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About

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You’ve found your way here because you’re tired of the stress, clutter and chaos. You’re busy. Life is busy. You’re frustrated and know there’s gotta be a better, simpler and more fulfilling way to live.

Welcome to Organized 31. I’m Susan and have been blogging here since June 2012. I’m a Believer, a wife, a veteran, a professional organizer, a parent educator, and mother of three. In addition to organizing, I love to craft, to repurpose and help solve problems.

I grew up as a military child and spent nine years in Hawai’i, which is where I call home. I earned a BS in Economics from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania and a Master of Human Relations at the University of Oklahoma. I served 15 years in the Air Force, both on active duty and in the Reserves, so military and veterans’ issues are dear to meYou can read more about my experience in the military and as a military spouse here.


My goal is to help busy people make the space and time for what’s really important to you.


As a professional organizer, Certified Organizational Specialist ™ and founder of Organized 31, I’ve been featured and quoted in many print and online publications for my organizing, parenting and craft ideas and tips:

  • Real Simple
  • Good Housekeeping
  • BuzzFeed 
  • Redbook
  • Parade
  • The Huffington Post
  • Woman’s Day
  • Apartment Therapy
  • First for Women
  • And more!
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I’ve received positive feedback from my audience. These comments are from a recent video session I shared on Decluttering with the Purpose of Donating to Help Your Community:

  • I wish I could give it 50 stars! She provided so many ways to donate that I wouldn’t have thought of and then broke it all down in very practical and applicable ways. Excellent session!!- T
  • Susan gives information that I haven’t seen anywhere to help us know what is best for donating decluttered items from our home. Just what I was looking for. Thank you Susan! – J
  • This session made my day. I even got a little emotional. This is the kind of thing I knew TO do, but I didn’t know HOW to go about it. I am so thankful for Susan being willing to share her wisdom on this topic. The presentation was very helpful and well put-together. The information was so practical and inspiring. Decluttering can be so overwhelming. The way Susan paints the bigger picture makes decluttering feel imperative (in the best way).- R

I believe life is better when organized.


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gold medal that says top 100 organizing blog

As a professional organizerI strive always to meet a client where they’re at and help them move towards their organizing goals. I enjoy assisting clients both in-person and virtually by email or video chat. I’ve worked with clients with a range of needs, such as mobility impairment, traumatic brain injury and extreme dust allergies.

I have always been an organized person, but a few years ago, I hit a series of life events – two health issues, sending two kids off to college, four deaths of people close to me – that threw me for a loop for three and a half years. I deeply understand how life can get in the way of organizing and even the best laid plans. There is absolutely no judgement here, only understanding and the hope to help.

Learn more about working with me as a professional organizer.


I’m also a blogger.


I’ve been sharing organizing, crafting, repurposing and parenting tips on Organized 31 and social media since 2012.

Of course, I’m a fan of picture-perfect organizing solutions, and nothing makes me happier than strolling down the organizing aisle of any store. But as a busy mom on a limited budget, I’m a big believer in simple projects using repurposed items.

items neatly organized in cardboard box under bathroom sink

That often means my organizing ideas are fr-eeeeeeee! My repurposed and low-cost organizing projects are perfect for:

  • Military families
  • Families that move frequently
  • Families on a budget
  • College students
  • First apartments and homes
  • Anyone interested in organizing with more sustainable, earth-friendly options

When I do purchase items, I look for products made made right here in the US, and I’m always excited to tell you about my discoveries. There are many reasons I try to always buy American-made products. Check out my Amazon Made in the USA Organizing Products Collection for some of my favorites.


I promise that I’ll always share real ideas that real people can do and be proud of.


3 young children walking away with backpacks

Why the name Organized 31? I find peace and beauty in organization, both the process and the result, so having Organization in the name was a must. I chose 31 as a reference to the Proverbs 31 wife, who I hope to emulate. And also, since there are 31 days in most months, it’s a reminder that organizing every day (even just a little!) is my goal.

I’d love to connect with you on YouTube or Instagram, my two favorite channels. Of course, you can also find me on Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter.

You can reach me at susan@organized31.com