9 Things You Can Do Right Now to Prep for The Holidays

 

1. Make and keep on ongoing master list of everything you want and need to do during the holidays.
2. Give back. It is such a wonderful thing to do always, but during the holidays are especially hard for so many people. Decide what charity /charities you want to support and start prepping.
3. Take inventory of gift wrapping supplies, baking supplies, card supplies, mailing supplies, etc.
4. Schedule self care. You will be thankful you did this when the holidays are here.
5. Schedule and take a day or two off to get things done. Prebook scheduled time off during the holidays to really get things done.
6. Make sure to have extra items on hand. I like to have extra gift cards ready to go, various gifts, food items like cheese, crackers and meats. I like to have items on hand to make quick, easy meals in case I need to or have frozen food items that are delicious and that we can snack on appetizers. Extra decor supplies. Always have extra tape for gift wrapping and packing tape to ship items, readily available. 
7. Plan your outfits for you and your family. Whether you are attending events, church, small gatherings, etc. Make sure to have what you want to wear on hand so you are not scrambling last minute. 
8. Organize &/or clean regularly. This will help you stay on top of things so you are not frantic last minute right before guests come. 
9. Book services you know you will use during the holidays early. Like cleaning people, party help, gift wrapping help, someone to help put up and take down Christmas decor. 

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photo: pexels.com

14 Ways Eco Modern Concierge Professional Organizers & Personal Assistants Can Help You During the Holidays

THE HOLIDAYS ARE RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER and they will be here before you know it. We are almost already fully pre-booked for the 2023 holiday season. Many clients have hired us to help 2-4 hours once a week from October - December to help with various holiday tasks and relieve some holiday stress. If you are interested in this, please reach out and we would love to help you. 

As many of you know, we do a TON of gifting wrapping for residential and commercial clients where we come to your place of work and wrap presents during the holidays. This is great for company culture, helps relieve stress during the holidays and is perfect for you and your team. Please reach out for more information. We have several companies already pre-booked for gift wrapping services for their employees.

Some tasks that we often get asked to help with during the holidays:

1. Gift wrapping
2. Decorating
3. Shopping & various errands
4. Delivering of gifts
5. Shipping
6. Coordinating service people
7. Making reservations
8. Coordinating the delivery of various goods and services
9. Prepping second homes for the holidays
10. Assist guests while they are in town
11. Help with set up and clean up at parties & events
12. Getting organized throughout your home & business
13. Gathering card lists, addresses and mailing holiday cards
14. Prepping invitations
15. The list goes on & on.... 

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Green / Eco Companies & Initiatives in Houston, TX

As many of you know I am passionate about eco causes and like to support eco companies whenever possible. We are not perfect when it comes to all things eco, but try and do what we can when we can. I try to be pushy on our concierge and professional organizing clients when it comes to eco causes I believe in, but thankfully most are willing to recycle and donate when they can. Here are some various Houston eco companies. Some I have visited and some I have not. So many eco companies have gone out of business through the years in Houston, so it was hard finding new companies and ones that are still open. I have also included some Houston green initiatives that seem promising. I won't list them, but there are a done of If you know of any we should add, please share!

Eco Modern Concierge: shameless plug. We are a lifestyle management company that helps clients that get tasks done they don't have time to do or don't want to do. Our company offers professional organizing and personal assistant tasks to businesses and individuals in the Houston area and beyond. 

Rooted to Home: the owner is a zero waste activist and many of their items are by women and fair trade artisans. 

JJ Fords & Geauxcrates: these are plastic moving crates that are great to use instead of cardboard because they are sturdy and reusable. We have used these crates many of times for professional organizing and move management clients. 

Natran Green Pest Control: Natran is an eco pest control company in Houston. 

Refinement Houston: a local Houston company that sells various eco friendly products.

Pat Greer's Kitchen: Pat Greer is a plant based / vegan food chef in Houston that uses many sustainable practices and makes delicious food here in Houston. 

Cason Graye Homes: Eco friendly custom home builders in Houston. 

Green Cremation Services: this Houston company offers green /eco cremation services using low energy flame process or water cremation process.

Junkluggers & College Hunks Hauling Junk: I have used both of these companies for professional organizing and concierge clients here in Houston and they donate and dispose of many items in an eco way before trashing the rest. 

Gorman Uniform: they are doing various things like reusing hangers and using eco laundry services for their uniforms.

Some other green /eco resources in Houston:

Eco / green things to do in Houston

Green Initiatives in Houston

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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!

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Eco: 5 Tips on Composting + Composting Bin Options

One thing that I have seen several people posting about lately during quarantine is eco changes they are making because they have the time, effort and ability to make these changes. One thing I am seeing an increase in is composting. I think this is because so many people are cooking at home a lot more than they were in the past. Here are some reasons why you should compost:

• The soil that compost makes helps fertilize plants
• Reduces the amount of waste getting put into landfills and reduces emissions
• It is really easy to compost and takes basically no effort
• As long as you are composting the right things, there is no smell or bugs
• Anyone can compost, whether you live in an apartment or house

Personally I have a mini kitchen composter that I use to take to our larger warm composter in our yard. Here are some various composting bins:

Expandable Composting Bin

Tumbling Composter

Kitchen Stainless Steel Composting Pail

Kitchen Counter Compost Bin

Worm Composter

Wood Composter

All product images from Amazon

Worm photo Photo by Sippakorn Yamkasikorn from Pexels

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Eco Modern Concierge featured on Heavy.com // 21 Mother's Day Gift Ideas for Moms Stuck at Home

Are you stuck on what to get mom for Mother's Day since she may be stuck out home? I contributed to this article on the Heavy.com along with fellow organizers on ideas of what to get mom who is stuck at home.

What gift ideas do you have?

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Eco Modern Concierge COVID 19 Update

Hope you are staying safe & healthy! I wanted give you an update on the status of Eco Modern Concierge. 
 

Eco Modern Concierge is fully back in operation starting tomorrow May 1, 2020 per the governor's statement earlier this week.  We are very excited and eager to help you get organized and with certain concierge services!! We are taking all of the proper precautions like wearing gloves, masks, shoe covers, constantly wash / sanitize our hands, etc. If you need to make an appointment or amend an existing appointment please don't hesitate to reach out. Some common things are getting asked to help with at this time:

• Move management from hiring movers to decluttering before the move to getting organized after the move

• Home and corporate office organization

• Garage & storage unit organization 

• Ordering, packaging and delivering graduation gifts

• Home inventories

• Vacation home management yes we will travel

• The list goes on and on. Don't hesitate to reach out and see if we can help you with your projects.

As always, thank you, thank you, thank you for your support over the last 15 years. I am beyond appreciative and grateful!!

I can't wait to see you again soon!
Amy Vance 

Eco Modern Concierge Featured on the bareMinerals Blog

Eco Modern Concierge was featured on the bareMinerals blog last month. I contributed eco organizing tips for beauty supplies. Since it is earth month I thought this would be the perfect time to share this article. I am always happy to contribute to various publications.

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Best of Houzz for 2019 and 2020: Eco Modern Concierge

Little did I know that Eco Modern Concierge was named Best of Houzz in the service category for 2019 AND 2020!! I am guessing for our professional organizing and concierge work. How fun and exciting. Last year I tried to step up my game on Houzz for a moment and I guess it worked. Thank you to all the amazing clients who have supported myself and my small business, Eco Modern Concierge, for the last 15 years. It means a lot to me!

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3 Holiday Helpers Part 7 | Houston Professional Organizer & Concierge

As a professional organizer and concierge business owner I feel like I always need to be prepared. I have a toolkit that I bring to most projects, but during the holidays there are specific things I make sure to have on hand. From now until Christmas I will be featuring 3 holiday helpers each week that are helpful always, but especially during the holidays.

Here is part 7. Watch the YouTube video above where I explain why I like these holiday helpers.

All items are linked in the Eco Modern Concierge Shop.

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3 Holiday Helpers Part 8 | Houston Professional Organizer & Concierge

As a professional organizer and concierge business owner I feel like I always need to be prepared. I have a toolkit that I bring to most projects, but during the holidays there are specific things I make sure to have on hand. From now until Christmas I will be featuring 3 holiday helpers each week that are helpful always, but especially during the holidays.

Here is part 8. Watch the YouTube video above where I explain why I like these holiday helpers.

All items are linked in the Eco Modern Concierge Shop.

ecomodernconcierge.com

3 Holiday Helpers Part 6 | Houston Professional Organizer & Concierge

As a professional organizer and concierge business owner I feel like I always need to be prepared. I have a toolkit that I bring to most projects, but during the holidays there are specific things I make sure to have on hand. From now until Christmas I will be featuring 3 holiday helpers each week that are helpful always, but especially during the holidays.

Here is part 6. Watch the YouTube video above where I explain why I like these holiday helpers.

All items are linked in the Eco Modern Concierge Shop.

ecomodernconcierge.com

3 Holiday Helpers Part 5 | Houston Professional Organizer & Concierge

As a professional organizer and concierge business owner I feel like I always need to be prepared. I have a toolkit that I bring to most projects, but during the holidays there are specific things I make sure to have on hand. From now until Christmas I will be featuring 3 holiday helpers each week that are helpful always, but especially during the holidays.

Here is part 5. Watch the YouTube video above where I explain why I like these holiday helpers.

All items are linked in the Eco Modern Concierge Shop.

ecomodernconcierge.com

2019 Holiday Gift Guide: Pet Supplies

As a professional organizer and concierge in Houston I purchase a lot of items on behalf of clients. Here are some things they are loving right now for organizing products. You can shop all items on the EMC website as well.

Dog Rain Boots: For the dogs who do not like to get their paws wet.

Modern Cat House: If you are looking for something modern to match your home decor.

Water Garden Fish Tank: A multipurpose self cleaning fish tank, plus water garden. Win Win.

Smart Dog Collar: So you know exactly what your dog is doing.

Litter Box: Prevents litter getting everywhere with a touch of style.

Dinosaur Chew Toy: Fun chew toy.

Dog DNA Test: So you can find out the breed of your dog and health information.

Interactive Toy: Fun game for cats.

Treat Puzzle: Fun game for pet to find their treats.

Memory Foam Pet Bed: Because every pet needs a little luxury, right?!

Smart Bone: Interactive toy to keep your pets entertained all day.

Bird Brew Pack: Bird seed shaped like beer.

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2019 Holiday Gift Guide: Organizing Products

As a professional organizer and concierge in Houston I purchase a lot of items on behalf of clients. Here are some things they are loving right now for organizing products. You can shop all items on the EMC website as well.

Floating Bookshelves: Great if you don't have the space for actual bookshelves.

Stackable Snack Pack: Perfect if you make your lunches.

Butcher Tray: I have this tray and love it. It is great to use for projects, display items on, etc.

Water Bottle Holders: I know you have seen me talk about these before, but they are one of my most requested organizing products.

Trunk Organizer: We all need an organized trunk to help things from rolling around.

Clear Hangers: If you want the modern look in your closet these are perfect.

Spicy Shelf: I haven't used this product yet, but it looks fun.

Stackable Acrylic Drawers: These are great to use in bathrooms or in offices.

Beautifully Organized Book: All about organizing with style and function.

Folding Board: For getting those perfectly organized folded shirts.

Charging Station: Great for plugging in multiple items. Plus, it has USB outlets.

Dry Erase: Never under estimate the power of a dry erase board to help you be organized.

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2019 Holiday Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers

As a professional organizer and concierge in Houston I purchase a lot of items on behalf of clients. Here are some things they are loving right now for stocking stuffers. You can shop all items on the EMC website as well.

Sleep mask: It is hard to find the perfect eye mask and this one is supposed to block out light completely.

Pommery Mustard: If you love mustard then you can't go wrong with this gift.

Dress Weights: I don't know about you, but for me I hate when my dresses constantly fly up.

Remove & Chill Nail Polish Remover: This nail polish remover seems perfect for if you need one for on the go.

Cherry Pitter: Perfect for any lover of food gadgets.

Toilet Light: Great for being able to see when you get up in the middle of the night and have to use the restroom.

Lotto Tickets: I always love receiving lotto tickets in my stocking.

Mini Mandolin: Another fun gift for any lover of food gadgets.

Slinky: I love putting throw back toys in my husbands stocking.

Makeup Eraser: Great if you wear makeup.

Folding Sunglasses: I have the Ray Ban version of these and always get compliments. Plus, they are polarized.

Knife Covers: If you have knives loose in your drawers than you need covers.

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2019 Holiday Gift Guide: For Him

As a professional organizer and concierge in Houston I purchase a lot of items on behalf of clients. Here are some things they are loving right now for men.

Smart Sprinkler: This is a sprinkler system that coordinates with the weather forecast to save water and it also has hd cameras. It is compatible with Alexa. 

Fridge Eye: This device will show you what is in your fridge. This would be perfect if you are grocery shopping and what to see what you do or don't have or if you are planning to make specific recipes and want to see what you have on hand.

Coffee Mug: Keeps your drink hot and you can control with your smartphone. 

Inflatable Kayak: During hurricane Harvey our neighbor lent us this kayak to rescue neighbors and help them out. It worked awesome!!

Gun Cabinet: If you just need a cabinet that is expensive to secure valuables or firearms this is inexpensive and perfect.

Tommy John Lounge Pants: If you are familiar with this brand you know they are super soft and perfect for lounging around the house. 

Biolite Firepit: Great for any outdoorsman.

Drive Rotator Ratchet: This is something that my husband was super excited about.

Astronaut Bottle Opener: Since we are based in Houston, TX, all things astronaut related are pretty popular.

Truffle Hot Sauce: Anyone know a lover of hot sauce? I know so many people who love it and it is always a go to gift every year.

Bird Feeder:Fun for any bird lover and sturdy.

Automatic Lawn Mower: this looks like it would make life so much easier.

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2019 Holiday Gift Guide: For Her

It is that time of year again where all the holiday gift guides start to roll out. As a professional organizer and concierge in Houston I purchase a lot of items on behalf of clients. Here are some things they are loving right now. 

Rabbit Freezable Cocktail: Fun way to make a frozen cocktail.

Bedjet: Some of my clients have this and LOVE it. It blows heat and cool air into your bed. It has a hose where you can keep it at the foot of your bed.

My Skin Track UV: This device measures how much UV light your skin receive sand you can see updated info on the app as well. This device helps you navigate and take charge of various environmental factors that could be harming you. It is waterproof and battery free. It is meant to be worn on your clothing.

Towel Warmer: Who doesn't love a warm towel when getting out of the shower during the winter?

Muz Vermouth: This is a fruity vermouth that tastes like wine.

Acrylic Playing Cards Holder: Up your style game with everyday objects by incorporating this acrylic playing card holder.

Rainbow Cake Stand: How cute is this Flourshop cake stand? It is simple with a pop of color. Perfect for any entertaining you may be doing.

Terrazzo Pour Over Coffee Stand with Glass Dripper: This is modern pour over coffee stand and a perfect gift for any coffee lover.

Poncho: This poncho comes in several different colors and makes for an easy winter outfit.

Modern Tic Tac Toe Set: A fun, inexpensive, modern tic tac toe.

Rainbow Earrings: These are tiny, but fun for those how like rainbow inspired items. They are also inexpensive.

Steam Eye Mask: This eye mask looks perfect after a long, stressful day.

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3 Holiday Helpers Part 4 | Houston Professional Organizer & Concierge

As a professional organizer and concierge business owner I feel like I always need to be prepared. I have a toolkit that I bring to most projects, but during the holidays there are specific things I make sure to have on hand. From now until Christmas I will be featuring 3 holiday helpers each week that are helpful always, but especially during the holidays.

Here is part 4. Watch the YouTube video above where I explain why I like these holiday helpers.

All items are linked in the Eco Modern Concierge Shop.

ecomodernconcierge.com

3 Holiday Helpers Part 3 | Houston Professional Organizer & Concierge

As a professional organizer and concierge business owner I feel like I always need to be prepared. I have a toolkit that I bring to most projects, but during the holidays there are specific things I make sure to have on hand. From now until Christmas I will be featuring 3 holiday helpers each week that are helpful always, but especially during the holidays.

Here is part 3. Watch the YouTube video above where I explain why I like these holiday helpers. 

All items are linked in the Eco Modern Concierge Shop.

ecomodernconcierge.com