pinklily

pinklily goes to New York!!

2012-02-13T17:50:00.000+11:00

This was definitely BIG!! My first trip to the great NYC...

Sydney may be having a slightly non hot summer, but this was something else altogether. Cold with a capital C!

But what a fabulous city, even in winter it's pretty hot hot hot.

So I was off for a good look at the style and offerings of New York to make sure pinklily has the BEST and most current products to enhance and streamline your life. And with New York's reputation of showcasing the latest and greatest, I was ready and super excited.

I checked out the MASSIVE gift fair that was four gigantic floors, the likes of which I have never seen before. They sure know how to put on a BIG show! Then it was off to the department stores to see what clever things were on offer that might be perfect for my pinklily clients.

Importantly, I spent many hours in super sized storage stores to see what we might be missing, since pinklily is all about the perfect storage solutions.

No hangtastics here...!!! (still my No.1 favourite multi-purpose clothes hanger)

Ok and yes, wherever I could squeeze in a moment, I wanted to take in and experience all other things fabulous and so NYC! Like a stroll in albeit chilly Central Park, closely followed by getting warm with a Martini at the oh so gorgeous Plaza hotel, a little indulgence at the famous Magnolia Cupcake bakery (girls still queue for these "Carrie" famous cupcakes), being blown away by the Sephora mega store and also enjoying a little shoe purchase along 5th Avenue to wear to dinner at Cipriani's. Very happy days!!

So the verdict?

When it comes to glamorous storage solutions, I am so proud and happy to say that my NY research re-inforced that pinklily already has the answers, we are so on track, with hot new product lines already in production.

Now when it comes to an incredible experience in a vibrant, stylish, sexy city, well that's a whole other story...

Sascha xx

My top 5 tips for getting super organised in 2012...

2012-01-05T12:31:00.002+11:00

For those of you that know what pinklily is all about, you know that I am all for a streamlined clutter free environment that allows you to fully enjoy all that you own more than ever before.

So in line with that here are my top tips for 2012, remembering that is has to be as simple as possible. After all, simplicity is the key here. When you can master that even just a little, you are on your way...

1) You must LOVE LOVE LOVE it

I know the BIGGEST challenge can be letting go of things. It may have sentimental value, financial value, you wanted it so much and so many other good reasons. I have a few solutions. But you also have to get a little ruthless too, because when you do, you will wonder why you didn't do it earlier. The clutter free feeling beats having 'stuff' you don't actually want. So here are some suggestions if you are struggling with letting go of things:

* If you were in a store right now, would you be excited to buy it?
* Do you actually use it or get some sort of true pleasure out of it often
* Could it be out of date and not worth much by the time you may use it again?
* Could someone else be enjoying it rather than leaving it in a box somewhere?
* Could you sell the item and use the money towards something that will bring you joy now?

2) Keep like with like

One of my most important steps is keeping like things together. For example, hang your skirts together, your shirts and tops, your dresses and so on. Keep your belts together, your jewellery and accessories. That way, when you are looking for the perfect earring, it's all in one spot and you can actually get the most out of what you own. And that's where my products will really help you shine.

3) You must be able to see it or reach it easily

This one makes so much sense. I know if I have something stuffed or crumpled at the back of the wardrobe, it's unlikely it will get used or that I will even remember I have it. Clearly packed items that are easy to see and find is crucial - and it's also how you get the most out of your accessories when you are looking to put together a well matched outfit. Oh, and it will definitely help stop you buying similar items that you already have - I have previously found I had two of almost identical items just because my things were not visible and organised.

4) Find a system that inspires you

When everything looks super neat, just like in a magazine ad or department store it, it really does make you feel so much more inspired about the things you do have. You will see combinations easier, you will find getting dressed less about 'nothing to wear' and far more enjoyable. And with a great system, you will have the path to keeping it that way.

A system helps you go from this...

To this!!!

5) Relish in the pleasure of enjoying what you have - you will be surprised!

And lastly, the most important point and the reason for doing any of the other four steps is to love and cherish what you have. You will find yourself wanting less when you can get more pleasure and use out of what you already have. Start with a skirt, find the perfect belt easily, grab those matching earrings and pick the top and shoes that work. Tomorrow you may start with the same skirt, but design an entirely different outfit. Just start with one piece and check-in with your super organised wardrobe to find the perfect combination. You will quickly learn what you don't need and what you need more of...

And let me know if you would like a little pinklily help...

Happy 2012!!
Sascha xx

Happy Happy pinklily!!

2011-11-27T21:48:00.000+11:00

I get a lot of feedback and emails from my treasured clients about how much pinklily has made a difference in their lives. And that is genuinely the best part - my products can and do change the way you live.

And not only do they help you organise all your stuff in different parts of your home, they have can have a bigger impact that you first may think. In the end, being better organised and making de-cluttering easier is what it's all about. And very importantly the result of all of this is that you get to finally enjoy what you own at a new level. You can see it, you can get to it and you don't waste time on all of those 'nothing to wear', 'where is it anyway' moments!

The pinklily 'hangtastic' - simple but effective...

This letter I received is a great example of the power of a little simple pinklily organisation!

Dear Sascha,

I have been a fan of your products for about 4 years now. My favourite products are the staples of my wardrobe - the clear shoe boxes and the hangtastic. But I have a few other pinklily items too!

Having these has made an exceptional difference to my wardrobe, there is no doubt about it. Plus, I have to admit I never used to be good at taking care of things, especially my boots which would end up thrown in a crumpled scuffed pile at the back of my wardrobe. But your boot boxes have definitely changed all that. My boots are now in department store shape and I can actually find the ones I need when the Sydney weather suddenly turns on the rain and turns down the temperature.

But I really appreciated your products this month when I moved house. In fact, it was my wardrobe saving grace! I lived in a smallish apartment, but had the luxury of a pretty spacious walk-in-robe. It looked so much better all pinklilyed up! But when I moved to something different, the trade-off was smaller wardrobe space that wasn't as easy to work with as a walk-in.

This is where I was so grateful to have your products. The removalist only brought 3 port-a-robes - these are very clever ways of taking your hanging clothes still on their hangers to your new home. So great. But only 3 for 3 of us - he clearly hadn't seen my clothes!! It would have been near impossible to get my clothes jammed in there without the hangtastic which is so compact even a tight squeeze is doable... 90% of my clothes are on hangtastics - those that weren't caused the most trouble and took up double the room.

So that was saving grace number one. Number two was arriving at my new place and working with a smaller not so cushy wardrobe (which I have to share as well...). Let's just say that anything not currently on a hangtastic will be very quickly updated - I was able to fit everything in nicely and smoothly despite the space differences. And the plus is it looks so much better all streamlined, matching and sitting nicely. Having a visually appealing and functional wardrobe makes a huge difference.

And my shoes... Well that's a whole other story. I was able to nicely and quickly pack all my shoes as is in their pinklily clear boxes. It was quick and easy and when it was time to unpack, they were ready to stack easily in their new home - and I have no doubt I would be struggling with where and how to store them without these handy boxes.

I am never moving again without pinklily...

Thanks Sascha for designing such smart products - moving is a stressful time - having your products meant I was ready for work the very next day with minimum fuss.

I look forward to more fab ideas
Julia x

So there you have it - another pinklily success story. Look forward to hearing yours!

Sascha xx

The Next phase of my BIG pinklily journey...

2011-10-29T21:38:00.001+11:00

I am writing from my very pink study and thinking about what an amazing day I have just had. It was a beautiful Sydney day and I was happy to be working...

Sounds crazy huh?

But I can guarantee you that with a few great friends, some of my fab family and a little music, there was much fun to be had in my new warehouse as I started setting it all up just like I have always wanted to. There might have even been some dancing...

My pinklily adventure over the past few years has had its fair share of fabulous moments, but I feel like this moment is the major milestone I have been waiting for - I have finally been able to create the commercial space that pinklily was destined for.

And after all, that is what pinklily is all about. Creating space. A place to live, work or play that is organised, yet far from boring. I love my products because I know what they do for you, my treasured clients. They change the way you start your day, end your day and definitely a few things in-between as well.

As my product range expands, I knew it was finally time for the space pinklily occupies to grow along with it. My new warehouse (boy, it all happened just so fast), does exactly that - it has given me the opportunity to have a wonderful place to store my ever growing products plus a gorgeous showroom to display everything from my range. And from my upstairs office, I can see it all coming together and the many packages ready to go out to you everyday.

my new pinklily space, my big vision...

I know what being organised and having space to be creative does. That is the driver behind all my products. And now my new space reflects that vision too! This is a space to enhance my creativity and it's also a space for you.

Think girly glam afternoon teas, special product launches and shopping by appointment... there might even be a Christmas on site sale event in the wings. So stay tuned!

I know more than anyone how much a simple change in location or space can open up a whole new world of possibility. And I am so looking forward to what this new chapter brings.

Now back to that beautiful balmy Sydney night breeze and a chilled glass of something delicious. I hope to see you at my new pink palace soon!!!

Sascha x
ps some pictures below - more coming soon - can't wait to show you the pretty pink showroom!!

Even the Bathroom has had a pinklily makeover!!

My new HUGE warehouse!!! Love it...

Beautiful and Functional... Yes it's possible!!

2011-09-06T08:23:00.000+10:00

What is one of the main enemies of a beautiful wardrobe and home?

Well in my life I have discovered that more often than not it's something very simple. And I love simple.

Rather than not having enough of what we 'want' or those 'nothing to wear' moments, for me it's something else that is lacking...

Sometimes we don't enjoy what we have as much because it is either hidden at the back of a cupboard, we have forgotten we have it or it's precariously hanging on for dear life in a pile that has toppled over more than once! Sound familiar?!?

That used to be me before I began my pinklily journey... And what started with my shoes enjoying a revival of fabulous proportions with the clear shoe box, has now transformed so many parts of my life and home.

My latest products are an extension of this gorgeous adventure which has not only impacted me, but so many of you. Which is why I am so proud of the latest editions to my new acrylic range.

holdmyhandbag - holds around 5 bags!

Check out the holdmyhandbag for keeping your handbags crumple free and ready to go whenever you are... Nothing says enjoy me like a smart easy to see storage solution. Or then there's the holdmynecklaces and holdallmyearrings which will change your Jewellery experience forever! No more knots in your necklaces or missing earrings.

holdallmyearrings - 200 pairs with easy slide out screens!

As I said, I am all about streamlining, but for things you want to keep, keep them in the best way you can. For magazines I adore the lilymagazinebag which is gorgeous and functional.

lilymagazinebag - will keep 8 magazines pretty and tidy!

And at the end of the day, after you are organized and clutter free, be sure you can find just the right bottle of wine in the holdmywine!!

Because it's all about enjoying what you have...

Check it all out here...the gorgeous pinklily acrylic range

Enjoy
Sascha x

One of the Best Articles I have read in a while...

2011-07-30T12:19:00.003+10:00

As you may know, I am in the midst of a whirwind buying trip and hopefully a little R & R!! But you know me...

On the way over to the States, I managed to do something I wish I had more time for - reading! I have a few books that have really impacted me lately, but today I wanted to share with you an article that really struck me. And I am posting it here in it's entirety in the hope it will be as amazing for you as the lightbulb moments it gave to me.

Please enjoy the read and let me know your thoughts - I plan to read it again and again. It is written by an amazing gentleman who writes a blog very much on simplicity - something pinklily is all about. I regularly TWEET his blog posts, so keep an eye out for more of his great articles. This was too good not to share here. So thank you Leo Babauta for this amazing piece of writing which I can only hope to put into practice more and more each day.

The Elements of Living Lightly

“Whatever the present moment contains, accept it as if you had chosen it.” ~Eckhart Tolle (via The Mindfulist)

Post written by Leo Babauta. Follow me on Twitter.

Today I’m going to suggest a small change in mindset that could change your life.
I won’t keep you in suspense. Here it is: think of nothing that happens as either good or bad. Stop judging, and stop expecting.

It’s a tiny change — all you have to do is say, ‘That wasn’t good or bad, it just happened, it just is.’ It’s tiny, but it takes practice, and amazingly, it can knock you on your ass.

Why? Because with this little change, you will no longer be swayed up and down depending on whether good things or bad things happen to you, whether people (and their actions) are good or bad. You will learn to accept things as they are, and move within that landscape mindfully.

You will no longer expect good things to happen (or bad things), but will just take things as they come, and be content with whatever comes. This means you’ll no longer be disappointed, or unhappy.

“When people see some things as beautiful,
other things become ugly.
When people see some things as good,
other things become bad.”
~Lao Tzu

A Little Exercise

Think of something good that happened to you recently, and how it affected your mindset. Now think of something bad that happened, and what that did to your mindset.

Now imagine that neither event was good, and neither was bad. They simply happened, existed.
How does that change how you would have felt as a result of those events? How does it change your happiness, your mood? How does it change what you do in reaction?

When you stop judging things as good or bad, you are no longer burdened by the emotions of this judgment, and can live lighter, freer.

Nothing is good or bad

Hamlet said, ‘There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so.’
He was right. Without the human mind, things just happen, and they are not good or bad. It’s only when we apply the filter of our judgment that they become good or bad, beautiful or ugly.
A weed is only a weed when we don’t like it. Children are only naughty if we don’t like their actions. Life only sucks if you judge it as bad.

But what about truly horrible tragedies, like a plague or tsunami or the Holocaust? Surely those are bad? Sure, through the lens of the judgment we’ve been raised to make, they are terrible. But then again, remove the judgment, and then … they simply happened. Death and cruelty will probably always make us sad, but they’ve always happened and always will, whether we like them or hate them.
Holocaust survivor and author Victor Frankl wrote of a rich woman who went through the Holocaust, and who was grateful for the experience, as much as she suffered, because it opened her eyes. It transformed her. I’m not saying the Holocaust was good, but perhaps we can say that it happened. It serves as a lesson — one we should heed, by the way, in these days of politically charged hatred, of blaming our ills on immigrants and minorities.

There are other tragedies that happen that aren’t necessarily bad. They’re devastating losses, without a doubt, but in life there are always losses, and people will always die. It’s how we judge them that determines our reaction, and determines whether we’re capable of dealing with it sanely.

Great Expectations

The second half of this change is just as small, but just as important: dropping expectations. Not lowering expectations, but eliminating them.

Think about it: when we have expectations, and things don’t go the way we expect (which happens quite often, as we’re not good prognosticators), we are disappointed, frustrated. It’s our expectations that force us to judge whether something is good or bad.

When you expect something of a friend, co-worker, family member, spouse, and they don’t live up to that expectation, then you are upset with them, or disappointed. It causes anger. But what if you had no expectations — then their actions would be neither good nor bad, just actions. You could accept them without frustration, anger, sadness.

What if you went on vacation, to a place you had high expectations of, and it wasn’t what you thought it’d be? You’d be bitterly disappointed, even though it’s not the fault of that place — that’s just how the place is. It’s your expectations that are at fault.

When people disappoint you, it’s not their fault. They’re just being who they are. Your expectations are at fault.

The Why

But why make this change? Why should we stop judging? Why should we stop expecting?
Because judgments stop us from understanding, and can ruin our happiness. When we judge, we don’t seek to understand — we’ve already come to a conclusion. If we stop judging, we allow ourselves to try to understand, and then we can take a much smarter course of action, because we’re better informed by our understanding.

Judging makes us unhappy. So do expectations.

When we leave judgment behind, we can live in the moment, taking what comes as neither good or bad, but simply what is. We can stop ruining our happiness with our thinking, and start living instead.

The How

So how do we start doing this? In small steps, as always.

1 First, start by being more aware. Throughout the course of the day today, note when you make judgments, note when you have expectations, and when things don’t live up to them. Over time, you’ll notice this more and more, and be much more conscious of these types of thoughts.

2 Next, pause each time you notice a judgment or expectation. Take a breath. Then tell yourself, “No expectations, no good or bad.” Repeat this, letting go of the judgment or expectation.

3 Third, seek to see things as they are, and to understand. Be curious as to why things are the way they are, why people act the way they act. Investigate, empathize, try to put yourself in people’s shoes. See the landscape of your life as it actually is, without the filter of judgments or expectations.

4 Next, take what comes. Experience it, in the moment. React appropriately, without overreacting because it isn’t as you hoped or wanted. You can’t control life, or others, but you can control how you react.

5 Then, accept. When things happen, understand why they do, without judgment, and accept them as they are. Accept people for who they are. Accept yourself, without judgment, as you are. This takes practice.

6 Finally, know that the present moment, being as it is, also contains infinite possibilities. And those possibilities are opened up once you see things as they are, without judgment or expectations.

THANKS AGAIN LEO! LOVE IT...

Back to the buying trip... Sascha xx

This story is about so much more than storage..

2011-06-28T21:44:00.008+10:00

I would like to introduce you to an extraordinary lady and friend. Whenever I come across an amazing woman who I think can make a difference, I love to share that.

And you can also read on for her profound pinklily experience which is amazing and why I do what I do... more about that in a minute!

First I wanted to share how Jo has positively impacted my life through her extensive knowledge of relationships and human behaviour.

Jo guides me to being better able to openly express how I feel right now. And she has a knack of getting me to focus on myself and feel very comfortable working through my concerns, all the while increasing my confidence and self esteem.

If that sounds like something you’d like for yourself, see at the end for more on who Jo is and her counselling services. But first I really wanted you to read about her experience with pinklily - because what seemed like a simple de-clutter was so much more than she imagined...

Jo's pinklily experience - more than just a storage solution:

Jo and Sascha

I tentatively went to my wardrobe, that cavernous space tucked away behind impressive oak doors, and I looked inside and could not see a thing to wear! Sound familiar! For a start it was awfully dark in there, so I vowed to get an electrician in to fit some lights…

And that was the start of an unexpected journey into the psyche of my closet.

The electrician came and fitted the lights requested with the minimum of fuss and conversation, as tradesmen often do, and I thought great! Here we go, my clothes await!

And what surprises did I have in store. Yes there were the contents of my wardrobe in all its glory! An undignified and cluttered mess, complete with the obligatory cobwebs (probably from some exotic spider that had made its way from some remote rainforest in New Guinea), nesting in the safety of the dingy space that my hoarding had created.

It was then that I made the decision to challenge myself; through much resistance and procrastination I might add, to get my wardrobe organised. And that is when I became introduced to the organisational strategies and storage solutions that pinklily provides.

How liberating it was to actually start something I had been putting off for so long and to know there was personalised support only a phone call away. Thus my wardrobe became a journey of not just reorganisation, but a mindfulness exercise in the catalyst for change and where I was able to “check in” on my world. This reflected in my attitude to my priorities within the context of my daily life, and one of the largest positive effects from this exercise was in regard to my self-esteem: I felt a directional shift, a mental shift, to one of self and an increase in wellbeing!

What did surprise me was how therapeutic the exercise of organising my cupboards became and it lead me to wonder why I had let my wardrobe get so chaotic. At what time could I remember not really caring about what went where??

In hindsight I think it was at a time when I gave up work to study and be a mother fulltime. My priorities seemed to shift to a more domesticated lifestyle and not at all in the context of a “domestic goddess”. It should also be noted that over this time I started to put on weight, and experienced that empty feeling that I think can come from repetitive domestic life, something seemed to be missing, was this all there was for me now. I was able to link what was happening in my life and make comparisons to the slow unravelling of my previously organised wardrobe.

I now have a career as a psychotherapist and counsellor part-time, supporting and guiding others, this is along side my role as a homemaker, wife and mother, again caring for and supporting others. The nurturing side of my personality was certainly working overtime! And certainly as a therapist there is the need for ongoing supervision and self care, but did I perceive myself as a sexy, feminine and individualistic woman deserving of some “girl time”, or had I been swallowed up by my “other responsibilities”.

What about the time, effort and money required to obtain those clothes, bags and jewellery? There they were carelessly thrown into what I thought resembled a wardrobe. I wasn’t respecting my space, my time, money and for that matter my identity as a woman.

I think when designing the pinklily products, Sascha had all of this in mind. Cleaning out the clutter involves more than extra shelves or a large bin; it requires clever storage solutions and a deeper look at our psyches. It isn’t just a cupboard/drawer problem; it’s a person problem where we need to change our behaviours learned or otherwise, as our lives can become so full of stuff from our past. From old jeans that we know are never going to fit us anymore, to “ memory or archival clutter” or that specific thing that you “might need one day”. My memory clutter comprises of every exercise book, picture and award my daughter every got at school… I have had great difficulty in parting with any of it. I have collected every tooth that she has lost, every letter ever written to the tooth fairy and every reply, my reasoning of that is that she can have the choice to throw these things away later, but I am wondering that when the time comes anything discarded will still find it’s way back into my “archives”!!

The transparencies of the pinklily products enable one to see what you have, to not lose track and also to assess and access what is needed. By getting rid of a lot of my excess “stuff” and organising the rest, I felt a reduction in stress and it enabled me to keep better routines: I could find my exercise gear and gyms shoes, therefore there was no last minute excuse not to go out and exercise, whether walking the dog or going to the gym, creating that domino effect where one starts feeling better and that only reflects in a better energy and moods, thus you feel more attractive, more gets done and everything is “ramped up another notch”. When I feel better about myself I feel more confident and sexy… a ‘win-win’ in anyone’s book.

So I say to you now through experience have you crammed your life with too much superfluous things? Is the accumulation and disorganisation of clutter stopping you or at the very least delaying you living a more rewarding and full life.

As a woman I say to you, start with your wardrobe and the philosophy of the pinklily products and you will be surprised where the journey will take you.

Thank you Jo - you have beautifully and perfectly summed up why I created pinklily. My products and service gives me an incredible sense of satisfaction and the response from the many women who agree is why I keep designing new ideas constantly. I love how involved my clients get in the pinklily journey, especially the regular feedback I receive similar to Jo's experience.

Joanne Allan is a psychotherapist and counsellor based in Sydney, Australia. Her expertise is in the area of Women’s Issues, helping clients to identify and work through the underlining issues that hold them trapped in a cycle of limitation. Jo is known for her collaborative and respectful approach.

She is a registered member of the Counsellors and Psychotherapists Association NSW (CAPA), has a Bachelor of Counselling and Human Change and also holds professional certificates in Narrative Therapy, The Process of Focusing in Therapy and The Relevance of Spirituality in the Therapeutic Encounter. Currently she works in private practice in the Inner West of Sydney.

If you would like to get in contact with Jo you can email her at jjallan@bigpond.net.au

Sascha x

Part of getting organised is knowing YOUR style...

2011-05-26T14:40:00.000+10:00

As you know, I am all about streamlining your home and especially your wardrobe! The more organised, easy to navigate and easy to style yourself, the better you will feel inside and out. And I know pinklily products really make a difference to your wardrobe experience.

It's taken me some time to work that all out for myself and like most things, it's a Work In Progress! So I am always keen for ideas and tips from other people in the know that I can share with you to make the whole process of getting yourself and your style all sorted.

And this is where "Wardrobe 101" might just come in handy!

Written by top style guru Dijanna Mulhearn, this indispensable handbook will eliminate the confusion caused by the avalanche of fashion choices. I hope you will find yourself culling your collection with greater ease and clarity and opting for timeless staple pieces and less impulse buying.

I know my clients struggle with the same challenge: 'I have nothing to wear!' Wardrobe 101 offers practical solutions and aims to remove the anxiety and intimidation from fashion so that getting dressed, or dressing up, is effortless and always fun.

Here is a few words from the Author herself:

The best thing about fashion right now is the worst thing about fashion right now – choice. And with choice comes a greater potential to get things terribly wrong.

With so much ‘fast’ fashion catering to every whim and every budget we suddenly find ourselves with a closet chock full of clothes and absolutely nothing to wear. Overwhelmed, intimidated and confused is how many people are feeling about fashion. Don’t despair, help is at hand.

Wardrobe 101: Creating Your Perfect Core Wardrobe is a comprehensive guide to sorting out your clothes and your look. I provide fashion insider knowledge and the tools you need to nail the perfect look every time. Starting with a look at your fave and worst body bits then looking at colours and how to work them together Wardrobe 101 builds the basis of a look unique to you. Wardrobe 101 also covers essential pieces for every wardrobe and what to look for when shopping for them. Australia’s best stylists talk about their interpretation of style and the book finishes off with a guide on how to lay out your wardrobe so that great looks are at your fingertips.

Packed with beautiful images, illustrations and heaps of practical advice Wardrobe 101 is a must for anyone wanting to streamline their style.

So, for those of you looking for a few extra tips - this could be one handy little handbook! You can find out more at Dijanna's Wardrobe 101 Website or Facebook Page.

Enjoy! Sascha x

My stylish and sophisticated new range is finally here!!

2011-05-06T18:15:00.002+10:00

I love love love that pinklily storage solutions have made such a difference in areas like your wardrobe - and I wanted to take my concepts and start organising your whole world!!

And so comes the launch of a range so gorgeous and so sophisticated that you will be surprised at how super practical it is as well - and that's what my products are all about.

So let me introduce you to the lily acrylic range which is growing fast.

First up one of my favourites, the lily table - I designed this perfect and handy little side table because it's exactly what I have always needed. A gorgeous table to fit even if space is limited, the perfect spot to set my ipad on or a lovely vase or a glass of wine by the couch, and best of all, it stores all of my current magazines but still looks uber stylish! Loving this one...

Introducing the super chic lily table

Once I got to thinking about clear and and clever acrylic storage ideas, I was ready for more. Now if you follow the Kardashians (oh yes I have to admit I am a fan), you might have seen them using an incredible make-up storage system in their bathroom. Well I had to have my own version - when I see something amazing that I know is the perfect balance between pretty and practical, I am onto it!

With the Kardashian inspiration buzzing in my mind I created the lily make up tower. This is a favourite in my bathroom and hopefully in yours. With it's quality 10mm thick acrylic, this 6 level tower of clever large spaces will quickly become an organising staple. You will be surprised how perfectly it works for your make-up, creams, brushes, cotton buds and more. But it also works just as good for other ideas like jewellery.


lily make up tower

hold my wine

The range continues with the hold my glasses which keeps your sunnies safe and easy to find. And for the perfect countertop way to display and store your wine, check out hold my wine which snuggly holds 5 bottles.

hold my glasses

So there you have it - my gorgeous new range of storage solutions just got bigger! I hope you enjoy lily acrylic as much as I do thinking up new designs and ideas to make your world a more organised place!

Sascha x

Love having HAPPY customers...

2011-04-16T13:21:00.001+10:00

What a week! Between school holidays, work, filming a new series of make-over segments and a closet overhaul, I'm just glad it's the weekend! As I sit here the rain is softly falling and it's feeling very much like winter.... another year flying by!


In the middle of filming a makeover this week!

But what makes it all worthwhile? The impact my products make very much keeps me passionate about what I do - and I wanted to share this message I just received from a recent client who I visited to do a complete closet overhaul for:

Dear Sascha,

I never would have believed myself how much of a difference some de-cluttering and super organising products would make to my wardrobe. What you have done for my closet is incredible and I want you to know the impact it has made. It really is absolutely gorgeous and a pleasure to use my things now - more than I could have imagined when I booked you to come over.

Now when I walk into my wardrobe it is like a breath of fresh air and I can't stop looking at it. I thought my closet was pretty good but now I know the difference - and I finally get what you mean when you say you have to be able to see your stuff to be able to enjoy it. You also said you wanted me to 'fall back in love with my wardrobe". I wasn't sure about that - but I am shocked at how much more I do love my things. Especially because now I can actually see them! There were so many items I had forgotten I had.

I thought I was pretty good at using accessories because I love scarves, belts, hats and jewellery - but I was only scratching the surface! Now they are all perfectly displayed and organised and I am stunned at how many great things I have that I wasn't using. As you overhauled my wardrobe, we found so many lovely accessories and shoes I had literally forgotten about. I was really missing out on all the beautiful things I have collected over the years. It's been the perfect retail therapy without having to go shopping!

Your shoe boxes are amazing - with nearly 30 pairs of shoes, they are now protected and easy to find. I love the handles on the boxes too - means I can grab a pair and run out the door with them if will I need them later. My handbags are no longer piled all over eachother with your handbag garage sorting them right out and reminding me to use them and look after them too.

I wasn't sure what I would do with your 'hold my linen' boxes, but you have sorted all my seasonal items out perfectly. Plus I can see them and remember to get them out when I need them. All those bulky winter jumpers and big wraps are no longer squashed and hidden away only to gather dust. I can't wait to use them for my sheets and towels which I can never keep tidy.

Then there are your hangtastic coathangers - these are such a gem! I can hang absolutely everything - and nothing slips off them and ends up in a pile on the floor like it used too! Plus with the extra space they created, you convinced me to hang all those tops I had stuffed in a drawer and now I am actually wearing them... Wow, matching hangers make everything look better.

The product that really surprised me was your simple lingerie box - my jumbled drawers are heavenly now. Since you organised my lingerie drawer, I used the boxes you left me to sort out all my drawers: swimmers. socks, singlet tops, scarves and gloves. I can even find a needle and thread now my sewing kit has been pinklilyed!!

Thank you Sascha - I feel so clear and happy when I go into my wardrobe now. I guess the biggest thumbs up came from my 11 year old son. He was helping me put my boots away in the boot box with the 'booty' inserts. He said the most fabulous thing "I love pinklily, it's so useful".

Maybe that's the best way to say thankyou. Because I love pinklily too.

And that's the perfect end to my week
Sascha xx

A Week in The Life of pinklily...

2011-03-29T10:51:00.001+11:00

Somehow I manage to juggle being a mummy, designer and business woman each week - it certainly takes a lot of planning and early starts. Being the owner and creator of pinklily for the past 5 years has certainly taught me a lot more than I expected about being organised! And I wanted to share with you a little bit more about me and how I fit everything in! Sometimes I am not even sure myself... So here we go:

MONDAYS

This tends to be my busiest day as women love to shop on weekends, especially Sunday afternoons as they browse around getting organised for the week ahead. So Monday is all about processing orders in the warehouse - the thing that's really important to me is making sure each client is not only welcomed and appreciated, but thanked for their loyalty. So I take some time to get to know my clients and what they like - you never know what special gift will pop up in an order!
In between all that I drop off and pick up my daughter Georgia from school (something I love doing just about every day) and spend Monday night at home preparing for the rest of the week and answering hundreds of emails! Phew, no time for Mondayitis...

That's me in the Warehouse!!

TUESDAYS

Tuesday is usually a day of re-stocking the warehouse for a few hours and then it's back home for lots of data entry and accounting. The afternoon is usually put aside for a pre-production meeting with TVSN (the Foxtel home shopping channel) in preparation for the next weeks program to showcase pinklily products. Any time in between is used to road test samples of the latest designs I am creating or considering - I have pretty strict criteria! Functionality, quality and providing excellent storage solutions is what I am looking for. I love bringing out new pinklily products that help my clients.

WEDNESDAYS

So I have made it to the middle of the week! Wednesdays are a little more flexible (thankfully!). I could be designing a new product, having lunch with my Mum or the necessary visit to the grocery store. It's also the night I try to make sure I have dinner with my boyfriend and daughter. This is so important to me.

THURSDAYS

Every second Thursday is the BIG day as my TVSN TV spot is featured fortnightly. If my show is coming up on the weekend, this day is one for sneakers and muscle! What does this mean? - well it all starts at 4.30am (aaaggghhhhh) carrying thousands of coathangers, hundreds of shoeboxes and more down two flights of stairs to the truck that will deliver them to TVSN. Who needs the gym? Well actually, going to the Gym a couple of afternoons a week with Georgia is probably what helps me keep up with it all...

FRIDAYS

And boy am I grateful when Friday rolls around - because it is usually the quietest day of the week. It's when I photograph new products for the website, proof all upcoming advertising for magazines like Cleo, Cosmo and House and Garden. You never know what can turn up on a Friday - recently I did a wardrobe makeover for TV Celebrity Alyssa Jane Cook. This is the good stuff!

Keeping up with pinklily advertising and pr

In between all of this activity I keep up with Facebook, Twitter, my Blog and all of Georgia's school and sporting activities. It's a mammoth juggling act, but running my own business means I have been able to design my days and my life to make sure I spend quality time with my daughter and boyfriend as well as work with products I love.

So what do I need to do now the week has finally come to an end? Turn off my Blackberry and head to a movie......

Sascha xx

ps I would love to hear from other women on how they juggle their busy weeks - a toast to all the amazing ladies out there!

Your Shoes will LOVE the PINKALICIOUS

2011-03-15T14:47:00.000+11:00

Hello and welcome to this week's launch of the

PINKALICIOUS SHOE BOX !!

I am so loving this fabulous hot pink number... It's exactly the same as our very famous clear shoe box, just gorgeous hot pink.

Just imagine seeing a line up of gorgeous pink shoe boxes in your wardrobe all neatly stacked and keeping your shoes stunning and organised! That is one colour rich way to get sorted.

My latest shoe box - the PINKALICIOUS

Now if you are already one of my fabulous pinklily ladies and own some of the 350,000 clear shoe boxes I have sold since launching this famous product, you don't need to replace them all if you are love with the pink... here are my suggestions for enjoying both boxes and making the most of the streamlining they offer.

Use the new pink boxes for special occasion shoes only
Colour code between winter and summer pairs of shoes
Make-up your own colour coding system using the clear and the pink combo!
Still have some shoes not in pinklily shoe boxes - now is the time to stock up on the pink ones for a splash of colour - they come in packs of 7 for $AUD29

Who would have thought 5 years later this box would make it through all the imitations and come out stronger and pinker than ever!

I would love to hear from clients who have used the shoe boxes over the past few years. Speaking of taking care of your shoes, here are some handy little hints and tips I've found along the way. I hope you find them useful!

To clean your suede shoes - masking tape is an alternative to a wire suede brush which can take off the top layer of leather.

To keep leather soft and supple - you can apply castor oil and then leave them to dry and clean as usual.

Boot zips getting stuck? - take a lead pencil and run it down the zip. It really seems to help!

Scuffs on patent shoes and bags - Eucalyptus Oil could be the answer. Use a soft cloth in an inconspicuous place first.

Hope you LOVE the pinkalicious as much as I do
Sascha xx

So how does the Perfect pinklily Makeover work?

2011-03-04T21:43:00.000+11:00

If there is one question I get asked a lot, it would be from my customers who have already purchased pinklily glamorous storage solutions. Now they have the products in their home, they wonder what is the 'secret' to having it all look just like on the website!

So here are my pinklily top ten tips for a glamorous de-cluttered wardrobe that looks a lot like this:

All organised pinklily style and super easy!!

A space for everything with the 'georgia'

My super favourite, super smart space saver, the 'hangtastic'

The best approach is 'step by step', otherwise it will feel overwhelming and this is supposed to be a fun exercise with great results -

Match all the hanging items in your closet together - i.e. hang all the shirts together, skirts, pants and so on
Consider what you can re-purpose, re-cycle or just plain move on. I find most people keep things for 2 reasons: financial or emotional. Ok, I am going to give it to you straight, just because you bought that top in Rome 5 years ago, is not a reason to keep it if it no longer fits the vision you have of yourself TODAY.
So, I can hear you thinking - 'what about those pants I might fit back into one day?'. Only think TODAY. Get rid of the rest. Be proud of what you have right now - my goal is to have you fall back in love with your wardrobe. Let's banish those 'nothing to wear' moments for good!
Start with my 'hangtastic' hangers - I have purposefully put these in packs of 5. Why? Just start with 5 shirts and go from there. Do not, I repeat, do not pull everything out of your wardrobe in a big messy pile all at once. This just makes it feel like too much work. And it will take longer.
Then continue on the same process - take the next lot of 5 shirts or move to skirts for example, once all the tops are done.
Now you will be super inspired. Because 10 hangtastic hangers will show you just how fabulous your wardrobe looks when there is consistency and you will also notice they save you space too. Plus I am pretty sure you will catch my bug by this point, the de-cluttering one!
When you are ready to move onto skirts and pants, there will be something else to celebrate: the hangtastic has 10 features, more than any hanger I have ever come across. You can use them for pretty much any type of clothing including accessories like scarves. No more running to the department store for specialist skirt hangers. This baby does the lot!
Follow the same simple process with the pinklily shoe boxes - just do 5 at a time. You'll be amazed at how fast this all happens and how fab it all looks.
Now you are nearly done! Wrap it all up by sorting your lingerie, accessories, boots, belts and handbags. I have a whole range of perfect solutions.
Step by step, the wardrobe of your dreams is about to come true!

Please write and tell me how it goes - would love to see some before and after pictures. The best transformation will receive a Kerri-Anne pack worth $160!! Get your pictures in by 31 March, 2011.

Happy wardrobe glamming!

Sascha xx

Hanging Around Has Never Been So Fabulous!!

2011-02-17T17:58:00.001+11:00

I never thought I would be writing this... my clear shoe box has always been my number one product and continues to grow in range and popularity (watch out for the PINK Mother's Day version!!)

Ok so what is it??

Well one of my newer products is starting to join the place for the most popular pinklily product. And there are plenty of great reasons why. This will change your wardrobe in the best way - NO DOUBT.

The HANGTASTIC has exceeded all my expectations and delivered something you guys love. So what is all the fuss about? Let me give you the run down because this product comes with 10 amazing features all in one great hanger and the team and phones are buzzing.

No slip shoulders

360 degree rotating head - perfect for the laundry & car

Cami hooks for little tops

Pant rail for pants

Skirt clips for skirts

Special shaped neck so you do not have to unzip your clothes to put them back on the hanger

Rail for belts and scarves

Connectors to hang your items vertically - (saving you 1/2 the space in your wardrobe!)

Very thin and extremely strong

And the NEW gorgeous pale blue version means two colour choices

So not only does it save you space, look super co-ordinated, lets you hang everything from skirts, pants, jackets, shirts and even complete outfits, belts and scarves, but the PINK and BLUE options gives men a choice plus you can use the pink and blue to easily organise your work/play or summer/winter hanging gear and find it all fast. Soooooo pretty too!

It's everything in one slim smart product. I promise you will love it as much as I do and many of my customers are already enjoying them - and replacing all their hangers with these gems.

After years spent overhauling women's wardrobes - this item is literally changing everything! I can't even describe how something that seems so simple can make such a big impact.

Oh and guess what - like my shoe box, it just keeps evolving. I love hearing your ideas and one of my fab customers mentioned she would love one with a longer hanging hook for those large collared winter type jackets. So it's ready, in stock and good to go. Keep sending me your ideas - it may just turn into a product.

Special version with extra long hook for large collared jackets!!

And.... a white version with black shoulders is on it's way in 2 months time as well. You will never be short of choice.

Try one of my packs for yourself and see how it all works - I just know you will understand what I mean... yep, just a bit excited! Who would have thought a hanger could do this to me.

But it really is the most versatile hanger you will ever see.

Love love it!!

Heading for a pure PINK explosion...

2011-02-04T22:19:00.001+11:00

I am SOOOOOOOO excited.

Why? There are so many great things coming up, I've just returned from LA checking out super cool things there and visiting the gift fair. Watch this space...

All this activity and promise of new gorgeous products that will make a difference to your life got me thinking about where this all started. 14 hours up and back to LA gives a girl some time to think!

5 very quick years ago (or so it seems now anyway) pinklily started with its still most famous and most popular product - the pinklily clear shoe box. What makes me so proud is that we were the first company to bring out this type of product.

And that's where things really started to hot up! Since their launch there has been a lot of competition and I bought every single version I could find to test them and make sure I had the best. Those were challenging times but I was confident I had a product with the quality and style to stand the test of time. I have stuck to my commitment of quality and have never changed or skimped on the plastic grade.

And 350,000 (wow even I can't believe it!) pinklily clear shoe box sales later we are still number one. Even better I have so many clients who after 5 years are still loyal pinklily customers and keep coming back for more. It's that loyalty that keeps me going and searching for even more fabulous items.

After that first shoe box came the boot box, the men's shoe box, the handbag box and now pinklily is the leading glamourous storage brand in the country! I am truly blessed.

So what does the future hold?? More than I can tell you in this one blog - so keep reading for my updates. So many products, so little time...!!

Here's what I can tell you as the shoe box continues to evolve - and this product I am SO happy about.

Mother's Day 2011 sees the launch of the FIRST EVER pinklily HOT HOT HOT

PINK SHOE BOX

Can you imagine seeing a line up of gorgeous pink shoe boxes in your wardrobe all neatly stacked and keeping your shoes stunning and organised! It's going to be a pure pink explosion!

I can't wait to tell you more... for now remember when you mention this blog, with every 10 shoe box purchases you get 5 free. Offer ends 1st March, 2011.

Till another exciting week x

Time to take down the Christmas Tree and replace it with this one...

2011-01-22T12:08:00.000+11:00

Just when I think things might slow down a little, your great support of my products overwhelms me!

I launched my New Years Sale earlier this month on Facebook and if felt like I worked 24/7 to get all your orders out. I love all your comments and feedback, especially how pinklily products make a difference to your life - I am so happy to hear my products are making a positive impact which is what pinklily was created for.

And thanks to Susan who shared her ideas on last weeks blog which featured the GEORGIA - one of my fav products of the moment for organising and keeping all your pretty little things in sight. With 80 clear pockets in a pink or blue trim, the Georgia has been a BIG hit for keeping your accessories, hair bits and hobby items all in check and easy to find.

Susan had an idea I hadn't even thought of - she finds it perfect for all those little toys like matchbox cars. Keeps them safe and easy to play with just the right one. No more tears looking for that special toy. The same would work perfectly for all those little doll accessories and gorgeous girly things! And in PINK or BLUE you can help get the little one in your life all organised. Let us know which colour you would love Susan, and in appreciation of your great idea, a Georgia is all yours!

Ok - so back to this week - because it just never stops! And that's why I love bringing these products to you - even on the busiest crazy days (and we all have those), when you can actually see and find all the great things you have bought and collected over the years, it really can be a lifesaver.

You know, those moments when the phone won't stop ringing, the internet goes down, someone wants your attention and you're supposed to be out the door like 7 minutes ago! Well that's when products like this weeks feature make at least looking in control super easy...

The 3tree organises all your bling at once and is the perfect tree to keep around all year. All your jewellery from necklaces to earrings, bracelets and rings is perfectly on display and in beautiful order. Measuring 28cm high x 24cm, the 3tree means you will always be able to find that perfect piece to finish off an outfit.

Remember, you will usually only use what you can see - jewellery is such a beautiful addition to every outfit. I love what Coco Chanel said "Jewellery isn't meant to make you look rich, it's meant to adorn you, and that's not the same thing".

With the 3tree, you will always find the right piece to enjoy and adorn... xx

I've got Georgia on my mind...

2011-01-09T12:36:00.005+11:00

HAPPY HAPPY NEW YEAR to all my pinklily friends!

Leading up to Christmas was... well let’s just say a little crazy for me and the team as the Season of Giving took over and my time was definitely taken up making sure our pink elves worked overtime delivering pinklily presents!

So now I have a moment (well maybe just...) to talk to you a little more about a product that was so popular at launch last October that we have added a new colour.

So what is this magical product that will make searching for all your jewellery, hair bits and pieces, accessories or hobby items a thing of the past?

THE GEORGIA

At the TVSN October launch last year (is it really last year already??) the pink Georgia sold out in 15 minutes. So what exactly is all the fuss about? Well 80 pockets (40 on each side) attached to a pink ‘hangtastic’ hanger gets your ‘stuff’ sorted and in view and that’s what makes all the difference and prompted the many calls I have had since from some very happy ladies!

Being organised does a few really important things (as well as looking really pretty!!)

Most important bonus: YOU CAN SEE YOUR THINGS!!! Don’t underestimate this - seriously. You will only wear and regularly use what you can see. And that’s what pinklily products are all about.

All those amazing accessories and great little finds can and will bring an outfit to life - and after all that’s what you bought them for in the first place. Having a bad hair day? When you can find all those great headbands and clips, you can fix it in an instant.

Need a little pick me up? You don’t always need something new - sometimes you just need to go ‘shopping’ in your own wardrobe. This is one of my favourite ‘no cost’ ways to enjoy retail therapy. Often it’s not that we don’t have enough things, it’s that we forget we have them. Remember, accessories can change an outfit, they add polish and it feels so good to be using all your fabulous things...

So here’s to the Georgia - now in PINK and BLUE to match your style.

I would love to hear more fabulous uses for the Georgia from you guys - I know many of you are finding it perfect for hobby items like art, craft and all those pesky little buttons that needed a home.

I will post the most creative answer later this month both here and on Facebook/Twitter and the winner will receive their own choice of Pink or Blue Georgia as a thank you!

For everyone else, mention this blog when ordering your Georgia and get one FREE for a girlfriend!!

ps offer ends 1st March, 2011.

this week at pl

2010-10-17T08:09:00.001+11:00

getting very very organised for Christmas ! all the shoe boxes have arrived ready for the madness - and yes I am the one who carried all of them up 2 x flights of stairs ! the joys of owning your own business. After 5 years of selling boxes they are still my most popular product.... the hangtastics are racing and catching up very quickly behind them.

Last Saturday I launched the "georgia" on TVSN - an 80 pocket hanging jewellery organiser. WOW what a reaction. They were absolutely loved ! sold out in just 15 minutes and I am receiving emails from gorgeous women thanking me and telling me how happy they are with them. They also are attached to a pink hangtastic hanger - so everything in your wardrobe will match @$39

school holidays - love them hate them love them hate them

2010-10-05T16:03:00.000+11:00

love not having to drive Georgie to School - so my 4.30 starts can continue right through till 11.

hate the guilt that I always have to work and just can't take 3 days off - I guess it doesn't happen every holiday.....

love not being caught in all that traffic .............

Georgie and I have been out buying lots of bling to keep in the new " Georgia" . pinklily's latest product to be released exclusively on TVSN this weekend.

Diary 7.9

2010-09-07T20:53:00.001+10:00

Wow - an exciting day, met Peter Walsh, organizing guru from the "oprah" show - had to have my elevator pitch ready for that one !http://www.peterwalshdesign.com/

just 2 minutes to explain what I did - who I was and why I was giving him such a large "pink" present.
if you want to make an omlette girls - you have to crack some eggs !!

3 new products sent to tvsn - all ready to be launched before Christmas! including my brand new belt rack - available in pink or blue to match the hangtastic

Spoke to some gorgeous clients today - Sally who couldn't wait to get her ghd holder

Sylvie bought 200 hangers (pink) because she loves the blue so much!!!!

tomorrow - dropping off some linen boxes for my niece Alexxa's (grown out of) winter clothes

What did you buy your dad for fathers day ?

2010-09-03T17:18:00.003+10:00

I'm stuck

foxtel

2010-09-01T10:29:00.001+10:00

we all do love a bit of TV but are we getting addicted ?

I am so amazed, pleased & suprised at the reaction to the new pinklily tv commercial its airing on foxtel mostly throughout "Keeping up with the Kardashians"

with every pinklily sale - you are asked the question -"how did you hear about pinklily ?" - and most are answering - foxtel. Then you get the phone call from me asking " which show" -

I cannot tell you how many of my pinklily clients are watching the Kardashians - how much do you love it ? a lot of you are saying - " yes I’m so embarrassed - I watch it all the time" " yes but I’m a grandmother" " omg do I have to admit it ?" - this has been so wonderful ! clearly a very popular show. I think its great and obviously so do my clients !!

what else are you watching ? - pinklily can also be seen on the Daily 10, and will start in June on the Lifestyle You Channel - can you imagine how much I love the wardrobe shows ?

watching shows like these just gives us the opportunity to switch off ? to relate or really assess - and thank our lucky stars that our problems aren’t as big as theirs? foxtel & TVSN has definately kept me busy with new products and re launches of some old favourites.
the handbag garage is now back in stock and the ladybird is due any day now.
I’ve added some great cedar balls to protect your clothes and damp rid to get rid of some mould.
there are new gimmetunes high heel speakers and gorgeous silver and black mesh jewellery rolls.
currently in design and sampling are the chubby and skinny beauty boxes, the hat box and some gorgeous scented pinklily drawer liners.
one product we won’t be living without is the sparkle safe - but that is a whole new article which needs an issue all to itself.
hope you enjoy the 2nd edition for 2010 of the pinklilytimes and please make sure you are a pinklily fan on facebook -

I will continue to keep you up to the minute with my latest products, and most importantly this is where the 72 hour pink deals are held - only available to facebook fans so jump on www.facebook.com/pinklilyfan

love
Sascha