Sorting Through Grief (and Maybe Some Sentimental Socks): Organizing After Loss
Grief. It's a messy, complicated, and deeply personal experience. There's no right way to grieve, no timeline to follow, and definitely no instruction manual . If you're also facing the task of sorting through a loved one's belongings, well, that adds another layer of complexity. It can feel overwhelming, emotionally draining, and sometimes, even a little bit… weird. Like, why did they keep that many mismatched socks? (Just kidding… mostly.)
If you're navigating this challenging time, please know that you're not alone. And if the thought of tackling those boxes, closets, and drawers fills you with dread (or just a strong urge to binge-watch Netflix instead), I get it. That's where I come in.
As a professional organizer, I understand that this isn't just about decluttering or creating more space. It's about honoring memories, processing emotions, and gently transitioning to a new chapter. It's about more than just "stuff"—it's about the stories those items represent. And those stories? They deserve to be treated with care.
My approach to organizing after a loss is rooted in compassion and understanding. I create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to process your grief while making decisions about your loved one's belongings. There will be tears (likely), laughter (hopefully), and maybe even some moments of "Wait, they kept that?" And that's all perfectly okay. I'll hold space for whatever emotions arise, without pressure or expectation.
We'll work at your pace, whether that's sorting through a few items at a time or tackling a whole room. Together we can decide what to keep donate, and even figure out how to best display or honor those keepsake, but the decisions are ultimately yours. This is your process, and I'm here to walk alongside you, gently and respectfully.
We'll take it one step at a time, one box at a time, one mismatched sock at a time. And together, we'll create a space that honors the past while allowing you to move forward with peace and comfort. Because even in grief, there can be glimmers of hope, and maybe, just maybe, a little bit of humor along the way. (Especially when you find that box of sentimental socks.)
