Today we’d like to introduce you to Katherine Picott.
Hi Katherine, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Sure… so while I launched my business in June of 2020, Tidy Milso was in the making long before that. In February of 2017, my husband was away at basic training for the Army. During this time, I paid off debt, lost weight and read a book like so many blogs and videos recommended. I came across “Live More, Want Less” by Mary Carlomagno and it was so compelling that I finished reading the book in a matter of days. With motivation from the book and in pursuit to stay busy, I re-organized and decluttered our home. My mindset was that this would not only occupy my time as I waited for his homecoming but it would be beneficial in case we had to relocate. Through several phone chats and video calls, we managed to get rid of 20+ bags of clothing and miscellaneous items. I can still remember the freeing feeling in keeping only the things we each desired.
So, when I stumbled upon “Tidying up with Marie Kondo” on Netflix and she defined that feeling as #SparkJoy everything clicked. After my husband and I paid off $86,335.04…yes, every penny counts…my gift to myself was the KonMari® Consultant Certification Course.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
I don’t think there could ever be a smooth road to entrepreneurship. What is true is that even with a plan in place, unexpected things happen. When I started the business, I was working as a Property Manager in Commercial Property Management. Six months after starting my business I received a promotional role within the company. Truthfully, I had no desire to take on any additional responsibilities as I was preparing my exit strategy to solely run my business.
My desired timeline was to put in my two weeks in June 2021 as that would mark one year in business for me. After discussing this with my husband we decided August 2021 was a more suitable timeline as it would allow us to add more money to our savings. In June 2021 I was laid off and received a severance that would cover my expenses for the next three months.
As you know, we’re big fans of Tidy Milso, LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I would be happy to. So my business name is Tidy Milso and it is a direct reference to my own tidy journey. Milso is actually an acronym for Military Significant Other as I am an Army Wife. To be candid, if my husband hadn’t joined the military, Tidy Milso wouldn’t exist and I am so grateful that it did happen.
I enjoy folding and I teach my clients how to fold their clothing. I even have a series on YouTube called The 12 Days of Folding with Tidy Milso where I teach how to fold hoodies, bras, t-shirts, jeans, you name it! I am also a KonMari® Consultant certified by Marie Kondo, so I guess it makes sense that I like to fold.
I would say I am most proud that I get to not only transform spaces but transform lives! My clients seek my services when they are feeling overwhelmed with both the clutter and disorganization in their spaces. Oftentimes due to their busy schedules and absence of time management.They may also seek support during significant life changes such as: Getting Married or Divorced, Becoming empty nesters, Having a baby, Moving/Job or Military Relocation, Buying/Selling a home (Staging).
I offer a few different services: In-Person Organization, Virtual Organization, Move-In Services for Military Families (Packing + Unpacking),Guest Speaking and other Collaborations.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
I have learned many lessons as an entrepreneur but the one that resonates with me is to enjoy the space between where you are and where you are going. It’s so easy as new business owners to focus on the goals that are unaccomplished and to compare yourself to the veteran business owners in your industry. This lesson is a reminder to celebrate the small wins along the way and to enjoy the journey.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.tidymilso.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tidymilso/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tidymilso/
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/tidymilso/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXiEAvBcj_hSA2X8Fyn9R5A
Image Credits
Belle Imagery Portraits
