Please tell us a little about yourself? Where are you originally from?
My name is Ann Lightfoot and my business partner (and daughter's) name is Kate Pawlowski. I am originally from Chicago and Kate was born and raised in NYC.
When did you start Done and Done Home? How long have you been a professional organizer?
We started Done and Done in 2011 and that was the first time either of us had worked as professional organizers.
How did you get into this profession? Do you have a team?
Both Kate and I had always helped family and friends with decluttering and unpacking when they moved. After doing it for so many years for free we figured we may as well charge for it and a friend who is an interior designer of mine hooked us up with our first job - decluttering for his client who was moving into their new home.
For the first five years that we were in business, it was just the two of us, now we have a team of ten.
What type of clients do you work with? What is your organizing style?
Most of our clients are moms in their 40’s and 50’s who are either moving and want help decluttering before the move, overseeing the move itself and unpacking on the other end, or families who are just overwhelmed in the homes they are staying in and need a thorough decluttering. Our style is simple - pull everything out of where it lives in your home, sort like-with-like, and only put back what you need, use, and love.
What are the different services you offer?
We offer to declutter, move management, estate clear out, and home organizing.
How do you approach a new organizing project?
We like to start in areas where you can see bigger results so it keeps the client motivated. Starting with something like paper is hard because you can get rid of hundred sheets of paper and it’s just a tiny stack whereas if you start with big kids' toys or even clothing a 10% difference not only feels like a huge accomplishment but things really look different.
When working with clients, what do you think are the biggest hindrances that keep people from being/staying organized?
The biggest hindrance to getting started is either feeling overwhelmed or ashamed of how things are. And the biggest hindrance from staying organized is over-purchasing and waiting too long to go through your items.
What is your approach with a client who resists decluttering?
For the most part, people who have hired us are ready and willing to declutter since we are already in their homes. If they are hesitant we try to rationally talk them through why they may be holding on to things and explain how much better their homes can function if they just get rid of even 10%.
What is the most common question you are asked?
"Is this the worst you’ve ever seen?"
When getting rid of items, "how do you make sure things find a good home and don’t just end up in the landfill?"
"How do I make sure I stop over purchasing and therefore wasting?"
What are your top three tips for staying organized?
Watch what’s coming in the front door - you don’t have to organize what you don’t buy.
Once you’ve done a big clear out, try and keep on top of it daily or weekly. A little at a time is better than a lot at once.
Always keep “like” items together so you don’t forget what you have.
What are some of your favorite products that help you stay organized?
We love clear bins - that way you don’t forget what’s inside. The Linus Bins from The Container Store are our go-to bins. We also love lazy susans and drawer dividers to keep things in line.
What is the favorite part of your job?
Helping people make their homes more peaceful and happy.
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
Organize our own houses and spend time with our family!
What is the best way to reach you?
Via email or call me on 917-838-6467
Thank you!
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