Tag Archives: organizing

Weekly Wishlist: Planners & Organizers

So I realize that 2013 is already underway by a few weeks, but there’s no time like the present to start getting organized!

As much as I love how my iPhone and Macbook talk to each other, I still have to have paper and a pen near me at all times. I’m constantly jotting notes on craft ideas or blog posts, making lists, and writing reminders to myself.

Chalkboard-style typography? Check. Uplifting, optimistic message? Check. The perfect way to start off a new year? Absolutely! via Girl In Gear Studio on Etsy.

These two options by Filofax are perfectly sized to fit into a tote, purse or briefcase, and stylish to boot! Finsbury personal organizer / Domino personal organizer

If you’re more of a notepad person, jot down your thoughts on this snazzy number by Anthropologie. There are plenty of lines to accomodate a to-do list or a shopping list, plus a quirky zebra character to keep you on task.

How do you stay organized? Are you a pen-and-paper person or a digital dandy?

An orderly linen closet

One of the things I love about moving is the opportunity to get organized. It’s like having a completely blank slate to start from!

But before I could tackle our post-move-in clutter, I needed some good ole fashioned inspiration. A co-worker of mine turned me on to Jen’s amazing tips over at IHeartOrganizing — her kitchen cabinet organization, in particular. And I was smitten! I went on a bin binge at Target and Bed Bath & Beyond, returning home with stacks of glorious totes, trays, bins, and baskets. I immediately got to work in our master bathroom, emptying the linen closet and cabinet drawers of all their contents. I created piles of like items and tossed/recycled the stuff that needed to go.

Once I had things sorted the way I wanted, I designated containers for them. I can’t stand countertop clutter, but I also have products I need every morning (styling products and tools, face wash, etc). So I grouped these into baskets that I can easily grab each morning, set on the counter while I get ready, and place back in the closet when I’m finished. The items we don’t use every day were separated into stackable drawers. Tom and I each have our own drawer, which contains extra deodorant, shampoo, body wash, etc. There’s a drawer for things like cotton swabs and cotton balls, and a drawer for non-prescription medicine and first-aid items.

Here’s how it turned out!

now it’s neat and tidy!

The small drawers sitting on the floor contain all of our travel-sized items. I love that there’s still plenty of room for our towels, extra rolls of toilet paper, etc!

Then, I moved onto the cabinet drawers that hold my makeup, nail polish, nail file, tweezers, etc. Again, I grouped similar items together: nail polish, small items like bobby pins and tweezers, makeup brushes, you get the picture! I found drawer organizers at Bed Bath and Beyond. They’re meant for the kitchen, but are perfect for small makeup containers and nail polish bottles!

makeup drawer

small compartments for nail polish, combs, and more

Have you had any major organizational successes (or failures?). Any tips to pass along?