Book Review: The Pumpkin Plan by Mike Michalowicz

Why I Chose This Book

Mike Michalowicz is the author of Profit First, which I haven’t read yet, but appears to be the profit bible of small business. People follow and preach Profit First principles in just about every business space I have entered. When I heard about the term “pumpkin plan your business” in the same sentance as “reaching your ideal client and maintaining your client relationships”, from the same author as Profit First, I immediately put it on my wishlist.

I did listen to the audio version, narrated by Mike himself, which I throroughly enjoyed.

Quick Summary of The Pumpkin Plan

In the Pumpkin Plan, Mike draws an analogy between growing a giant, prize winning pumpkin and growing a successful business. Farmers who grow colossal pumpkins focus on the strongest seed, nurture it, and ruthlessly cut off the weaker vines = business owners should focus on their best clients and most profitable offerings and let go of the rest.

Mike argues that the key to sustainable growth lies in narrowing your focus to what works exceptionally well. Don’t try to be everything to everyone, but everything to the right one. There is a mix of story telling and practical actionable advice given throughout the book.

“There is always a direct correlation between diluted focus and a diluted bank account.”

— Mike Michalowicz

Top Takeaways for Business Owners

• Plant the Right Seed
  What are your strengths? What do you like to do? Where do they overlap? What issues aren’t being addressed by your industry? Focus on the thing you do best that has the best potential to stand out.

• Focus on Your Top Clients
  List your clients in order of revenue, highest to lowest. Strike out any that make you cringe. Evaluate who pays on time, repeat revenue, revenue potential, referral potential, history, or anything else that’s important to your unique business. Then keep your top clients, and cut the rest —EEK!

  • Survey your top clients
    How can you serve the better? What are their biggest gripes about your industry as a whole? Develop a strategy to meet their needs, then call them back and ask for their feedback on this strategy.

  • Go line by line through your expenses and cut everything that isn’t serving your top clients.

  • Create a favorite client policy and share with your team.
    When these clients call, we drop everything. Under promise, over deliver - most of the time.

• Systematize Every Aspect of Your Business
  We’ve all heard this before. In every business book you’ve ever read…it’s the least exciting part, but probably the most crutial for your foundation.

• Be Irresistibly Magnetic
  You need to stand out in your industry. Create a venn diagram (or picture one). Top clients, unique offering, systemization. Where these areas overlap, that is your sweet spot and your area for growth.

How I’m Applying It to My Business

I’ve started to identify who our top clients are, the ones who truly value our work, and treating them like gold. This shift in my focus has helped me elevate our customer service and deepen those relationships. At the same time, I’m quicker and more confident in saying no to projects or requests that fall outside of our focus.

Our VIPs are not necessarily the biggest revenue projects. There are many aspects that go into determining who they are. Mike provides an assessment chart and many other great tools to “Pumpkin Plan Your Business”.

Do I Recommend This Book?

ABSOLUTELY! It’s been one of my favorites to date, and one I can see myself reading year after year.

Hi, I’m Naomi!

Founder of Charming Spaces, professional organizer, wife, mom of three and passionate advocate for women.

I hope this blog is everything you’re looking for, but feel free to shoot us a message and follow us on Instagram!

Clutter-Free Easter Basket Ideas for Your Kids

Easter is a wonderful opportunity to get together with family and celebrate, but let’s face it…it’s often filled with an influx of stuffed animals, candy wrappers, and trinkets that add to the clutter in our homes. If you’re looking for meaningful ways to celebrate without the extra mess, here are some clutter-free Easter Basket ideas the kids will love!

Experience Gifts

Instead of physical gifts, consider giving your child an experience they’ll remember for years to come. The options are endless!

• Movie Night

• Frozen Yogurt

• Cooking Valentine’s themed treats together

• Ice Skating or Roller Skating

• Art Class

• Trip to the zoo or museum

• Dinner experience like Hibachi

• Cidercade

• Top Golf

• Bowling

• Escape Room

Gifts they’ll actually use

• New bathging suit, swim towel, or flip flops

• A new book or audio book

• Board Games

• Pajamas (or any clothing item they need)

• Consumables - candy, treats, goldfish, gum, etc

• Beauty Products

• Bubbles

• Chalk

• Magazine Subscription

• Room Decor

• LED Lights

• Bath Toys

• Craft or Science Kits

Overall, Easter doesn’t have to mean more stuff. Focus on experiences, quality time, and meaningful gestures rather than things.

Hi, I’m Naomi!

Founder of Charming Spaces, professional organizer, wife, mom of three and passionate advocate for women.

I hope this blog is everything you’re looking for, but feel free to shoot us a message and follow us on Instagram!

Jump Start Your Decluttering: 15 Items to Toss NOW!

Ready to declutter, but not sure where to start? As professional organizers, we’ve compiled a list of 15 easy to declutter items to get you moving! READY, SET, DONATE!

1. expired medicine

   This is an easy one. Open up that medicine cabinet and get to work! Make sure you make a note about any medicines you may need to replace.

2. outdated electronics

   Are you still holding on to your iPhone 6? The remote for a TV you no longer have? Your boombox from middle school? Get outdated or no longer needed technology out of your house. Staples will recycle most electronics for you!

3. socks without a mate

   Are there lonely socks sitting in your laundry room pining for their partner? If you’ve managed to catch up on all the laundry (first of all- GREAT JOB!) and still no match is found, it’s time to toss.

4. candles that are more than half-used

5. business cards & flyers

I feel like everyday a new flyer or business card somehow makes it’s way into my house. Most of the time, if we need a service or even the contact information for a business associate, we can just Google it. Toss these clutter sources as quickly as they come in! If you are absolutely sure you may need someone’s info in the future, add them to your contacts! Or you can take a picture and create a folder or drive specifically for business cards.

6. shoes that hurt your feet

7. cookbooks

Unless you LOVE cooking and actually read your cookbooks, scan your favorite recipe or two from each and free up some valuable shelf space.

8. take-out containers

9 clothes that are too small

Whether the kids have outgrown them and their sentimental or you are REALLY hoping to be your goal weight again, we know this can be hard! But do it! You’ll thank yourself in the long run.

10. half-used notebooks/ old school supplies

11. books

Only save the books you are sure you’ll re-read. Don’t hang on to them in case a friend might want to borrow one- just go ahead a give them to a friend you know will enjoy them!

12. worn-looking linens

13. puzzles & games that are missing pieces

14. reusable shopping bags/ free totes

Where do these keep coming from? TOSS! Or even better, use these to collect your other donations.

15. old calendars

How many of these can you declutter today?

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Hi, I’m Meghan,

Professional organizer, mom, former educator, wife, and auntie. I am dedicated to minimalism, greener living, and community service.

I believe organization can relieve stress and help all aspects of your life function more smoothly. I hope the information here can help you create a more peaceful home and lifestyle!

How to Organize Your Vehicle

If you’re a busy mom or a business owner, you are familiar with your car being like a second home. Shuffling kids to activiites, running errands, pulling over for client calls, driving to consultations - we spend a ton of time in our vehicles! The sheer amount of papers, empty chip bags, and gum wrappers, are enough to drive anyone crazy. With a few strategic organizing solutions, we can create a clean and functional space for on the go.

Here is a step-by-step guide to organizing your car, complete with must-have items like a trash can, organizers for your consule, and emergency supplies.

Start with a Clean Slate

Before diving into organizing, we have got to clean out that hot mess car! Listen, there is no judgement. Here’s a secret, organizers have the messiest cars of anyone I’ve ever met. Don’t ask me why. It’s a thing.

So empty it out. Yes, completely. The glove box, the console, the trunk, all of it. Toss the trash and take anything inside that doesn’t belong in your car. Give it a good wipe down and vacuum, and maybe add a smelly good.

Check out this car vacuum on Amazon. Great reviews, and it has a blower option too!

Organize the center console

At this point, you’re looking at an empty clean car and a pile of items that need to come back into the car. Decide what items you need easy access to in the center console. This is prime real estate, so choose wisely.
This is what I keep in mine:

• Tampons

• Backup Sunglasses

• Pens

• Extra business cards

• An envelope for business receipts

• Charger

• Hand Sanitizer

• Chapstick

I use these home edit organizers to keep things neat and tidy in the console. These are a game changer!

Organize the glove box

Truly, there isn’t much organizing that needs to be done here. The only thing I recommend keeping here is your vehicle manual, insurance card, and napkins or wipes as these often don’t fit well in the center console.

Organize the Trunk

There is very little that should be kept back here, if you can help it. The reality is, when hauling kids around, sometimes you need to keep some basics in the car. Plus you need some emergency supplies. Here’s what I keep in my trunk.

• Jumper cables

• First-Aid Kit

• Basic Tool Kit (for work)

• Trash Bags (for work)

• Kids’ necessities (extra change of clothes, minimal amount of toys)

• Car cleaning items (wipes and small vacuum)

If you have some hidden storage cubbies in your car, utilize those. If not, I like these trunk bags that keep things stored nicely.

Add a trash can

Car trash with kids is a major problem. Solution: add a trash can and empty it every time you get gas. I really don’t care which trash can you get, just get one that works for you and place it where you can actually reach it. Here are a few trash cans I like:

Maintain your organized car

Now that your car is nice and clean and organized, let’s keep it that way! Easier said than done, right? It’s all about building new habits and creating a routine. My suggestion is to pick a day of the week that works best for you, and complete the tasks listed below. This may be Sunday afternoon when you’re already working outside in the garden, or maybe its Friday after the kids get home from school, or maybe its after soccer on Saturday. Whatever feels the most natural for you.

• Empty the trash

• Bring items inside that belong inside

• Wipe + Vacuum

• Restock supplies

Enjoy Your Organized Ride

Pat yourself on the back and enjoy!

Hi, I’m Naomi!

Founder of Charming Spaces, professional organizer, wife, mom of three and passionate advocate for women.

I hope this blog is everything you’re looking for, but feel free to shoot us a message and follow us on Instagram!

How to Organize Your Dream Garage

Dreaming of an organized garage? Let’s make it happen!

As the weather turns warmer, do you dream about a neater, more functional, perfectly organized garage? Maybe you want to create a space for exercise and hobbies or clear a path so your kids can get their bikes out independently. Whatever your garage goals are, we have the tips to make it happen!

Steps to Organize Your Garage

sort & DeclutteR

Like all organizing projects, an important first step is to sort your existing stuff and toss or donate what you don’t need. The more you can get rid of the more space you can have to enjoy. This will make it easier to find things and clear more space for hobbies, exercise, a kids zone, or just to move more easily! If you aren’t sure how to purge your garage clutter, check out our Purging Tips Blog Post!

Categorize

A garage stores all kinds of things, so as you sort create categories. Here are some common garage categories to get you started: Garden, Tools, Cleaning, Kids, Camping, Holiday, Swim/Beach, Sports. Of course, garages are one of the most individualized spaces in the home, so tailor categories to your individual needs. 

Plan zones

Let your categories help you to create zones within your garage. Additionally, let logic guide you here. When planning your zones, think about how you use items and how often you need them. If you camp once a year, your camping equipment can be stored on a high shelf. However, if camping is your favorite family activity, these items may need to be more accessible.

Kids’ bikes should go near the bay door so they are easily accessible. Holiday can go up high since it’s used infrequently. Cleaning supplies may make sense where they can easily be grabbed from the door to the house. Is there a category that makes sense closest to the slop sink? Plan your zones to maximize function.

get items off the floor

As you create zones, make a plan to get as much as possible off the floor. Good shelving can be the key to an organized garage. Also, be sure to utilize wall mounts wherever possible.

contain

Contain as many of the loose items as possible.  Generally, totes will be used for this, but smaller items may need to be contained differently. A favorite of ours is the Muti Purpose Bins from The Container Store.

Label

Label all totes and other boxes as clearly as possible. Labels will help everyone find what they’re looking for and make items more likely to be put away after use.

We hope these tips will help you achieve your perfect garage! But remember, if you can’t tackle it on your own, we’d love to help!

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Hi, I’m Meghan,

Professional organizer, mom, former educator, wife, and auntie. I am dedicated to minimalism, greener living, and community service.

I believe organization can relieve stress and help all aspects of your life function more smoothly. I hope the information here can help you create a more peaceful home and lifestyle!

Why Decluttering is Self-Care

When you think about self-care, you probably think of bubble baths, massages, a good book, or a great cup of coffee. While those are all wonderful and enjoyable ways to pamper yourself, I would argue that true self-care goes a bit deeper.

True self-care is creating a life for yourself that you don’t have to escape from. True self-care is about doing things that protect your well-being, reduce stress, and support a happier healthier you. True self-care is therapy, self-growth, working on your communication and your relationships, creating necessary boundaries, taking care of yourself physically, finacially, and….decluttering. Self-care isn’t pampering, and it isn’t easy. It’s work. Creating a life you love takes a lot of intentionality and reflection, and it is worth every second of work you put in.

The Link Between Clutter and Mental Health

Research shows that clutter leads to feelings of anxiety, overhwhelm, shame, and depression. It’s widely known that therapy and exercise is a great way to combat these feelings, but decluttering your house is rarely talked about as a possible solution.

Visual clutter overwhelms the brain and lead to a constant fight or flight response. Causing a reduction in working memory, lack of focus, and decreased productivity.

And if you think that having these feelings of anxiety and overwhelm isn’t affecting your sex life, think again.

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“Clutter can make us feel stressed, anxious and depressed. Research from the United States in 2009, for instance, found the levels of the stress hormone cortisol were higher in mothers whose home environment was cluttered.”

— theconversation.com

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The Link Between Clutter and Physical Health

Studies have shown that clutter is correlated to poor eating habits. Partipants in a cluttered spaces eat more junk food, and in more quantity, than those in a tidy space. Those with cluttered homes are also more likely to be overweight.

On the contrarty, those with tidy homes tend to exercise more.

My Challenge To You

My challenge to you is this: pay attention.
Pay attention to how your body and mind feel when your home is out of order vs when its in order. Pay attention to the moments that you feel particuarly close to your kids or husband - what is the state of the room you’re in?
When you’re feeling a lack of patience, bitterness, resentfulness - look around you. Just observe. Then talk about what you’ve observed to your partner and/or a therapist.

Make a Change

It’s time. Here are a few fun ways to get started!

• Call some girlfriends over, drink wine, declutter together. Next weekend, go to another friend’s house and repeat.

• Start small. You don’t have to tackle the garage you can’t walk into. You can start with a drawer, a shelf, a cabinet.

• Make it a game. Whoever fills their box first gets ice cream! Or try the miniamlism game.

• Make it entertaining. Turn on the Home Edit, Marie Kondo, or listen to a decluttering podcast while you work.

• Reward yourself. Celebrate your wins by doing something you enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Self-care is about showing up for yourself - not just in the fun and pampering ways, but in the practical ways that make your day to day life more enjoyable. Decluttering isn’t just about your home. It's about your mental health, your physical health, your time, your peace, and your relationships.

So next time you feel overwhelmed, try clearing off a surface instead of taking a bath. Chances are you’ll feel lighter and more energized. That is the magic of decluttering.

Hi, I’m Naomi!

Founder of Charming Spaces, professional organizer, wife, mom of three and passionate advocate for women.

I hope this blog is everything you’re looking for, but feel free to shoot us a message and follow us on Instagram!

Decluttering Tips from our Professional Organizing Team

The first, and often most important step to getting organized, is to declutter. As professional organizers, we know that this can be a big struggle for many people. So many decisions to make! How do you know what to keep? We asked our team for their favorite tricks. So here are some tips to be like Elsa and LET IT GO!

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General Decluttering Tips For Your Whole Home

If it’s not a “Hell Yes!”, it’s a no.

Marie Kondo would call this “Sparking Joy”. This is our more casual version of that advice. If you don’t love it- why keep it?! This is one of Naomi’s favorite saying. I even hear her voice when I shop, before the clutter even enters my home. Love it or let it go!

One-In, One-Out

This is an easy one. When something new enters your home, let it replace something old. This prevents you from mindlessly accumulating and ending up with 8 spatulas. This is also an easy one to teach to kids. “This is a great new unicorn hoodie! I wonder if there are any old ones that don’t fit anymore?”

Rule of 20/20

This is a favorite from The Minimalists. If you’re holding something in your hand, trying to make that decision and feeling stuck, this can be the deal breaker. If you can replace it in under 20 minutes for less than $20, let it go.

Rule OF 90/90

Another favorite from The Minimalists. Have you used this item in the past 90 days? If not, will you use it in the next 90 days? If your answer to both questions is no, it’s probably a safe bet that you can get rid of it. 

The EX-Test

This is MY favorite! If this item was left at an ex’s apartment, would you contact them to get it back? (LOL!!)

Is it broken?

If it has been broken for more than a month and you haven’t fixed it, you’re not going to get around to it. Let it go.

stop saying “Just in case'“

Don’t allow a “just in case” to take up space.

Would i buy this again?

If you were shopping right now, would you purchase this item again?

Decluttering Your Closet

is the item in good condition?

Is it ripped, stained, faded, broken buttons, etc? Don’t bother hanging on to clothes that look worn and sloppy.

The Hanger trick

This is a popular decluttering method on social media. Turn your hangers backwards. As you wear your clothing, turn the hangers the other way. At the end of year, any hangers facing backwards are a sign that you haven’t worn that piece of clothing for that year. It’s time to purge that item. A word of caution with this one: backwards hangers may decrease the day to day functionality of your closet. However, this is a great tip for visual learners.

listen to a stylist

Rachel Nachmias, a style consultant and author of The Curated Wardrobe, offers this advice: When buying an item ask yourself, “Is it practical? Is it flattering? Do I like it?” These questions work for both shopping and when decluttering.

does it fit?

There’s nothing wrong with keeping a few items of clothing if you are currently fluctuating sizes for whatever reason- we get it! A limited selection of clothing in a size up or down makes sense for many people, especially women in our “momming” years. But if half your closet is taken up with clothing that no longer fits, it may be time for some purging. Unless there’s a great reason to hang on to a piece of clothing, if it doesn’t fit, say goodbye.

Decluttering Sentimental Items and Gifts

recognizing the reason for the gift

The importance of the gift was the giving and receiving, not the physical object. We someone give you a present, they want you to enjoy it. If you no longer do, it’s ok to re-gift it or donate it.

Treasure or chore?

A box-full of sentimental items is a treasure, a garage-full, a chore. Whether you are hanging on to sentimental items for yourself or for your family, less is more. Too many sentimental items is overwhelming! Looking through these keepsakes should be a pleasant way to reminisce, but if you keep everything your memorabilia will be a source of stress instead of joy.

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Hi, I’m Meghan

Professional organizer, mom, former educator, wife, and auntie. I am dedicated to minimalism, greener living, and community service.

I believe organization can relieve stress and help all aspects of your life function more smoothly. I hope the information here can help you create a more peaceful home and lifestyle!

Tips For Decluttering With Kids

Here are some great rules from Good Housekeeping for decluttering with kids. Plus we’ve included some experts tips of our own!

Good Housekeeping: 9 New Rules For Decluttering A Kid's Room

This is a great article!! I will add the following:

As obvious as it seems, we need to tell our kids that they don't have to keep anything they don't want or like. Oftentimes, it never occurs to them that they can get rid of things. We have to give them explicit permission. 

"You don't have to keep anything in here you don't want. Isn't that great! Let's make your room exactly the way YOU want it with only the toys and clothes and books that you LOVE! Then when you come in your room, it will feel like your own little heaven. How does that sound?".

Then we MUST follow through. This scenario happens a lot. Child says "I don't like this toy anymore". Parent says "Oh, but grandma bought you that for your birthday when you were 5. Remember how much fun we had with this? You can't get rid of it". Parent then throws things away when the child isn't home, things that the parent deems unimportant. This is not helping the child. By letting them make the decisions about their room and their belongings, you are building their confidence and sense of independence. You can always veto, and you should always guide them, but let them lead when it comes to their room. You may be surprised at how much they will get rid of when you tell them to only keep the things they LOVE.

I know as a parent, we get attached to their things too. It's hard for US to let go. If you want to keep a toy or book or any item as a keepsake, that's okay! But let's get it out of their room and into a keepsake area in your home. Because ultimately, you're holding onto it for you, not for them.

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Hi, I’m Naomi!

Founder of Charming Spaces, professional organizer, wife, mom of three and passionate advocate for women.

I hope this blog is everything you’re looking for, but feel free to shoot us a message and follow us on Instagram!

Five Organizing Products Professional Organizers Say NOT to Buy

The organizing industry is booming, and with that comes an endless stream of products promising to solve all your clutter problems. Some of these will be useful. Others create more issues than they solve and ultimately lead to more clutter. As professional organizers, we’ve seen it all—closets overflowing with unused bins, pantries cluttered with “organizing solutions” that don’t actually work, and garages stacked high with well intentioned purchases that only ended up adding to the chaos.

So before you fill your cart with yet another organizing gadget, here’s a list of a few products our team recommends you do NOT to buy.

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1. This toy storage solution

We have never seen this work well. Here’s why these end up in the donation pile.

• Kids don’t put things back. The number one goal of an organized playroom is that the kids can clean up after themselves. The way this shelf is set up, they end up just throwing toys in random bins and it becomes a catch all.

• It doesn’t maximize storage space: this design limits the type and size of toys that it can actually fit.

• It looks bad. I mean honestly. This multi colored look is only adding to the visual clutter. Plus, even after it’s “organized” it still looks messy because everything is on display.

Try this Instead

A cube shelving system. These are so versatile and hold a ton of items. You can use them for storing items for every age group from baby and toddler toys to video games to college text books. Bonus: they’re about the same cost as the plastic toy storage organizer.

2. Hanging Fabric Closet Organizers

These organizers hang from a closet rod and seem like a great idea, but they are not. Here’s why.

• You lose hanging space. Often these are added to already small and cramped closets to add storage space. The problem is now you are losing precious hanging space.

• They encourage stacking items. Stacking items is rarely a great way to organize things. Stacking makes it difficult to get to an item on the bottom and difficult to put items away neatly.

• They look bad. The shelves sag under weight and the items on the shelves are on display, causing visual clutter.

Try this instead

Add baskets to your closet to hold the same items. Try adding a smaller storage cube shelf to the floor, or using an over the door organizer.

3. Hanging Fabric Gift Wrap Organizers

Another well intentioned product that just doesn’t work. Here’s why:

• The pockets aren’t the right size. They rarely work for gift bags.

• They don’t hold enough. We often see these overflowing with bows and bags that don’t properly fit.

• They’re cheap and often the weight of the wrapping paper ends up tearing the pockets.

• They look bad. Again, all of the items are on display adding to the visual clutter.

Try this instead

Over the door Elfa Gift Wrap Solution - only if you have a minimal amount of gift wrap. If you have a collection, try storing in bins, separated by type (holiday, paper, bags, bows, etc).

4. Stackable Can Organizers

Pantries can be challenging to keep organized. These look like a dream solution…until you actually use one.

• They often don’t fit standard pantry shelves and hang off the edge, causing a safety issue.

• They only make sense if all the cans in each row are the same item.

• They are difficult to re-stock and therefore, not practical.

Try this instead

3 tiered shelf for larger amounts of cans or turntables for a more minimal amount of cans. Both of these options give you more visibility and accessibility to your inventory, making them a more functonal option.

5. Pre-Packaged or Varity Packs of Organizers

These might be a pack of nesting baskets, a variety pack of pantry canisters, or a variety pack of drawer organizers. In any case, steer clear of these.

• The sizes aren’t practical. We often purchase these because we need one or two of the items and we think, why not get a set? With a set, many of the items included are the wrong size. You rarely need itty bitty plastic canisters, for example.

• Varying sizes of organizers often look like visual clutter when actually in use.

Try this instead

Measure your space and get exactly what you need at a place like The Container Store, where you can purchase the exact size in the exact quantities for your particular project. The more your products match, the more appealing they will be to the eye.

Hi, I’m Naomi!

Founder of Charming Spaces, professional organizer, wife, mom of three and passionate advocate for women.

I hope this blog is everything you’re looking for, but feel free to shoot us a message and follow us on Instagram!

How To Save Your Kids’ Artwork, While Also Saving Your Sanity!

Do your kids bring home entire backpacks full of art projects and worksheets? Don’t let this pile overwhelm you! Let’s look at some easy ways to cherish some incredible art and then introduce the lesser pieces to the recycling bin!

Before we try to create memories from the masterpieces, let’s pull out what doesn’t need to be saved. I know we all love our kids and want to treat everything they do as special, but for the sake of your home and mental well-being, you do not need to keep every worksheet and coloring-book page they’ve ever scribbled on. Only keep and organize the art you want to look at again. Do you only want to keep the Mother’s/Father’s Day cards they’ve made?-- That’s ok. Do you only feel sentimental towards the crafts with handprints?—No problem. You get to decide how much or how little stays! 

Now that you’ve filtered out the crumpled worksheets and crayon doodles, it’s time to organize and preserve the treasurers that remain. There’s no point to saving something if it is not being stored in a manner that will prevent damage. Additionally, your storage method should reduce the clutter around your house, not add to it. Let’s look at some of our favorites!

• File Box

As Houston-area professional organizers, this has become our go-to method for organizing artwork. It consolidates all of the art into one simple filebox and neatly organizes it by school year! Perfect!

• Create A Book

Ready to go paperless? There are many great services that can create beautiful books of your child’s art. Several of our clients have had success organizing art with ArtKive. Alternatives like Scribble and Shutterfly offer a more DIY approach and they include the ability to include photos of your kids. You’ve just replaced messes of paper with a beautiful coffee table piece! Magic!

• Google Drive

For a completely digital option, you can create a folder in your Google Drive. Just like a file box, this gives you the option to organize by school year. And you can do it all from your phone as soon as the art comes into your house. This completely avoids clutter on your counters! Easy!

• Document Box

What if you can’t bear to part with the originals and some of the art is too big for a file? Create a box specifically for art. Underbed storage boxes are the perfect size for larger art projects. Or, elevate the look with a document box from The Container Store. Everything just goes right in the box! Simple!

Document Box from The  Container Store

• Display Wall

Want to enjoy your child’s art without cluttering up every surface with paper stacks? Turn it into whimsical decor with frames. A display wall is the perfect way to encourage your little Picasso! Fun!

Organizing your kids’ art will solve two problems at once. It will remove clutter from your home and allow you to properly store these precious childhood memories. So go ahead and tackle this before all those beautiful creations turn into a crumpled mess at the bottom of a backpack!

Hi, I’m Meghan

Professional organizer, mom, former educator, wife, and auntie. I am dedicated to minimalism, greener living, and community service.

I believe organization can relieve stress and help all aspects of your life function more smoothly. I hope the information here can help you create a more peaceful home and lifestyle!

Clutter-Free Valentine's Day Ideas for Your Kids

Valentine’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to show love and appreciate for our children, but let’s face it…it’s often filled with an influx of stuffed animals, candy wrappers, and trinkets that add to the clutter in our homes. If you’re looking for meaningful ways to celebrate without the extra mess, here are some clutter-free Valentine’s Day ideas the kids will love!

Experience Gifts

Instead of physical gifts, consider giving your child an experience they’ll remember for years to come. The options are endless!

• Movie Night

• Frozen Yogurt

• Cooking Valentine’s themed treats together

• Ice Skating or Roller Skating

• Art Class

• Trip to the zoo or museum

• Dinner experience like Hibachi

• Cidercade

• Top Golf

• Bowling

• Escape Room

Personalized Notes

A heartfelt note can be so much more meaningful than a trinket. Here are a few ways to share words of love with your child.

• Love Letter Jar - write short notes or compliments on small pieces of paper and put them in a jar

• Coupon Book - create a coupon book for things like “one extra story at bedtime” or “dinner at the park”

• Mommy and Me journal - start a journal that you write back and forth to each other in and leave it on each other’s pillow when its their turn to write.

Gifts they’ll actually use

• A new book or audio book

• Board Games

• Pajamas (or any clothing item they need)

• Consumables - candy, treats, goldfish, gum, etc

• Beauty Products

• Bubbles

• Chalk

• Magazine Subscription

• Room Decor

• LED Lights

• Bath Toys

• Craft or Science Kits

Overall, Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean more stuff. Focus on experiences, quality time, and meaningful gestures rather than things. Or just keep it simple with some flowers and chocolate!

Hi, I’m Naomi!

Founder of Charming Spaces, professional organizer, wife, mom of three and passionate advocate for women.

I hope this blog is everything you’re looking for, but feel free to shoot us a message and follow us on Instagram!

How to Meal Plan without Overwhelm

When I was a single mom, Sunday planning was my secret weapon. I can tell you all about what I do on Sundays to prep for my week, but a big part of that was meal planning. I am no longer a single mom, but I still find this skill to be incredibly useful and we still do this every week.

The purpose of meal planning isn’t to master gourmet cooking, but for surviving the chaos of every day life. It’s not about perfection or even eating healthy every single night. Its about having a plan, saving time, and reducing your stress.

So here’s how it works:

Start with Brainstorming

You don’t have to reinvent the wheel every week. Know what your staples are, pepper in a new recipe every now and then, and keep it simple. Start by brainstorming a list:

• 10 Breakfast Ideas

• 10 Lunch Ideas

• 10 Snacks

• 20 Dinners

The lists should include healthy options as well as some easy and quick ideas too. I think its totally okay if pizza is one of your 20 dinners!

Here is ours. Feel free to steal!

The Basics

Now that you have your list, you’re going to look at each category and simply choose a few things. It’s that simple!

1. Breakfast
   Right now, I have 3 kids who leave the house at three different times. I don’t always cook breakfast for them. I need to make sure I have a variety of items, both to cook, and to grab and go. I pick 2 or 3 options from our breakfast list each week.

2. Lunches
   Each week I ask the kids if they want to pack a lunch or eat at school. I do empower my kids to make their own lunches. I think its a valuable life skill and way to keep them involved in their daily eating choices. If they want to pack a lunch, we decide on some options together, using our list.

3. Snacks
   Snacks are essential with kids! I include a mix of healthy and “fun” options. I usually pick 3 or 4 types of snacks each week.

4. Dinner
   This is where I spend most of my time planning because we have 5 people’s schedules to work around.
   

The Dinner Breakdown

Time to bust out the calendars! Each week, I look to see when we need a grab and go option for practices, when I can actually have time to cook, when should we do leftovers vs pizza, etc.

This week, we have an appointment at 4pm on Monday. I know by the time that’s done and I pick up our 3 year old, I’ll have time to cook about a 30 minute meal.
Thursday, I have a zoom meeting at 6pm so that will need to be a quick and easy night.
Wednesday and Friday’s are normal nights.

• Monday: Korean Beef

• Tuesday: Gnocci Soup

• Wednesday: Taquitos

• Thursday: Grilled cheese + tomato soup

• Friday: Chicken Burritos

• Saturday: Baked Potatoes

Survey The Pantry

I take a look at what I already have and build my grocery list around the meal plan and what’s already in stock. This helps us save money, avoid food waste, and sometimes sparks creative dinner ideas. I happen to have a can of chick peas in my pantry now that is begging for a creative solution.

Final Thoughts

Meal planning and meal prepping are not the same thing. You can start small, by planning only dinners or only breakfasts. It’s a skill that will evolve with your family’s needs and one that you can easily involve the kids in. Remember, it’s not about perfect meals. It’s about creating a plan that works for your life.

Hi, I’m Naomi!

Founder of Charming Spaces, professional organizer, wife, mom of three and passionate advocate for women.

I hope this blog is everything you’re looking for, but feel free to shoot us a message and follow us on Instagram!

How a Professional Organizer Approaches New Year’s Resolutions

New Year’s resolutions have a way of either inspiring us or overwhelming us. As a Professional Organizer, my approach to resolutions centers around practicality and FUN! Yes, you heard that right.

Ever since I was a child, the act of “planning” has always been a favorite activity of mine. I thoroughly enjoy a good notebook, highlighters, color coded lists, check boxes, goal meters, you name it! I have to confess, I sometimes enjoy the planning phase more than the execution phase. There is something exhilarating about creating systems, brainstorming ideas, and mapping out my year. There is a reason I entered this profession. I recognize this isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. So I’m here to share my ways with you to make this a bit easier to swallow!

This year I’m drawing inspiration from Gretchen Rubin, one of my favorite podcasters and authors on happiness and habits. Two of her tips really resonate with me: choosing a one-word theme and her 25 in 2025 framework.

Choose a One-Word Theme

The word you choose should act as a guiding star throughout your year. It’s not a rigid resolution, but rahter a focus that shapes your decisions.

Try to think of a word that has many meanings and symbolism. Have fun with this! I encourage you to listen to the Happier with Gretchen Rubin’s podcast episode 511 for inspiration.

My theme this year is balance.

Balance makes me think of stability
Yoga
Flexibility
Calm
Steady
Peace
A balanced budget
To bring into harmony

I visualize a stack of smooth round rocks, balancing on one another. Water is nearby…

A reminder to be true to myself. Its a representation of my desire and my constant work to be steady and calm. I am also in the process of increasing my flexibility and physical strength. This feels like the perfect word for me.

I’m currently brainstorming how to have a visual representation of balance in my day to day life. Perhaps a throw back to the 90s with a ying yang necklace? Perhaps an hour glass or a scale? A photo of those very rocks?

25 in 2025

Set 25 achievable and realistic goals for the year.

Before I start, I think through different aspects of my life. Things like relationships, parenting, marriage, spirituality, health and fitness, professional, and financial. Where do I need improvement? Where am I doing something right, that I should keep doing? What do I need to drop from my list entirely?

Your goals don’t need to big overwhelming goals. Some should challenge you, but others may just be something you’d like to get done or a small task. Remember, this is supposed to be fun!

Here are my 25 for 2025. In no particular order.

1. Journal weekly

2. Plan a family yoga or pilates session

3. Have weekly 1:1 time with each of my kids

4. Have a monthly date night with my husband

5. Read 12 books

6. Try 12 new recipes

7. 12 social activities with friends

8. Plank every day

9. Be able to do 10 strong push ups

10. Go to a brow bar

11. Schedule College tours for my oldest

12. Take family photos

13. Catch up on family photo albums

14. Schedule a monthly CEO day

15. Plan team days for the year

16. Re-evaluate and set this years business financial goals

17. 12 new google reviews (we currently have 56)

18. Make a medical appointment I’ve been needing to make

19. Make a dental appointment I’ve been needing to make

20. Finalize my will

21. Increase my life insurance

22. Insure my wedding ring

23. Finalize my husband’s life insurance

24. Re-allocate my retirement fund

25. Save a certain dollar amount towards a vehicle

In order to make these goals stick, I break things out into actionable lists. Some of these items may need to be done daily. Most of mine are monthly. Many are one-time to dos that I need to schedule and set deadlines for. Create a plan to actually achieve these things.

I believe that visual tools are powerful motivators. Canva is a great resource for beautiful checklists. A good old fashioned poster board is great too. There’s nothing like seeing your goals proudly displayed on your wall to keep you inspired!

Whether you’re a planner like me or prefer a more spontaneous approach, resolutions work best when they’re personal, actionable, and enjoyable.

Here’s to a year of growth, balance, creativity, and reaching new heights!

Hi, I’m Naomi!

Founder of Charming Spaces, professional organizer, wife, mom of three and passionate advocate for women.

I hope this blog is everything you’re looking for, but feel free to shoot us a message and follow us on Instagram!

8 Tips For An Organized New Year

2025 is around the corner!

Do you promise yourself every year that you’ll get more organized? Here’s a list to make it happen!

Set Goals

Personal or professional, big or small, dreams don’t happen without a plan. Sit down and create your list of goals for the new year. Focus on things that are specific, measurable, and achievable. List out a few bullet points of tasks you need to accomplish to achieve each goal. And create deadlines if you need some extra motivation.

Find a calendar that works for you!

There are so many options out there. Paper planners, scheduling apps, or electronic family wall calendars, the right calendar is out there waiting for you! When it comes to organizing your schedule, there’s no one-size-fits-all. Evaluate what works best for you. Just last night, I got teased for my classic paper planner, but I still love using it! Naomi swears by her Trello app. If what you’re doing isn’t working, it’s time to try something new. The key to getting your calendar in order is to find what works for YOU and then start using it- consistently!

Start Decluttering

Nothing feels as good as starting the new year with a clutter-free home. Say goodbye to anything that came in during 2024 that is no longer serving you! 

This may be especially necessary if you have kids! If they didn’t do a pre-Christmas toy purge, take advantage of the time off from school to clear some room for the new toys that came in.

Don’t hesitate to call the pros if you need help! That’s what we’re here for!

Create a cleaning schedule

Whether the whole family pitches in to help every Saturday morning, or you plan a weekly schedule with a few daily tasks for yourself, having a routine will help keep the house in order. I have found a combination of the two methods to work best in my home.

Implement a morning & evening routine

Make a list of what needs to get done to get everyone on their way each morning. Now figure out who does what, in what order, and make it a habit. If you have young kids, create a short list with pictures: Brush your teeth, make the bed, pack a snack, etc.

Evening schedules can be a bit harder to create a routine around. Parents may have work dinners and PTA meetings come up and the kids have so many activities! But consider what needs to be done and try to make a plan for it. Things like kids’ homework and bedtime routines, running the dishwasher for the following day, and packing lunches all have to get done whether or not you’ve had a busy evening, so make sure you carve out some time and create the routine.

Plan a budget and/or a savings goal

A budget can be an important part of your New Year’s routine. First, take a look at your monthly income and expenses. Consider your financial goals. Use this information to make a plan. Track your spending each month and take time to review your spending to see how you did. If you don’t know where to start, there are apps available to help. And remember to set a little aside for fun!

Brainstorm a family-fun bucket list for the year

Speaking of fun….Is there a trip you’re hoping to do together? A local attraction that never seems to get visited? Maybe you’d like to start a weekly game or movie night? Or, perhaps every year you say,” we really should get together with the cousins more”? Just like anything else, it won’t happen without a plan, so make yours for 2025 now!

Clear your digital Clutter

Is your phone in need of a declutter? How about your computer, Drop Box, or Google Drive? Now’s the perfect time to scroll through your photos and delete any that are duplicates or blurry. Did you take 100s of screenshots of craft ideas or recipes? Time to delete them or file them somewhere useful. Make 2025 your year to actually try them! Delete all the apps you had to download for a single use that haven’t been opened since. The first week of the year is the perfect time to make a point of hitting unsubscribe on all those email lists. It will streamline your inbox and help remove the temptation to shop went those deals come in. This will help your digital clutter, your physical clutter, AND your budget!

Now you’re ready for an organized 2025! Happy New Year!

Hi, I’m Meghan

Professional organizer, mom, former educator, wife, and auntie. I am dedicated to minimalism, greener living, and community service.

I believe organization can relieve stress and help all aspects of your life function more smoothly. I hope the information here can help you create a more peaceful home and lifestyle!

Clutter-Free Stocking Stuffers

Fill Their Stockings Without Filling Your Home With Clutter!

Christmas is less than a month away! We’re here to help you prepare for a holiday with less stress and less clutter!

Years ago, a friend commented that so much of what is marketed to moms as stocking stuffers is, in fact, “disposable plastic crap!” So we set out to brainstorm a list of more useful stocking stuffers.

Ideas for Everyone

• Toothbrushes & toothpaste

• Socks

• Reusable Water Bottle

• Gloves/Mittens

• Card Games

• Popcorn for family movie night

• Art Supplies

• Hot Chocolate Bombs/ Packets

• Chapstick

• Sun Glasses

• Cookie Cutters

• Bathbombs
  
  

Ideas for Little Kids

• Play-Doh

• Stickers

• Bathtub Finger Paint

• Hot Wheels

• Fruit Snacks

• Hair bows

• Mall Carousel Tokens

• Hermann Park Mini-Train Tickets

• Crayons

Ideas for big Kids

• Phone case

• Chargers

• Make-up/ Hair Care

• Fancy Pens/Markers

• Gaming/iTunes gift cards

• Shampoo/Shower Gel

• Takis/Flaming Hot Cheetos

• Rubik’s Cube

• Candy

• Nail Polish

• Fuzzy Socks

Important Pro Tip: Anything can become clutter if you have too much of it! Check what they already have before you buy.

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Hi, I’m Meghan

Professional organizer, mom, former educator, wife, and auntie. I am dedicated to minimalism, greener living, and community service.

I believe organization can relieve stress and help all aspects of your life function more smoothly. I hope the information here can help you create a more peaceful home and lifestyle!