Most of us mere mortals have wardrobes that more closely resemble Marie Kondo’s worst nightmare. Keeping your own space organized can feel like a never-ending chore, but don’t panic. Nicole Loiterstein from The Neat Method shares her best organizational advice. She loves neutrals and stripes both in her home and her closet and most mornings you will find her enjoying a decaf latte on her way to her client’s homes.
You have such an organized Instagram profile! Tell us about the Neat Method. How did you start in organizing? What have you learned that you never thought you would?
Almost two years ago my family moved from a condo into a house. When a friend came to see our new house, she took one look inside my pantry and immediately suggested I get in touch with NEAT Method to see about becoming a professional organizer. A few short weeks later, I traded my corporate job with a Fortune 25 company and opened NEAT Method St. Louis.
What is the number one thing you tell all your clients to do to stay organized? What is the number one challenge everyone faces when trying to get organized?
As with most things – getting started is the most overwhelming part of getting organized. I recommend starting small – especially if you’re not a fan of organizing. Take 15 minutes to empty and organize one drawer, one shelf, a wallet, or a file folder. As with most aspects of life, accomplishing a small goal inspires loftier goals – like tackling a larger space.
What is a super fun project you worked on recently?
We just wrapped up the SWEETEST project. We met with the owner of a bakery business earlier this summer. Her home-based bakery was TAKING OFF – which also means it was TAKING OVER her home. At the end of our first meeting, we promised her we would build her the bakery of her dreams in the space that was formally her home office. We scoured Pinterest for inspiration and nearly came up empty-handed. And so, with a little help from my friends, we designed a custom space for her from the ground up. The best part is that this Elfa solution by The Container Store not only meets her current needs but, someday [soon] when she moves to a commercial space, the entire system will move right along with her.
What are some of your go-to products for better organization?
What are the 3 benefits of working with a professional organizer versus doing it yourself?
Everyone loves organization and we believe everyone can and should be! We certainly know that some people struggle to find the time or motivation to organize their life. Here are just a few reasons you should call in the pros so you can start living the NEAT life.
- You don’t have time.
- Need help editing.
- You need a ‘personal trainer’ to keep you accountable.
- You don’t know where to begin.
- You’re moving and want to get settled in ASAP.
What are your travel hacks for staying organized on the go?
Our number one tip for staying organized on the go is to invest in some packing cubes. Furthermore, these lightweight zippered pouches are perfect for staying organized on the go.