master closet before and after photo

From Cluttered to Clear: How to Estimate Your Organizing Time

Estimate the organizing time for your next project. Before & After photos of closet organization, kitchen organization, dining organization, office organization and garage organization projects.


Nicole here.

One of my favorite activities is to shop at the local farmers markets! I find I spend less, eat healthier, cook more, and feel good about supporting locals vs. corporations. Win, win right?

When I’m not thinking about food… I’m all about organizing!

Perhaps one of the most intriguing parts of my job is seeing a space and evaluating how long it will take to FINISH a project.

Every estimate and quote is based on:

  • the size of your space
  • amount of possessions you own
  • type of items
  • time it takes you to make decisions when decluttering
  • organization approach: konmari vs. the home edit

What are the most popular projects?

  • Clothing (Closet)
  • Paper (Office)
  • Komono (Kitchen)
  • Komono (Garage)

Ready to see some examples from clients? I gotchu.

Clothing Project

Total time: 10 hours

  • the size of your space: master bedroom closet
  • amount of possessions: cannot walk on floor, pile about 2 feet high off floor, hangers and shelves barely used
  • type of items: clothing, shoes, travel, linens
  • time to make decisions: quick (not attached)
  • organization approach: traditional (organizing by space)

For this particular project, I helped the client do a custom closet installation through The Container Store. Fun Fact: I get trade discounts from 20% – 40% off at The Container Store.

Office Project

Total time: 5 hours

  • the size of your space: single room
  • amount of possessions: multiple piles, many small items, floors and surfaces mostly covered, shelves filled
  • type of items: electronics, paper, leisure gear, office supplies, sentimental items
  • time to make decisions: quick (not attached)
  • organization approach: traditional (organizing by space)

Quote from the clients partner after organizing, “I’ve never seen this office this clean!!” Happy partner = happy life!

Living & Dining Project

Total time: 10 hours

  • the size of your space: kitchen, dining
  • amount of possessions: piles on every surface/floor, cabinets mostly empty
  • type of items: cleaning, food, eating items, cooking items, bags, appliances, leisure gear
  • time to make decisions: quick (not attached)
  • organization approach: traditional (organizing by space)

After we finished organizing and decluttering, we spent time to make this home feel like a home. We brought precious artwork out from storage and finally hung it on the wall. We also purchased plants and installed a custom light fixture for extra light.

Garage Project

Total time: 15 hours

  • the size of your space: two car garage + cabinets
  • amount of possessions: 80% of floor with piles, 50% of cabinets full
  • type of items: home decor, tools, holiday, linens, clothing, school supplies, toys, artwork, sports equipment
  • time to make decisions: quick (not attached)
  • organization approach: traditional (organizing by space)

That pile in the before photo is a great representation of how overwhelming it can feel to start a project! The goal for this particular client was to help prepare them for an upcoming move.

Final Thoughts:

I hope from these example photos give you a realistic concept of how long projects can take. Please note: every individual is beautifully unique and so is their time to finish a project!

Instead of spending months to years to finish. I recommend scheduling intentional time. For example, setting aside time to organize 1x a week over the next month.

If it’s been over a month since you started, feel free to snap and send a few photos to me 415-787-3865. I’m happy to give tips and advice, at no charge.

Your clutter is my bliss.

Business Partner Highlights

Do you want to look and feel like your best self?

Diane Covington, product consultant with โ€‹Mary Kay Cosmeticsโ€‹, empowers women to look and feel their best through personalized beauty consultations, high-quality skincare, and makeup products. Whether you’re looking for a fresh everyday glow or a glamorous makeover, Diane is here to support your beauty goals.

Victoria Briskin

Do you know a licensed massage therapist or hair stylist?

Victoria Briskin is a Volunteer Program Specialist at โ€‹Hospice of the East Bayโ€‹. She helps to recruit, train, and support volunteers who provide compassionate care and companionship to patients and their families during hospice care.

Ready to Tidy Up with a Certified KonMari Consultantยฎ?

Free home organization list

Subscribe to our newsletter today for a FREE Organization Checklist!

    Celebrating the Heart of the Home: DIY Tips for Mothers

    Today, we pause to honor the women who shape our by offering some DIY tips for mothers.


    Whether they raised us, mentored us, or simply nurtured us with their presence, mothers carry a love that anchors families and creates homes full of life, memory, and meaning.

    My mom, maternal grandmother and me in Hawaii where my mom grew up.

    Mothers are the ones who: Remember the tiny details that make our lives run smoothly.

    • Hold space for both the milestones and the messy, everyday moments.
    • Keep traditions alive through photos, recipes, and stories.
    • Give unconditionally, so their families can grow, thrive, and feel safe.

    They juggle schedules, soothe worries, celebrate achievements, and manage an invisible load that often goes unnoticed โ€” but not unappreciated.

    As a professional organizer, Iโ€™ve witnessed how mothers often carry not just the physical items of a household, but also the emotional and mental threads that bind it all together.

    Today, we celebrate you, Moms.

    • Your love is woven into every corner of your home.
    • Your care echoes in the routines and rhythms you create.
    • Your patience and strength shape futures in ways words canโ€™t express.

    So whether you spend your special day relaxing, laughing with loved ones, or simply taking a quiet moment for yourself โ€” know that you are seen, valued, and deeply appreciated.

    Enjoy my gift to you: DIY tips to simplify your daily routine.


    Streamline Laundry!

    Contain small items like socks and underwear in mesh laundry bags. This keeps all the like items together for quick washing, drying, and putting away. It also prevents you from losing socks!

    ๐Ÿ’ก Tip: Shake mesh bags before loading in the dryer so all items dry thoroughly.

    When folding laundry, group similar items together first, then fold each category in bulk. Itโ€™s a simple way to save time and keep everything organized.

    Make maintenance tasks like laundry and dishes as enjoyable as possible by playing music, making it a family event, or getting comfortable on your bed/couch and turning on your favorite show.


    Clothing Declutter Hack

    Each time you wear an item, simply turn its hanger to mark it as worn. After a month, take a look and see what youโ€™ve reached for โ€” and whatโ€™s been left untouched. For anything unworn, ask yourself: โ€œDo I really need this?โ€


    Define a Drop Zone

    Store your essentials near the door you use most often. This helps prevent misplacing items and makes it easier to head out quickly when you’re in a hurry:

    • Purse
    • Keys
    • Jacket
    • Shoes
    • Sunglasses

    Incorporate Kids

    Alleviate some of your tasks by empowering kids to participate and take ownership of their things/activities.

    ๐Ÿ’ก Tip: Involve kids by offering choices (โ€œWould you like to put away books or sort the toys today?โ€) and praising their effort, not perfection. Systems work best when they match their developmental stage.

    We hope these tips are helpful to your and your family!

    Happy Motherโ€™s Day! You are the heart of the home. ๐ŸŒธ


    Business Partner Highlights

    No photo description available.

    Looking for an inclusive community to workout and be inspired in?

    Alejandra Adaui, owner of โ€‹TFX Fitness Studio,โ€‹ is on a mission to create a space where health isn’t just about the weight you lose but the joy you gain. She believes in nurturing balance, strength, and positivity in every aspect of life by offering group fitness classes and 1:1 nutrition coaching.

    No photo description available.

    Ready to pamper yourself through facials, makeup, and waxing?

    Jazmine Simpson, owner of โ€‹Beauty & Beyondโ€‹, creates luxury experiences where every woman feels like a queen! From start to finish you will feel relaxed, beautiful, and empowered.

    Ready to Tidy Up with a Certified KonMari Consultantยฎ?

    Free home organization list

    Subscribe to our newsletter today for a FREE Organization Checklist!

      Tidy Up in 48 hours!

      For the next 48 hours, starting on April 16, 2025 – purchase organizing sessions at 12% OFF!


      Spring is here! Here comes the pollen and more… STUFF!

      Instead of spending weeks to months to finish a project.

      Lets speed up that timeline to days and weeks.

      For the next:ย 48 hoursย you can purchase any service below and get 12% OFF.

      Remember, this special is EXCLUSIVELY for the next 48 hours.

      Use Coupon Code:ย TIDYSPRING2025

      DONATION PICK UP + DROP OFF

      We physically move as many items as possible into our van and drop items off to your preferred donation centers for you.

      Please note: electronics, furniture, or heavy items are not accepted at donation centers.

      Save $54!

      10 HOURS

      Start a project or finish a small project.

      • Books
      • Papers

      Save $150!

      15 HOURS

      Finish a medium project.

      • Clothing
      • Kitchen Komono

      Save $225

      20 HOURS

      Finish a large project.

      • Komono throughout the home
      • Garage
      • Storage Unit

      Save $300

      10 HOURS OF VIRTUAL LESSONS

      Best Remote Option.

      • Custom Layouts/Guides
      • Folow up Emails
      • 1-2-1 Sessions

      Save $150

      How does it work?
      1. Click the package you would like to purchase.
      2. Select the day/time of your first 5 hour session.
      3. Add the coupon code:ย TIDYSPRING2025ย at Checkout
      4. Pay for your package in full
      5. Receive a follow up email where you can book your remaining sessions.
      Sale ends in:
      Count down to 2025-04-18T22:00:00.000Z
      Ready to Tidy Up with a Certified KonMari Consultantยฎ?

      Free home organization list

      Subscribe to our newsletter today for a FREE Organization Checklist!

        2025 blog features with professional organizer nicole in san francisco bay area

        Home Organizer Featured in Blogs & Articles

        Nicole Sachiko, home organizer & owner of Tidy Lifestyle Organizing has been featured in blogs and articles like Martha Stewart!


        Martha Stewart

        How to Organize a Mudroom and Keep It Clutter-Free for Good

        entryway and mudroom area for easy home organization

        The Spruce

        5 Organizing Resolutions Pro Organizers Think Are Actually Attainable

        closet storage solution with containers

        RentBlog

        How to Keep a House Clean with Kids

        tidy up kids organization bedroom

        Bold Journey

        Meet Nicole Sachiko – We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Nicole Sachiko a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation.

        organized living room and family room

        Canvas Rebel

        Meet Nicole Sachiko – so today weโ€™ve got the honor of introducing you to Nicole Sachiko. We think youโ€™ll enjoy our conversation, weโ€™ve shared it below.

        owner nicole sachiko professional organizer in san francisco bay area

        SD Voyager

        Meet Nicole Sachiko of Tidy Lifestyle Organizing

        decluttered and minimalist kitchen

        ShoutOut Socal

        Meet Nicole Sachiko | Professional Organizer & Coach

        tidy garage

        Camille Styles

        A Professional Organizer Spills on the Best Storage Furniture to Streamline Your Space

        tidy clothing closet

        Business Partner Highlights

        Looking for a beautiful jewelry piece for this Spring?

        Fariba is an expert at making women feel beautiful. Her offerings from Touchstone Crystal change seasonally to match today’s style and trends.

        Do you need help writing content for websites, newsletters, blogs?

        Lori’s Tora Writing Services provides writing and editing services for professionals who want to establish or expand the written proof of their expertise.

        Ready to Tidy Up with a Certified KonMari Consultantยฎ?

        Free home organization list

        Subscribe to our newsletter today for a FREE Organization Checklist!

          Organizing Tips with Kids

          Best 2024 Organizing Tips with kids by a KonMari Consultant


          Fun Fact: During my four years at college I was an elementary school after school teacher!

          Even though I’m not a mom yet, I take my aunt duties seriously. You don’t have to be a parent to be a great role model for kids!

          So what can I do to help kids be organized?

          Involve Kids in the Process Make it Fun: Turn organizing into a game or a creative activity.

          • Activity Idea: set a timer and see how quickly they can tidy up, or create a color-coded system for their toys.
          • Explain the Benefits: Teach them why organizing is importantโ€”finding things easily, keeping their space neat, and taking care of their belongings.

          Start Small – One Area at a Time: Make the task manageable & achievable

          • Focus Areas: toy bin, bookshelf, or closet
          • Declutter First: Have them choose items they no longer use or need.
          • Donate or Recycle together: showcase the value of giving

          Create Easy-to-Maintain Systems: know where everything belongs

          • Use Labels: picture labels for younger kids or word labels for older ones.
          • Accessible Storage: Place frequently used items within their reach so they can easily put things away themselves.

          Organize by Category:

          • Sort by Type (e.g., dolls, cars, building blocks) and store in separate bins or baskets.
          • Clothes: Group by type (e.g., shirts, pants, socks) and season. Consider using drawer dividers or hanging organizers.
          • School Supplies: Keep a dedicated space for school items with labeled containers for pencils, crayons, paper, etc.
          What Organizing Topics do YOU want?

          Please share how I can best serve you! Your feedback and ideas are important.

          Make it a Routine Daily Tidying:

          • Chore Lists: daily or weekly to help them tidy regularly and on schedule
          • Dedicated Clean Up day: Set one day week for everyone in the home to organize and clean together – BONDING!

          Encourage Ownership:

          • Empower Kids: Help them to decide how they want to organize their space
          • Reward System: Celebrate after organizing with ice cream or a movie night
          • Give an Allowance: money is a powerful motivator that helps encourage commitment to household chores while teaching financial responsibility

          Teach the Value of Experience over Possessions:

          • Rent Library Books: encourages regular reading, quality time, and accumulating less
          • Giving Gifts: do they want a new toy or a new experience/activity?

          Model Good Habits:

          • Show them how you organize by being organized yourself.

          Business Partner Highlights

          How can you prevent financial ruin, have a tax free retirement, and/or fund a college education?

          Anna Febiana is a โ€‹Life Insurance & Living Benefits Specialist with National Life Groupโ€‹. She works with individuals, families, and business owners to create contingency plans in case of terminal illness or critical injury.

          Do your finances match your lifestyle and future goals?

          Yvonne Ceresa is a โ€‹Fiancial Advisor with Edward Jonesโ€‹. She helps to empower individuals and families to save and grow their wealth so they have the financial resources to live their dreams.

          Ready to Tidy Up with a Certified KonMari Consultantยฎ?

          Free home organization list

          Subscribe to our newsletter today for a FREE Organization Checklist!

            Feedback Poll

            Please share your ideas by filling out a 2 minute feedback poll!


            The long summer days are coming to an end with fall colors and vibes approaching. I really hope you made some amazing memories this summer!

            I want to express my gratitude and appreciation for your presence in the Tidy Lifestyle family. As a family member, I think it’s important to check in and ask you – How are you? Really?

            Is there anything I can share, talk about, or do to add joy in your life? I really value your input and want to ensure that the content I create is meaningful to you.

            I am looking to improve and bring you the best content possible. But to do that, I need your help. Your feedback will help me address relevant topics and answer questions that truly matter to you.

            Please share your ideas by filling out our 2 minute Poll!

            What topics would you like to see covered in future blog posts? Are there any specific questions or challenges youโ€™re facing that we can help with?

            Thanks again for your support and time. I’ll be going through all your suggestions and canโ€™t wait to start working on content that reflects your ideas. Stay tuned for exciting new posts based on your feedback!

            I’m excited to continue this journey with you. Together, we can make this blog an even more amazing resource for everyone!

            Ready to Tidy Up with a Certified KonMari Consultantยฎ?

            Free home organization list

            Subscribe to our newsletter today for a FREE Organization Checklist!

              Gifts: How to Receive and Give Gifts

              What is the purpose of a gift? Learn how to receive and give gifts of joy not guilt.


              The purpose of gifts extends beyond the material value of the item itself. Gifts are powerful tools for communication, connection, and emotional expression.

              • Expression of love and affection: a common love language in American culture is gift giving
              • Celebration: holidays, birthdays, weddings, and other special occasions as a way to mark the significance of the event
              • Gratitude: giving gifts can be a way to express gratitude for someone’s help, support, or kindness
              • Custom and Tradition: gift-giving is deeply ingrained in customs and traditions. It’s a way to uphold social norms, strengthen relationships, and foster a sense of community.
              • Surprise and Delight: giving and receiving gifts can bring joy and excitement, especially when the gift is unexpected or particularly thoughtful. It adds an element of surprise to relationships and occasions.

              Let’s dive into how gifts impact our life, organization at home/work, and decluttering.

              Receiving Gifts

              The purpose of a gift as a receiver is to receive the gift. Once you have received the gift, you have fulfilled its purpose. Now that the gift is in your possession, it is up to you to decide what to do with it.

              1. Reflect on Your Values: Consider what’s important to you and your living space. Reflect on whether the gift you received align with your values, interests, and lifestyle. This reflection can help you prioritize which gifts to keep and which ones to let go of.
              2. Assess the Gift:
                • Do you love it?
                • Will you use it or enjoy looking at it if it is displayed?
                • Does it hold sentimental value or evoke positive memories?
                • Does it align with your current needs and lifestyle?
              3. Have the Courage to Donate it: The last thing the gift giver would want is for you to hold on to something the adds negatively to your life. Perhaps, he/she actually wants the opposite – for you to feel happy, content, and at your best, regardless if you keep the gift or not.
              4. Express Gratitude: Even if you choose to declutter a gift, take a moment to express gratitude for the thoughtfulness and generosity of the giver. You can thank them sincerely for the gesture while acknowledging that the gift may not fit your needs or preferences.

              When you decide to keep a gift, fulfill its purpose by deciding if it is to be used (practical) or displayed (joy):

              Practical

              • It makes life easier
              • It supports you in a specific way
              • It is useful
              • Place the item in a storage place with intention where it will be used and is easy to access

              Display

              • Sparks positive feelings when you see the item
              • Adds aesthetics and visual appeal to your space
              • Triggers a memory and experience you want to remember
              • Remembering a person, animal, or loved one

              The Desire to Gift when Decluttering

              When we declutter, all of our energy and time should be focused on the decision of what to keep and discard.

              One of the biggest signs that you don’t love and should not keep an item is when you want to gift it.

              We love to distract ourselves in different ways and one of the main ways we procrastinate during the decluttering process is when we have the desire to gift or give items away to loved ones.

              What we don’t realize is that this reaction is an excuse to not let go. Instead of giving a gift of joy, we are giving a gift of guilt. The guilt that we feel about an item is then transferred to the person we give it to. Ultimately creating a vicious cycle of gifting and guilt. Common items we have the urge to gift:

              • Items we never used
              • Perceived high value: expensive, rare, unique
              • Sentimental value: association with specific memories, experiences, or relationships.
              • Gifts we have received and kept out of guilt or obligation
              • Fear of offending the gift giver
              • Attachment to material possessions: attached value to physical objects that give a sense of security or identity

              Have the courage to let go. When we let go we are are also streamlining the entire organizing process by simplifying it to two piles: what to keep and what to discard.

              Please see this list of donation centers and the causes they support. Pick a cause you truly care about. It will be easier to let go and give you peace of mind when you know your precious items will help those who are truly in need.

              Giving Gifts

              When we look back on our life when we are old, what will we remember? Will we remember the designer pants or fancy kitchen appliance? Probably not. We will think fondly of the memories, experiences, hobbies, pets, and people who made a mark on our lives.

              When it comes to giving gifts, give the gift of experience. An experience or excuse, to spend quality time with your loved ones. Time is our most precious asset in life. Life goes by so quickly and it is even more important to schedule intentional time with those we care about.

              Have the courage to let go and embrace the most important thing we have in life: each other!


              Business Partner Highlights

              Do you own artful portraits of yourself and your loved ones that you absolutely LOVE?

              Brady Thomas, owner of โ€‹Brady Thomas Photographyโ€‹, creates legacy images that you and your loved ones will cherish every day on your walls right now, and for years and years to come.

              dawn kosmakos of sunrise dna

              Are you ready to lose weight and keep it off for a lifetime?

              Linda Witnov has a masters degree in clinical psychology and is the owner of โ€‹Rise Up, Slim downโ€‹.

              Linda coaches clients by crafting a plan that fits your life: your schedule, your food preferences, your health needs, your activity level, your commitments, and your overall lifestyle with a gradual habit-change method.

              Ready to Tidy Up with a Certified KonMari Consultantยฎ?

              Free home organization list

              Subscribe to our newsletter today for a FREE Organization Checklist!

                organizer supporting small business owners and community

                East Bay Business Recommendation

                Find and support a local business in Contra Costa County. All service providers on this list have been personally vetted, referred, and used by myself and/or clients. Please let the business owners know Nicole referred you. If you have used anyone on this list that did not leave you satisfied, please contact nicole@tidylife.style


                Cleaners
                SpecialtyContactNameBusiness
                Individual(925) 457-3089Ania TomersonAnia’s Cleaning
                Residential & Commercial team(510) 672-9489AngelicaEasy Life Solution
                Residential & Commercial team(925) 679-1300Steve HeikeMolly Maid
                Residential & Commercial team(925) 307-9437Marlyn AvinaBee Fresh Cleaners
                Residential – Individual or team
                Custom cleaning lists
                (925) 736-9600Nancy GlattImpeccable Home Cleaning
                Junk Removers & Movers
                SpecialtyContactNameBusiness
                Large projects & Moving(925) 895-4411Art Mendez & Andriana MendezCustom Hauling & Moving
                Large project, Individual items, Demolimition ($149 minimum)(925) 360-5687Ryan SpiegelJUNKED by Veterans
                Construction, Demolition, Large projects & Individual items ($99 minimum)(925) 481-4041Marius RaduJunk Pronto
                Small & Large projects, Individual items ($145 minimum)(707) 532 – 0545Juan VallejosBay Hauling
                Eco-friendly – Small & Large projects, Individual items ($155 minimum)(925) 477-2565 Stefanie LewThe JunkLuggers
                Recycle & Repurpose – Small & Large projects, Individual Items ($120 minimum)(925) 396 – 7007Newman FoadTop Junk
                tidy lifestyle clothing checklist
                Subscribe for Free Tidy Checklists!
                  Home Services
                  SpecialtyContactNameBusiness
                  Architect – Sustainability(650) 996-1577Benson ChenStudio C
                  Architect – Full Service(510) 910-4097Heather SandersShelterwerk
                  Handyman(510) 978-8383Chris SellersTask Rabbit Profile
                  Mobile Notary(925) 361-2558Angela PerezAP Notary
                  Furniture Liquidation(408) 242-3928Esteban MirandaComforture
                  Seamstress(510) 395 – 4381Rose McGuire
                  Interior Designers
                  SpecialtyContactNameBusiness
                  Eco-friendly(925) 317.6662Michelle ThomasThomas Designs
                  Small Projects(925) 375.1330Kelsey HerrickKelsey Herrick Design
                  Luxury(925) 276-9663Erica ShepardShepard Design Studio
                  Full Service (North Bay)(415) 706.0581Paula LelandPaula Leland Interior Design
                  Closets(925) 783-5126Tiffany PociechaClosets by Design
                  Seniors
                  SpecialtyContactNameBusiness
                  Senior Placement Agent(925) 979-8656Mike AwadallaCare Patrol
                  QUICK Senior Transitions
                  & Selling Homes
                  (415) 612-3470John & Yessica AriasHarmonee Homes
                  Senior & In-Home Care(925) 391-3700Johana Segura24/7 Nightingale Home Care
                  Realtor for Seniors(925) 586-1850Gilda WhiteheadColdwell Banker
                  Estate Sales(925) 381 – 7733Mirth AmandaSisters Salvage
                  Financial Planner925-293-6531Belma MirvicEdward Jones
                  Estate Lawyer(925) 338-1225Kristina ParkPark Legacy Law Firm
                  Reverse Mortgage Specialist(925) 826-2686Carly PowellMutual of Omaha
                  Health & Wellness
                  SpecialtyContactNameBusiness
                  Weight Loss Coach(510) 205-1159Linda WitnovRise Up Slim Down
                  Massage Therapist(925) 329-7899Esmeralda PeladoEsmeralda Massage
                  Soft Tissue Therapy(510) 592-4069Jay PerezKinetic Chain
                  Chiropractor(925)-276-2792Rebecca KasputisKasputis Chiropractic
                  Life Coach(925) 202-1042Edna CastilloLiving Reality Dreams
                  Cupping, Muscle Scraping,
                  Stretching, Massage
                  (209) 675-1864Monica IslasBody Wellness
                  Nutrition, IV Drip
                  & Weight Loss
                  (925) 280-4442Rebecca WalkerCambiati Wellness
                  CBD Wellness(925) 639-2369Laura MorganGreen Compass
                  Group Fitness Classes(925) 289-8042Alejandra AdauiTFX Fitness
                  Personal Trainer(415) 470-1368Rebecca LeVanContra Costa Fitness
                  Facials, Waxing, Botox(510) 681-4151Jazmine SimpsonBeauty & Beyond
                  Licensed Nutritionist(925) 216-0286โ€ฌIlana KokaKoka Wellness Group
                  Women Owned Businesses
                  SpecialtyContactNameBusiness Website
                  Tax Preparer(925) 356-5645Pamela BayerBayer & Associates
                  Hospice Volunteer Specialist(925) 216-6585Victoria BriskinHospice of the East Bay
                  Benefits Insurance(925) 890-1080Denise CaldwellHeffernan Elite
                  Estate Planning(925) 233-6222Katie CapieloCandelaria LLP
                  Financial Advisor(925) 335-9102Yvonne CeresaEdward Jones
                  Cosmetics & Skin Care(925) 348-4054Diane CovingtonMary Kay Cosmetics
                  Life Insurance
                  & Living Benefits
                  (702) 445-9885Anna FebianaNational Life Group
                  Family Trees & Genealogy(925) 787-8605Dawn KosmakosSunrise DNA
                  Mortgage Loan Agent(925) 487-0908Anna KussmaulStonecastle Mortgage
                  Florist, Events, Picnics(510) 495-7042Carlota LockBlooms n Bliss
                  Realtor(925) 980-8095Julie McCoyRE/MAX Accord
                  Writing Services(408) 835-8432Lori NicolesTora Writing Services
                  Travel Advisor(510) 882-4109Linda NunesA Shift in Spirit Travel
                  Insurance Agent(925) 943-6762Jessica PerezSisemore Insurance Agency
                  Personal Banker(925) 771-3703Evelyn PonceF&M Bank
                  Custom Print & Signs(925) 317-1000Nancy SinselRed Dog Graphics
                  Photographer(510) 501-9567Brady ThomasBrady Thomas Photography
                  Jewelry Sales(650) 201-3755Fariba WeitgenantTouchstone Crystal
                  Property Manager(510) 244-0085Rolanda WilsonSound Investments
                  Connect with a Professional Organizer certified with Marie Kondo

                  nicole sachiko family history sentimental photos to keep for home organizing

                  Declutter Sentimental Family History

                  How do you let go & declutter sentimental items related to family history?


                  Guess where I am in my family photo? Yes, that is me on the far left in light blue!



                  Today we will talk about how to declutter sentimental items specifically related to family history. First let’s dive into what sentimental family history really means.

                  Family history and sentimental values often intertwine to create a rich tapestry of personal identity and heritage. Each family carries its own unique story, shaped by the experiences, traditions, and values passed down through generations.

                  We as humans preserve this family history and memories by keeping:

                  • heirlooms
                  • photographs
                  • letters
                  • antiques
                  • recipes
                  • other artifacts

                  These items hold material significance and emotional weight, connecting individuals to our past and to those who came before us. These tangible reminders serve as bridges between generations, allowing stories to be shared and cherished.

                  Letting go doesn’t mean forgetting or devaluing memories, experiences, or individuals. Instead, it can be a liberating act that frees up physical and emotional space for new experiences and connections.

                  So how do we declutter family history?

                  1. Set yourself up for success: Letting go is a gradual process. I recommend organizing in category order from easy to difficult (clothing, books, papers, komono, sentimental) so that when you get to the hardest category, you are that much more confident about who you are and what you value (or don’t value.) This also allows for time to process your emotions.
                  2. Declutter by category, start with the easiest: subcategory examples of sentimental – photos, antiques, paper, furniture, etc.
                  3. Acknowledge feelings: Recognize and honor the emotions attached to the sentimental items. It’s okay to feel sadness, nostalgia, or even guilt when considering letting go of something meaningful.
                  4. Evaluate the significance: Assess the true importance of each item. Consider whether it aligns with your current values, lifestyle, and space constraints. Some items may hold more sentimental value than others, making them worth preserving.
                  5. Preserve memories, not things: Remind yourself that memories are not tied to physical objects. Take time to reminisce and reflect on the experiences associated with the items before parting with them.
                  6. Donate or repurpose: Find new homes for sentimental items by donating them to charity or repurposing them into something practical or decorative. Knowing that these items will be appreciated and used by others can make the process of letting go easier.
                  7. Create a legacy: Rather than keeping all sentimental items for yourself, consider selecting a few key pieces to represent your family’s history and values. Be sure to display these items to be enjoyed! This curated collection that can be passed down to future generations, preserving the essence of your family’s story.

                  Have the courage to let go, celebrate, and move forward. Every step our ancestors took represents an opportunity for us to live our best and most fulfilled life today.



                  Business Partner Highlights

                  What if you could read a letter from the perspective of a loved one you wish to remember?

                  Aviva Black, owner of โ€‹Family Love Lettersโ€‹, writes letters that offer the opportunity to celebrate and honor our loved ones, creating lasting connections between generations.

                  dawn kosmakos of sunrise dna

                  Do you need help putting together your family history? Dawn Kosmakos is a genetic genealogist and owner of โ€‹Sunrise DNAโ€‹. She helps individuals:

                  • Build their family tree
                  • Solve their DNA mysteries (who is my grandfather?)
                  • Scan, upload & and validate paper records, photos, etc. to tree and connect to correct ancestor.
                  Ready to Tidy Up with a Certified KonMari Consultantยฎ?

                  Free home organization list

                  Subscribe to our newsletter today for a FREE Organization Checklist!