May always feels like a fresh breath of air, doesn’t it? Personally, I adore this month—partly because it’s my birthday, but also because it signals that we’re standing at the doorstep of summer. The Victoria Day long weekend is one of my favourite traditions: it’s the unofficial kickoff to outdoor entertaining, sunny afternoons with the kids, and weekends away at the cottage. And if you’re anything like me, you might already be mapping out what annuals you’ll plant in the front garden this year (I’m thinking about blush calibrachoas and fresh white impatiens—what about you?).

As I refresh my own home, I wanted to share a few spaces I always focus on this time of year—not to overhaul or "declutter," but to set the stage for the life I want to live in the months ahead: relaxed, stylish, and intentional.

1. The Entryway: Your Seasonal Launch Pad

Let’s start with the space that sets the tone for your whole home—the entryway. In summer, this area works hard: from hosting sandy shoes to housing tennis gear, sunscreen, and sun hats. But it doesn’t have to look or feel chaotic.

What I Do:

• I use tall cabinetry or concealed built-ins to tuck away boots and heavier outerwear until fall.

• I set up a couple of chic baskets by the door—one for dog leashes and sunglasses, another for summer essentials like bug spray or baseball caps.

• A bench with hidden storage is a game changer. It’s where I keep extra totes and picnic blankets ready to go.

Your Takeaway:

When your entry is set up to anticipate your day, everything feels easier. You can come and go without a second thought—and that’s the real luxury.

Where to Shop:

• Neatfreak Entryway Systems – Canadian Tire

• Custom Mudroom Cabinetry – California Closets Canada

2. Outdoor Living Zones: Make Space for the Moments That Matter

If you entertain outdoors (or even just enjoy quiet mornings with a coffee on the deck), this is the time to prep those spaces so they’re truly enjoyable all season long.

What I Do:

• I rotate in weatherproof storage benches that blend with the furniture and quietly store seat cushions, gardening gloves, citronella candles, or outdoor games.

• I keep a tray near the back door stocked with easy-to-grab napkins, drink stirrers, and glassware so I’m never running back and forth when guests arrive.

• My kids have a labeled bin by the back door with their summer play gear—frisbees, chalk, water balloons—so it all stays in one spot.

Your Takeaway:

A well-organized outdoor space encourages you to use it more. You’ll entertain more often and unwind more fully when everything has its place.

Where to Shop:

• Hauser Outdoor Storage – Hauser Stores

• Outdoor Storage Benches – Wayfair Canada

3. Wardrobe & Linen Transitions: Lighten the Everyday

There’s something symbolic about putting away winter coats and wool scarves—like shedding a layer and stepping into something brighter.

What I Do:

• I store heavier items in under-bed boxes with cedar inserts to protect fabrics and keep everything fresh.

• In the closet, I switch to velvet hangers for breezy linen pieces and move travel essentials front and centre—packing cubes, weekender bags, sandals.

• I also take 15 minutes to rotate our linen closet: away go the flannels, and out come the crisp percale sheets and lightweight throws.

Your Takeaway:

When your wardrobe and linens reflect the season, your whole day feels different. Getting dressed becomes simpler. Your mornings feel calmer.

Where to Shop:

• Closet Storage & Hangers – Solutions Stores

• Storage Baskets & Linens – Simons

It’s About More Than Just Storage

Here’s what I’ve learned working in so many beautiful homes over the years: when your space is aligned with the way you actually live, everything softens. The stress drops. You feel more present. You make fewer decisions and enjoy more moments.

Organizing isn’t about perfection. It’s about making space for the life you really want—weekend brunches, barefoot evenings on the patio, and spontaneous family getaways.

And in this season especially, I want that ease for you.

Need a Hand Getting There?

If you’re dreaming of a summer that feels smooth, stylish, and just a bit more serene, I’d love to help. I work with busy women across the GTA to create tailored, high-functioning homes that reflect their taste and support their pace.

Book your Summer Readiness Consultation here
Let’s make this your most effortless summer yet.

—
Happy May,

Kira