I spend most of my days de-cluttering people’s homes. Even though it’s the way I earn my living, I feel it’s my ethical duty to offer an alternative to all the extra stuff this holiday season.

For the holidays, instead of exchanging packages and bags filled with picture frames, candles, sweaters (that never fit) or gadgets, ask for and give something more special this year. Give memories, time and love. How do you do that?

Give a gift certificate for something your loved one needs or wants for instance: massage, manicure, maid service, or an organizing session (I’ll send you a gift certificate).

One of my favorite gifts to give is a date night = restaurant and movie gift card plus baby sitting time so your friend or family member can go out together while you stay with their kids.

Make a photo album or recipe book using Shutterfly or Snapfish. Give the gift of photo scanning from Pixorium in order to save those important photos.

For a special memory, give them concert tickets, a trip to the botanical gardens, zoo, aquarium or a cool play or comedy show – anything y’all can do together they would enjoy.

Or instead of cash, give an Amazon gift card or one to a store like Walmart or Target so they can buy whatever they want.

If you hesitate to give a gift card because it seems too easy or thoughtless, pair it with something small they will use like a Starbucks card wrapped in a coffee mug or their favorite book or CD wrapped with the gift card.

I promise you, your loved one will not only appreciate you getting something they will actually use, they will also appreciate you not adding any clutter to their home.

For more ideas or to purchase an organizing session for your friend or family, call Heather at 404-825-2105 or e-mail Heather@simplyorganizedyou.com.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!