FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What makes you different than other organizers?
A: My background in Family and Consumer Sciences and Education has equipped me to be supportive and compassionate, while implementing strategies for success. There is no “one size fits all."
Q: Do you offer consultations?
A: Let's face it, inviting a stranger into your home to declutter and organize can feel strange. I want you to feel comfortable with me, and I want to feel comfortable with you. It's important to find an organizer you trust and enjoy spending time with. A quick consultation will give us the opportunity to casually meet, discuss goals and make sure we will make a good team.
Q: How do I get started?
A: Fill out the form under the Contact page and I will reach out to you to you within 24-hours. During our call, text or email, we will review your area(s) of concern and I can answer any questions you have. From there, we will schedule your 1 hour in-person consultation. At your in home consult you will be able to show me what works and doesn’t work for your space. We will begin working on a plan to bring peace to your chaos based on your personality, organizational needs, and budget.
Q: Should I clean up before you come?
A: No. There is no need to clean up your space before your consultation or any of the organizing sessions! It’s best if I can see the space how it typically looks and functions with you in it.
Q: What does an Organizing Session look like?
A: Sessions are usually scheduled in 5 hour increments with a minimum of 3 hours. Around this time, enthusiasm tends to taper and fatigue sets in... so this is typically a good time to pause and resume in another session. I try to make the best use of your time, and I work to keep us on track to achieve your goals in the desired time frame.
Q: Do the packages include the cost of organizing products?
A: No. The cost of organizational tools (beyond printed labels) is a separate fee, because you will likely want hangers, containers, baskets, etc. that tie into your personal décor and your specific budget.
Q: Do I have to throw my things away?
A: That decision is completely up to you. If clutter is interrupting your daily life and preventing you from attaining your goals, most likely, there will be items that need to be re-homed. However, you will decide whether to donate, toss, or recycle. I will help you to evaluate your belongings and coach you through the process, so you're happy with every decision.
Q: Will you help me donate the things I choose to part with?
A: Absolutely! I have a wonderful list of local disposal places for chemicals, meds, electronics etc.. My goal is to put your parted with items to use; to bless others with your abundance. I will transport as much as can fit in my vehicle and coordinate a pick-up for larger items, if necessary. I can also provide a tax receipt for these donations should you want or need one.
Q: Do I need to be present during the sessions?
A: I need your input in the beginning so that your decluttered space will be well suited to your personality and needs. After that, I can continue sorting and organizing based off your initial direction. There may be a few tweaks needed at the end of the project to ensure that it’s the best fit for you. I will never purge any items without your permission first.
Q: Is our work together confidential?
A: Absolutely! I abide by the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO). Everything you share will be held in strictest confidentiality. I do enjoy sharing my before and after pictures on social media to help inspire others but this will only be done with your permission. No identifying information will ever be shared, no matter what.
Q: Should I hire a professional organizer before listing my home?
A: Absolutely! When it’s time to sell your home, you are wanting to sell your SPACE, not your stuff. I’ll declutter the space you’ve loved and make it appealing to all buyers.
Q: Is there a travel fee?
A: Travel is included at no additional cost up to 20 miles or 30 minutes (whichever comes first). Additional travel time begins at $55 per session.
Q: Do you have a cancellation policy?
A: I ask for a minimum of 24 hours notice if you must cancel an appointment. This courtesy enables me to offer that appointment time to another client. I will confirm the appointment time with you in advance so that you've got plenty of time to let me know if there's been a change in plans.
Q: How do I pay for your services?
A: Payment is collected at the end of each work day for a single sessions. If your project includes multiple days within one week, final payment will be due at the end of your last session of that week. I require a $50 deposit at time of your initial booking and this will be credited towards your next session. I accept cash, most major credit cards, Venmo, PayPal, and Zelle.
Q: How long will it take to get my space Held together?
A: Probably less time than you would imagine! Each space is different and the rate of organization often depends on how you are feeling regarding making decisions. I keep my clients on task, but I never rush or pressure you into getting rid of anything. If you need a short break, there’s always something I can do independently to keep the project moving forward. I guarantee that in 3 hours you will see a major and tangible improvement! Generally, in 3 hours I can complete a small space such as a closet, laundry room, pantry, or entryway. Larger or more complex areas, like home offices, kitchens, basements, playrooms, or heavily cluttered areas, can take longer. Each client’s needs are unique.
Q: Do you offer Gift Certificates?
A: Yes, but make sure that it’s really a gift for the recipient, rather than for yourself! Organizing sessions are only productive if the client is receptive, motivated, and ready to get organized.
If you have other questions that haven’t been answered in this FAQ section, or you’d like to set up an organizing session, please call Brooke at Held Together at (214) 702-9536.