Maggie's Organizing and Staging

From Stress & Clutter to Clear & Beautifully Organized, I turn your space into a wonderful place!

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Closet Organizing Tips

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Closet Organizing Tips: Closet organizing seems to be a huge challenge for many people. I have many clients telling me how difficult it is for them to organize their closets by themselves and having difficulty with finding anything. As a result, you are getting overwhelmed, frustrated and less productive due to clutter inside of your closet. I will provide you with some valuable tips for closet organizing that you can follow. Of course, it will require some time and patience,  but just think about it, you will be able to find everything within seconds.

Before you start organizing your closet, put the timer on and your favorite music as well.  Dedicate half an hour or an hour of your time each day without stopping. You can absolutely do it if you focus!

Also, take few photos before you start working on organizing your closet. You will be amazed at the end when you compare your pics before and after.

Tip #1

Women love shoes and we usually have a lot of them.

When you organize your shoes, only display those that you love and will wear. Go through all them and please let go of those that you know you will never wear again. Leave some room for your favorite shoes and display them but categories. Use shoe containers for shoes that you will wear sometimes, like a special occasion and put them at the very top. That way, you will have a very easy access to your everyday shoes and you will protect others from any dust.

If you don’t have a lot of closet space, use clear containers for out of season shoes. When protected, put them out of sight until that season arrives.  Under-bed containers are also great! As you can see, organizing your closet is happening in your eyes.

Tip # 2

Categorize your clothes by season and color. By doing that, again, you will be able to find everything much faster and without any frustration. For instance, sweaters with sweaters, pants with pants etc plus color coded.  Your everyday clothes should be in front of the closet where you will have an easy access to it. Special occasion clothes, or out of season, you should hang or place in the back of your closet. Just remember to categorize by color as well.

Part of closet organizing is changing your hangers. Velvet hangers are great for all your clothes but very safe for your sweaters as well. If you don’t have a lot of space in your closet, use the type of hanger for 5 pairs of skirts or pants with clips on it.  It will save you a lot of space and will look organized.

Tip #3

If you have enough space for baskets and inserts, use it for your extra storage that you don’t necessarily want to display.  Belts, socks, bras, tank tops etc are just few examples of what you can store inside of them.  I love to use the ones with zippered top to protect your items from any dust. You can purchase them on Amazon but if you have the Home Goods near you and you are lucky enough, you can get them there at much lower cost.

Just remember, give yourself some time on organizing your closet.

Concentrate on one step at the time. One day shoes, second day your tops etc until you reach the end. Take a photo of your finished and organized closet.

How does it feel when you can find everything in your beautifully organized closet?

Love your closet, study it and enjoy it. You will be supervised of how many things you didn’t wear simply because you couldn’t find it.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”396″ img_size=”full”][vc_single_image image=”307″ img_size=”full”][vc_single_image image=”308″ img_size=”full”][vc_btn title=”Contact Maggie!” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fmaggiesorganizing.com%2Fcontact-maggie%2F|||”][vc_wp_posts number=”10″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

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Organized Home and Life

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Organized Home and Life: Regularly, I hear from my clients how overwhelmed, unhappy and stressed they are due to clutter building up and lacking an organized life. They may be happy with their marriage, kids, and jobs, but not necessarily happy with themselves. Unfortunately, it is often caused by clutter and an unorganized life.

What is clutter and not being organized?

Last week, one of my clients, located in White Plains, NY, told me how difficult and challenging it was to live a normal life due to an unorganized home. It affected her in so many ways; at home and at work for so many years. With tears in her eyes, she admitted to me how excited and scared she was at the same time to contact me and asked to help her with her clutter situation. She mentioned,” imagine looking for your favorite blouse that you want to wear and you just can’t find it no matter how frantically I tried looking for it; I was frustrated and felt unproductive.”

I hear that too often!

The great news is, that stage of your life can be put behind you with some guiding help; you can have an organized and productive environment, which in the end, must have a very happy life. You must  have a positive mindset. If you don’t put your mind to it, then your goal will seem like its running father away each day. Being able to control your feelings and see the “pot of gold” at the end of your rainbow is the most difficult and most rewarding part of organizing, whether its organizing your life or a specific room. Once reaching this part of that process, it will feel like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders.

Being organized is about living the life you want to live. It’s so much more than creating a beautiful space and have things in order.Being organized  is about reaching for your dreams and loving  all of your surroundings.

When you decide to work on your clutter and unorganized space,   just remember to stay focused, positive and motivated throughout the whole process.

When you are going through piles of things, with a challenge of decision making  what to keep, donate and discard.

Always ask yourself  questions:

Do I like it?
Is it beautiful?
Am I going to use it?

Be honest with yourself and if your answer is yes, that should stay. Otherwise, let the item go. Letting go doesn’t have to be a difficult process and you can sell, donate, or discard the item(s).

Make room for all your beautiful things that you already have and simply can’t find it due to clutter.

Just remember, I’m here if you have any questions.

There is nothing more fulfilling than helping my clients with all their organizing and staging needs. In the end, it’s about you making you happy and productive with a feeling of a life-changing accomplishment, whether big or small. Seeing client’s smile after working with them, going through the good and difficult times and watching them grow into a decluttering pro is what brings my passion and love for – organizing.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”567″ img_size=”full”][vc_btn title=”Contact Maggie!” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fmaggiesorganizing.com%2Fcontact-maggie%2F|||”][vc_wp_posts number=”10″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

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Organizing Tips for Your Home, Closet, Office, Life!

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Organizing Tips for Your Home, Closet, Office, Life!

Tip #1
Organizing your home or office can be very challenging but remember always start with small steps. Don’t think about how long it will take you to organize a room, kitchen or closet, but rather think positive and have a plan to work for 30 minutes 3 times a week.

Tip #2  

When  I design and organize my clients’ closets, it’s very important to find the best solution that works for them. Maximizing all spaces, listening to all their organizing needs is crucial. Knowing that my clients are stressed and overwhelmed, we create a fun time to working together with one main goal: making my clients happy and productive in their lives.

Tip #3  

To keep your home in order, follow a simple rule- Something comes in, something goes out. Please don’t bring anything new without letting go of something old. Also, Don’t forget to ask you a question: ” Do I like it and am I going to use it”?

Tip #4  

It’s tax season. Paper clutter can be very challenging and can cause unpaid bills and late fees. To avoid that we need to have a Touch- It-Once rule. Preventing mail from pilling up, we have to categorize into 2 categories: Junk mail(recycle immediately) and filling folder for important mail, bills etc. Use a nice stylish basket near your front door to put all your mail. Never allow to be full and empty it at least once a week. Don’t forget to go paperless and direct payment to avoid lots of headache and late fees.

More tips to come!

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To my clients

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My dear clients,
Something that I want to share with you .
When we are stepping into a role of Professional Organizer, or Stager, we become a consultant, coach, mentor, adviser and a therapist.
We take on a certain responsibility and it’s never about us; it’s about our clients that we serve and help.
My role as a Professional Organizer and Stager is to help my Clients and assure them that we can provide the best service and the best solution that works  for you.
No judgment but simply helping clients like you, with understanding that most of clients  are overwhelmed and stressed already.

I am here for you at every step of the project with a simple message and promise- It will change your life!!
Let’s talk about what your concerns ,  your goals and visions are and how I can help in order to achieve them.

Together, we will create a beautiful, stressed- free  and organized home.

Helping you, starts right from here.

Sincerely,

 

Maggie Page

The owner/Founder

 

The truth about Clutter

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As a professional organizer, I helped many people with lots of clutter. I believe that   many homes are more and more  cluttered every day and it truly becomes a huge problem. At the same time, however, I’m  getting sick of hearing the word “clutter”.  I think it’s becoming overused  to the point that people think every pile they see is clutter.  That’s not true!   I usually have a pile of paperwork of my active work on my desk and on my dining room table. Is it clutter? No way! I love to watch tv and being productive at the same time. My papers come and go, and that is not clutter.

The Shocking Truth About Clutter: It’s Not Always Bad: clutter, clutter not always bad, solutions for clutter. Read more

 

TWO REASONS CLUTTER IS OKAY:

  •  As long it does’t lack your productivity. I believe that being productive  allows us to accomplish our daily and long term tasks  and goals, and overall makes us happy.
  •  If some of your displays  bring you positive emotions. Some people think outside the box and come up with fresh ideas. I totally understand that concept of temporary displaying your work or ideas. However, If you do have true clutter, which are piles that have been there awhile that you aren’t using, don’t need, or make you feel overwhelmed or anxious,   You need to take some action  to work on these things.

 

  • FIVE REASONS YOUR CLUTTER DOESN’T HAVE TO REMAIN CLUTTER:
  • Some of your clutter is stuff without a home. Solution? Find a home!! I always believe in categorizing and finding home for all your items.
  •  Some of your clutter is created simply  because you bought it on sale or it was free. Someone passed away in your family and you took it. The next thing it is stored in your basement and it  doesn’t see a day light.  Solution:  Only buy it if you really need it or give away/sell it if you are not going to use it.
  • Some of your clutter is there because you hold onto too many sentimental items. Solution: It is the most toughest  to get rid off items when we have sentimental value. Solution: Bring someone that you can trust and ask for help, and someone who is not emotionally attached to your things.
  • Some of your clutter are things that you don’t need or you don’t use it.   Solution: Get rid of it! Donate, discard or to sell!
  •  Some of your clutter has to do with things you want to do “eventually” or the “unfinished projects you want to do someday. We are surrounded by crafts, books and magazines you want to read, etc.  Solution: Give yourself a deadline  to get it done if it’s really important. Again, ask yourself a question: ” Do I need it, do  I want it?

 

 

Preparing your house for the Spring Market

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Spring time is the busiest time for real estate.
Clients who want to sell their homes for the highest price, need to do some homework before they put their house on the market.
When I purchased my house, I did a lot of remodeling and many changes, like painting, remodeling my bathrooms,siding, doors, finished basement and so much more. I did all that with some thoughts on how it will affect selling my house in the future. As a professional organizer, Stager and Decor expert, I understand how important is to improve your home and make changes that will help you to sell your home faster and at the higher price.
First of all, Clear away the Clutter!
Most of us have some clutter in our homes and that’s ok if it doesn’t bother you. However, when you sell your house, having the clutter doesn’t help you at all.
But remember, at the end of the tunnel is the light!
STEP 1
GET ORGANIZED!
Sort through your closets, attic, basement, and garage to determine by using the quadruple system: What to keep, discard, donate and to sell. Boxing up items will make your space look larger and neater for showings.
My big favorite advice is also to rent a storage facility while your home is on the market.

STEP 2
CLEAR AWAY THE CLUTTER
You can use boxes or clear containers to put away all seasonal items, clothes that you will not wear now, kids toys and art, kitchen appliances and dishes that you barely use. Overloaded closets, kids art and toys placed loosely all over, pictures of your family, garage and basement full of “junk” and the list goes on and on.
Remember, potential buyers want to see a fantasy version of your house, in which they can envision living.
While your house is on the market you will need to keep it as neat as possible.
Noone said it will be easy!

But remember, at the end of the tunnel is the light!
STEP 3
IMPROVE YOUR HOME
While you don’t necessarily want to do a major, expensive renovation projects before you sell, you can make minor repairs and improvements that will make your home look fresher to buyers.
We may like painted walls in deep reds or dark browns, but would potential buyers?
Replacing the old caulk and grout in your bathroom, updating old light fixtures throughout your house, changing switch plates, doorknobs(change to door handles) and other hardware, will help you to create a neat and clean appearance.
Consider to refresh some rooms by painting them in a neutral color, like beige, light taupe or grey.

I know what you thinking right now! I understand how overwhelming and stressful this process may be for you, but remember by following those steps, You will successfully sell your house and that’s what matters the most!

Organizing Lives and Love

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Organizing Lives and Love. Not too long ago, I went to a Network event to meet with other businesses at a local restaurant in Stony Point, NY.  It was a nice event and I met a lot of great people and contacts. Few hours went by quickly!

I noticed on the other side of the restaurant there was another event being held. There was a big sign saying: “Charity event and fundraiser” for a little girl fighting cancer.

I decided to step inside and find her parents. My first thought was to give her some toys and clothes that I often receive from my clients when I organize their homes. However, meeting her parents was so much bigger and overwhelming for me once I started to speak with them. Immediately, I wanted to do more, to use my expertise in organizing and staging, and give back to that girl and her family.

How could I give it back?

That was simple! I decided to organize and furnish this girl’s bedroom, or at least make some positive changes in her bedroom. So, I asked my friend Bob to paint her room in her favorite color pink. We used some of her existing furniture and add some elements to beautify her room. We added some pictures and painting on her walls with fun lighting, toys, baskets and more. We did all that when she was at a hospital doing some tests.

And finally, that day came. She was back! I was invited to see her reaction when she saw her room. I was not surprised when she screamed and jumped from being so overwhelmingly happy and excited to see her organized and decorated room.

My heart felt full from joy, tears and a big smile on that 7 year old girl’s face.

So let me tell you a secret:
I love to do what I do!
I love to help others and make a difference in so many peoples lives.

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The beauty of Fall Season and organizing

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I just love this Season!
Every time I drive during Fall season, seeing changing foliage of colors amazes me. Apple and pumpkin picking, colorful mums, corn mazes, early morning fog and crispy air, the smell of roaring fires at night, the smell of freshly baked apple pie with cinnamon. And so much more!
Fall is also a very exciting time for many organizers. It’s the best time to go through all closets and deciding what to keep, donate or discard. In states, with distinguish 4 seasons, now it’s time to say goodbye to our summer clothes and say hello to fall and winter clothes. Now, think about it, you are just about to put away all your summer clothes, but you realized that half of it you didn’t even have a chance to wear.
Not a problem!
Ask yourself 2 simple questions: Do I like it and Am I going to wear it again?
Believe me, there is a reason why You didn’t wear that flowery skirt, the cute blue summer top and those lovely shoes.
Whatever reason is, it doesn’t matter because you can resolve it by organizing, downsizing and letting go unwanted clothes, and clothes that you didn’t wear several seasons.
I believe that now it’s a great opportunity to make these simple changes that will allow you to feel accomplished, less overwhelmed and become more productive.
So lets do it! Push all your summer clothes in the back of your closet or containers for those small space closets, and put your favorite and mostly used clothes in front of your closet. Color code your clothes and create your own rainbow!
If you have any questions, please give me a call or email me. I’m here to help!

Moving services

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Moving is expensive and very stressful as well!!

You have to pay your professional movers and funding everything that goes along with it. I know,   sorting through all belongings  and deciding what what to bring and what stays behind it’s not easy.

Last week I had a client that moved from Texas to New Jersey into a beautiful house in Marlboro. Surrounded by about 100 boxes, my client Betty was very overwhelmed by this move and didn’t know where to start. She contacted me to help her with moving -In service. Since I only spoke with her over the phone, I didn’t know how big this moving service was but based on my experience I knew it will probably will take about 3 days.

When I arrived with my other associate, we discovered lots of boxes and clutter through out the entire house. I wasn’t surprised  that about 30 percent of her belongings should not be packed in the first place.  It took us additional time to go through what to keep, donate and discard.

Here is some  advice:

It’s very important to go over clutter and all your belongings  before you move and only take what you need. Please note that it will cost you so much more for packing unwanted clothes,  paperwork, unwanted furniture and then moving all those additional boxes.

The best thing to do is first unclutter your spaces before you move by organizing moving sale/tag sale and give away to your friends and charities. Believe me, at the end it will cost you less stress and money to move to your new home.

 

 

Overwhelmed by clutter? Working by the small steps!

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I constantly hear from my clients:

“My husband dumps everything all over the house when he comes in.”

“My house is a total disaster!”

“My kids make the mess faster than I can pick it up  after them”. 

“I don’t even know where to start .”

If you think that some of these comments apply to you, first of all, you are not alone, and there is always a solution for eliminating clutter.

I know that you may ask yourself:” How did I let it get like this?”

As overwhelming  as you may feel right now, give yourself permission to accept what is, knowing that you will create a plan to conquer the clutter for good.

First thing first!!!

  1.   I would like you to take a notebook and your phone and take a      tour of your home. Make a list of all areas you want to work on.  Take some pictures as well and create a folder for organizing.

2)    It’s important that you will give yourself a deadline to complete           the project. You will create a short-term and long-term goals. For         instance, organizing a book shelf and finish a guest room by                    Easter.

3)    In order to be successful in eliminating clutter, it’s important to             narrow your focus on what you can control.

Since you can’t control the behavior of others, initially focus on spaces that are primarily yours. Maybe work on your closet or your desk.  Others may (or may not) pick up on your new habits, but by showing your progress, will allow you to ask for some rules around your home. Negotiate a few ground rules for everyone’s  use, like kitchen, family room etc.

4)     When you are deciding where to begin, focus on what is driving               you crazy.

Is it your kitchen table piled  with papers and magazines from months ago?

Maybe shoes right in your main  hallway ?

Ask yourself a question:  “What situation makes me feel overwhelmed?

Making visible progress  in organizing your home – especially in an area that has been giving you grief and stress –  is very motivating. As we conquer one area, we feel energized to move on to another.