Amy Smith, an occupational therapist (OT) for nearly 30 years, saw a recurring need among her older adult clients. She noticed many with cognitive and physical challenges struggled to stay organized, impacting their independence and daily functioning. Realizing she was in a unique position to help, Amy decided to start her own professional organizing business in early 2023, Arranged by Amy.
At first, Arranged by Amy was a side gig, offering home and office decluttering, downsizing, and move management services. However, she faced some challenges early on, including finding clients, identifying her target market, and forming an LLC. Fortunately, she learned about the Maine SBDC from a co-worker who had successfully started her own business. That’s when Amy decided to reach out and connected with her advisor, Tina Oddleifson.
Tina guided Amy through setting up her LLC, refining her marketing strategy, and offered valuable feedback on her website. Additionally, Tina assisted Amy in developing a business plan and financial projections to set her business up for success. “Tina was very helpful in getting my business started. She was always responsive to my questions and very knowledgeable about small business resources,” Amy reflects.
As Arranged by Amy began to grow, Amy made the decision to step away from her healthcare career and dedicate herself fully to her business. Since then, Amy has built a solid client base and hires additional support when needed.
Looking ahead, she plans to expand her services to include virtual and digital organizing, allowing her to reach a wider audience.
With the guidance of the Maine SBDC, Amy transformed her side gig into a viable business in just over a year. Reflecting on her journey, Amy says, “SBDC is a great resource for anyone looking to start or grow their small business. I highly recommend meeting with an advisor in person for a more personalized experience.”