Please tell us a little about yourself? Where are you originally from?
Our names are Caleb and Cole. We call NYC home. Originally, Caleb is from a farm in Ohio and I am from small-town Georgia. We both studied Musical Theatre in College and are professional performers along with co-founding SimplifyNYC.
When did you start SimplifyNYC? What is the philosophy the company works on?
Simplify is a product of many survival jobs we once had. I worked as a cleaner off and on and Cole was an assistant to celebrities. We were ready to launch just before COVID-19, so it’s been an interesting year so far. You are catching us right as we have decided to set sail. Our philosophy is one that is connected to our theatrical roots. We believe that every home has its own story and we are excited to come in and bring clarity to that story. A simplified space is one that works for its inhabitants and is clear of clutter.
Do you have a team?
For now, we love our personal relationships with our clients. It’s incredible what we all learn through the process of working so closely together. It can be an emotional experience for our clients and we are very sensitive to that. I’m sure it will become obvious when we are ready to expand but for now, it is just the two of us.
What type of clients do you work with? What is your organizing mantra?
We work with a variety of clients. I believe that we are discovering it’s about anybody who is ready to make changes within their home and thus their life. Cole has a mantra that, “Everything must be touched.” I agree. We are certain that if we acknowledge all spaces that are cluttered and provide a sense of structure to them, any client will be pleased.
What are the different services you offer?
We have a simple process for each home: Declutter, Organize, Clean. It’s as simple as 1, 2, 3. We begin removing unwanted items so that we can go back and organize what is actually being used. Then, we provide a thorough clean of the home so that everything feels as fresh as possible.
We also provide a service that we refer to as Simplify+ and that is a deeper relationship with us both. After we have Decluttered, Organized and Cleaned then we obviously know more about our clients’ needs and the home they live in. We have been asked to decorate, stage for sale, and even property manage an Airbnb.
How do you approach a new organizing project?
Since each client is unique, we prefer to have a consultation before we begin. We need to meet the client and experience the space before we get the full scope of what lies ahead of us. We try to incorporate something new on every project. There is always a learning curve and we do not expect one person's home to be like another.
When working with clients, what do you think are the biggest hindrances that keep people from being/staying organized?
Schedule. New Yorkers are busy and we respect that. We are not trying to change it either. If you want us to come back over and over, we will. It is our job to Simplify your home. If you learn in the process that is awesome, but we aren’t going to judge you if you want to put us on a retainer for home maintenance. There is no shame in knowing that simplifying may not be your strength and you need help!
What is your approach with a client who resists decluttering?
Great question! In our initial evaluation, we try to gauge how ready a client is for the declutter process. Honestly, if we detect a lot of resistance then it just might not be time for that client. However, if we begin a project and discover that a client who was totally on board is getting frustrated, then we acknowledge it. Like we were saying earlier, we know this can be extremely emotional. We might need to call it a day and recalibrate, or often we find that the resistance is a breakthrough waiting to happen and we keep going. We laugh, we cry, we sing…whatever helps us push through to find the clarity we know is just around the corner.
What is the most common question you are asked?
Donate? Keep? Toss? Recycle? When are you getting married?
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
We have a new kitten. Her name is Vivien Marie and we are enjoying her very much. She has come all the way to NYC from Caleb’s farm in Ohio. If you follow us on Instagram I’m sure you will see pics. We also really love Midcentury homes, Airbnb getaways, gardening and of course all the binge-worthy TV.
What is the best way to reach you?
You can email us. Follow us on Instagram and check out more details by visiting our site.
Thank you!
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