Frequently Asked Questions Regarding My Services

Here are some answers to the typical questions potential clients ask me:

I've never hired an organizer before. How does it work?

Typically we begin by surveying the problem areas. You show me what is working in the home, what isn’t, and we map out an action plan based on your priorities. I can work with you or on my own, but some interaction is necessary to achieve the custom organizing solutions that match your lifestyle, needs, and personality.

If you are so busy you can’t be around for much of the organizing, we agree on a plan of action and then I make as much headway as I can on my own. If purging is part of the action plan, I place things that might need purging in a box for you to go through. I consult with you by phone or email when questions arise. With your permission I will make purchases for supplies as needed.


Is my mess the worst you’ve ever seen?

Most likely not. My most challenging home contained little paths through 8-10 foot tall stacks. A path to a spot on the bed, to the sink and fridge, and to the toilet. Most clients have areas in the house they are more or less comfortable in, and areas they feel stuck in. I welcome the challenge and see it as an opportunity to help you create the space and life you want.


Are you going to pressure me to get rid of things?

No. My role is to support you in achieving your organizing goals. If decluttering is your goal, I ask you leading questions to help guide you in making the right decisions about what to keep and what to purge, but you ultimately determine the pace and direction.


How do I assure confidentiality?

I subscribe to a strict code of ethics as presented by NAPO (the National Association of Professional Organizers). When we begin our work, I provide you with a signed statement assuring confidentiality.


How many hours will it take?

This depends on many factors and is impossible to predict. Do you just want some basic systems to work with, or do you want your house to look like Martha Stewart moved in? Are you hoping to change lifelong clutter habits? If you need to purge, how quickly can you make decisions? How much stuff is there to sift through? Do you want me to give you follow-up tasks? Are you lacking storage space? Do you have boxes of papers to sort through (paper can take longer than other things)?


How do you charge?

Generally by the hour, although I can package my services and charge a single fee per project in certain cases. Please contact me for more information.


I’d like to do as much of the job on my own, but I need guidance and support. Is that possible?

Absolutely. There are two ways we can do this. We can work over the phone through coaching sessions where I guide you through the process and help you through any emotional bumps along the way. Or I can come on a regular basis for a few hours and give guidance and direction to the project. Some find this really helpful to keep the momentum going with a project that easily gets overwhelming on one’s own. I have clients who hire me once per week, once per month, or even every few months to make sure the organization systems we set up don’t fall apart. For large jobs, I find it most effective if we set up several organizing sessions to get the project off the ground, then I can coach by phone after that. Regular hourly rate applies to phone coaching.


Do you travel out of state?

Yes, for larger jobs I will consider traveling. I’ve had clients in New York, New Jersey, and San Francisco in addition to Chicago.


When do you work?

I generally work days and evenings, Monday through Saturday. Advanced booking is necessary for Saturday appointments. Special Sunday bookings can occasionally be accommodated.


I have to get organized in a rush, and it’s a big job. Is this possible?

Yes. Let me know your goals and time frame, and if necessary we will bring in a small crew to speed up the pace.


Do you shop for me?

Yes, if purchases are needed and desired, I will shop for supplies, shelving, etc.


My (husband/wife/parent/child etc.) is a packrat and it’s driving me crazy. Can you help?

Yes, I’ve helped many in this situation, but we’ll have to get the other one on board. We should all meet in a preliminary consultation to discuss goals.