Today we’d like to introduce you to Julianna Chung
Hi Julianna, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey into professional organizing happened naturally. I lived in a tight-knit neighborhood where we all helped each other, especially during the pandemic. When a neighbor asked for help organizing their child’s toys, I stepped in. Soon, others reached out, and before I knew it, I was assisting multiple families at nights and weekends. Over time, neighbors began suggesting I turn my skills into a business.
With a background in executive roles and experience working alongside business owners, I never imagined running my own company, much less completely changing careers. After leaving my last job, I took a break to rest and volunteer, but the idea of professional organizing kept resurfacing. Encouraged by a librarian friend, I researched the industry and realized the impact I could make.
I specialize in helping people who feel stuck in their space, whether due to brain-based challenges or unexpected life events. Through continued education with the Institute for Challenging Disorganization, I’ve built the knowledge to support clients effectively. My goal is simple: if I can help someone feel less stressed at the end of a long day by offering them a more accessible home, then my job is a success.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Starting this business has been an exciting journey. Like any new venture, there are challenges, from financial planning to expanding my client base. My focus is on providing exceptional service while adapting to the evolving market, making sure I bring my best to my clients. Cheers to learning something new each day.
We’ve been impressed with Collected Abundance, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Collected Abundance, I support people in the Greater Austin area facing situational and chronic disorganization challenges. I offer a comprehensive suite of services—including decluttering, home organization, relocation assistance, senior downsizing, and paper management—to help clients regain control of their spaces. My approach blends personalized body-doubling, educational guidance, and local resource connections. As a member of the local circular economy, I believe reusing, repurposing, and recycling existing items not only saves on cost and creates a more organized living space but also enhances emergency preparedness.
Recognizing that professional organizing services are often scarce in minority and low-income communities, I’m dedicated to understanding this gap and empowering these communities to confidently seek help for everyday stressors and significant life challenges.
It’s not just “stuff” you’re sorting through – it’s decades of stories, love and sometimes heartache. If you have unprocessed grief, give yourself time and grace. You are not alone. When you’re ready, take action. Consider scheduling a free consultation so we can discuss your needs and goals. Once we establish an initial plan, I’ll work alongside you to get things started. When you’re stuck in a mental block and not sure where to start, the combination of support and body-doubling can make all the difference, saving both time and energy.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I’ve never had one long-term mentor—and that’s okay. Mentorship doesn’t always come from a single person. Instead, I’ve learned by seeking advice from a variety of people with different expertise, including many veteran professional organizers. Their experiences, especially from navigating economic lows and the challenges of the pandemic, have been invaluable. My advice is to keep your eyes open and learn from those who’ve been through it all; sometimes the best insights come from unexpected conversations.
As a business owner, I recommend setting aside a dedicated budget for networking. If you’re new to the role, you’ll quickly discover a wealth of virtual and in-person meet-ups. In the beginning, it’s helpful to say yes to a variety of events to get a feel for the atmosphere and audience. For more targeted connections, I arrange one-on-one or small group coffee chats with individuals whose roles or projects intrigue me. At the end of each year, take time to review your networking experiences—both larger events and intimate conversations—to identify which ones offered the most value and meaningful relationships. Then, plan to attend those recurring events in the following year. Remember, time is money, so be intentional about how you invest in your network and your business.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.collectedabundance.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collectedabundance/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/collectedabundance/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/collectedabundance/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/collected-abundance-pflugerville
- Other: mailto: info@collectedabundance.com
Image Credits
Kitty Bird Photo
Julianna Chung
