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Saturday, November 28, 2020

TODAY ONLY: 10% off All Eco Modern Concierge Gift Certificates

 


TODAY ONLY: 10% off all gift certificates 

Today, November 28th, 2020, until 11:59pm we are offering 10% off all Eco Modern Concierge gift certificates for Small Business Saturday! This can be for you or for someone else. They make great, clutter-free holiday gifts! Contact us by 11:59pm today, November 28, 2020 with how many hours you want to purchase and you will be sent an invoice for that amount of hours. There is no limit on the amount of hours you can pre purchase at our current rates. Gift certificates purchased this year will expire December 31, 2021. All invoices must be paid by 11:59pm on December 2nd, 2020 in order to redeem this offer. 

Thank you for your continued support and helping this small business grow for the past 15 years. We can't tell you how much we appreciate it!

ecomodernconcierge.com

Friday, November 27, 2020

11 Holiday Decor Tips

Since I did the question thing on Instagram stories several people said they wanted holiday decor tips. Below are various holiday decor tips we have learned through the years. This is by no means all of them, but hopefully some of them can help you. 

  1. If nothing else, get a remote for several of your lit decor items like Christmas trees, garland, etc. believe me it is a game changer and you don't have to go back and forth plugging and unplugging things. 
  2. Pillows are one of the easiest ways to make things look festive.
  3. Make a space look festive with light and candles.
  4. Use dimmers.
  5. Shop after holiday sales for some great deals.
  6. If you are buying fake greenery invest in good quality ones. They last a lot longer and some items have a great warranty places. 
  7. If you are going for a particular holiday theme, look in uncommon places for decor like estate sales, thrift stores, the dollar store, and shop after holiday sales like At Home, Hobby Lobby, Michaels, etc. 
  8. Keep floral wire, zip ties and command hooks on hand. 
  9. Use timers on your outdoor lights.
  10. Outsource if you are overwhelmed or stressed.
  11. Label and make a plan. When putting up &/or taking down holiday decorations have a plan where everything will go and be sure to label boxes accordingly.

ecomodernconcierge.com

Thursday, November 26, 2020

Happy Thanksgiving!

 


Happy Thanksgiving!

Photo by Karolina Grabowska

Wednesday, November 25, 2020

Ribbon Favorites

 


Since we are professional organizers and a concierge company / holiday concierge experts. We wrap a ton of presents and love it. These are some client favorites and ribbon we love using. 

Ivory ribbon with gold trim: This is always a popular ribbon we use because it is actually really pretty and it a great piece for 100 yards of it.

Red silk ribbon: This is a classic that we use with client gifts every year. 

Red and white striped: I love this ribbon and think it is a classic look.

Chiffon silk ribbon with frayed edges:  I love this ribbon because it is so delicate and feminine.

White grosgrain ribbon fringe edge: This is a pretty ribbon with I love the gold fringe ribbon.

Blue chiffon silk ribbon with frayed edges: Just like the ivory one above, but in various shades of blue. So pretty.

Grey and gold ribbon: So pretty and it is wired, so you can make pretty bows with it.

Velvet ribbon: These come in various sizes, but I love velvet ribbon.

Green yarn ribbon: I have used this for years and love it. 

Baker's Twine: Always a fun, simple way to wrap up packages or layer on other ribbon.

Blue jute: Perfect for Hanukkah or just a winter wonderland theme. 

Green and ivory ribbon: We used this at a client's house recently for Christmas decorations and it looks great. 

ecomodernconcierge.com




Tuesday, November 24, 2020

Holiday Tips to Plan Ahead - Part 6

 


Do the holidays make you crazy and stressed? As a holiday concierge based in Houston, TX we try to ease my client's stresses the best we can by helping them plan out their holidays and prep early. Utilize a professional organizer or concierge to help you during the holidays, believe me it will save you a ton of time and headaches. 

Here are a few things that you can do now to prep ahead. 

  1. Write down all your to-dos and then write down how you can alleviate stress.
  2.  Buy store bought or order items from a restaurant if you don't have time to make anything. 
  3. Outsource if you need help.
  4. Use delivery services if there are last minute items you need.
  5. Empty the dishwasher before guests arrive. 

What do you do to plan ahead?


Tuesday, November 17, 2020

Holiday Tips to Plan Ahead - Part 5


Do the holidays make you crazy and stressed? As a holiday concierge based in Houston, TX we try to ease my client's stresses the best we can by helping them plan out their holidays and prep early. Utilize a professional organizer or concierge to help you during the holidays, believe me it will save you a ton of time and headaches. 

Here are a few things that you can do now to prep ahead. 

  1. Make sure all the appliances you will need are in proper working order.
  2.  Deep clean your oven, refrigerator, freezer, and dishwasher. These are all things that will probably be in heavy use.
  3. Make a list of other appliances you know you will be using whether it is the crockpot, blender, etc. & make sure they are in working order.
  4. Replace or buy any additional appliances you may need.

What do you do to plan ahead?

Sunday, November 15, 2020

Tips on How to Organize Your Pantry Before Thanksgiving and the Holidays


Thanksgiving is next week and the holidays are basically here at this point this year. Being a professional organizer and holiday concierge in Houston, we have organized and planned our fair share of pantries and all things holidays through the years. Here are some tips to get your pantry organized for Thanksgiving and the Holidays.

Purge. We often don't think that we have that many expired items and more times than not we see that clients do have more expired items than they think. Purge these items to make room for new pantry items.

Sort like items together. So things are not scattered everywhere throughout the pantry, sort like items together like all canned goods, baking, pasta, etc.

Take inventory. Take inventory of what you got rid and see what you need to restock. 

Organize. Once items are sorted together, organize in a way that works and makes sense to you. As you have seen in many of our projects, we use baskets and bins to contain items, give them a cohesive look and keep the items organized. 

Label. Label your bins, baskets or shelves so you know exactly where everything is. 

Make a list & use sticky notes or sticker dots. Make a list and use sticky notes or sticker dots to mark which items you know you will need for Thanksgiving if you do not want to take those items out of the pantry or put in a designated area. By making a list and using sticky notes /dots will insure you know exactly what you will need.

Stock up on essentials you will need. Begin to make a list or make a list on your preferred grocery store's website for items that you know you will need and schedule a time to have the items delivered, picked up or shopped for. Tip: early mornings and evenings are some of the best times to go to the store when there are less crowds. 

Here are some common pantry items that people stock up on for Thanksgiving and the Holidays.

  • Spices - cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt & pepper, etc.
  • Baking items - sugars, flours, etc. 
  • Broths - chicken, vegetable, beef, etc.
  • Herbs - fresh or dried
  • Meats
  • Vegetables
  • Fresh & dried fruits
  • Canned goods 
  • Milks - cow's, evaporated, condensed, nut milks, etc.
  • Extracts
  • Oils

How do you prepare for Thanksgiving and the holidays?

ecomodernconcierge.com




Thursday, November 12, 2020

Holiday Tips to Plan Ahead - Part 4



Do the holidays make you crazy and stressed? As a holiday concierge based in Houston, TX we try to ease my client's stresses the best we can by helping them plan out their holidays and prep early. Utilize a professional organizer or concierge to help you during the holidays, believe me it will save you a ton of time and headaches. 

Here are a few things that you can do now to prep ahead. 

  1. Book all holiday appointments that you know you will definitely need this year like hair, nails, etc. 
  2. Book year end appointments with your doctors you know you need to see before December 31st. If they do not have availability, get on their waitlist. 
  3. Book appointments with services you know will make your life easier during the holidays like cleaning, organizing, decorating, gift wrapping, etc. Basically, call Eco Modern Concierge.
  4. Don't forget to book self care appointments now, like blowouts, massages, facials, etc. that you know will make you feel better in the midst of holiday stress.
What do you do to plan ahead?

Wednesday, November 11, 2020

Ways to Give Back in Houston This Year

Since I am not sponsoring a child this year through my gym like I usually do, I asked Instagram & Facebook followers to please send organizations local to Houston that I could support this year and others wanted me to share, so here is what was recommended:

  • Child Advocates - there are many was to give back to this organization. I will be sponsoring a child through them this year.
  • Kids Meals - there so many ways to donate, but I love the making bags idea and will be doing that this year.  
  • BEAR (Be A Resource) - there are also many ways to donate, check them out.
  • MD Anderson Children's Cancer Hospital - I actually host a drive and donate toys to them every year. One of my favorite things to do. If you know me personally,  you know MD Anderson is near and dear to me.

What are some of your favorite ways to give back during the holiday season? 

Photo by Jill Wellington from Pexels

ecomodernconcierge.com


Tuesday, November 10, 2020

Holiday Tips to Plan Ahead - Part 3


Do the holidays make you crazy and stressed? As a holiday concierge based in Houston, TX we try to ease my client's stresses the best we can by helping them plan out their holidays and prep early. Utilize a professional organizer or concierge to help you during the holidays, believe me it will save you a ton of time and headaches. 

Here are a few things that you can do now to prep ahead. 

  1. Decide on the linens you will be using. Wash & press them or take them to the dry cleaners.
  2. Pick out the serving pieces you will be using. Polish silver pieces and buy additional pieces if needed.
  3. Label what you will be using each serving piece for.
  4. Check all kitchen tools & appliances you will be using to make sure they are in proper working order.
What do you do to plan ahead?

Friday, November 6, 2020

2020 Gift Guide: Pet

 

At Eco Modern Concierge being a professional organizer and personal concierge in Houston, we shop a ton for clients and they often turn to us for ideas. Here are some ideas for gifts for pet items. 

Advent Calendar: My father-in-law bought this for us this year for our dog and I know he will be so excited because he definitely gets daily treats. 

PyroPet Candles: I saw these and thought they were funny.

Smart Leash: This looks awesome and you can track your walking history. 

Pet Carrier BackPack: I have seen people with these before and it's another creative way to carry pets with you. 

Crate Cover: To make those ugly crates more attractive and fit into your home decor. 

Reusable Pet Hair Remover: This looks awesome if you constantly have pet hair on you or around your house. 

Litter Box: Retro cat litter box. Such a fun addition, especially if you have a mid century modern home. 

LED Dog Collar: I am getting this for my dog since it is getting dark earlier. 

Glow in the Dark LED Dog Ball: I will also be getting this for my dog. 

Fish Tank Cleaner: If you have a fish tank this could come in handy. 

Bearded Dragon Leash: Fun leash if you have a bearded dragon.

Playpen for Small Pets: Perfect so pets don't have to be cooped up in cages all day. 

ecomodernconcierge.com

Thursday, November 5, 2020

2020 Gift Guide: Organization


 

At Eco Modern Concierge being a professional organizer and personal concierge in Houston, we shop a ton for clients and they often turn to us for ideas. Here are some ideas for gifts for organization items. 

Nail Polish Holder: For those who have a nail polish collection.

Fridge Shelf: Perfect if you need a little extra space in your fridge.

Russell & Hazel Acrylic Monthly Calendar: Love this new wall calendar. 

Pantry Basket: This is similar to the ones at The Container Store and are great if you are leaving out in the open.

Sunglass Organizer: Great for someone who likes to switch up their sunglasses regularly and see them in the open.

Seat Gap Filler: I have something similar in my and it is perfect for catching most things from falling in between the seats. 

Squeegee with Spray: For those that like perfect clean.

Utility Holder with Rail & Hooks: One of my professional organizing friends recommended this and said they liked how it slid. Plus, it has hooks.

Wad-Free Bedsheets: I haven't used this yet, but my friend Jessica sent me the link to these. Looks like a must try.

Cowboy Hat Holder for the Car: I saw and immediately thought this is extremely useful here in Texas. Plus, it is made in the USA.

Drill Organizer: My husband just got this for the garage and loves it!

Acrylic Nursery Organizers: I saw these online and they are a bit different than your normal acrylic organizers.

ecomodernconcierge.com

Wednesday, November 4, 2020

2020 Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers

 


At Eco Modern Concierge being a professional organizer and personal concierge in Houston, we shop a ton for clients and they often turn to us for ideas. Here are some ideas for gifts for stocking stuffers. 

Car diffuser: If you use essential oils then you may like these. I have these in my car and love them. 

Wilton Universal Spatula: I saw a Pinch of Help post about this spatula and think it is awesome. You can scrape, use as a spatula, use in non-stick pans, mix and fold with it. For under $10 you can't beat the price.

Hermes Soap: I think this is such a fun, unique gift idea. It is luxurious without breaking the bank. You can purchase 4 for the price of 2 as well. 

Electronic Cleaning Brush: I love using this thing to clean various electronics and hard to reach places. 

Bloody Mary Pick Tree: If you are a bloody mary lover and like lots of things in it these are perfect. 

iFly Healthy Kit:An inexpensive kit for a frequent flyer during these weird pandemic times.

Hand Orange Peeler: If you are an orange lover like me then you know it can sometimes be hard to peel certain oranges and this peeler helps you get started. 

Wine Markers: Perfect for any wine love or anyone who loves entertaining.

Cuticle Pusher: For any person who loves doing their nails. 

Cash Stash: Emergency cash stash for those "just in case" moments. 

Leather Ring Case: This is great for traveling or if you take your ring off often.

Bunny Ear Scrunchies: I actually have some similar to these and really like it. 

ecomodernconcierge.com



Tuesday, November 3, 2020

2020 Gift Guide: For Him

 

At Eco Modern Concierge being a professional organizer and personal concierge in Houston, we shop a ton for clients and they often turn to us for ideas. Here are some ideas for gifts for the men in your life and I think these of course are interchangeable and can be given to the women in your life as well. 

Whiskey Tasting Set: Perfect for any whiskey lover. 

Foosball Cooler: When I first saw this I thought it looked so fun and perfect for any outdoor gatherings or parties.

Grill: My aunts got this for my mother in law last year and she LOVES it. It was definitely a hit. 

Weed Torch: If you have pesky weeds that grow between the pavers you can torch them. My husband says he has had this for years and it works. 

Electric Wine Opener: This one is functional and so pretty you can leave it out on the counter. 

Portable AC: I got this for my husband for the garage a few years ago and he loves it. If live in Texas you know how hot it can get here. 

Beer Sling: I also got this for my husband a few years ago and it is perfect for the beach or anywhere you don't want to have to pack up a whole cooler full or drinks. 

Katchy: Spoiler alert: several people are getting this from us this year. Keeps flies at bay.

Sharpening Stone: Perfect for any knife lover. 

Fishing Knife: My grandparents got this for my husband last year and had it engraved. It was such a unique gift and he loved it. 

Travel Aeropress: My husband and his brother both love their regular Aeropresses, so we got this travel one for my brother in law for his birthday. 

ecomodernconcierge.com

Monday, November 2, 2020

2020 Gift Guide: For Her

 

At Eco Modern Concierge being a professional organizer and personal concierge in Houston, we shop a ton for clients and they often turn to us for ideas. Here are some ideas for gifts for the women in your life and I think these of course are interchangeable and can be given to the men in your life as well. 

Digital Modern Alarm Clock: A modern, sleek addition that is not your phone and like older alarm clocks. 

Water Carafe: I can't remember where I originally saw this, but it would be perfect to keep in a guest room. 

Vinyl Record Holder: If you are a vinyl lover like me this is such a fun, modern addition to hold records. 

Cold Brew Tea & Coffee Bottle: Perfect for tea and coffee lovers. I think every year there is a coffee related item on the gift guides.

Self Outline Markers: I kept seeing ads for these and was mesmerized lol. 

LLBean Jacket: I have seen this jacket for the last couple of months and it looks so cozy and warm to me. 

Balloon Dog Earrings: A fun, inexpensive gift to give. 

Ugg Fallon Set: Now that so much of us are using loungewear way more than we did before, this looks like a perfect light weight set, especially if you are from Texas where you never know how long it will be hot for. 

Champagne Coupes: These would be so pretty for entertaining during the holidays and throughout the year.

Marble Lazy Susan: Lazy susans are always useful and I think this one would be perfect on a kitchen counter top to hold utensils and oils or perfect for entertaining. 

Warhol Bookends: If you are a Warhol fan these are super fun. 

Mondri Vase: Fun, acrylic vase for any modern home or to gift. 

ecomodernconcierge.com