Top 10 Organization Must Haves

I met Alejandra Rivera from Your Organizing Studio (http://www.yourorganizingstudio.com/) at a Galentine’s event two years ago, when I learned that she is from Guatemala (I’m Mexican) we connected and bonded right away; so when I started thinking about this blog post, I immediately thought about collaborating with Ale, since she is a professional organizer. I honestly couldn’t think of a better person to tell us about the Top 10 Organization Must Haves. Here is what she had to say:

“​​It can be hard to keep everything organized when many things demand our attention. Disorganization can lead to an increased stress level and depression. However, being organized can benefit our health and help us feel happier and more relaxed. Here are my Top 10 Organization Must-Haves to start organizing your home and simplifying your life:

1. Closet Systems with adjustable shelving

Elfa Classic 6' Platinum Walk-In Closet The Container Store

A closet organizer system includes a combination of rods, shelves, and perhaps drawers, shoe shelves, and other accessories built into your closet. Adjustable shelves will enable you to maximize vertical space and create a fully customizable storage solution that can change over time as your needs change. There are many closet systems. My favorite closet system is: The Elfa system at the Container Store

2. Hooks

I use hooks anywhere and everywhere throughout the home.  I use them in my mudroom to hang coats and keys or in bedrooms to hang belts and scarves, or jewelry.  I especially love to use command hooks.

3. Drawer dividers

Drawer organizers use storage space more efficiently, allowing you to find items quickly. They are ideal for organizing small things within a larger area. I routinely use them in dressers, kitchens, and desk drawers.

Drawer organizer

4. Door rack systems

Adjustable door rack systems drastically increase storage space by utilizing that often-forgotten area. I have installed these in clients’ homes on the backs of doors.

5. Lazy Susan

Lazy Susan allows you to easily access several items in your cabinet without having to move them around or reach into the back. A Lazy Susan can be a great option if you have limited space in your kitchen, pantry, and bathrooms, and it is one of my absolute favorites.

pantry organized by your organization studio, using baskets, lazy susans and can containers

6. Storage Bins and Baskets

storage bins and baskets are essential for organizing your home. They help you to store items neatly and protect them from damage. They are also helpful in reducing visual clutter.

7. A Vertical Filing System

The vertical Filing system is an excellent storage solution for important documents, receipts, and other paperwork. The vertical file system will help you stay organized and ensure you can quickly find what you need, reducing paper clutter and preventing it from piling up.

8. A Calendar or Wall Calendar

It is vital to keep track of import dates, appointments, and events. It can also help you plan your week and stay ahead of deadlines. There are many written calendar options, but if you are more tech-savvy, my favorite is the Cozy app. Cozi makes it easy to keep on top of everything and track everyone’s activities in one shared place. You can even share your grocery lists!

9. A Command Center

A command center is a designated area in the home where you can keep a family calendar and everyone in the family's vital information, homework, to-do lists, meal plan, activities, and more—think of it as your family record of where everyone needs to go and what they need to get done.

10. Hire a Professional Organizer

Do you have a hard time getting organized and staying organized? There’s no shame in admitting that. If organizing your home or office is too overwhelming, think about calling a professional organizer. Hiring a pro will be an investment at first, but it will help you get your life on track quickly and will save you time and stress”

So what do you guys thing? I loved every single one of Ale’s suggestions, and I use most of them at my home already, but I am already thinking about hiring her as a professional organizer. If I do, I will be sure to post about the results!

Dany Amparano in collaboration with Alejandra Rivas (follow her IG @yourorganizingstudio)

Jassmine’s favorite “Where the locals go in Jax” spot

My favorite local spot has to be the Pink Salt Restaurant & Wine Bar! 🍷I like going there for the Jamaicaan cuisine, creative drink ideas and ambience. It includes all the jamaican staples such as jerk chicken, plantains and stews. 🇯🇲 It is located in San Marco, and if you haven’t been, you HAVE to check it out!

San Marco gives a mixture of urban suburban vibes. There are plenty of other local shops that include coffee, desserts, parks, bars and restaurants. I don't live on this side of town but in this community, I feel like I'm "home".

Erica’s favorite “Where the locals go in Jax” spot

My favorite local spot has to be Tony Ds Pizza & Restaurant 🍕

Pizza craving? Take my advice and go to Tony Ds on Baymeadows near 295 and get the Grandma 8 slice — it’s a rectangular pan pizza with marinara sauce, mozzarella, parmesan, extra virgin olive oil. It’s SO delicious and deserves 🔟🌟s

Since they first opened their doors in 2006, their mission has been to bring Jacksonville the authentic New York experience. I love supporting local, family owned restaurants! If you give it a try let me know how amazing your experience was ✨

MaryAnne’s favorite “Where the locals go in Jax” spot

The Phoenix Bowling Alley is one of our favorite local spots for some family fun time! This quirky hole in the wall bowling alley is the perfect spot for family fun night! Tucked away in the Lakeshore neighborhood, they serve the best (and mostly unhealthy) kid-friendly food and the atmosphere is one of a kind! Don’t miss karaoke night or themed music events—highly recommend! 🎳

Dany’s favorite “Where the locals go in Jax” spot

One of my favorite local places in Jacksonville is Chamblin Bookmine (Instagram @chamblinbooks), it's a bookstore that sells new, used and rare/collectable books, they opened in 1976 and have two locations, one in Roosevelt Blvd (Chamblin Bookmine) and another one in Laura St (Chamblin's Uptown). My favorite one is the one on Laura St because it has a cafe where they sell locally sourced coffee, bagels, pastries, vegan weekly specials, beer, wine and breakfast all day! If you're an avid reader, I highly suggest that you go here, turn off your cell phone and get lost in it, get lost in the place, the books, your thoughts, your imagination and in TIME. Enjoy!