I get asked quite a bit what are my favorite organizing essentials. Admittedly, there are more than a few, but here are my top 5! Enjoy!

• Huggable Hangers: you will be AMAZED at how much space you save by switching over to these hangers. Not only because when you use the same type of hanger it creates consistency, but also because you can use cascading hooks to "waterfall" multiple garments (see photo above).
• Erasable Labels & Chalk Markers: never underestimate the power of a label. The amount of time and frustration saved by clearly knowing what is stored where is priceless! Use as many bins, baskets, buckets etc...as your little heart desires, but please use a label. Even when it comes to clear containers, a label makes "clear" what the eyes sometimes miss! And, my absolute favorite are erasable ones that you can repurpose when necessary...use in conjunction with chalk markers!
• Lazy Susan: they are not just for tabletops! Use these in cabinets (especially hard to reach corner cabinets), fridges, under sink areas and hard to reach top shelves. They can even beautifully corral kitchen essentials, as shown here on Inspiration for Moms blog.  

I'd love to hear about YOUR favorite organizing essentials...Let me know by leaving a comment!
​Also, be sure to check out The Container Store's Customer Favorites Sale going on now! Contact me for more info!

Your answer for organizing,
​Ali

June is here...the school year is coming to a close, graduation parties are all around and family summer vacations are upon us! So, I thought that this would be the perfect time to give you a few helpful tips to make packing and traveling just another summer breeze;)

​Packing​

• First, start by making a packing list. at least a few days before you travel. I know this may seem like an extra step, but it will come in handy when you are trying to figure out if you should pack additional items or not. Make it easy, and use a pre-printed one like the one pictured on the right...I also like to note how many types of outfits that I will need i.e. casual/active/dress. Finally, when it comes to trying to decide whether or not to pack an item, consult the list!
• I like to organize my things by outfit. I will lay out the chosen outfits, and then I will accessorize them, choose the shoes, and pick the undergarments. Try to crossover when possible, using the same garments/accessories/shoes for multiple outfits. If something is needed that you don't already own, start a shopping list so that you don't buy unnecessary items...use the pre-printed packing list and highlight needed items!
• When you start placing items in your suitcase, keep these things in mind:

1. Place heavier items on the bottom to help stabilize your suitcase
2. Use a Compression Packing system like this one from The Container Store to help save space!
3. Use tissue paper to keep delicate items clean and wrinkle free
4. Protect fragile items by placing them inside your shoes...think sunglasses!

• If you feel like you need some more help to pack like a pro, visit your local Container Store on Saturday or Sunday at 1pm or 3pm now thru July 2, 2017 for an in-store packing demo! They are also having their Travel Sale now thru July 2, 2017 too! Check it out at www.containerstore.com for more info!

​Traveling

• Not only do you need to be organized, but so does your car! This Road Trip starter kit has the perfect items for you to truly enjoy the journey to your destination.
• Air travel can come with unwanted physical side effects. Check this article out by Amy Whitley to help avoid these unpleasant reactions.

​I hope that you enjoy all of your summer adventures!
Safe travels!

​Your answer for organizing,
​Ali