Hidden Gems: Meet Michele Perry of Michele Makes Space

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michele Perry.

Hi Michele, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
For nearly 30 years, I worked as a social worker in behavioral health, supporting individuals and families through some of life’s most challenging moments. Throughout my career, I saw firsthand how our environments affect our well-being. When our homes feel overwhelming, it can be harder to focus, rest, and enjoy the people and things that matter most.

Over time, I realized I wanted to help people in a different, more tangible way. I’ve always been drawn to creating calm, functional spaces, and I discovered that professional organizing allowed me to combine my passion for helping others with practical, lasting solutions. That’s what led me to start Michele Makes Space.

Today, I work with homeowners throughout Columbus, Ohio and surrounding communities who are navigating all kinds of life transitions, whether they’re downsizing and need help decluttering, unpacking after a move, preparing a home for sale, or simply looking for systems that make everyday life easier. My goal isn’t to create picture-perfect homes. It’s to create spaces that reflect the people who live there and support the way they want to live.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that organizing isn’t about containers or labels. It’s about listening. Every client has different routines, challenges, and priorities, so there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Together, we create systems that are functional, sustainable, and realistic for everyday life.

Starting Michele Makes Space has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my career. I feel incredibly grateful that I get to walk alongside people during meaningful transitions and help them create homes that feel calmer, more functional, and less overwhelming. My hope is that every client leaves with more than an organized space, they leave with a home that better supports the life they want to live. That philosophy is at the heart of Michele Makes Space: Make Space. Live with Intention.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Like most small business owners, it definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road. Starting a business means wearing a lot of different hats. One day I’m organizing a client’s pantry, and the next I’m learning about marketing, bookkeeping, website design, SEO, or creating content for social media. There has definitely been a learning curve, but I’ve genuinely enjoyed growing both personally and professionally.

One of the biggest challenges has been building a business from the ground up. I’ve had to become more comfortable sharing my story, promoting my business, and trusting that the right clients will connect with the work I do.

Another lesson has been learning that progress takes time. Every client, referral, and relationship has been built one conversation at a time, and I’ve come to appreciate that sustainable growth is worth the patience.

Looking back, I wouldn’t change the journey. Every challenge has helped shape not only my business but also the way I serve my clients. Building Michele Makes Space has reinforced something I often tell my clients: meaningful progress doesn’t happen overnight. It happens one step at a time.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Michele Makes Space?
Michele Makes Space is a professional organizing business serving homeowners throughout Columbus, Ohio, and the surrounding communities. I help clients declutter, organize, pack and unpack during a move, prepare their homes for sale, and create practical systems that make everyday life easier. I also offer Refresh + Maintain sessions for clients who want ongoing support to keep those systems working as life changes.

What sets my business apart is my background in behavioral health. After nearly 30 years as a social worker, I understand that clutter is rarely just about “stuff.” It can be connected to life transitions, changing priorities, overwhelming schedules, or simply not having systems that work. That’s why I take a compassionate, judgment-free approach with every client.

I don’t believe organizing is about having a Pinterest-perfect home. I believe it’s about creating a home that supports your everyday life. Every family is different, so every organizing system should be different. I take the time to understand my clients’ routines, habits, and goals before recommending solutions because I want the systems we create together to be realistic, functional, and easy to maintain.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the trust my clients place in me. I know it isn’t always easy to invite someone into your home, and I never take that trust for granted. My goal is to create a calm, supportive experience where clients feel comfortable, respected, and encouraged throughout the process.

At the heart of Michele Makes Space is a simple belief: when we make space in our homes, we create more room for what matters most.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
One of the biggest things I’ve learned is that networking isn’t about collecting business cards, it’s about building genuine relationships. Some of the best opportunities I’ve had have come from simply getting to know people, learning about their businesses, and looking for ways we can support one another.

I also don’t think you need to have one perfect mentor. Throughout my journey, I’ve learned from many different people. Some have shared business advice, others have helped me develop my organizing skills, and others have simply encouraged me along the way. I’m grateful for each of those relationships.

Being involved with the National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals (NAPO) has also been incredibly valuable. It has given me the opportunity to learn from experienced organizers, build meaningful relationships, and continue growing both personally and professionally. Serving as President of the NAPO Ohio Chapter has reinforced my belief that we all grow stronger when we support one another and share our knowledge.

My advice is to stay curious, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to reach out. Most people are more willing to share their experiences than you might expect. At the same time, remember that networking is a two-way street. Look for ways to support others, make introductions, and celebrate their successes. Those authentic relationships are often the ones that have the greatest impact.

Pricing:

• Professional organizing services start at $100 per hour.
• Every project begins with a complimentary discovery call followed by a complimentary in-home consultation to discuss your goals, answer questions, and develop a personalized plan.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.michelemakesspace.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelemakesspace
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelemakesspace
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-perry-lisw-s-2415aa49
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/michele-makes-space-dublin-2?osq=Michele+Makes+Space
• Soundcloud: michele@michelemakesspace.com
• Other: https://www.houzz.com/pro/michele-perry17/__public