It can be hard to really relax until the closet is organized and the bills are paid. The following professional organizers and errand runners can help you tick things off your to-do list. All work in DC, Virginia, and Maryland.
The Completed List
Silver Spring; 301-412-0050
Monique Samuel helps clients with larger tasks such as planning events and coordinating home renovations. She recently managed a client’s move to Thailand, and she continues to maintain that person’s Washington home. Rates average $65 an hour.
Concierge America
Chevy Chase; 301-986-0418
In business since 1993, Ellen Epstein has this philosophy: “I don’t care what the problem is—I’ll do it.” She’s helped clients import an exotic bird from Honduras and broker the purchase of 400,000 barrels of oil, but she also handles simpler tasks, from shopping to balancing books. Rates start at $125 an hour.
Dynamic Organizing
Silver Spring; 301-792-8367
A member of the National Association of Professional Organizers, Laura Cambridge often coordinates moves for people relocating to Washington and seniors who are downsizing, but she can also help those staying in place. Fee: $75 an hour, with a three-hour minimum.
Insightful Solutions
Woodbridge; 703-497-5904
Melissa Sorensen was one of the nation’s first certified professional organizers. In addition to home organizing, she creates time-management and filing systems for home offices, telecommuters, and small businesses. She also offers seminars in clutter control and time management. She charges $100 to $125 an hour.
Lifestyle Solutions
Chevy Chase; 301-652-9383
Debrah Shaver and her three associates specialize in setting up and maintaining home offices as well as managing financial, insurance, and medical records. A former event planner, Shaver also takes care of other projects; she has shipped a car cross-country during a snowstorm and coordinated a five-day vacation for a family of 18. Fees are $90 to $125 an hour.
The Runaround
Potomac; 301-922-0196
In business since 1996, Amy Goldberg-Cutler will be your personal assistant for an hourly rate. She can wait during business hours for contractors and repair people, run errands, shop for groceries, manage filing, and organize records. She charges $60 to $75 an hour, with a one-hour minimum.
United States Vehicle Registration Service
Takoma Park; 202-342-2558
Hate going to the Department of Motor Vehicles? Greg Campbell and his associates have braved the dreaded DMV for more than 20 years. For those just moving to the area, Campbell will obtain and complete any necessary paperwork, usually within one day. If you’ve gotten into car trouble, his team can get your vehicle from the impound lot or take it to a mechanic. Rates vary; the TRIP package—title, registration, inspection, and parking permit—costs $398.
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This article first appeared in the December 2010 issue of The Washingtonian.
