It’s that time again! Launch week. This week we're launching new franchise owners and new markets! Let’s dive in to see who our new additions are.
We want to welcome Tracey Kuennen of Manhattan Beach, California. We are thrilled she’s a part of the team. Let’s find out more about what makes her so NEAT.
NM :: Why do you want to run NEAT in your city?
TK :: Is there a limit on how many reasons I can list…? This is a dream and blessing. When I found NEAT, it made perfect sense personally and professionally. I know the feeling of being overwhelmed on the inside, when outside life is not tidy and organized. I also know the peace and sanity it brings when you do have those things in order. Being able to combine my own business with my obsession for organization, efficiency, strategy and making things look beautiful, is one thing. But, being able to do this while fulfilling my passion for helping people and making a difference in lives, makes it complete.
What drew me to NEAT was hearing about our values and culture; the largest part of what I believe is needed for business success and what I need for personal success. Straight forward, honest, well-poised, humble and kind, are all values NEAT embodies and I hold as important as well.
NM :: What did you do before NEAT?
TK :: My career has been as a development professional in sports and non-profit. This includes managing corporate partnerships and private donations; working with donors and sponsors to connect them with their passion. We help supporters invest in the people, programs and projects who benefit from that support.
I have two masters degrees in business administration and sports administration. I realized aspects of my career were things I loved, like helping people and building relationships, but there was more. I am excited to make a difference on an individual level and have a NEAT effect on a large scale as well.
NM :: What makes your city unique?
TK :: I think Manhattan Beach has a wonderful neighborhood feel; it is a significant city in Greater Los Angeles, but also a beautiful stand alone community. We have retired beach lovers as well as young busy families. It is casual and laid back, but also professional and successful.
NM :: How long have you lived in your city?
TK :: Los Angeles for almost 5 years, Manhattan Beach for half of that - if we could live anywhere in LA, it would be here! I am also from San Diego, CA.
NM :: What are your favorite places to shop in your city?
TK :: I am actually not much of a shopper, I get inefficient and bored. However, I do enjoy getting lost in the wonderful worlds of Target and The Container Store... send help!
NM :: Show us a picture of your most organized space and tell us what it is.
TK :: It is nothing exciting, but I would say the junk drawer. It is a catch-all that usually easily gets out of control. But, if it no longer catches everything, then you have to put all of those things in their correct place in the home system.
NM :: What about your least organized space? What the heck happened?
TK :: This makes my soul cringe because I like everything to be in place, but I would say currently it is our paperwork files. While balancing work life with a wedding, caregiving, and some life changes, everything has made it to the file area, but not into the files or to the recycle bin. This makes me want to organize it immediately, but I completely understand that life happens for all of us.
NM :: What do you think is going to be your favorite part of running NEAT in your city?
TK :: All of the relationships, not only with individuals and families, giving them the home systems they need and love, but also working together with other local businesses to partner on great ideas for our area.
NM :: What can people expect when they hire you to organize their home?
TK :: Positivity and privacy. Pretty and functional. I am professional, but also comfortable working together like we have known each other for years. I am motivated and have a strong work ethic, with an understanding of the investment people are making. I value kindness and compassion. I practice transparency and humility, allowing people to provide feedback to meet their needs, to participate in the process or to be as hands off as they wish. Either way creating the end result of more freedom for our clients to enjoy their home and family life.
NM :: Do you have any hidden talents that we should know about?
TK :: I can adapt to any situation; I am genuinely myself and comfortable, from talking business with c-suites to goofing around with kids. Also, does knowing the words to every 90’s country song ever made, count?
That definitely counts. Congratulations on launching Manhattan Beach! We’re so excited to have you join NEAT!
xx
The NEAT Team
