In the Clear Organizing

Annie Sloan Paint Giveaway!

2011-08-09T09:06:00.002-04:00

I have fallen. Fallen completely in LOVE with Annie Sloan paints. If you haven't tried it yet, RUN...don't walk....and buy a can. It's the best thing EVER. Well...almost. Here's a giveaway for you to win a few free samples and try it yourself! Check it out!

http://paintstuckundermyfingernails.blogspot.com/2011/08/do-what-you-love-love-what-you-do.html?spref=fb

Need Help Organizing Your New Business?

2011-04-26T23:02:00.002-04:00

It's funny the twists and turns life seems to take. When I first started In the Clear, I truly thought I'd be doing one thing...organizing. I had no idea how wrong that assumption would turn out to be. The thing about organizing is that there are so many different facets to it. So, I find myself once again adding yet another item to my list of services. For months now I've been helping small businesses get started. Meaning, I organize the start-up process and help manage it so it doesn't seem so overwhelming. Having been in their shoes before myself, and having not one person to ask "How'd you do that?", I want to share what I know. Getting to my point...promise. In the Clear will now offer small business start-up consulting. From stationery to blogs, to websites, to social media - we've got you covered. We will walk you through the process of navigating through the crazy task of getting your business, your dream, up and running as quickly as possible. Need a logo? Got you covered. Need someone to post to your blog, website, facebook page, and Twitter? We can do that for you too! Call today (336) 688-8184 for a FREE consultation and find out how In the Clear can turn your business dream into a reality!

Spring Cleaning Time!!!

2011-03-30T16:41:00.003-04:00

Hello ITC Groupies!

It's that time of year again. Time for itchy, watery eyes, spring showers and yes....spring cleaning - oh joy! Well, if you're going to be stuck inside anyway, why not get to work decluttering and clearing out the winter funk from the homestead? No time like the present!

I visited the WFMY Good Morning Show yesterday (way too early - insert yawn) to give tips on getting motivated and staying focused while cleaning this season!

Here's the link to the video clip, enjoy!

http://www.digtriad.com/news/gms/article/168945/67/Effective-Spring-Cleaning-Starts-With-A-Plan

2011-02-27T22:15:00.003-05:00

CRAFT/WORK ROOM SPECIAL

Are you tired of scrapbooking on your lap in front of the tv? Jealous of your husband's "man cave"? Want a space to call your own? We love crafting ourselves, so craft/work rooms are our favorite space to create

For the month of March, we are offering a CREATE YOUR SPACE discount! Get 25% off the purchase of 6 hrs of organizing services. Call for an appointment today! Spaces are filling up quickly!

2011-02-06T23:27:00.002-05:00

I simply cannot believe it's February already! Where did January go? And, didn't I just take down the Christmas decorations for Pete's sake? Time seems to just fly by these days. The beginning of the year always seems to inspire me to purge. I don't know what it is. I go through my house with trash bags on a mission. I LOVE the feeling I get when I get rid of clutter. It's a rush! I know I'm not alone. The new year gives us a sense of starting out with a clean slate and who couldn't use that? This month there are many projects on my list of to-dos. I will be tackling my photos that I'm embarrassed to say have been neglected for some time now. I will take on my filing system and the garage - (better keep the Tylenol handy). All big projects that at first site, can be SO overwhelming. I will be sharing with you how I tackle these projects, step-by-step and show you how you can do the same! Stay tuned for ways that you too can get organized and feel the rush!

Until next time remember, Don't put it down, put it away!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2010-12-27T21:14:00.002-05:00

I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas! I had such an amazing time with my family. My husband and I made the decision a few years ago NOT to travel on Christmas. We wanted our children to wake up in their own beds and have memories of our family traditions from the comfort of our own home. It has been one of the best decisions we've ever made truly. In the past, we've traveled to Boston and to Ohio to be with family and although it's wonderful to see everyone, it's such a major stressor as we usually get delayed by bad weather and end up wasting a lot of time in airports! Who needs that! The other nice thing about staying home for Christmas is the lack of running around from house to house frantically. It's just nice all around. I highly recommend it to anyone!

I want to thank all my clients this year, old and new, for their business. I hope that we are able to finish up all those projects in the upcoming year. My biggest wish for everyone is that they are able to simplify and get back to the basics in 2011. Stuff is just stuff. Place your value on the ones you love and those that love you back.

Until next time, Happy New Year and don't forget: "Don't put it down, put it AWAY"!!!!

Another In the Clear Transformation

2010-10-30T22:06:00.003-04:00

In the Clear was on the scene today to help save a little boy from being engulfed by clutter in his bedroom. Check out the amazing transformation pictures.

Time Management

2010-10-08T22:35:00.002-04:00

One of the most frequent questions I get asked by clients is "how do I manage my time better?" As a mother of two, business owner, and CEO of my household, I often struggle with how to answer that question. Speaking for myself, I find that 95% of the stress I have is self-provoked. I can't say no. I have no idea why. I would LOVE to say no. I just can't seem to do it. I've tried. I even practice saying it in the mirror. Alas, I simply can't. I have this desire, as most women, to be all things to all people. I don't want to say no because that might disappoint someone in need and I can't bare the thought of that. So, I try to navigate through the chaos that I have inflicted upon myself day after day, carefully checking off the items on my to-do list as if I were conquering the world but at the end of the day, the list keeps growing. So, how can we manage our time better? How can we add more hours to our day and still find time to work, be with our families, take care of ourselves, and enjoy life more? You have to say no. You have to prioritize your life as if it were your job to do so. Ask yourself what matters? What doesn't? What can wait? What can't? When you find yourself with a free moment, don't find something to fill it...go sit down. Hang out with your kids. Read a book. Exercise. Let the dishes sit in the sink overnight. The dirty dish police will not show up at your door, I promise. Enjoy your life. Believe you me, your life won't wait on you. It's walking on ahead of you. You have to be present and enjoy every single second. Our time is precious and fleeting.

***This post is dedicated to my best friend Kristin who past away 5 years ago at the age of 29 from breast cancer. Her last words to me were "live a good life." I honor her everyday by doing so. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Early detection saves lives! In the Clear is a proud supporter of Breast Cancer Awareness.

I miss you everyday Kris.***

Until next time, "don't put it down...put it away."

Conquering Clutter

2010-08-21T10:44:00.004-04:00

Hello Again!

It's funny. Most people that come to my house expect each closet to be color coded and alphabetized just because I work as a professional organizer. While it's true that on most days my house looks presentable, it's because I focus on keeping the main living areas tidy...like the living room and kitchen. It's also because I have systems in place that help me quickly put things away in the event that someone randomly knocks on the door! But, just like everyone else, I also have trouble areas. I have spots in my house that seem to magnetize clutter. And, I also have two small children that work against all my best efforts at keeping a "spotless" home. So, what is the answer? In my own experience, it's a combination of things. The first thing I had to learn was to let go! I had to let go of my "bk" tendencies (Before Kids) and realize that the time I was wasting making sure each seasoning bottle was properly aligned was time I could be playing with my children. I also had to learn to cut myself some slack. There simply aren't enough hours in the day to reach my goal of domestic perfection. Next, you have to put a system in place that works for you and your household. There is no cookie cutter approach to this, you just have to find the right type of organizing for you. And lastly, you have to tackle it every day. You can't wait until the pile is so large that you can't open the front door to tackle it. It has to be a daily effort.

Now, take a deep breath, tell yourself that you are a fantastic housekeeper and go do something fun!

Until next time remember, don't put it down...put it away!

Organizing the Family Schedule

2010-08-18T16:57:00.003-04:00

Once school starts your head will spin trying to keep up with everyone's different schedules. Take charge now and get a system in place so you can keep track of all the comings and goings in your household!

Better Homes and Gardens offers a FREE tool called the Cozi Calendar. It's a great way to keep track of doctor appointments, to-do lists, grocery lists, homework, photos and so much more! It's free, easy and so very helpful!

Go check it out!!!!

https://secure.cozi.com/Cobrand-BHG-Signup.htm

Until next time, remember: "Don't put it down, put it away!"

Organize Your Bling!

2010-07-14T22:08:00.012-04:00

Is your jewelry collection a hot mess? Do you keep it in ziploc bags and call it organized? Are you tired of having to de-tangle your necklaces every time you want to wear one? If you answered yes to any of these questions, read on!

Here are a few ideas to display and organize your BLING! Best part, you might even be able to find these items in your home and not spend a dime!

TIP ONE:
One of my favorite jewelry organizers is one that I have in my own closet. It's a 3-tier dessert tray. It works great for bracelets, rings, watches and sunglasses.

TIP TWO:
Muffin pans can pull double duty! Try re-purposing a 6-cup muffin pan to organize earrings, broaches and other small pieces. They are thin so they fit perfectly in drawers!

TIP THREE:

A paper towel holder works beautifully as a decorative bracelet and watch holder. Spray paint it to fit your color scheme and to add your personal touch!

The key to maintaining an organized space is to make it visually appealing so that you want to keep it that way. With a little creativity, you can turn ordinary, everyday items into fully functional organization tools!

Until next time, don't forget: "Don't put it down, put it away!"

Packing Tips for Summer Travel

2010-07-06T21:51:00.004-04:00

Travel, although it seems like a good idea at the time, can be stressful if you're not prepared! Here are some great tips for helping you have a fun and worry-free trip this summer!

LUGGAGE

• Choose a different color of luggage. There are thousands of black suitcases out there that look exactly alike.

• To set your luggage apart, purchase a luggage belt or you can make your own by tying a scarf or ribbon around the handle to quickly identify your bag.

• Always use a luggage tag. If applicable, use a business card instead of using your home address in case someone is watching to see if you won’t be home (burglars)

PACKING FOR THE AIRPORT

• Whenever possible, try to only take a carry-on suitcase to eliminate loss of luggage or having to wait in baggage claim.

• If you do take a carry-on, pack essential items such as toiletries, sun block, makeup, change of clothes and a bathing suit in case your luggage gets lost or delayed.

• Put soap, hairspray/gels, toothbrush in 3 oz. containers and place in a quart-size Zip lock bag.

• Line bottom of the suitcase with a garbage bag to prevent wrinkles and include a bag in between each layer also. Later use bag for dirty clothes.

• Pack heavy items on bottom such as shoes, belts, books and then layer additional items.

• Roll clothes into cylinders to save space and reduce wrinkling.

• Roll undergarments and place them in the 4 corners of the suitcase.

• Put socks in shoes to help keep their shape and save on space.

• Coordinate wardrobe around 1 color. Choose items that can be mixed and matched.

• Bring only familiar, comfortable clothes that you enjoy wearing and fit well.

• Jewelry: Rule of thumb: Don’t take any item that you would be devastated to lose. Use the jewelry organizer when packing.

• Do a trial run packing to help prevent over packing.

Here's wishing you a very safe and happy summer! Happy Traveling!

Homemade Cleaning Product!

2010-07-01T07:18:00.005-04:00

Hello Again!

Have you ever went to grab something under your sink and noticed that it looks like a cleaning product bomb went off under there? Here's a sure fire way to reclaim some space under your sink, save you some money and be environmentally safe at the same time! Try this recipe for an all-purpose spray cleaner for kitchen or bath:

4 qts hot water
2 tbl household ammonia
4 oz white vinegar
2 tbl baking soda
2 drops lemon oil
2 tbs household dish soap

Directions: In a bucket, mix all ingredients into the water. Let cool, then fill a spray bottle with your new product!

Happy eco-cleaning my friends!

Summer Greetings!

2010-06-21T15:35:00.003-04:00

Happy Summer Everyone!

If you live in the South, like me, you are definitely feeling the heat outside. You might even find yourself staying indoors more where it's cool! This might be the perfect time to tackle that organizing project you've been putting off. In the Clear is a multi-faceted company that can help you rid yourself once and for all of the clutter that's been holding you back! Call today for a FREE assessment. You won't be sorry!

Until next time!

"Don't put it down, put it away!"

New Logo - New Blog - New Attitude!

2010-06-10T08:46:00.005-04:00

In the Clear is undergoing a major makeover. We are launching our new logo and blog this week and we're very excited about it! Special thanks to graphic designer, Erin Williams, of Edub Graphic Art & Design! She did a fantastic job. Check out Erin's online store by clicking the link below:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/edub?ga_search_query=edub&ga_search_type=seller_usernames

Stay tuned! We will bring you the latest and greatest organizing tips all summer long!

Until next time, remember, "Don't put it down, put it away!"

Special Holiday Offer

2009-12-01T01:40:00.003-05:00

Hello Again!

As I reflect over the past year, I have a lot to be thankful for. What started out to be a trying year, ended up being one of the best I've ever had. Welcoming our daughter, Isabella Reece, was definitely the highlight. She has brought a light into our house that I never could've imagined. So it is with a thankful heart that I have decided to pass along the cheer I feel and extend a special offer to current clients and new clients alike.

JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS!!!

Sign up for a FREE assessment and receive one FREE hour of organizing service. Sign up for a 6 hour organizing session and receive TWO FREE HOURS of organizing. Think what you could accomplish with 8 hours of non-stop organizing?!!!! But you have to hurry, this offer expires December 22nd!!!

I wish you all a very happy holiday. May you be greeted with peace and happiness in the new year.

All the best,
Stephanie

When to Hire a Professional...

2009-08-04T11:34:00.005-04:00

Hello In the Clear Groupies!

In my many years of clutter-bustering, I have come across all kinds of clients. For the most part, I have met some truly amazing people and have made great friends along the way. A common thread that seems to be present in most of my interactions is the same frustrations, overwhelming feelings and the lack of know-how on how to achieve the end goal - living an organized life. That's when it's time to hire a professional. Someone who is completely non-judgmental about your situation, your habits and your clutter. Someone who can devote an entire day to purging, sorting, and of course, organizing. Someone who can just come in and get the job done. That's where In the Clear comes in handy. We can come in, assess the situation, create a plan, and begin transforming your residential or commercial space in as little as a few hours.

Half the battle of tackling clutter is admitting you need help in the first place. I'm sure it didn't take a day or even a week to accumulate all that stuff, so it makes sense that it all won't just go away as easily either. First, admit you have a problem, next - make a commitment to change, and lastly, call a professional. The decision you make today will change your life for the better. I can't tell you the number of clients who can't believe they waited so long to call In the Clear.

So, make the change. Call In the Clear today for a FREE consultation and start living the life you want for yourself. An organized and chaos free life! All appointments are completely confidential. Call (336) 688-8184.

Have a fantastic week!

Stephanie

Stephanie Marshall, Founder

In the Clear Organizing

Phone: (336) 688-8184

Email: intheclearorganizing@gmail.com

Web: http://www.intheclearorganizing.com

An Organized Vacation!

2009-07-17T17:32:00.002-04:00

I am coming down from a vacation high. We just returned from a week-long vacation to see relatives up North and I find myself having a hard time getting back into the swing of things. As most people do I suppose. Have you ever noticed that a little preparation can go a long way when vacationing? Here are a few tips to help maximize the fun while you're away and minimize the stress when you return.

* Before leaving, throw out food that will go bad in the fridge (i.e., produce, milk, meats, etc.). This is also the perfect time to give the old fridge a nice rub down inside. When you return, you can head to the grocery store to restock.

* Clean the house. It's always nicer to come home to a clean house than a dirty one! Change the linens on the beds too. It will make falling into your own bed that much sweeter when you get home.

* Stop the mail and newspaper. Most of the time, you can stop both the mail and paper online. Have it start back up on the day you return so you can go through accumulated mail and newspapers.

* Hire neighbors/relatives to care for plants and pets while you're away. Dead plants are no fun for anybody.

* Turn off the water and unplug electronics to prevent any accidents while you're away.

* Print off your trip itinerary if flying. I always forget to do this and it drives me crazy!

* For email, turn on a vacation notice so people know you are out of the office and when to expect you back.

Isn't it funny how you spend months anxiously anticipating your vacation and then you can't wait to get home after it? Vacations are always fun, but there truly is no place like home! May all your vacations this summer be safe and memorable ones.

All the best,
Stephanie Marshall, Founder
In the Clear Organizing
www.intheclearorganizing.com

RidgeFest 2009

2009-05-15T00:09:00.002-04:00

The Oak Ridge Town Park will celebrate it's Grand Opening, dubbed, "RidgeFest", Saturday, May 30th. In the Clear Organizing will sponsor a hair painting booth for the kids. Come out and meet me and enjoy a fun filled day!

Hope to see you there!

OUR NEW PRODUCT LINE

2009-04-20T20:11:00.005-04:00

Our product line of decorated clipboards and accessories, dubbed Slim-Digm Designs, launched in July of last year. The response to these inventive treasures has been overwhelming. Our clipboards are sold online at our Etsy store and in several different boutiques across the country. For a complete catalog of products, visit the Slim-Digm store at http://www.slimdgm.etsy.com/

A Sampling of Our Services...

2009-04-20T19:46:00.006-04:00

RESIDENTIAL SERVICES

Home Makeovers and Room Makeovers
Closet Design/Organization
Kitchen Design/Organization
Bedroom Design/Organization
Bathroom Design/Organization
Kid's Playroom Design/Organization
Office Design/Organization
Craft Room Design/Organization
Furniture Placement and Repurposing
Garage Design/Organization
Basement and Attic Design/Organization
Out-building Design/Organization (sheds, workshops, barns, etc.)
Relocation/Moving Services (packing/unpacking, home set-up)
Nursery Design/Organization
Space Planning
Painting
Home Inventory
Memorabilia and Collectibles
Filing Systems
Life Documents Management System
Information Technology Organization and Management

BUSINESS SERVICES

Office/Retail/Commercial Space Makeovers
Special Projects
Paper Management
Filing Systems
Storage Systems
Business Systems
Information Technology Management
Time and Task Management
Project Management
Staff Training

HOME STAGING SERVICES

Clutter Removal and Organization
Furniture Placement
Painting

EVENT PLANNING

Parties: Birthday, Anniversary, Wedding, Holiday, Corporate, etc.
Showers: Bridal, Baby
Company Meetings and Functions
Sales: Yard Sales, Consignment Sales, Estate Sales, etc.
Community Events: Fundraisers, Town Meetings, Carnivals, etc.
School Events

ESTATE PLANNING AND ORGANIZATION SERVICES

Transitioning for the Elderly
Packing and Unpacking
Clutter Removal and Redistribution
Home Staging for Resell
Life Document System and Management
Estate Sale Organization
Garage Sale Organization

SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS AND COACHING SERVICES

Church Groups
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)
Small/Large Businesses
Corporations

Before and Afters

2009-04-20T18:24:00.008-04:00

In the Clear Organizing is on a mission to CLEAR THE CLUTTER....one house at a time. Below are photos of recent home transformations. Do you or someone you know need an organizational makeover? Call us today for a FREE consultation. Phone: 336 688-8184.

Office Before

Office After

Office BEFORE

Office AFTER

About Me

2009-04-20T16:51:00.006-04:00

Hi! My name is Stephanie Marshall. I own a professional organizing business called In the Clear Organizing. I started In the Clear several years ago after discovering that there is such a need for this type of service. Many people don't fully understand what I do. Hopefully this blog will help dispel some of the myths associated with professional organizers.

I have been a member of NAPO [National Association of Professional Organizers] for the last three years, a member of TOC [Triad Organizers Collaborative], and a member of Faithful Organizers. I have a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from Franklin University in Columbus, Ohio and a degree in Office Administration from Lima Technical College, in Lima, Ohio.

Current projects I'm working on (other than organizing my clients) are a new weekly guest appearance on WFMY 2 News, called Clear the Clutter. These segments are intended to give quick and simple tips to viewers so that they can become better organized and save time. I also write a guest column for the Northwest Observer, a local publication, and have been featured in magazines such as Skirt and Piedmont Parent.

In my free time, (as if I had some) I enjoy spending time with my family, doing crafts and traveling. As a wife, mother to a toddler and a small business owner, I have to keep things simple in order to keep up. Being organized has helped me in every aspect of my life from home, to completing my degree, to building a career.

Organizing Tip of the Week

2008-03-03T14:20:00.004-05:00

Organizing is usually the last thing people have time for nowadays. We're always running ourselves ragged and those junk drawers and kitchen cabinets begin to look like a tornado hit them. How many times have you opened a drawer and agonized over not having the time to straighten it up? I bet you have more time than you think.

* Focus on one drawer, one cabinet, one closet or one space at a time.
* Allow yourself 30 minutes to empty and organize the space.
* Purge items that are no longer necessary to the space.
* Sort and group like items together.
* Clean space.
* Replace contents.

Voila! You have completed a task on your to-do list. This should definitely inspire you to move on to the next task. Before you know it, your whole house will be an organizer's dream!

Take good care until the next time.
Stephanie

For more information on getting organized, visit our website at www.intheclearorganizing.com.

Organizing Tip of the Week: Family Schedules

2008-02-20T23:57:00.004-05:00

If you are like most parents nowadays, you spend more time running here and there than you do at home. Between soccer practice, little league, cub scouts and school functions, you juggle a lot. Here are a few organizing ideas that might make juggling multiple schedules a lot easier!

There are FREE customizable scheduling sites online that will help you create, maintain and print a daily, weekly or monthly calendar for each member of your family. Try these on for size:

* Famundo for Families. Free of charge. Offers a customizable family home page. URL: http://www.famundo.com/.

* WhichTime. Free of charge. Size the calendar to fit your screen. URL: http://www.whichtime.com/.

* Google Calendar. Free of charge. View friends' calendars alongside your own. URL: http://www.google.com/.

Staying on schedule has never been easier. For more information on getting your life and family organized, please visit our website at http://www.intheclearorganizing.com/.

Until next time, happy organizing!
Stephanie

Organizing Tip of the Week

2008-02-10T22:33:00.001-05:00

Your car is a source of transportation. Some of us tend to live in our cars with all the places we have to go each day. If you're like me, I run to the grocery store several times a week. And, inevitably, I'm the one who unloads the car and puts the groceries away. Here's a tip from one of our subscribers to help make the chore of carrying in groceries, a little easier. This tip comes from Cathy Satchell of Oak Ridge, NC:

* Keep a laundry basket in the trunk of your car. The basket can be used to carry in your groceries instead of having to carry each bag individually.

* You can also use the basket to carry in sports equipment, outerwear, toys, and everything else that tends to cohabitate in your vehicle.

In Loving Memory of Debra Moszyk
1950 - 2008

Organizing Tip of the Week: Bills

2008-02-04T22:54:00.001-05:00

Bills, Bills, Bills. Every day we get more and more bills. Yes, they are annoying, but they can also become a source of stress, not to mention a source of clutter in your home. Here are a few tips to help you get your bills in order.

FOR THE INTERNET JUNKIES:

PAY BILLS ONLINE. This is the easiest and most effective way to pay your bills. You can pay just about every type of bill online these days. Your account activity is always recorded immediately. This process eliminates paper accumulation, saves you money on postage and can save you unecessary late fees and penalties associated with paying bills late.

AUTOMATIC BILL PAY. Automatic bill pay is a service provided by your banking institution that allows you to schedule payment to all of your creditors using your checking or savings account. The bills are automatically drafted from your bank account, on the day you select, each month.

FOR THE TECHNICALLY CHALLENGED:

CREATE A SYSTEM. Create a space specifically for collecting bills. This can be a basket, a bill organizer or a simple file folder.

SORT. As bills come in, open them and place them in your bill basket.

PAY. Pay bills on the 15th or 30th of each month. This will help get you in the routine of paying your bills all at once. Most creditors will adjust your due date.

RECORD. Record the check number, amount paid, and date paid on the statement and file away.

You can do it! I have faith in you. Keep up the good work and remember to "Keep it Simple."

Organizing Tip of the Week: The Kitchen

2008-01-29T08:16:00.002-05:00

The kitchen. It's the central meeting spot for family. It's the hub of your communications network. It's where you eat, laugh and talk. It's also a dumping ground for homework, backpacks, mail, briefcases, and just about everything else that comes off as your family comes home each day. Here are a few quick tips to keep it nice and tidy.

COATS/BACKPACKS: If you don't have a hall closet, create a small space to hang coats and backpacks. Get your kids in the habit of hanging up coats as they walk in the door.
HOMEWORK: Create a basket with individual file folders for each child. As they come home, have them place all the homework and permission forms that need to be reviewed and signed in the appropriate file.
As they sit down to do their homework, spend 15 minutes going through the file folders. Review and sign all necessary paperwork.
Return all necessary paperwork to the backpack.
TOYS: For toddlers, create a drawer in the kitchen that is just for them. Keep their toys, books, etc. in this space. Make sure the drawer is easily accessible for them. Soon, they will only be interested in that one drawer and they will stay out of the rest of your cabinets!

Tune in next week for another helpful organizing hint. In the meantime, check out our website for more information on how you can get a complete home makeover: http://www.intheclearorganizing.com/.

All the best,

Stephanie

Organizing Tip of the Week!

2008-01-23T20:54:00.001-05:00

Does your closet look like a shoe store? Do you have more shoes than you do time to wear them all? Here's a tip that will surely give you Happy Feet and save you time in the process! :)

Buy clear plastic shoe containers with white lids from Target or Walmart. Cost ranges from .79 cents to $1.00.
Take a Polaroid or digital picture of each pair of shoes. Make sure you use the same backdrop for each pair for consistency.
Print each picture out and tape it to the inside of the shoe container.
Stack the shoes according to the height of your closet, then by use and finally by color.
Rotate your shoes according to season.

For more information on organizing your home, your office, and your life, visit our website at http://www.intheclearorganizing.com/

Organizing Tip of the Week

2008-01-14T23:35:00.002-05:00

The holidays are over, and if you're like me, your kid's toy room looks like a tornado hit it from all the Christmas gifts they received. Are you overwhelmed by the amount of toys in such a small space? If so, here are a few helpful hints to help tidy up the area, and maintain it. I call it the 5 R's of toy organizing.

Reserve. Reserve the right to hold a few toys back. Leave them wrapped and store them for a few months. As your child does something deserving of a reward, bring a gift down. It's like Christmas all year long!
Rotate. Rotate toys every 3 months. Using a plastic tote, fill it with toys that your child has forgotten about (it's best to do this after bedtime) and store it in the attic or basement. In 3 months, bring the tote out again, and reintroduce the toys to your kids.
Regulate. Regulate the amount of toys that stay in the space by sorting into 4 piles: Keep, donate, toss and sell. Store or act on them accordingly.
Routine. Get your kids in the routine of picking up their toys after each play session.
Reward. Reward your kids for keeping their space neat.

Getting your kids involved in the organizing process will not only teach them necessary life skills, but it will also help you in the process!

Take good care of yourself, and stay tuned for next week's organizing tip!

Television Appearance

2008-01-05T20:53:00.001-05:00

Stephanie Marshall, owner of In the Clear Professional Organizing, appeared on the Goodmorning Today Show on WFMY News 2. During the interview, she gave helpful tips on everything from holiday ornament storage to closet organization. To watch the video, please click the following link:
http://www.digtriad.com/news/local_state/article.aspx?storyid=95568

On Television

2008-01-04T08:35:00.001-05:00

Check out our television appearance taped yesterday at:

http://www.digtriad.com/news/local_state/article.aspx?storyid=95568

This Week's Organizing Tip:

2008-01-01T11:14:00.002-05:00

If you're like me, you're probably dreading the idea of taking down all of those holiday decorations! It doesn't have to be such a chore if you choose the best organizing solutions available. And, with a little creativity, you can even organize most of your holiday flare for FREE.

ORGANIZING TIP:
Instead of purchasing an ornament container that costs anywhere from $8 - $20, and usually only holds about 45 ornments, go to your nearest liquor/wine store and ask if you can have a few empty wine boxes. The boxes are sturdy and they have 6-12 compartments, perfect for holiding tree ornaments. First wrap each ornament in tissue paper or newspaper and then stack each ornament on top of each other. Viola! Instant holiday storage!

For more information on how to organize your home, visit our website at http://www.intheclearorganizing.com/.

Happy New Year!