth every penny. I recommend her to anyone wanting help reorganizing, decluttering, or reinventing any space (big or small) in their home.”
Thanks Ashley! See more client testimonials here.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
My Story in Belle
For those of you who know me, I have a pretty dramatic story to tell about my past few years of life. I like to call it “The Three Octobers”.
October 2008 — job loss
October 2009 — major break-up
October 2010 — ovarian cancer (and the beginning of Minima)
Bad things come in threes, right? October 2011 was amazing, so I’m thinking my luck has turned around. In any case, all of those life challenges made me a better person and I’m thankful for that. Karen Newton (you may know her blog I Could Go On and On) wrote a beautiful piece about my story in this month’s Belle Magazine titled “Spare and Change”.
Sneak peak:
But the same day her legal documents arrived in the mail to create the company, Ziegler found out she had an ovarian tumor. The business she’d started had to be put on hold. “But having a vision of starting my business got me through surgery and chemo,” she says. “I was so excited about it all, so that was the light at the end of the tunnel for me.”
I’m thrilled to share my story with our city. You can read the full article here, or pick up a physical copy at any one of these locations.
October 2008 — job loss
October 2009 — major break-up
October 2010 — ovarian cancer (and the beginning of Minima)
Bad things come in threes, right? October 2011 was amazing, so I’m thinking my luck has turned around. In any case, all of those life challenges made me a better person and I’m thankful for that. Karen Newton (you may know her blog I Could Go On and On) wrote a beautiful piece about my story in this month’s Belle Magazine titled “Spare and Change”.
Sneak peak:
But the same day her legal documents arrived in the mail to create the company, Ziegler found out she had an ovarian tumor. The business she’d started had to be put on hold. “But having a vision of starting my business got me through surgery and chemo,” she says. “I was so excited about it all, so that was the light at the end of the tunnel for me.”
I’m thrilled to share my story with our city. You can read the full article here, or pick up a physical copy at any one of these locations.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Reorganizing After the Holidays
The winter holidays have come and gone. If you’re like most people, your home is feeling a bit disheveled. Decorations and lights still out, new gifts without a home. Sound familiar?
Worry not! I did a special segment on CBS 6’s Virginia This Morning last Thursday offering tips for reorganizing after the holidays. Watch it here.
Seasonal storage containers at Target
In summary...
1. First, protect decorations from three things — critters, moisture and dust. For most items, a sealed plastic container in a garage or attic will work. Some items that are extra sensitive to heat and moisture (like candles and wrapping paper) should be stored in a temperature controlled environment such as a closet.
2. Use clear containers for easy identification of contents. Buy containers like the ones in the photo above before the holidays to take advantage of seasonal colors. Sometimes you can find them on clearance after the holidays are over, but the selection may not be as good.
3. Store your holiday cards and holiday music with decorations. You can also take pictures of how you decorated so you remember how you liked things for the next year.
4. It’s worth the investment to buy specialty products to protect your memories. $10 on a container over the lifetime of the decoration really isn’t expensive.
Additional tips not mentioned on CBS...
1. As you’re taking down the decorations, discard any items that are damaged beyond reasonable repair. Donate decorations you have not used in several years and don’t foresee using in the future.
2. Get all of your received holiday cards together, update your address book and then recycle. Only keep cards that have an especially meaningful message or sentimental value. I keep 5 to 10% of the cards I receive in an archival safe box.
3. Take a few extra minutes to clear out old items as you’re putting away the new gifts. For example, if you got a lot of new clothing, consign or donate things you haven’t worn in a year or so. Discard or donate any items that are replaced by new gifts, such as a new camera, or kids’ toys.
Worry not! I did a special segment on CBS 6’s Virginia This Morning last Thursday offering tips for reorganizing after the holidays. Watch it here.
Seasonal storage containers at Target
In summary...
1. First, protect decorations from three things — critters, moisture and dust. For most items, a sealed plastic container in a garage or attic will work. Some items that are extra sensitive to heat and moisture (like candles and wrapping paper) should be stored in a temperature controlled environment such as a closet.
2. Use clear containers for easy identification of contents. Buy containers like the ones in the photo above before the holidays to take advantage of seasonal colors. Sometimes you can find them on clearance after the holidays are over, but the selection may not be as good.
3. Store your holiday cards and holiday music with decorations. You can also take pictures of how you decorated so you remember how you liked things for the next year.
4. It’s worth the investment to buy specialty products to protect your memories. $10 on a container over the lifetime of the decoration really isn’t expensive.
Additional tips not mentioned on CBS...
1. As you’re taking down the decorations, discard any items that are damaged beyond reasonable repair. Donate decorations you have not used in several years and don’t foresee using in the future.
2. Get all of your received holiday cards together, update your address book and then recycle. Only keep cards that have an especially meaningful message or sentimental value. I keep 5 to 10% of the cards I receive in an archival safe box.
3. Take a few extra minutes to clear out old items as you’re putting away the new gifts. For example, if you got a lot of new clothing, consign or donate things you haven’t worn in a year or so. Discard or donate any items that are replaced by new gifts, such as a new camera, or kids’ toys.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Fall Organizing Challenge
Temperatures are cooler and there’s change in the air. The fall season is upon us and what better time to get organized? I don’t know about you, but I always get a surge of motivation to tackle unfinished projects whenever the seasons change.
To help encourage fall decluttering, we are hosting a “Fall Organizing Challenge” for one week. The challenge kicks off Monday (tomorrow), September 19 at 8a and runs until Sunday at 5p. Send us a photograph of your most organizationally challenged space (at home or work) with a brief description. The first ten people to submit their projects will receive $25 off Minima’s organizing services and a free phone or email consultation to discuss your space. Anyone who submits after the first five can still receive the consultation. We are professionals and NAPO members at Minima, so you can be sure we won’t judge you for your clutter! All images and information will remain strictly confidential.
Every inch is maximized in this closet, organized by Minima.
The $25 gift certificate is transferable — so if you don’t want to use it, you can always pass it on to a friend or family member who might enjoy it (think holiday gift). The challenge is for Richmond area residents only. Existing clients are not eligible. Send photos and information to hello@minimaonline.com. Get updates on the challenge and follow us on Facebook here.
YAY organization!
To help encourage fall decluttering, we are hosting a “Fall Organizing Challenge” for one week. The challenge kicks off Monday (tomorrow), September 19 at 8a and runs until Sunday at 5p. Send us a photograph of your most organizationally challenged space (at home or work) with a brief description. The first ten people to submit their projects will receive $25 off Minima’s organizing services and a free phone or email consultation to discuss your space. Anyone who submits after the first five can still receive the consultation. We are professionals and NAPO members at Minima, so you can be sure we won’t judge you for your clutter! All images and information will remain strictly confidential.
Every inch is maximized in this closet, organized by Minima.
The $25 gift certificate is transferable — so if you don’t want to use it, you can always pass it on to a friend or family member who might enjoy it (think holiday gift). The challenge is for Richmond area residents only. Existing clients are not eligible. Send photos and information to hello@minimaonline.com. Get updates on the challenge and follow us on Facebook here.
YAY organization!
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Moxie Movers
Last night at The Listening Room, Birdie Busch (a TLR alum from Philly) was onstage telling us about her friend, Jesse, who recently moved from Philly and started up Moxie Movers in Richmond. It’s a moving company that focuses on employing musicians. As Birdie described it, “Most jobs aren’t cool with you accepting a position and then telling them you need off the coming Thursday through Friday to tour.” Moxie helps musicians pursue their art while allowing them to pay the bills with a flexible schedule. Apparently there’s a Moxie in Philly as well that has employed many indie musicians, such as members from Clap Your Hands Say Yeah:
So, next time you have a move, consider giving them a try. I’ve heard great things, and am always in favor of supporting local artists!
So, next time you have a move, consider giving them a try. I’ve heard great things, and am always in favor of supporting local artists!
Monday, July 11, 2011
Job Lovin’
Top five reasons why I like (er, love) what I do, in no particular order:
1. Organizing is one of my favorite things. People pay me to do it for/with them. Win win.
2. On the days when I’m not with clients, I get to work from home in my yoga pants.
3. I’m my own boss. I do things my own way.
4. I get to expense cool things like an iPad and new Pumas for work (legit, I promise).
5. I make my clients’ lives better. There’s not much more satisfying than seeing how happy (and often relieved) they are at the end of a session.
Yay!
Starting my own business has been one of the best life changes I’ve made thus far. I highly recommend taking the risk if you have a great idea to start something new. Also, I’ve been making myself available for coffee chats about entrepreneurship (usually at Lamplighter) if anyone would like to pick my brain!
1. Organizing is one of my favorite things. People pay me to do it for/with them. Win win.
2. On the days when I’m not with clients, I get to work from home in my yoga pants.
3. I’m my own boss. I do things my own way.
4. I get to expense cool things like an iPad and new Pumas for work (legit, I promise).
5. I make my clients’ lives better. There’s not much more satisfying than seeing how happy (and often relieved) they are at the end of a session.
Yay!
Starting my own business has been one of the best life changes I’ve made thus far. I highly recommend taking the risk if you have a great idea to start something new. Also, I’ve been making myself available for coffee chats about entrepreneurship (usually at Lamplighter) if anyone would like to pick my brain!
Monday, May 9, 2011
Gungho Guide
I’d like to present to you Richmond’s new Gungho Guide — “the definitive guide to where you should be.” From their new site (which just launched on Friday):
“GunghoGuides.com is a place to celebrate the best things we love about Richmond. We picked the top hundred or so places that we feel contribute to the pride of living in this city. We wanted to create a site that presents these unique experiences and JUST these experiences as places you absolutely SHOULD patronize.”
You can find info on food, museums, galleries, entertainment, apparel, beauty, retail and of course, events! We love the idea of consolidating all of this information in a city guide that’s easy (and fun!) to search through. And oh hey — Minimalist is a featured blog. Thanks GG! You can find their free pamphlet/map in participating locations around town.
Side note — Anne Marie told me that a random guy on the street asked her if she wrote for Minimalist and then gave us a big compliment. Thanks guy on street, we like you too!
“GunghoGuides.com is a place to celebrate the best things we love about Richmond. We picked the top hundred or so places that we feel contribute to the pride of living in this city. We wanted to create a site that presents these unique experiences and JUST these experiences as places you absolutely SHOULD patronize.”
You can find info on food, museums, galleries, entertainment, apparel, beauty, retail and of course, events! We love the idea of consolidating all of this information in a city guide that’s easy (and fun!) to search through. And oh hey — Minimalist is a featured blog. Thanks GG! You can find their free pamphlet/map in participating locations around town.
Side note — Anne Marie told me that a random guy on the street asked her if she wrote for Minimalist and then gave us a big compliment. Thanks guy on street, we like you too!
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Goodwill Really Is Good
Most people think of Goodwill as that place we take our old stuff when we don’t want it anymore. Last week, Ellen Thornhill, Goodwill of Central Virginia’s Communications Manager, gave a presentation entitled “Goodwill: I Had No Idea!” at NAPO Richmond’s chapter meeting. We toured Goodwill’s Midlothian facility this past Monday to see it all in action.
NAPO Richmond at Goodwill’s Midlothian facility
The presentation’s title was fitting — I really had no idea about all of the awesome things Goodwill is doing for our community and the environment. Read below for my top three “I had no idea” facts.
I had no idea fact #1 — Goodwill’s primary role and mission is as a workforce development organization, not a thrift store, that helps people with disadvantages and/or disabilities obtain employment. Their retail centers (stocked with your donations) serve as revenue to support these programs. What’s more, you can feel good about helping your local community by donating to Goodwill. While it’s a nationwide franchise, nearly 100% of the local revenue goes back into local programs — not into a national pot. Learn more about their workforce development services here.
I had no idea fact #2 — Goodwill can resell or recycle a lot more than you think. They package stained or torn clothing and resell it to textile salvage companies. Your old cell phones, computers and other electronics (even the broken ones!) can be refurbished by skilled staff and resold or responsibly recycled through Goodwill’s Reconnect partnership with Dell. Medical equipment is sold through their partnership with the Free Foundation. Instead of tossing it, donate it! You’ll be helping your local community and the environment. Click here for an official list of what you can and cannot donate at Goodwill.
I had no idea fact #3 — In addition to revenue from their retail sales, Goodwill raises money for their workforce development programs through their Business Enterprise services, which includes Goodwill Staffing Solutions and Goodwill Document Destruction (shredding). Businesses can request a quote from Goodwill Document Destruction through Goodwill’s website. Individuals can simply bring their documents to Goodwill’s main facility where for $30, you can get up to 180 lbs of paper shredded (for anything above 180 lbs, it’s only $0.18/lb). Last year, Goodwill recycled over a million pounds of paper through its Document Destruction business and plans to do even more this year.
Every paper grocery bag of donations averages about $27 of revenue for Goodwill. If you were on the fence about spring cleaning, hopefully this post has provided new motivation to let go and give back to the community. Find a Goodwill donation center near you here.
NAPO Richmond at Goodwill’s Midlothian facility
The presentation’s title was fitting — I really had no idea about all of the awesome things Goodwill is doing for our community and the environment. Read below for my top three “I had no idea” facts.
I had no idea fact #1 — Goodwill’s primary role and mission is as a workforce development organization, not a thrift store, that helps people with disadvantages and/or disabilities obtain employment. Their retail centers (stocked with your donations) serve as revenue to support these programs. What’s more, you can feel good about helping your local community by donating to Goodwill. While it’s a nationwide franchise, nearly 100% of the local revenue goes back into local programs — not into a national pot. Learn more about their workforce development services here.
I had no idea fact #2 — Goodwill can resell or recycle a lot more than you think. They package stained or torn clothing and resell it to textile salvage companies. Your old cell phones, computers and other electronics (even the broken ones!) can be refurbished by skilled staff and resold or responsibly recycled through Goodwill’s Reconnect partnership with Dell. Medical equipment is sold through their partnership with the Free Foundation. Instead of tossing it, donate it! You’ll be helping your local community and the environment. Click here for an official list of what you can and cannot donate at Goodwill.
I had no idea fact #3 — In addition to revenue from their retail sales, Goodwill raises money for their workforce development programs through their Business Enterprise services, which includes Goodwill Staffing Solutions and Goodwill Document Destruction (shredding). Businesses can request a quote from Goodwill Document Destruction through Goodwill’s website. Individuals can simply bring their documents to Goodwill’s main facility where for $30, you can get up to 180 lbs of paper shredded (for anything above 180 lbs, it’s only $0.18/lb). Last year, Goodwill recycled over a million pounds of paper through its Document Destruction business and plans to do even more this year.
Every paper grocery bag of donations averages about $27 of revenue for Goodwill. If you were on the fence about spring cleaning, hopefully this post has provided new motivation to let go and give back to the community. Find a Goodwill donation center near you here.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
The 3/50 Project
Visit The 3/50 Project to find simple ways of supporting and growing your local independently owned retail businesses. There’s even some well-designed free marketing material for businesses to use! As an owner or a consumer, there’s definitely some valuable information to be shared.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Groupon
Did you know about Groupon? Somehow I didn’t until yesterday. I’d heard of it but didn’t really know what it was.
My friend Jillian was telling me how she got a $50 haircut for $25 through Groupon last night at Ipanema. She explained that you sign up and they send you “daily deals” that you can purchase. Another example she cited was restaurant coupons where you paid $20 for $40 worth of food. As long as you aren’t a sucker for deals, it seems like an awesome concept! The service is free, of course. I’ll be signing up in t-minus five minutes. You can too, just click here!
My friend Jillian was telling me how she got a $50 haircut for $25 through Groupon last night at Ipanema. She explained that you sign up and they send you “daily deals” that you can purchase. Another example she cited was restaurant coupons where you paid $20 for $40 worth of food. As long as you aren’t a sucker for deals, it seems like an awesome concept! The service is free, of course. I’ll be signing up in t-minus five minutes. You can too, just click here!
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Voxy Richmond
In sorting through my most recent Valpak coupon envelope, I found an advertisement for Voxy Richmond. It’s “an interactive social media experience for the fun-loving, deal-seeking people of the Greater Richmond Metro area.” I liked them on Facebook (click here) and it seems that they run a feed of current deals around town. Neat!
Monday, November 22, 2010
Cast a Vote for NAPO Richmond!
Our NAPO Richmond chapter has received very exciting news! We have been nominated for an annual Organizing Award in the category of Philanthropy. Each year we’ve made sure to give our time and talent back to our community, either during Project GO or through other events. NAPO Richmond is the only chapter to be recognized in this way this year. Our partners Closet Factory and ShelfGenie are also nominated in the Best Closet Design Firm and Best Home Organizing Product, respectively. Hooray!
Now here’s where you come in, lovely friends and Minimalist readers. Please cast a vote to support NAPO Richmond — voting is totally open to the public. It would mean a lot to us, and would help continue to grow Richmond’s professional organizing presence on the map. Click this link to go to NAPO Richmond’s homepage where you can read more about the award and cast your vote. Also, while you’re there, have a browse at all the lovely people I get to collaborate with in the professional organizing business — what a wonderful bunch of supportive and talented colleagues!
Now here’s where you come in, lovely friends and Minimalist readers. Please cast a vote to support NAPO Richmond — voting is totally open to the public. It would mean a lot to us, and would help continue to grow Richmond’s professional organizing presence on the map. Click this link to go to NAPO Richmond’s homepage where you can read more about the award and cast your vote. Also, while you’re there, have a browse at all the lovely people I get to collaborate with in the professional organizing business — what a wonderful bunch of supportive and talented colleagues!
Sunday, November 14, 2010
One Price Dry Cleaning
When I was in Woodbridge visiting my parents awhile back, I noticed a shopping center that had a $1.99 Cleaner. I asked my parents about it and they confirmed what I thought — any item is only $1.99 to dry clean. A shirt and a coat are the same price. What an awesome concept!
I’d had enough with my local cleaner charging almost as much as I’d paid for certain pieces to have them cleaned (especially dresses and jackets). I did a little research and found a one price dry cleaner here in Richmond! Park Avenue Cleaners, located at 4336 S Laburnum Ave, charge just over $2 per garment. They also have fast, next day service. I live in the Fan and it was about a ten minute drive up I-64 East. I waited until I had about five pieces to be cleaned and made the trip. It was well worth it! I probably saved between $30 and $50 — no joke. Give them a call for more information at (804) 226-1300.
This is a very democratic take on dry cleaning and I’m loving it. All fashion may not be created equally, but it’s treated as such here. I’m sure their simple pricing scheme brings in so much business that they can afford to charge so little. Excellent strategy.
I’d had enough with my local cleaner charging almost as much as I’d paid for certain pieces to have them cleaned (especially dresses and jackets). I did a little research and found a one price dry cleaner here in Richmond! Park Avenue Cleaners, located at 4336 S Laburnum Ave, charge just over $2 per garment. They also have fast, next day service. I live in the Fan and it was about a ten minute drive up I-64 East. I waited until I had about five pieces to be cleaned and made the trip. It was well worth it! I probably saved between $30 and $50 — no joke. Give them a call for more information at (804) 226-1300.
This is a very democratic take on dry cleaning and I’m loving it. All fashion may not be created equally, but it’s treated as such here. I’m sure their simple pricing scheme brings in so much business that they can afford to charge so little. Excellent strategy.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Minimal Clutter. Maximal Life.
It’s official! Minima LLC (aka Minima) is my new professional organizing business. I have gained a wealth of experience over the past two years contracting and training with some of the best organizers in town. Combined with over ten years of space planning and design experience, I’m excited to bring a unique skill set to the organizing industry via Minima.
Why “Minima”? Lots of reasons! I consider myself a minimalist, but don’t expect my clients to be. Minima is a softer, less threatening term than minimalist. No, I will not make you purge all of your cherished possessions! Minima is also a calculus term that references the smallest value on a function curve. (P.S. — I LOVE calculus!) In organizing, I see minima as each client’s desired point on the organization curve. It’s a different place for everyone. Lastly, I enjoy the plurality of the word minima, also meaning “things that are minimal”. Living simply isn’t about one thing, such as your space. It’s a holistic approach to life and I hope to spread my passion beyond a client’s organized home or office.
I’ll be taking new clients starting December 1, but feel free to get in touch before then. I am happy to give a free phone consultation. One of my specialities is resale. If you have a lot of stuff, I may be able to sell it for you to offset (or totally cover) the cost of organizing services. I’m happy to craft a service for just about any budget. An uncluttered life should be achievable by all!
Stay tuned for a website and official logo in the coming weeks. In the meantime, contact me at (804) 482-1554 or kziegler83@gmail.com.
Why “Minima”? Lots of reasons! I consider myself a minimalist, but don’t expect my clients to be. Minima is a softer, less threatening term than minimalist. No, I will not make you purge all of your cherished possessions! Minima is also a calculus term that references the smallest value on a function curve. (P.S. — I LOVE calculus!) In organizing, I see minima as each client’s desired point on the organization curve. It’s a different place for everyone. Lastly, I enjoy the plurality of the word minima, also meaning “things that are minimal”. Living simply isn’t about one thing, such as your space. It’s a holistic approach to life and I hope to spread my passion beyond a client’s organized home or office.
I’ll be taking new clients starting December 1, but feel free to get in touch before then. I am happy to give a free phone consultation. One of my specialities is resale. If you have a lot of stuff, I may be able to sell it for you to offset (or totally cover) the cost of organizing services. I’m happy to craft a service for just about any budget. An uncluttered life should be achievable by all!
Stay tuned for a website and official logo in the coming weeks. In the meantime, contact me at (804) 482-1554 or kziegler83@gmail.com.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Saving Money: The Cost of Clutter
Hiring a professional organizer could save you money in the long run. Check out this informative article:
“Are You Misplacing Hundreds of Dollars?”
“Are You Misplacing Hundreds of Dollars?”
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Attic Organization
Fall is here! The change of seasons is always a great time to get organized. The clothing/decor/etc swap is already happening, so why not take that extra step to simplify? Between back to school and holiday preparation, things can get chaotic for many households this time of year. No better way to relieve some stress than with an organized space! (And maybe a nice glass of wine and some jazz when you’re done.)
This past week I helped one of my organizing clients get her attic organized. It’s the perfect time of year between cooler temperatures and pending holidays. Here are the four steps we used to tackle the project:
1. Assess and Categorize
Walk through the space and create a general list of categories. In my client’s case: extra organizing product, furniture, keepsake, off-season clothing, toys, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter. Keep your categories simple for now. You can get more detailed if needed later.
2. Assign Zones
You’ll want to store like with like. Designate an area of the attic for each category based on frequency of use. For example, keepsake might be less accessible than toys and holiday. Remove any large objects to be donated or sold if possible to free up floor area. Make sure to get help if an item is too heavy to lift. Your zones might change as your sort and purge, but it’s a good idea to have a general plan before you start.
3. Sort and Purge
Go through the items in your attic and sort into the appropriate categories/zones. Make sure to keep trash and recycling bags handy. Once you have sorted everything, take a closer look at each category. Donate or sell any items you are able to part with. Tip — try not to get hung up on decisions during the sort process. It’s much easier to purge post-sort when you can see like with like. For instance, realizing you have 20 boxes of old holiday decorations in your attic might be a good catalyst to let a few go.
4. Store and Label
At this point, you have a pretty good idea of how much stuff is going to live in your attic post-organization. If floor space is limited, go vertical with plastic shelving. Make sure to store all items (with the exception of large pieces like furniture) in air-tight plastic containers to protect from dust and moisture. Definitely steer clear of cardboard! This time of year you can find orange, red and green bins at Target to color code your holiday storage. Otherwise, I recommend using clear containers for easy identification. Adding large labels helps as well. Word to the wise — always wait post-purge to buy organizing product. You will have a much more accurate idea of what you need.
If time is an issue, or all of this sounds overwhelming, feel free to contact me for professional organizing services. I’m happy to help!
This past week I helped one of my organizing clients get her attic organized. It’s the perfect time of year between cooler temperatures and pending holidays. Here are the four steps we used to tackle the project:
1. Assess and Categorize
Walk through the space and create a general list of categories. In my client’s case: extra organizing product, furniture, keepsake, off-season clothing, toys, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter. Keep your categories simple for now. You can get more detailed if needed later.
2. Assign Zones
You’ll want to store like with like. Designate an area of the attic for each category based on frequency of use. For example, keepsake might be less accessible than toys and holiday. Remove any large objects to be donated or sold if possible to free up floor area. Make sure to get help if an item is too heavy to lift. Your zones might change as your sort and purge, but it’s a good idea to have a general plan before you start.
3. Sort and Purge
Go through the items in your attic and sort into the appropriate categories/zones. Make sure to keep trash and recycling bags handy. Once you have sorted everything, take a closer look at each category. Donate or sell any items you are able to part with. Tip — try not to get hung up on decisions during the sort process. It’s much easier to purge post-sort when you can see like with like. For instance, realizing you have 20 boxes of old holiday decorations in your attic might be a good catalyst to let a few go.
4. Store and Label
At this point, you have a pretty good idea of how much stuff is going to live in your attic post-organization. If floor space is limited, go vertical with plastic shelving. Make sure to store all items (with the exception of large pieces like furniture) in air-tight plastic containers to protect from dust and moisture. Definitely steer clear of cardboard! This time of year you can find orange, red and green bins at Target to color code your holiday storage. Otherwise, I recommend using clear containers for easy identification. Adding large labels helps as well. Word to the wise — always wait post-purge to buy organizing product. You will have a much more accurate idea of what you need.
If time is an issue, or all of this sounds overwhelming, feel free to contact me for professional organizing services. I’m happy to help!
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Chop Suey Tuey
This past Friday, I helped one of my organizing clients go through her book collection. We sorted into three stacks:
1. Sell or donate
2. Keep
3. Unsure
Creating the “unsure” pile allowed the process to move fluidly, avoiding hang-ups on tough decisions (a little organizing trick called “shortcutting”). At the end of our sort, she had decided to sell/donate over half of her collection. As part of my service, I took the books over to Chop Suey in Carytown to see what we could sell. They bought about 3/4 of her collection for a grand total of $75! Definitely a nice chunk of change. The remainder of the books were donated to Diversity Thrift.
Chop Suey is a great place to buy or sell used books. The staff is super friendly and the multi-level store is merchandised in a very fun and colorful fashion. I spent about 20 minutes on Friday wandering the stacks and was amazed by the vast selection. Located in the heart of Carytown at 2913 W Cary St, Chop Suey should definitely be Richmond’s first stop for book purchasing. I also love anything involving resale — much better for the environment to buy used instead of new!
1. Sell or donate
2. Keep
3. Unsure
Creating the “unsure” pile allowed the process to move fluidly, avoiding hang-ups on tough decisions (a little organizing trick called “shortcutting”). At the end of our sort, she had decided to sell/donate over half of her collection. As part of my service, I took the books over to Chop Suey in Carytown to see what we could sell. They bought about 3/4 of her collection for a grand total of $75! Definitely a nice chunk of change. The remainder of the books were donated to Diversity Thrift.
Chop Suey is a great place to buy or sell used books. The staff is super friendly and the multi-level store is merchandised in a very fun and colorful fashion. I spent about 20 minutes on Friday wandering the stacks and was amazed by the vast selection. Located in the heart of Carytown at 2913 W Cary St, Chop Suey should definitely be Richmond’s first stop for book purchasing. I also love anything involving resale — much better for the environment to buy used instead of new!