FAQ

What does a Professional Organiser do?

The idea of hiring a professional organiser is still a relatively new concept in the UK, so let me explain….

Every professional organiser employs different methodology and has particular areas of expertise. However, the one thing they have in common is their skill in helping their clients to simplify and streamline their possessions (and/or ‘to do’ lists) so that they can feel happier, and function more efficiently.

At Snowdrop Organising, I work alongside my clients to motivate, encourage and support them to:

* Work methodically through the possessions they own to ensure that they are only keeping those that are adding positive value to their lives.

* Re-purpose or re-home the possessions they no longer want to keep. I can advise them about what can go in general waste and what can be re-cycled or sold, and how best to do so.

* Find storage solutions and systems to best organise the possessions they decide they want to keep.

I also offer a PA service, to assist those whose ‘to do’ lists have become unmanageable, allowing them to focus on their priority tasks.

Which areas do you cover?

I will generally travel within an hour’s car journey of my home in CO11.

The areas I cover include, but are not limited to: Colchester, Ardleigh, East Bergholt, Dedham, Lawford, Manningtree, Wrabness, Harwich & Dovercourt, Frinton, Walton and Clacton, Brightlingsea, Great Bentley, Thorpe-le-Soken & Tendring, Shotley & Tattingstone, Ipswich & Woodbridge.

However, please get in touch if you wish to discuss locations further afield.

What are your charges?

I offer a free 30 minute initial consultation via telephone, Zoom or in person.

Thereafter, my standard rate is £35 per hour. See my Terms & Conditions for full details. I do not charge for travel costs within a 15 mile radius of CO11. Beyond this, mileage is charged at 45p per mile. Any parking charges incurred will also be added to your invoice.

What types of spaces can you help me with?

If undertaking physical decluttering and organising, I am able to work on small areas such us cupboards, or as extensively as a whole house. After considering any health and safety implications, I am also happy to tackle, lofts, sheds, garages, outbuildings, home offices etc. Please feel free to discuss your individual needs with me.

Where I am assisting you with ‘life admin’ tasks, scheduling, booking or event organising, it may be appropriate for me to work remotely.

What can I expect from your sessions?

All work undertaken by Snowdrop Organising is offered on a bespoke basis, and all sessions will be tailored to your individual needs. I understand that my clients all work at very different rates, and that the process of decluttering may be immensely challenging for some. Others might dive right in and immediately ‘get it done’! Your expectations will be discussed at the initial consultation, and a first session booked to suit you. In some cases, your needs as a client may be fully met in that first session, but for others, the process will evolve. If this is the case, a series of sessions can be booked, at a frequency to our mutual agreement.

What can I expect from Jenny?

I will work with the highest level of discretion and integrity at all times. Your privacy will always be respected, and you can expect to be treated with care, sensitivity and personal attention throughout our working relationship. Snowdrop Organising does not use a marked vehicle, or branded clothing. I will enquire as to, and be respectful of your house rules, and any cultural practices that are relevant within your home. Please make me aware of these at our initial consultation.

Will you put pressure on me to 'get rid' of things?

Absolutely not. I am by no means a minimalist, and fully understand the needs of some individuals to be surrounded by objects that they love. I aim only to declutter where you request, and otherwise to organise your possessions so that you may access them easily, and free up space to help you to enjoy your home more fully. I understand that certain objects hold huge sentimental value, and I will always be mindful of this. Particularly in my work with families that are post-bereavement, I will always work at a pace that you are comfortable with, and always fully involve you with any decisions that are made in the course of my work.

What is your Environmental Policy?

I aim to save as many items from landfill as possible. I have a wide knowledge of, and can assist you in finding appropriate recycling facilities, and will always encourage you to do so. I will also always endeavour to re-use and re-purpose your existing storage solutions, before buying new. If new storage is needed, I can help you to source this, and will focus on natural, sustainable and recyclable materials wherever possible. See my links page for further information on some of the charities and organisations that I can use to find new and purposeful homes for the items that you no longer feel you need. I am happy to take away one car boot load of items per session, for this purpose.

Are you a member of a Professional Body?

Yes, I have undertaken training with and am a member of the Association of Professional Declutterers & Organisers (APDO). Please see my profile here.

I also carry I carry full public liability and professional indemnity insurances, and am registered with the ICO.