A Clutter-Free Dorm // Hacks for Small Spaces

As someone who has always been obsessed with organization, moving into my Freshman year dorm felt like this incredible opportunity to test my chops at optimizing a small space. I shared a room with my sister growing up, but having my living/dining/sleeping quarters all combined into one room was definitely a new challenge.

And fast forward 20+ years, OMG have dorm rooms changed. Not the size (unfortunately), but the level of decor and style that goes into them. I am totally in awe at the way students are transforming these spaces (and can’t believe that there will come a day when I have two kids (potentially) heading to college at the same time).

In honor of all of the young adults beginning to prep for their new spaces come Fall, we wanted to share our favorite hacks for optimizing your “tiny home.”

And our words of advice begin with remembering that the best spaces aren’t filled with more, they’re built with purpose. Do I sound like a mom, or what?! :)

Indy Women Creating Space // Meet Kristin Patrick

I had the absolute privilege of connecting with today’s guest, Kristin Patrick, after sitting down with Jona Wells on the Indy Women Who Inspire podcast. When we wrapped recording, Jona handed me a delicious bottle of N/A Bubbles from Orangily as a thank you gift. And with one sip, I just knew I needed to get to know Kristin, who co-owns Orangily, a wellness bottle shop with locations in Indianapolis and Carmel, with her sister, Andee Simpson. Hear their founder story here.

And boy, could we chat and laugh all day. With a Masters in Library Science, an affection for organization and instructional design, and a passion for lifting women up, I found a kindred spirit. She also introduced me to MOTW in Carmel where I fell in love with their Spanish Latte. A true treat.

Organized | INDY WOMENMaria BaerMay 1, 2026Indy Women Creating SpaceComment

DONATION RESOURCE // Indiana Diaper Bank

Our Indianapolis Donation Guide has been our favorite local resource to share over the years, and we love the full circle moments when we can help amplify the stories behind the donation needs. We always find that having a specific use case for how an organization is putting our client’s items straight into the hands of those in need makes the letting go process so much easier.

We loved having the chance to sit down with Dani Wilson, Development Manager for the Indiana Diaper Bank, to talk about the great need for diapers throughout the state, how they distribute millions of diapers on an annual basis and how YOU can help support their efforts.

Organized | RESOURCESMaria BaerApril 17, 2026Donation Resources, IndianapolisComment

Indy Women Creating Space // Meet Jona Wells

If you haven’t crossed paths with Jona Wells, you are in for such a treat! We met last year when she reached out to interview me on her podcast, Indy Women Who Inspire. Since our conversation, I have listened to nearly all of the episodes of Season 1 + 2 as I drive to and from client projects and I would encourage you to add a few to your podcast queue too.

Jona created a platform to share these stories and does it with the ease and curiosity of a dear friend, even if you have only just met for the first time. What I love the most about her podcast is that it brings the human side to light of the women behind some of the most incredible organizations, businesses and non-profits in Indianapolis.

I am delighted to share this inspiring conversation with Jona!

Organized | INDY WOMENMaria BaerApril 10, 2026Indy Women Creating SpaceComment

Our Handy Dandy Organizing Printables

If we’ve ever worked together, than today’s resource probably looks familiar! Whenever we work on a project with a client, we pull out our trusty side kick. These organizing printables will help keep your organized projects…well…organized.

If you have the space, consider dedicating a portion of your garage for donations, or a spare closet for items that you intend to sell. Recyclables and trash can be dealt with as you go. And for those items that you wish to keep, take care of them! Put them on display, use them for more than a special occasion, tell stories about the items to your kids. Don’t let them collect dust or be boxed away for another time. Your future self with thank you!!

Download your copy HERE!

Organized | RESOURCESMaria BaerMarch 27, 2026Organizing Tips, Organization, organize, New HomeComment

Indy Women Creating Space // Meet Brittany Kincius

It’s time to share another fabulous Indy Woman Creating Space and if you don’t know her already, you will finish this post feeling like you have a new bestie (and maybe setting an alarm for 8:30 pm each evening - read on to find out why).

In late 2021, I was a Team of One and mentioned to a client that I was thinking of dipping my toe into having a team. Well, she knew exactly who that first addition needed to be. None other than her friend, Brittany Kincius.

From that first coffee meeting, I knew she would be such an asset to the team. Brittany brings such a high level of organization and skill, it is no surprise that she also runs an incredible business in her “spare time.” I can’t wait for you to get to know her better!

Organized | INDY WOMENMaria BaerMarch 20, 2026Indy Women Creating SpaceComment

Pack Smart, Return Calm // Minimalist Travel Tips You'll Actually Use

Happy March, friends!

If spring is whispering “adventure!” in your ear (as it is in mine), it must be time to dish on all things travel organization! The kind that actually saves time, sanity, and suitcase space so your only tough decision is where to book your next flight. Seriously, where are we traveling next??

Traveling should feel like a breath of fresh air, not a panic "what did I forget?!” scramble at the airport. Between years of organizing client closets and spaces, packing for family vacations, and lovingly helping others prep for moves and trips, I’ve gathered some tried-and-true travel hacks that are simple, but magic.

Let’s go!

Organized | SPACESMaria BaerMarch 6, 2026Travel TipsComment

Indy Women Creating Space // Meet Christie Congdon

We are so excited to share another Indy Woman Creating Space and ohmygoodness, prepare to be inspired.

Christie joined The Baer Minimalist team two years ago and brings such an incredible eye for clothing, styling and organization to our team. Outside of organizing, she continues to WOW with her love of Vintage and thrift fashion and her ability to find diamonds in the rough to sell on her Instagram channel, @wise.thrifts.

She has this incredible ability to pull clothing and housewares together in the most effortless way and I just needed to know how she does it. She’s giving away all of her secrets below (and in these reveal all posts on thrifting here and here).

Organized | INDY WOMENMaria BaerFebruary 27, 2026Indy Women Creating SpaceComment

Roses Are Red, Clutter Is Not: 14 Tips to Love Your Home

Around here, we believe that loving your home is possible, when you fill it with intention. Sometimes it is tricky to get to this place though. It takes time, focus and often, a helping hand. (And of course, we would love to be that helping hand).

Creating a home you love isn’t about perfection or Pinterest-worthy spaces (although we love being inspired by those images). It’s about intentional systems, breathing room, and highlighting your story in ways that allow your home to be a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the world.

Let’s dig into 14 Tips to LOVE Your Home:

Organized | SPACESMaria BaerFebruary 13, 2026Organizing Tips, OrganizationComment

Indy Women Creating Space // Meet Maura Malloy

After being interviewed on Jona Wells’ podcast, Indy Women Who Inspire, it made me pause and think about all of the wonderful women I’ve met through my entrepreneurial journey over the last nine years. From clients to fellow business owners to passionate philanthropists who are working tirelessly to shape our city, I wanted to help share their stories.

Enter The Signature Series, Indy Women Creating Space, celebrating Indy women who are intentionally designing, organizing, creating, and elevating our community in their own unique ways. Think of it as a fun, inspiring, uplifting spotlight on the women who make Indianapolis feel connected and full of possibility.

I feel honored to call these women friends and to introduce you to them!

I am so excited to introduce you to Maura Malloy! Maura and I first connected on Instagram due to a mutual love of Indy, organization + minimalism. It didn’t take long to become IRL friends and business confidants. She is the only person I trust to create keepsake albums of my kid’s art and the absolute coolest thing was the works of art that she created in collaboration with Meghan Barich of my and Tyler’s childhood art (featured in last year’s Decorators’ Showhouse). I know you are going to love her as much as I do.

Organized | INDY WOMENMaria BaerFebruary 6, 2026Indy Women Creating SpaceComment

31 Unassuming Areas to Declutter // A New Years Challenge

Happy New Year, aspiring Minimalists! Let’s Make 2026 Your Most Organized Year Yet (or maybe just slightly more organized than last year).

I don’t know about you, but 2026 feels like a fresh planner page, a crisp label on a to-die-for basket, a drawer that’s finally going to stay organized (…right?!). If the tail end of last year had you shoving closets full and saying “I’ll deal with it in January,” well friends, the time has come.

Organized | RESOURCESMaria BaerJanuary 5, 2026Declutter, Donate, Before/After, Checklist, Organizing Tips, OrganizationComment

2025 // Our Year in Review

Maria BaerDecember 31, 2025Comment

The Baer Minimalist® Blog -- Tips, Tricks and Hacks on living a more ORGANIZED + STYLIZED Life

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