What is a professional organizer?
NAPO, The National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals, offers the following definition:
A professional organizer enhances the lives of clients by designing systems and processes using organizing principles and through transferring organizing skills. A professional organizer educates the public on organizing solutions and the resulting benefits. Professional organizers help individuals and businesses take control of their surroundings, their time, their paper and their systems for life.
Why should I hire a professional organizer?
Many people try to organize their space on their own but it can quickly become overwhelming without professional help. A professional organizer can help you decide where to start, help you stay motivated and focused, and provide fresh ideas and organizing solutions for your space. With the help of a professional organizer, your project can be completed more quickly and you can get back to focusing on the things in your life that bring you happiness.
How do we start?
Once you make the decision to get your space back in order, we will start with a complementary, no-obligation phone call. We will discuss your organizing needs and goals and answer any questions you may have about working with a professional organizer. Next, we will schedule an in-home consultation where we will tour your space and I will ask questions about your current systems, what's working and what isn't and start to create a plan for the space. At this time we will discuss the organizing package options offered by Dismiss Clutter and recommend one that fits your needs, time and budget. We can then schedule your first organizing session or jump right in and get started. Contact us today for your free phone consultation!
Will you make me throw all of my stuff away?
No, it's your stuff and you have complete control over what items you keep and what items you get rid of. However, we will guide you in making honest decisions about the items in your home and may suggest donating, selling, recycling or throwing away things you no longer need, use or love.
How long will it take?
No two projects are exactly the same and the amount of time it will take to finish depends on the size of the space, the amount of stuff you have and your ability to make decisions about the items in your home. The process may be sped up by you completing work on your own between sessions but that is completely up to you.
Should I clean before you come?
No, it's best for us to be able to see your home in its natural state. That way it will be easier for us to see your specific organizing challenges and be able to suggest ways to get your space back in order. There is no need to worry about the state or cleanliness of your home, we will never judge and we're here to help.
Should I buy storage containers before you arrive?
No, many people have all of the storage containers they need already in their home. We may make suggestions for purchasing containers, shelves or storage furniture, but only after we have determined your specific storage needs.
What is Dismiss Clutter's cancellation policy?
When cancelling or rescheduling an appointment you must give at least 48 hours notice by phone or email. Cancellation of a scheduled appointment with less than 48 hours notice will be subject to a cancellation fee of 50% of the scheduled work.
How much do you charge?
Organizing sessions are billed at an hourly rate. Sessions are booked for a minimum of three hours. Packages of hours are available at a discounted rate. Seniors 65 and older receive a 10% discount. Each organizing session includes a complementary donation drop-off to the charity of our choice for any items that fit in our vehicle. For more information about our rates and packages please click here.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Payment for hourly sessions and agreed upon purchased products is due at the end of each session via cash or check. Payment for packaged services is due prior to our first session via check or credit card.
How far will you travel?
Dismiss Clutter is located in West Hartford, CT and services Northern and Central Connecticut. Travel of up to 50 miles is included in each organizing session. Travel exceeding 50 miles one way will be billed a travel fee of $25 per organizing session.
Is Dismiss Clutter insured?
Yes, Dismiss Clutter is fully insured by NAPOSure.
Do you share what we do with anyone else?
No, Dismiss Clutter takes client confidentiality very seriously. We do take before and after photos for our own records to monitor progress and see the transformation of your space. However, photos and testimonials will only be shared with your written consent and will never include any identifying factors. We adhere to the NAPO Code of Ethics and keep all client information in complete confidentiality.
Can I hire you for someone else?
Yes, but only with the full cooperation of the third party. The organizing process only works if everyone is willing to invest their time and energy into the process. We require the person's space whom we're organizing to sign my organizing service contract as well as the paying party.
How did you learn to organize?
I am a member of NAPO, The National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals. I am also a member of the local Connecticut chapter of NAPO. I continually participate in online training programs and in person seminars about the industry and once a month I attend the chapter meeting to network with and learn from other local organizers. At home, you can catch me listening to organizing podcasts or perusing organizing blogs. I've always had a natural ability for organizing but I love learning about new products, methods and philosophies.