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About Me
Donna Barwald
Professional Organizer and Author
A professional organizer, author, speaker, and self-proclaimed “recovering perfectionist,” Donna Barwald has spent over 25 years helping individuals declutter their lives, downsize gracefully, and embrace the mantra of “done is better than perfect.” As the founder of Neatly Arranged Professional Organizing in Los Angeles, she’s transformed countless homes, offices, and sanity levels.
Donna’s first book, *This Mess is Making Me Stress!: How to Organize Your Home and Find Peace*, became an Amazon bestseller. Her latest book, *Improve Your Move: How to Downsize with Ease and Move On to Your Next Adventure*, is an essential guide for seniors facing the daunting task of downsizing and moving. It’s packed with actionable tips, emotional support, and motivational pep talks to help you tackle the moving process without losing your mind—or your keys.
Known for her quick wit and relatable insights, Donna has become a sought-after guest on podcasts and speaking engagements.
In her spare time, Donna, the quintessential Jewish mother, can be found making brisket and giving her adult children unsolicited advice. She also enjoys dancing, hiking, performing, binge-watching TV, and strolling down the aisles of IKEA.
My Story
I started organizing at a very young age. Growing up in San Jose, California, I was constantly rearranging the small bedroom she shared with my twin sister Dawn. When I wanted to be alone, I would lock myself in the bathroom and tackle the clutter under the bathroom sink. Frustrated when I couldn’t find something, I’d reorganize the kitchen cabinets, clean out the refrigerator and even organize the garage. I learned early on that to protect my mental health, everything needed to be “neatly arranged.”
I grew up performing in musical theater, and in 1985, I graduated magna cum laude from San Jose State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, a concentration in Management, and a minor in Theater Arts. My early career in arts management gave me experience in producing shows, special events, fundraisers, and festivals. I later worked in San Francisco, San Jose, New York City, and Los Angeles in marketing and sales in a variety of industries. I have lived in Los Angeles since 1995 and can add teacher, closet designer, senior activities assistant, and costumed character at Universal Studios Hollywood to my resume.
After voluntarily organizing the homes and offices of countless family, friends, and co-workers who told me I should make a business of it, I launched Neatly Arranged Professional Organizing and have been transforming homes and offices in Los Angeles for more than 25 years. I also consult virtually, and I am available to travel. There isn't a space in the world that I can't handle!
With my performing and teaching experience, it made sense to bring my message to a wider audience. My first book “This Mess is Making Me Stress! How to Organize Your Home and Find Peace” was published in 2023. The second book, “Improve Your Move: How to Downsize with Ease and Move On to Your Next Adventure,” was released in May 2025. I enjoy speaking to groups and appearing on podcasts. On Spotify and YouTube you can my playlists with dozens of episodes where I have been featured.
My husband Danny and I have two children, Gigi and Hill, who are now young adults. As a very involved Jewish mother, autism advocate and LGBTQ+ ally, I have a lifetime of experience planning and producing lifecycle events, school events, festivals, fairs, fundraisers, silent auctions, holiday boutiques, trips, camps, conferences, programs, plays, concerts, office moves, and senior moves. Basically, if something needs to be organized, call me.
Let’s Work Together
Get in touch so we can start working together.