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Organized 31 – Start Here

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.

Organized 31 and the Simple Organization Squad help busy people make the space and time for what’s really important to you.

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Hi, I’m Susan – a professional organizer, Certified Organizational Specialist ™ and founder of Organized 31 and the Simple Organization Squad. 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’m also a veteran, military spouse, parent educator and mother of three children, a dog and leopard gecko. Thanks to the military, I’ve moved into over 25 homes. At one point, we moved five times in six years, so planning and organizing are second nature to me.

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 me. You can read more about my experience in the military and as a military spouse here.

I believe life is better when organized.

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As a professional organizer, I 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.

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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.

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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.

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

I hope to connect with you soon. 

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This interview can give you a taste of my organizing philosophy and style. Here I share simple ways to organize your kitchen for free with repurposed items as well as how to get your children to help keep the kitchen neat.