Michelle Hale had a love for organization from an early age but it wasn’t until starting a family that she realized it was her career destiny. After becoming a mom, Michelle changed course leaving her ten year job in finance to focus on pursuing a career in home organization. Michelle partnered with Annie Draddy to create Henry & Higby, a company that provides home organization services for people who are overwhelmed by clutter and want to embrace a life organized. Her need for order combined with a background in Southern entertaining help Michelle understand clients’ needs and deliver a beautifully organized space time and again. Michelle shares with Beyond Mom her favorite bedtime routine for a better sleep and her go-to spots for breakfast in NYC.
What makes you a Beyond Mom?
After years of not knowing what I really wanted to do, I managed to start a business (Henry & Higby) around my passion for organization that also allows me the flexibility to stay actively involved with my family.
What are the parts of you that have grown and expanded since becoming a Mom?
It may seem cliché but it is true — having a child opened my heart in ways that I never thought possible. And with all of that love focused on one human being, it sometimes takes all that I have to trust that when he leaves each day for school that he will come home safe and happy each night.
Can you share a collaboration/success story with another woman; what helped the collaboration become successful?
I get to live my greatest collaboration story every day with my business partner at Henry & Higby, Annie. The success of our business and the results we deliver for our clients couldn’t happen without her. As we always say, together we are one really awesome person.
We support each other professionally and personally and it is because of this successful partnership and friendship that I have the chance to pursue my passion and never miss out on a mom moment with my son.
What relationships help you stay connected to yourself?
I stay connected to myself through relationships that are filled with laughter and empathy. It is one of life’s greatest gifts to be accepted and loved by people who see who you really are and still accept and love you.
Do you have a ‘Beyond’ dream that you are pursuing? If so, please share…
My dream is to build my business, Henry & Higby, and continue helping people live a calmer, more organized life. I want to be living proof for my son and those around me that if you put in the time and work hard that anything is possible.
What wellness activity can you not live without?
I can’t live without my annual trip to Miraval in Arizona. Once a year my dear friend and I meet up for a long weekend of hiking and laughing and one challenging activity which, at least for me, usually includes something with heights.
What is one thing you do daily that balances you?
Keeping my home and family organized on a daily basis keeps me balanced. I feel calmer knowing that my home life is in order and that allows me to focus on my work and have a more productive day.
Outside of organization, I use doTERRA essential oils on my wrists before going to bed each night. “On Guard” is one of my favorite scents. I am a notoriously bad sleeper but something about the cinnamon scent reminds me of my childhood and helps me relax.
How does style influence the way you stay feeling ‘Beyond’?
I feel and look my best when I am mixing up vintage jackets and bags from my grandmother with more casual pieces. My typical work day uniform includes a vintage coat paired with David Lehner leggings and a sweater from Vince, Rag & Bone or Zadig & Voltaire.
However, I still have some preppier, more conservative pieces in my closet that I use for meetings and more formal gatherings proving that you can take the girl out of the South but you can’t take the South out of the girl.
Favorite Spots that Embody The Beyond Mom:
Beyond Cocktails and/or Food
For me, eating is definitely a hobby so it is hard to keep the list to only a few spots but if I must…
- Café Cluny for breakfast
- I Sodi for comfort pasta
- Dig Inn for a healthy quick lunch on-the-go
As for drinks, it is a toss between a beer at the White Horse Tavern or a dirty martini at Bemelman’s Bar.
Beyond Workout
I have had a lifelong love of group fitness activities and these days my favorite is SoulCycle. I walk out recharged and always craving more. Outside of classes, I find that walking helps clear my head which is good because I feel like that is all I do somedays!
Beyond Shopping:
- Mara Hoffman for swimwear
- Patagonia for outerwear and work bags — practical, durable and the company gives back
- Egg by Susan Lazar and Roberta Roller Rabbit for kids clothes and PJs
- Annelore for great original pieces
- Tender Button for interesting buttons to add some interest to older coat or jacket
