We recently had the chance to connect with Shannon McKinney and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Shannon, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
Most days differ with regard to my jobs start and end time but my early mornings are consistent: wake up at 5:30 before my husband and daughter rise and savor my coffee and quiet time; 6:00 make breakfast for my daughter, shower, and pack lunches. School drop off is at 7:30 and then I go home or out for breakfast if I’m working (usually at 9:00 or 10:00 am start time). I’m a planner and predictable but I think that’s one reason why I’m good at what I do.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Shannon McKinney and I entered my 5th year of organizing this past summer! The pandemic summer of 2020 allowed me to take NAPO classes and work on my website before actively working. I probably do a little bit of everything when it comes to organizing, except corporate work; Primarily I declutter and/or organize but I’ve done gallery walls, hired contractors, art installations, and A/V techs and of course movers. I’ve tackled a few storage units, I have a client that I choose outfits for and help pack; I’ve prepped for estate sales and tax referrals. I appreciate having a trusted network of professionals I’ve worked with over the years so I can provide solutions for my clients beyond decluttering and organizing and although I love a routine, variety can be a nice way to shake things up.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
Probably my father: He was always a really hard worker and eventually owned his own business. Because he dealt with international clients, he would answer call day and night, was always on call, and he would go above and beyond to maintain client relationships. I’d like to think that I, too, go above and beyond to exceed my clients’ expectations.
When did you last change your mind about something important?
EGO! I started later in life but at one point I thought I’d eventually have multiple subcontractors on multiple jobs – wrong! The few times I tried this, I felt that my clients weren’t getting my best and it was more stressful than I’d imagined. With social media and the hundreds of organizers that I see, I thought, I should be doing that! Well, I realized last year that I am who I am and the clients that hire me hire me for ME. It was ego that was getting in my way, thinking that I had to do more and live up to what is not only unrealistic (for me) but that it’s okay to stay in my lane and do what’s right for me and my little business. I do work with subcontractors often but I think in a pretty linear fashion and do my best when I’m focused on one job at a time.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
I think so, 99%. I’m naturally optimistic and can border on being a “rah rah” cheerleader for my family, friends, and clients. That being said, I recharge at home and am pretty quiet after a long day. I’m also a much more serious person than some would think but I do sing Broadway musicals and rap at the top of my lungs while cooking or dancing in the kitchen with my daughter.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
That I was a daughter, wife, mother, and friend that could always be counted on to really be there and show up; that I was a really good mother and a very hard worker; that I was someone with integrity and did my best in any given situation. I hope that I can inspire not only my daughter, but other women, that you can have a second act when you find your calling, no matter what that might be.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.holmanhope.com
- Instagram: @holman_hope-
- Facebook: /holmanhopehomeorganizing
