H.A. Hang: Emily Berman

The coolest part of our business has always been our clients. We’re amazed by all they do: CEOs, world travelers, authors, inventors, entrepreneurs, newscasters, artists, pro athletes, musicians, caretakers, and philanthropists.

We launched this series to share the stories of our clients and form connections within the H.A. community. Enjoy!

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Home Appétit: People can probably guess from the name, but what is Neat Method?
Emily Berman: Neat Method is a luxury home organizing service. We're committed to creating simple and versatile organizational systems tailored to any and all lifestyles. So, whether someone needs space cleared in a garage or creative solutions in a laundry closet, our clients receive our white-glove service from start to finish. We also assist people with one of the most stressful life events, moving! We edit down their belongings and help them pack to make their move more seamless. Then, once in their new home, we’re there unpacking boxes, stocking the pantry, setting up the bathrooms—everything that people need to feel organized in their space. 

Is there a particular room that people tend to want help with most?
We find that most clients are in a life transition; moving, getting married, divorced, having a baby, becoming an empty nester, or starting to work from home. So, the spaces vary depending on their life stage. We have many clients with young children who need help organizing the ever-changing toys that are easily accumulated. 

You must have the most organized home in Philadelphia …
I would like to say yes, I probably do. Owning this business, there's a lot of pressure to always keep our space neat. For better or for worse, organizing is definitely a passion of mine, so my house is a true reflection of the Neat Method. People sometimes ask if kids live in my house. The answer is yes, two of them, but their toys are organized! 

How did you get into this work?
When I was moving to Bryn Mawr, I worked with Far Studio to decorate my home. ( I highly recommend them.) They referred me to Neat Method to assist with my move. They had me moved in and set up within two days! I became a repeat client and when I found out that the owner of Neat Method Philadelphia was selling, my sister-in-law and I decided to buy it. I’m a very organized, type-A individual—I don't like clutter and always had a desire to own my own business, so it just felt right.

What's it like to work with family?
It’s been amazing. Marisa and I are best friends, sister-in-laws and now business partners. We balance each other out. She has her MBA and a strong background in marketing. I have a background in human resources and also have my real estate license. I feel so lucky to have her as a partner! 

What’s your favorite thing to organize?
Pantry makeovers are fun because you can get really creative. We sell these beautiful canisters, and we do everything from creating popcorn and granola stations to decanting pastas, grains and cereals. Instead of opening your pantry and seeing boxes of opened cereal or bags of popcorn, you get a beautiful visual aesthetic.

Is there anything about organizing homes that you think would surprise people?It always surprises me that people are able to live with their things on the floor and with pantries that are overflowing—just chaos. I truly believe nobody should have to live in a space that doesn't create peace and serenity. 

What’s your favorite part of the job?
We're not doctors or saving the world. However, after COVID, people seem to have invested more time and money into their homes. If we can be a part of creating a space that brings joy, then we feel like we're doing some good in the world. That’s my favorite part.

Where can we find you spending time outside of your (neat) home?
On the Main Line, I love working out at SolidCore and F45, grabbing coffee at Homeroom, eating sushi at Osushi and shopping at Skirt and Homegrown. My husband and I also spend many nights in the city ... Vernick is our absolute favorite! 

Follow Emily and Marisa on Instagram.