Frequently Asked Questions

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How do I know if I need a Professional Organizer?

You might benefit from working with a professional organizer if you: Tidy the same areas over and over again, but they never seem to stay organized. Struggle to put into practice the organizing systems and solutions you read about online, in books or see on TV. Have bought containers, drawer dividers and other organizing products, ... Read more

Is hiring a Professional Organizer really worth it?

Imagine paying someone an hourly wage to search for your car keys every time you misplace them. That gives you an idea of the time you save when your home is organized! But the real benefit isn’t just the time or money you save; it’s the reduction in everyday stress. Your stress levels can go ... Read more

How do I know if I need an Interior Decorator?

You might benefit from working with an interior decorator if you: Scroll endlessly online looking for inspiration and have hundreds of ideas but still don’t know where to start. Have tried everything to make your kitchen or bathroom work better, but know you need a renovation and the prospect feels completely overwhelming. Have a busy ... Read more

Is hiring an Interior Decorator really worth it?

An experienced interior decorator can save you time, but they can also save you money by helping you avoid costly mistakes, unsuitable purchases and budget overruns. Maybe you just need some guidance to create the space you envision, or maybe you need a team to plan and execute the entire project. Either way, Get Organized ... Read more

What happens when you hire Get Organized by Design?

After your no-obligation discovery call, you purchase a package of organizing or design sessions. We then schedule time to work together to create a plan and timeline for your project. If you are reorganizing your home, we can help you declutter, create practical systems and make better use of your existing space. If you are ... Read more

Do I need to be home while you are working?

It depends on the project and the type of help you need. Some clients prefer to be involved throughout the process, especially when we’re deciding what to keep, move, or change. Others prefer to let us take the lead once we’ve established the plan. We will always discuss your preferences before we begin and make ... Read more

How much of my time will be required?

That depends on the project and how involved you want to be. Some clients want to be involved in every decision, while others are happy to have us handle much of the work for them. For organizing projects, you will need to make some decisions, particularly when it comes to your personal belongings. We can ... Read more

Do I have to throw things away when I hire a professional organizer or decorator?

One question clients often ask is, “Will you make me throw away my stuff?” The answer is no! We don’t make clients throw away their belongings. However, after we work together, you might want to let go of some things. Our goal is to help you develop a clear vision for how you want your ... Read more

Why can’t I keep my house organized no matter how hard I try?

It’s not you! There are many reasons why it can be difficult to keep a home organized, including busy schedules, changing family needs, overconsumption and the pressure we see on social media to have a perfectly organized home. You may have been led to believe that the latest gadget or organizing system will finally organize ... Read more

Can you help me if I don’t want to declutter?

Absolutely. Decluttering is not a requirement for working with Get Organized by Design. Sometimes the answer isn’t getting rid of things—it’s finding a better way to store, organize and use what you already have. We can help you make the most of your existing space and create systems that work with the belongings you want ... Read more

Do you provide organizing and decorating products?

Yes. We recommend and source organizing products and décor items when they will genuinely improve how your space functions or how it looks. With more than 20 years of experience, we know the most expensive product isn’t necessarily the best product. We consider how you use the space, what you need to store, how often ... Read more

How do I get organized or redecorate when I don’t know where to start?

Getting started is often the hardest part. That’s where Get Organized by Design can help. We ask specific questions to help you define your vision, understand how you live and identify what isn’t working. From there, we create a practical plan for your space. Sometimes that might be all you need—a clear starting point and ... Read more

How do I keep my house organized after decluttering?

As much as social media and TV shows would like us to believe, organizing is not a “one-and-done” event. Regular maintenance is necessary. The good news is that when you work with Get Organized by Design, we create systems designed to minimize that maintenance. The goal isn’t to spend your life organizing—it’s to make staying ... Read more

Do you specialize in downsizing?

Yes, definitely. Our downsizing clients are typically working, semi-retired, or recently retired professionals and business owners. Or we may work with children of elderly parents to help with moving to a smaller space. Over the years, many of our long-time clients have reached a point where they are ready to sell their home and move ... Read more

With downsizing or moving projects, at what point do you typically get involved—before a home is listed, during the process or after a sale is finalized?

Whenever possible, I prefer to start working with clients about six months before their move. Starting early allows us to work slowly and steadily, rather than leaving everything until the last minute. It also gives you time to process the emotional side of a major life change and make thoughtful decisions about what you want ... Read more

What should I look for when hiring a professional organizer or interior decorator?

As with any professional, consider their experience and expertise. Do some research online, look at their website, and ask friends or neighbours for referrals to professionals they trust. Then, book a discovery call to make sure you’re comfortable with their personality and communication style. A good professional should actively listen, ask thoughtful questions and take ... Read more

How long have you been a professional organizer?

We have been helping clients get organized for more than 20 years. Related reading: 25 Years of Organizing Across Canada

How long have you been an interior decorator?

We expanded our services to include interior decorating and design more than 15 years ago.

What are your areas of expertise?

We specialize in all those spaces in your home where you keep your “stuff,” including closets, kitchens, bathrooms, mudrooms, laundry rooms, playrooms and storage rooms.

May I get references?

Absolutely. I’m happy to provide references. You can also find reviews on our Google Business Profile and testimonials throughout this website.

Do you provide a written proposal and/or contract?

Yes. Every project begins with a Terms and Conditions document that outlines how we will work together, associated fees, and other important details.

How do you charge for your services—hourly, by the project, or otherwise?

It depends on your project and your needs. We begin with either a Get Started Organizing or Get Started Design package and then move to hourly billing as needed. Related reading: What is it Really Like to Work with a Professional Organizer?

Will I be working directly with you, or will you assign someone else to my project?

You will begin by working directly with me. Depending on the size and scope of your project, I may bring in one or more members of my team to help with execution. I am there with you from beginning to end. For example, some projects require furniture assembly, shelving installation, or extra hands to complete ... Read more

Do you have a geographical area you limit your services to?

Yes. We primarily work in the Halifax Regional Municipality, generally within about 30 minutes of the Halifax Peninsula. If you’re outside this area, feel free to contact us anyway. Depending on the project, there may be options for working together.
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