the Trimmed team
Katie Sontag | Owner
From: Cincinnati, Ohio
Moved to Charlotte: 2007
Alma Mater: College of Charleston
What’s your background?
I began my career working as an elementary school teacher before transitioning to the corporate world. I began managing corporate training programs and organizational development initiatives. In these roles, I honed my skills in organizing people, time, and resources.
What’s your favorite space to organize?
I could organize pantries all day, every day! Cooking and banking are favorite hobbies of mine, so I feel there is nothing better than a well-organized pantry where everything can be easily found and accessed.
I don’t know where to start, and I’m crunched for time. What’s an easy change that can make a big impact?
Organizing can feel SO overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Small changes can make a big difference. For example, swapping out mixed hangers in your closet for a matching set will make a huge visual impact and will immediately elevate your space.
Hollie Collins-Dean | Owner
From: Auburn, Alabama
Moved to Charlotte: 2019
Alma Mater: Auburn University - War Eagle!
What drew you to home organization?
To me, organizing is so much more than putting pretty baskets and bins in a home. It’s about having systems in place to handle the items that come into your home over time. My goal is to empower our clients to manage their space rather than letting their spaces manage them.
What’s your go-to organizing tip for beginners?
ABP - Always Be Purging. Put a bin or basket in your mudroom or laundry room and add items throughout the week that need to be donated. No need to set aside an entire day or weekend to purge your things. Instead, make it part of your daily routine.
What area of your life do you feel could be better organized?
My personal calendar. I am caught halfway between a big, paper calendar and a Google calendar. However, I’ve learned that sometimes, organization is about trial-and-error, and I’m currently trying out different solutions for me and my family!