This month’s local Meet a Mom is Winter Hankins and Candice Batman with Swan Simplicity! Winter Hankins is a mom of two, a son Corey who is 21, and a daughter, Summer who is 18. Candice Batman has one son Ethan who is 11. Together they own and operate Swan Simplicity a professional organization company based in Lakeland Florida. Here’s a bit more about Candice and Winter, what they do, local favorites, and more.
What is it that you do?
We simplify the lives of our clients. This is done by assisting them in decision-making to declutter and downsize when needed, organize and take control of their personal spaces. We offer virtual and in-person organizing services. We assist with: donation and discarded material removal, storage solution suggestion and purchasing, organization implementation, and maintenance sessions when needed.
Tell us about your career.
Described well by the New York Times, “A professional organizer is a person who can help you organize any of the physical and digital spaces in your life. She (and it’s almost always a she) will offer support for decision-making, facilitate actions around the removal of unwanted belongings, and set up systems, from shelving to labels, that help her clients establish order and clarity.”
Why did you decide to pursue this career?
We both knew and felt the desire to pursue more meaningful work. The idea of having control over our own futures, the ability to grow our passion into full-time employment – with the outcome of serving people and helping them achieve personal peace… made it a mandatory move.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The reactions of clients when a space has been overhauled and they are able to reclaim it. The peace of mind and the weight lifted when these amazing people are no longer drowning in belongings – it is truly the most rewarding work you can imagine.
How do you juggle work with mommyhood?
When we decided we were beginning this company, this topic was a highlight of one of our core company values. We commit to being…where our feet are planted. Meaning, we are protective and intentional of our time both at work and at home. We find we operate most effectively for those we serve (family and clients) if we are ALL IN where ever we are. When we are in a creative zone and working at work – we pour ourselves into our talent. When we are filling our hearts and enjoying our families – we do so unapologetically.
The joy of this line of work is, often times it is easier to juggle because the two (work and family) CAN coexist when appropriate. Our kiddos have been in our offices or along with product shopping and sometimes, we take client phone consults from our cars on commutes or our dining room tables. While we have an incredible work ethic and hustle naturally- we are also huge fans and supporters of self-care & mental health days. When you are refreshed and in balance – everyone wins!
What’s your favorite restaurant and/or place to shop in Polk County?
We enjoy both of these things so, to just name a few:
Some of our shared favorite restaurants are Nineteen61, Harry’s, goodness from The Joinery, Fat Jacks & Tea Largo!
Some of our shared favorite shopping locations are Scout & Tag, TJ Maxx, Loft & Hidden Gems! Our favorite place to shop is The Container Store.
What’s your favorite thing to do with your family?
Between our families, we love: sports, traveling, new food experiences, game nights, cozy pajamas, and movies & getting out to help others.
What do you love about living in Polk County?
Of course, when people think of central Florida – the climate, the location, and the sports teams all come to mind (Go Bucs!) However, since the beginning of this journey – we have also become exceptionally grateful for the support and appreciation for small businesses and for giving back to this community. Our neighbors, friends, and family know how to show up, how to care, and how to love BIG.
What’s the best advice you have received?
“By embracing your calling and refusing to hide your glow, you wouldn’t just make your world brighter, you’d light the way for the women who come behind you.” – Rachel Hollis
You can visit Swan Simplicity’s website HERE or follow them on Instagram HERE
