7 Simple Steps for a Tidy Pantry Using the “Organize Your Gorgeous Chaos” System

For those of you who have been following me, you know that I believe that organizing and planning are acts of sustainable self-love because it brings a continued sense of well-being and peace.

About a year ago, I was feeling drained and not radiant by the disorganization and clutter whenever I opened my pantry. It looked like a chaotic eye sore, and we were constantly buying groceries, only to realize we already had the items at home.

That's when I used the “Organize Your Gorgeous Chaos” system to transform my pantry into a zen and tidy oasis (for less than $100). Now, every time I open my pantry, I feel organized and calm, bringing a sense of peace and tranquility.

What’s the “Organize Your Gorgeous Chaos” method? It’s a system that helps you simplify and manage multiple tasks that might seem overwhelming or chaotic. It uses boxes to group similar thoughts and ideas together, allowing you to streamline a project and make sense of the “gorgeous chaos” in life.

You can use the OYGC method for every aspect of life on a sheet of paper or find it included in the Savor Beauty Planner.

Feeling frustrated by your pantry? Let’s roll up our sleeves and spring clean to purge, organize, and tidy up!

Step 1: Take Inventory of Nourishing Foods

The first step in organizing your pantry is to get a sheet of paper and draw some boxes or open your Savor Beauty Planner and turn to an “Organize Your Gorgeous Chaos” page to use the boxes to take inventory of what you have.

Take Inventory

This not only helps you to avoid buying duplicate items, but it also encourages mindful consumption and reduces waste.

I found that taking the time to review each item and assess its value to our family's well-being was essential to creating a functional and organized space.

Step 2: Categorize + Purge Items for Better Well-Being

Next, put your items into two columns: one for items you consume and one for items you’d like to purge or give away.

If you haven’t used an item in the past six months, consider throwing or giving it away. By doing this, you can boost well-being and self-care by only keeping things that are beneficial for you.

Step 3: Measure Your Space for Serenity + Style

Before purchasing any organizing tools, measure the space in your pantry. If you skip this step, you will create more work for yourself if the containers don’t fit.

By each food item in your planner, label S (small), M (medium), or L (large) so you know what size container you will need. For example, I labeled pasta (large), dates (medium), and nuts (small).

This will help you to determine how many containers you can fit and what size you need. Space luxury can help relieve stress and create a sense of calm and relaxation.

organize your gorgeous chaos

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organize your gorgeous chaos 〰️

Step 4: Purchase Organizing Tools for a Pretty Pantry

My “To Buy” Column

Once you have measured your space, create a “To Buy” column. I like sealed containers with matching tops (I got two sets), chalkboard labels, and white chalk pens (get the pointy tips!) because they are easy to write and esthetically pleasing.

I live in NYC where space is of tremendous value, so finding stackable containers was a priority.

These tools are practical and create a pretty pantry!

Step 5: Label Your Containers for Mental Clarity

Once you have all your containers, put all your food items into them and start labeling. This project took me around two hours.

Chalkboard labels are fun!

Easy-to-read labels will not only help you to locate your food quickly, but they will also reduce stress levels because you know exactly where to find each item.

Make sure to include expiration dates; if there are instructions, I clip them and put them inside the container (you can tape them to the back as well).

Step 6: Upkeep Weekly for Sustainable Organization

Now that your pantry is organized, you must take time every week to keep it “gorgeous”! Inevitably, my daughter will buy food items and put them everywhere, but I always make it my “zen time” to store and label each item weekly. Don’t think of it as a chore—think of it as an act of self-love!

Step 7: Purchase Mindfully + Purposefully

Make sure you only buy what you can fit into your containers to save money and reduce waste. I also like putting nearly-expired items on our kitchen counter to encourage everyone to eat them.

Out with the “chaos”, in with the “gorgeous”! Say hello to a pretty pantry that encourages mindful consumption, reduces waste, and promotes happy vibes for all!

xx, Angela