Before my declutter days.

For over 15 years, my life revolved around the hospitality industry. As a Director of Sales for a leading hotel group, I poured my heart and soul into my career. The long hours, the fierce pride, and the sense of achievement all became part of who I was. In 2015, I was even part of the takeover team at Oulton Hall as it transitioned from DeVere Hotels to Q Hotels – an intense but rewarding challenge.

And then, life changed overnight. I was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer.

I worked throughout chemotherapy, even as I faced a mastectomy. But the moment I confirmed when my surgery would be, my employer let me go. It was a crushing blow. After six months of recovery, I returned to hospitality. I worked through the challenges of COVID, but something in me had shifted. I had seen too much, difficult behaviour from the public, a lack of compassion in the workplace, and my own values no longer fitting with the industry. When my mum passed away during COVID and my dad was diagnosed with dementia soon after, I realised I needed more flexibility to support him. But when I asked for it, the answer was a flat no.

The Spark That Lit the Way

Looking back, I can see the moment my path changed. Several years earlier, my parents had downsized from a large house to a two-bedroom bungalow. Sorting through decades of belongings was no small task.

My mum loved shopping; clothes, bedding, china; and my dad had saved countless bits of wood that he was sure would “come in handy one day.” We even discovered 40 bottles of washing-up liquid!

What could have been overwhelming turned into something I truly loved: the process of decluttering, organising, and supporting my parents through such a difficult transition. I realised how much difference it makes when someone walks alongside you with patience, empathy, and a plan.

A Life-Changing Moment

The real turning point for me came during COVID. I was part of a small team running a hotel for essential workers when a consultant from the local hospital shouted in my face for not allowing him to eat breakfast in the restaurant. His words; “You are worthless. Totally worthless.” cut me to the core.

But strangely, that moment also became the catalyst. I realised I wanted to do work that was the opposite of “worthless”, work that truly matters, that helps people feel lighter, stronger, and more in control. PS Hospitality is far from worthless. He was wrong. Hospitality will always run in my blood and those who work in it, do it because they are dedicated, hard working and have an incredible passion.

Finding My True Calling

That’s when I discovered professional organising. I trained with APDO (the Association of Professional Declutterers & Organisers), started my own business, and have now been working with clients for over three years.

I continue to learn every single day, through professional development, through training, and most of all, through my clients themselves. They are my heroes, bravely facing their clutter, their memories, and sometimes their grief, as they fight to reclaim their homes and lives. Together, we laugh, we cry, and we make progress.

Where I Am Today

As I continue this journey, and now embarking on a new venture alongside Martie Bateson from Cut the Clutter, (more of that to follow) I am reminded daily how vital this work is. Professional organising isn’t about “tidying up.” It’s about giving people breathing space, dignity, and freedom to live their lives more fully.

My dad’s dementia continues to progress, but the flexibility of this work allows me to be there for him, and for my clients. That balance is priceless. I love what I do. And I know, deep down, that I do make a difference.

👉 Your Turn: If my story resonates with you, perhaps you’re at a point where life feels overwhelming or clutter has taken over. Please know, you don’t have to face it alone.

I’d love to support you on your own journey.

Book a free introductory call with me here