As a Professional Organizer for 10+ years, I've had the privilege of working with hundreds of clients, and the one thing that I know for sure is that "one size" organizing doesn't work.

Organizing solutions must be tailored specifically to each person's individual style, taste, preference and aesthetic. So in keeping with that belief, I've always tried to incorporate meaningful items into organizing solutions that reflect each person's own unique style and space.

 

    If you're wondering about the bread box reference, let me explain. While organizing a studio apt. in NYC, it became apparent that an  heirloom breadbox was more than just a breadbox. It was a fond memory of childhood, an association with Mom's kitchen, and an object that hadn't quite lost its' usefulness.  And though somewhat rusted, maybe even a bit tattered, it was clearly an item not to be parted with. We honored the breadbox - and the memories it held - by placing it in a prominent spot in the closet. There it sat proudly while serving as a home for gloves.

 

     Over time, the old closet was replaced with a gorgeous custom closet, and the breadbox no longer looked like it "belonged". It was donated to a thrift shop, where I hope it found its' way into another loving home.

                                     

                              

                   Behold! The breadbox.........

 

 

 

 

 

    So the next time you tackle an organizing project, try incorporating things you already have. Mugs, vases, tote-bags, jars, tins, shoe-boxes, and cigar-boxes make great storage. I recently stumbled on a collection of vintage lucite handbags languishing in an attic. We dusted them off and used them to store decorative soaps, cottonballs, and Q-tips in the guest bathroom. The result: STUNNING, and truly a win-win! They'd just been taking up precious space in the attic.

 

  You needn't spend a lot on organizing supplies....if you think outside the (bread)box!

 

 'Til next time - Be well, be safe, be organized.  xxx's,

 

Nancy