Wow! 2018 was a HUGE year (my first full year in business) for The Baer Minimalist! So many exciting transformations for clients, collaborations with realtors, countless cups of coffee shared with businesses and individuals making waves in Indianapolis, and tons of drop-offs to charities in need!

What better way to say goodbye to this last trip around the sun than by highlighting my top 10 for 2018.

Organized + Styled a Closet Fit for a Fashion Blogger

Collaborating with Beth Chappo, the fashionista behind the Seersucker + Saddles blog was not only a blast, but truly helped connect me with dozens of wildly fun clients this year. Starting with a gorgeous, well-designed blank slate of a closet allowed me to dream up how we can best showcase her wardrobe, while giving a boutique feel perfectly fit for a fashion blogger.

Named an Indianapolis Monthly “Best Of” Award Winner

In December, I was named in the “Best Of” Issue of Indianapolis Monthly! Talk about the utmost in flattery!! To think that this dream I had in 2016, that launched in 2017, would be recognized like this in 2018 was just the most special way to cap the year.

Planned a Luncheon Fit for Royalty

In November, I had the opportunity to work alongside two clients to plan + execute a luncheon for fans of India Hicks, as her book tour brought her through Indianapolis. She was beautiful and gracious inside and out!

THESE Before/Afters

I had the chance to help countless clients transform their spaces this year! As we asked ourselves the following questions about the stuff that had accumulated over time, it was no surprise that the “after” photos look vastly different than the “before.” And no, we didn’t just shove things into a closet, basement or attic - we intentionally made decisions about each item and donated those that didn’t make the cut to some amazing local charities right here in our community.

Survived Planning 4 Haven Magazine Launch Parties with 300+ Guests at Each

Partnering with HAVEN Magazine in 2018 gave me the opportunity to share tips with 40,000+ homeowners through their quarterly magazine (Subscribe for 2019 HERE). The icing on the cake was planning their magazine launch events and working with amazing clients, vendors and charities across the city to bring 300+ community members together to celebrate four times throughout the year.

Attended my first NAPO (National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals) Conference in April

This past April, I had the chance to travel to Chicago for my very first NAPO Conference! Imagine 500+ organizers sharing best practices, attending session and enjoying a cocktail or two together. Dare I say, I was in heaven?

Collaborated with Drapery Street for a Holiday-Focused Presentation at the Indiana Design Center

In November, Caryn O’Sullivan, Char Cota and I presented to a crowd of 50+ on our tips for your most Organized + Chic holiday yet! The group asked incredible questions and it was so neat to hear that some of our tips were implemented as I heard from attendees throughout the holiday season. Curious what we shared? Check out two blog posts recapping the event: HERE and HERE.

Launched my Indianapolis Donation Guide in January

There are countless organizations in Indianapolis that are focused on helping individuals in need. However, I found that there wasn’t a central spot to go to that highlighted all of these resources together. This past January I launched the “Where to Donate Just About Everything in Indianapolis” guide, which breaks items down by category so you can be intentional about your giving. Check out the latest version HERE!

Styled a Gorgeous California Closet-designed space for the IndyRama Home Show presented by BAGI

It’s not every day you get the opportunity to collaborate with California Closets, BAGI and an amazing home builder, in this case, Compendium Group! Prior to the IndyRama Home Show launching, I had the chance to style the most amazing “hers” Master Closet in this gorgeous new home. I had to peel myself out of there afterward, as it truly was the most calming, serene and fun closet to hang in!

Brought on Two Rockstar Subcontractors

Once I found out we were expecting twins, I knew I would need a few helping hands to continue on with business as usual. Enter two organizing rockstars who have been helping with projects this Fall and will be by my side next year! Shannon and Meredith, thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Phew….there is nothing like looking back and reflecting on a year like this! I learned a ton, like how a business like this ebbs and flows by the season, how to reconcile accounts in Quickbooks, the true value of giving time back to busy families across Indianapolis and a whole lot more.

2019 will likely look a little different, but I can’t wait to see what it will hold! I know one thing for sure, I will be HOLDING two babies in my arms in a few short months and couldn’t be more thrilled for this next chapter!

The Baer Minimalist helps busy families create ORGANIZED + STYLIZED spaces and events throughout Indianapolis. 

To keep up to date with all of the tips, tricks and inspiration doled out, subscribe to our newsletter, The Minimal-List, here.