Decluttering for a New Chapter: Monica's Move, Part I

Monica de Wit
Sep 29, 2025
3 min read

Change often begins with small steps. For Monica, our CEO at HUGO and Company, this fall has brought big changes: moving from the home where she raised her children to a cozy “empty nester” home near the beach. She’s also moving the HUGO headquarters home office after ten years of building the company from the ground up.

Moving From - Moving To

The process, though emotional, was also a great reminder of the HUGO approach: timeless, convenient, effective — and always centred on making transitions easier. Here’s what her move taught us about decluttering with purpose and grace.

1. Start with What’s Easy

Momentum plays a vital role in decluttering. The process began in the garage, which was transformed into a "command station." By creating separate piles for donate and waste, the task ahead appeared manageable. Tackling easy decisions first enabled quick progress and increased confidence.

2. Create a Visual Roadmap

To avoid the stress of guesswork, detailed floor plans were drawn up for the new, smaller home. This step was invaluable: it gave clarity on what would fit, what wouldn’t, and helped prioritize what to keep. It’s easier to let go when you know exactly where things will (or won’t) belong in the next space.

3. Focus by Area, Not Everything at Once

Decluttering can feel overwhelming if you try to tackle it all at once. Monica and her husband dedicated weekends to specific spaces—one room or area at a time. This focused approach not only made the workload feel lighter but also turned weekends into milestones of progress.

4. Keep It Moving

When selling items, they priced things reasonably so they would move quickly on Facebook Marketplace. What didn’t sell was generously donated — truckloads went to Goodwill and the Diabetes Centre. The faster items left the house, the lighter the process felt.

5. Label with Love

Some belongings carried sentimental value. Instead of holding on to everything, they set aside special items for family members. Boxes were clearly labeled with each person’s name, making it easy to pass things along and ensuring treasured pieces found meaningful new homes.

Labeling boxes for family members - think of students, newlyweds, etc.

6. Don’t Pack Too Soon

Interestingly, packing wasn’t the priority. Instead, decluttering came first. By the time the move date arrives, packing will be quick and simple — because there's much less to bring along.

The art of decluttering makes packing easier

The Emotional Side of Decluttering

Decluttering is never just about things. It’s about memories, milestones, and meaning. Letting go of a family home means closing one chapter and opening another. Monica’s move reflects what so many of our clients experience: a mix of nostalgia, gratitude, and anticipation for what’s next.

Moving the HUGO home office after ten years was equally bittersweet. Yet, just like in a personal move, the process brought clarity: it’s about creating space for growth, possibility, and the next phase of life.

A Fresh Start by the Beach

With less “stuff” and more space for what matters, Monica’s next chapter is taking shape — both at home and with HUGO. Her move is proof that with the right approach, change doesn’t have to feel daunting. It can feel refreshing, hopeful, and full of possibility.

At HUGO and Company, this is exactly why we do what we do. Decluttering, planning, and moving aren’t just logistical steps — they’re part of creating a life that feels lighter, calmer, and ready for what’s next.

👉 If you’re ready to embrace a move in your life, let us guide you through it.