This week on Sunbound Asks, we sat down with Kristin DiBacco, Certified Professional Organizer and owner of The Serene Space located in St. Johns, Florida. It was a pleasure welcoming Kristin to Sunbound Asks. We really enjoyed our conversation covering a wide range of topics like her favorite ways to stay organized, her favorite professional organizing tip on how to keep your refrigerator organized and her favorite new trends in professional organizing. To learn more about Kristin and The Serene Space visit her website here, or check out our interview below.

‍Q: How long have you been a professional organizer?

A: I’ve been organizing for a little bit over 10 years. I was in Pittsburgh for 7 years, and then Jacksonville for the past 3.5 years. I started organizing over 10 years ago. The Serene Space started in Pittsburgh, PA in 2012 and has now been in St. Johns, FL since relocating in 2019. 

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‍Q: How’d you get into professional organizing?

A: My background is in education, and like a lot of people, I grew up thinking I would be a teacher. But my husband’s job had us moving around quite a bit so it gave me this opportunity to sit and really think about what my passion is. I found myself going to friends and family and organizing for them. I thought for sure that I had created this new business called organizing! I started researching and found NAPO (National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals) and quickly realized that there’s an entire industry built for professional organizing.  

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Q: What’s your favorite type of project to work on?

A: It is a toss up between pantries and kids spaces! The majority of my clients are calling me in for help in these high traffic areas. I have four boys and know the struggle to maintain both of these areas on the daily. No matter the home, it is like building a puzzle. Every space is different and they all have their own challenges, which makes it really fun! 

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Q: What’s your favorite memory as a professional organizer?

A:  My team and I recently helped a family that was new to the area unpack and get settled into their home. The entire process was overwhelming for them. We were able to be by their side from the space planning during the build of their home, to the coordinating of the movers and finally unpacking all their belongings. At the end of our 3 days together this client hugged me and shared that what we did for her she could never have done for her own family. Professional organizers truly have a gift and she was forever grateful for our services and new friendship. I think there are times I get caught up in the fun of organizing that I forget this is truly a life changing industry I am part of. I love when clients remind me of the impact we have made on their lives. 

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Q: What’s your most unconventional professional organizing tip or trick?

A: When organizing a refrigerator I love to use turntables, like a Lazy Susan. You normally see a turntable in the corner of a pantry or cabinet, but they can serve a really great purpose in a refrigerator. For example, if you don’t have great storage on the doors, or just need more useable space, a turntable can be very helpful. They can be great for condiments and jars and it allows you to gain access to hard to reach spots. 

Q: What professional organizing practice do you use most in your own life?

A: I like to have zones for all items in my home. As a busy mom, wife and business owner I am always trying to keep things simple in my home. For example, in our kitchen we have a zone for food prep. I am able to reach all the items I need to prep a meal, including the mixing bowl, measuring cups, spoons etc all within close proximity so I am not running all over the kitchen to find the items I need. It saves me time and energy! The same is true for our bathroom. The top drawer is zoned for the items we use everyday like our toothpaste and contact solution. The items we don’t frequent as much are in a linen closet further away. I use this practice in all of my clients’ homes. 

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Q: What’s your favorite new professional organizing trend?

A: One trend that is highly sought after is the instagram worthy photo. Social media has changed the industry. There is an emphasis on aesthetics and finding stylish solutions that serve as decor so styling and achieving the right look are a large part of our jobs recently. It has been a wonderful trend for our business. When a space feels and looks beautiful you are more likely to maintain it. That being said, I also have the experience to understand that not all clients want or need that certain look. The goal of a professional organizer is to help our clients improve their organizing and productivity skills. It doesn’t always mean matching bins or custom labels.  A big impact can be made in someone's home and it isn’t always picture perfect.  

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Q: What’s one thing you wish more people knew about professional organizing?

A:  I wish more people knew that organizing takes time. There usually isn’t a quick fix, although sometimes I wish I could wiggle my nose and the space be complete! Before we begin our sessions you will have a consultation where we discuss organizing goals and habits, take measurements of your space and photos will be taken. We then work one area at a time until we complete your goal. Decluttering is usually the longest part of a project. This process can take up to a few days, weeks or even longer depending on the circumstance.I usually tell my clients their space did not get this way overnight so it will take some time to get it to where you want it to be. Offer yourself some grace and let's dive in and get started!

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Q: If you weren’t a professional organizer, what else would you be doing?

A: I don’t have an answer for you because I can’t imagine doing anything else! I’ve been blessed knowing I am doing what I love and I get to do it every day. Helping people is what truly brings me joy.

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Q: What professional organizing resources would you suggest for our readers?

A: National Association of Specialty and Senior Move Managers (NASMM) is going to be a really great resource for those in need of a senior move manager. I would also suggest people look on the NAPO website to find local organizers, who can often be an amazing resource and starting point on someone’s moving journey.

Sunbound is the best way to pay for senior living. If you want to learn more about how Sunbound can help make senior living more affordable for residents and easier to manage for communities, email us at info@sunboundhomes.com or request a demo here. Sunbound is on a mission to make senior living more affordable for everyone.