About Us
Barbie Wenstrup
I grew up organizing myself and my family, eventually expanding to friends and church. I went to college and created my own major to pursue Professional Organizing. I studied psychology, communication, space-planning, and more. I joined NAPO (National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals) in 2008 and supplemented my college classes with their Professional Organizer classes. I started Simplify-Clean-Organize after graduating, but mostly kept activity minimal as I was working full-time. After time in the corporate world, I decided to return to what I love most - helping other people refresh their spaces and become more organized.
I'm a non-judgmental, patient, compassionate problem-solver who will bring energy, enthusiasm, encouragement, and a kit of common supplies to support and guide you through the process. I will recommend things to keep or let go of, and create systems - just for you - for how to put away what remains. There's no "right" way to organize, only options for what will work for you.
I love your mess!
I am excited to help you eliminate your piles of clutter and breathe a sigh of relief when you walk into a room. I want to help you transform your life by finding homes for every item and creating functional spaces. Whether you're moving out or staying put, I want to improve your quality of life. I'm working for you! So I will hold you accountable - especially when it gets hard - to push through to your goal of regaining control of your stuff!
Outside of organizing you can find me with a latte at the newest coffee shop, testing the pancake at a new brunch spot, or sipping a cocktail at rooftop bar, lifting weights at the gym, or praying at The Immaculata, or by the pool, or in Cincinnati with my family, or at home on my couch surrounded by friends watching the latest gripping drama.
When you're ready to gain control back from your belongings, I would love to help facilitate the power shift!
We believe in “eco-organizing.” Our goal is to send as little to the landfill as possible, and we can achieve this in many ways. Typically, we use fewer organizing products than luxury organizers because we start with those products and spaces that you already have and then build from there (if we do need products, we try to buy those made in the USA when possible). Items that can have a second life—by being reused, recycled, or donated—will find it. Some can be documented and posted on forums for San Diegans seeking those specific items. Electronics can be recycled; hazardous materials will be properly discarded; furniture and appliances can go to those in need; and art supplies can go to a local, creative-reuse store. Any remaining items can be donated to a local charity. As is often the case, something that you no longer want or need may be EXACTLY what someone else desires. We try to be that bridge for your items to find a new home.
"Do not ever imagine that anyone will wish - or be able - to schedule time off to take care of what you didn't bother to take care of yourself. No matter how much they love you, don't leave this burden to them."
Margareta Magnusson, The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning
