Working with Natalie has been transformative on many levels, since the effects of the functionality of our space and the "stuff" burden ripple through so many aspects of our lives.
The challenge: Living with my two kids in 2 BR loft apt in Brooklyn, in the wake of a fairly recent and difficult divorce. I read and appreciated Marie Kondo and tried to adopt the mindset and techniques. Even though I regularly "got rid of stuff," the reality was that I had gotten really good at storing things, and still had too much stuff. I also have trouble confronting certain categories of stuff (kids art, sentimental items). And last but not least, needed a fresh perspective from an expert on how to use the space. In spite of significant time and energy spent thinking about and working on my space, I still felt overcrowded and stuck, and frustrated with myself (and the kids) for not being able to change it. I also needed a change; a refresh; to purge the negative karma and associations in my space; and to transform it into a sanctuary for me and my children.
I originally hired Natalie to help me deal with the "problem categories" of stuff, but she has helped in so many more ways. The original plan of one or two sessions turned into about six I think. She has helped me rethink the use of space throughout my apartment (kids room, my room, living area, kitchen), to shed a significant weight of stuff, and to implement the changes. We also spent a day in my storage unit -- the graveyard of stuff that costs a lot of money every month -- and downsized it significantly.
Level 1 result: An apartment that flows. I have everything I need, and each thing has a place to be put away. Things are not overstuffed and have room to "breathe." My children also worked with Natalie to get their space set up, and now they also appreciate how it feels to have things orderly, and try to stick to it. (It was great to have Natalie work directly with them - they were part of their own process and have a sense of ownership of the results; plus Natalie was great with them, and it avoided the inevitable conflict that happens when mom tries to get kids to clean up their room.) And I am switching to a much smaller storage unit (may eventually eliminate it entirely), and will save that money instead of wasting it on storing more stuff.
Level 2 result: A huge mental unburdening and uplift. Just as my things can "breathe" now and don't feel jammed up, I also feel like I can breathe, and, as far as my apartment is concerned, I feel like I move through daily life with ease and flow. I feel like I live in a whole new, much bigger apartment, but I didn't move. It feels great!
Also to note: Natalie is extremely professional and efficient. She does not waste a moment of time when she is with you. During this time of COVID, she wears a mask religiously. She is very pleasant to spend time with, but at the same time I feel that she held me accountable for the goals I set for myself. She is also great at re-using the space and storage items you already have but in a much more efficient way. She was the partner I needed in this project. I feel that her hourly rate is very fair, and worth every penny.
Thank You Natalie!!! read more