Ready for some spooky decluttering? This month, we’re diving into the “scary stuff”—sentimental items. This might be furniture, household treasures, family photos, genealogy records, or simply anything and everything that once belonged to a loved one. These items can feel like ghosts haunting your closet, basement, or attic. And of course, when the person is no longer with us, letting go feels even harder.

So… how do you preserve the memory without your home turning into a haunted house of heirlooms?

Here are a few simple not-so-spooky tips to manage those sentimental items:

1. Sort first, scare later. Like any organizing session, begin by taking inventory. Look at each item and ask: Is this something I use, need, or love?

2. The space test. Is it worth the space it takes? Does it fit into your current home and lifestyle?

3. Memory vs. object. Remind yourself: you don’t need the physical item to keep the memory alive. The love and connection remain, even if the stuff doesn’t.

4. Trim the duplicates. Do you really need every birthday card? The entire set of china? Select a few of your favorites and move on.

   If you’re helping a loved one face the scary stuff:

   1. Listen first. Acknowledge their feelings—it’s not just clutter, it’s memories.

   2. Offer gentle support. Be a calm presence, not a pressure point. Allow them to be in control and celebrate small wins.

   3. Focus on the future. Remind them that letting go can create space for the life they want now, while still honoring the past.

Decluttering sentimental items can feel a little spooky, but with the right approach, you’ll both find more breathing room—and the joy of highlighting the treasures that really matter.

Ready to get started or have questions? Let’s Talk! Schedule a free consultation today and learn how you can Downsize Simply,

Happy (not too spooky) organizing!

This little bit of cooler weather has me excited to finally tackle some of the projects put aside during the summer heat. There’s just something about September that feels like a reset—even if we’re long past our school days. It’s a natural time to clear out, refresh, and get organized.

It’s also the perfect season to help a loved one downsize and get organized. With the holidays just around the corner, taking time now to simplify paves the way for an organized and stree-free holiday season.

The idea of parting with belongings can feel overwhelming for everyone. But with the right approach, downsizing can become a meaningful process that creates more space, safety, and peace of mind. Here’s how you can support your loved one this fall:

1. Start Small and Seasonal

Autumn is a natural time to clear out summer items—beach chairs, garden tools, or warm-weather clothes. Take a good look at the clothes and unused seasonal items. Perhaps it is time to let them go. Tackling one closet or storage area at a time helps prevent overwhelm and keeps progress manageable.

2. Focus on Safety and Comfort

Cluttered hallways or overfilled rooms can be hazardous. Creating clear pathways not only makes a home feel and look lighter but also safer and easier to maintain, freeing up space for fun and leisure activities.

3. Make It About What Matters Most

Emphasize the positive gains instead of framing downsizing as “letting go,”

4. Listen

Patience is key. Listen to your loved one’s stories, honor their memories, and celebrate each step of progress together. Sometimes, the process of sorting is just as important as the outcome. Ready to get started or have questions? Schedule a free consultation today and learn how you can Downsize Simply.