We’d love to take a minute to introduce you to Sage Organization & Design founder, Jolin Polasek! Jolin is originally from Madison, Wisconsin but considers herself a true New Yorker after 11 years in the city. She lives in Manhattan with her husband, Jarell, and their baby boy, Vanny.
In our Q & A with Jolin we cover everything from how she started her professional organizing business to her favorite organizing products, as well as the ins and outs of the things she wished her clients knew! Here we go!
How did you get your start as a professional organizer & when did you launch Sage Organization & Design?
Back in 2015, I helped a friend move cross-country, and within 12 hours of arrival I had every box unpacked, art hanging on the walls, and food cooking in the kitchen. That’s when my friend suggested I make this weird special skill my job. I did my research, connected with a few existing organizing companies, and eventually started working as an organizing assistant. I fell in love with it. In 2016, I created Sage Organization & Design, launching my website and Instagram page. I later worked as a closet designer and Brand Ambassador for The Container Store, and have been growing and gaining momentum with my own company ever since.
Why “sage”?
The answer to this is multi-faceted as the word itself has several meanings. Sage has a connotation of wisdom and knowledge and we aim to bring thoughtful and purposeful systems full of wisdom to a space through our work. In fact, saging a space is a way to bring new energy to a room, which is also a result of our work. I also love the color and the herb is delicious! Basically, I like all of the things about sage so it seemed like the perfect fit.
What is your favorite part about being a professional organizer?
That is easy - getting to show off the finished product. The moment when I get to reveal a newly organized space to my clients and I can see their shoulders drop and their stress melt away. That is the best moment.
What is your favorite space to organize and why?
This is a tricky one because I like different spaces for different reasons. But I think right now kitchens are my favorite. I love to cook so creating a functional space that will help inspire someone to create beautiful and delicious food is special to me. Cooking can be stressful so eliminating little stressors, creating an effortless space, and making it so someone can feel like a top chef is pretty stellar.
What is your favorite organizing product and why?
I love a classic 3M hook. They are super accessible, affordable, renter-friendly, and simple. Getting stuff up and off the floor immediately improves a space’s function and aesthetic. 3M hooks are an overlooked game-changer.
What is your favorite color?
…Sage.
What is your favorite animal?
CATS.
Do you have any hobbies or other interests?
I’m currently raising a small human (Van is 7 months old and loves to climb on me) so I don’t have much time for hobbies right now. But, I do love gardening and all kinds of theatre. One day I’ll have time to get back to those!
What is one thing you wish prospective clients knew?
Getting organized is not just about buying baskets and drawer organizers. Setting up systems is about changing your state of mind around your stuff. Maintaining the new method is as important as setting up those systems in the first place. You have to be prepared, ready, and willing for all parts of the process.
What makes Sage Organization & Design unique?
We're confident the custom-tailored solutions we create will work so well, our clients will never need to have us back. Fortunately for us, they love our work so much, they bring us back time and time again to transform additional spaces. Our solutions are so effective, they not only make our clients' lives easier, they eliminate stress and exceed expectations.
