10/16/2025
Let's talk sentimental and passed down items, and the 'must keeps,' that are sadly shunned to the garage or basement. SOOOO often there are important things (and ummmm, many, many not important things, but that's a different post!) buried in boxes. Why?
Keepsakes are meaningful because of who or what they remind you of. If you have a smile when we rediscover something, that's great! I love hearing your story and watching you reflect! Maybe items are packed away because your decor style is different. Maybe you think you don't have space. Maybe you're just not sure what to do with Uncle Ernie's old watch but you love having it. Maybe you just like having it but don't need to see it everyday.
Here's the thing - why hang onto something that makes you happy if it's just in storage somewhere? If future generations won't have any idea what it is or why you saved it? There are stories to be told if there is a true connection to the item at hand! And if there's not, well then we walk a different path to decision making ;)
Organizing at home is about relief, access, having what you need when you want to, and yes, it's about how your space looks and feels! You want to be in spaces that make you feel good, where you can appreciate and be supported by your surroundings. Why not introduce things that you love to things you love to other things you also love?
Aunt Anna's candlesticks can be jewelry organizers. Grandmother's bowl that was always used at Thanksgiving can be used at yours too. Mom's single pearl earring can be the push pin to display a beautiful note she wrote for you in a shadowbox.
Everyone who knows me KNOWS I'm not overly sentimental about 'stuff' per se (quiet down now Besties lol!). I encourage my clients to really choose what's important to them. And to do it without guilt - no one needs to live in a museum of other people's stuff! And if it's ALL important, then nothing is truly important. But the things that are? Let's not just pack them away! Use the things you love - there are so many fun solutions!
What item do you have packed away that deserves better?