Let's get organized with Style Story
What is Style Story and who is the woman behind it?
When talking about Style Story Organizing I like to describe myself as an organizing sensei, tidying cheerleader and ‘letting go’ coach. But officially I am a certified consultant trained by organizing guru Marie Kondo. I support clients in achieving a life that sparks joy every day, in addition to helping them to finish tidying.
Can you tell us how it all started?
Style Story Organizing evolved when tidying up my storage box filled with clothing and books. After working in fashion for several years I accumulated so many clothing, shoes and accessories that I was forced to rent a Shurgard box to store everything. After reading Marie Kondo’s book ‘The life changing magic of tidying up’ I decided to organize my house and life. Long story short, I ended up having a pre-owned store in which I sold my clothing. I was so amazed and inspired by the effects of the KonMari Method® in my life that I decided to go to London to take the Marie Kondo course. I closed the store in 2019 and started my journey as a professional organizer.
How did you experience organizing your own home?
After my clothing I tidied piles of books, overdue paperwork, bathroom & kitchen items and all remaining subcategories. It was shocking how many junk drawers I had. And my paperwork was even stuffed between my kimonos and socks! Last but not least I confronted myself with the sentimental category which contained every item I apparently had difficulties to let go. I saved all my school reports, concert tickets from the ‘90, ballet shoes from when I was seven, piles of wish cards from people I can’t even remember etc. Some closets you just don’t want to open. But some issues need closure..
What is your workflow?
My mind is full of ideas and I always see opportunities. To keep my focus and to be really productive as a self employed professional I set up targets per day, per week, per quarter and year. For me it’s important to plan work and schedule sessions in such a way that I can be finished by the time my daughter is out of school. Work-life balance is key.
Could you explain the importance of an organized home?
An organized home means a place for everything and everything in its place. Physical clutter can cause clutter in the mind. By thoroughly sorting out every category in the house and only choosing the items that spark joy to you, you will develop an environment that supports your desired lifestyle. You create the most positive space imaginable. An organized home will give you more time, more energy, more freedom to do what you love to do the most. Some of my clients lose weight, find a new job or spend more time with their kids after organizing their home. No more stress of searching stuff, no more organizing the table first before you can start working or have dinner with friends, no more stuff that is holding you back.
What do you like most about your work?
Organizing with clients is always rewarding. All sessions are different, but in the end it helps every client to move a step forward to achieving their desired lifestyle. Sometimes I need to be a coach first and then organizing consultant and other times the emphasis is on my role as tidying cheerleader. It all depends on the basic needs my client has at that specific moment. Not a single week is the same. Nor are my clients. I also love doing my marketing on Instagram. I can develop a creative side on social which is still quite new to me.
And what annoys you sometimes?
I probably think the administrative part of being a self-employed professional. And paperwork in general. That’s why I’m glad that it is organized as well.
What’s your mission in life?
To motivate and inspire people to organize their home so they are able to lead the life that is golden. Life is short so enjoy the ride while you are here. Getting things done is my drive, but my focus is on spending quality time with my family and friends. Especially with my lovely daughter Salomé who just turned 7 this year.
Do you have any tips on organization in our homes/ bedroom?
I personally experienced the magic of the Marie Kondo method and am using it to organize many different homes. These are the #6 golden rules of organizing:
#1 Visualize your desired home and lifestyle before starting to organize.
#2 Organize per category, not per room.
#3 Choose by heart. Does the item spark joy?
#4 A place for everything and everything in its place.
#5 File folding. More space, better overview.
#6 Start and finish organizing in one go.
If you could re-organise any persons home, who’s would it be?
To anyone who really needs some guidance through the organizing process in these crazy times. So…. a special give-away from Style Story Organizing to a Crisp Sheets customer in need: a kickoff session to start your organizing journey. Mail your motivation to miriam@stylestory.nl and we will choose a lucky winner!
Check out Style Story's Instagram page.