We’re looking forward to introducing you to Alia Adel . Check out our conversation below.
Hi Alia , thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Back in January, when the heartbreaking fires broke out in the Palisades and Altadena, I somehow found myself running a donation center out of my little one-bedroom apartment in West Hollywood. What started as a small idea quickly turned into something so much bigger—we ended up helping over 100 families and packing donations for more than 200 people in just a month and a half.
I’ll never stop being proud of what we were able to do, but even more than that, I’ll never forget how my community showed up. More than 50 volunteers—friends, family, and even some of my clients—came together to pack, organize, deliver, and donate their own time and belongings. It was one of the most powerful experiences of my life.
Because of that, TSS Gives (The Styled Stories Gives) was born. I vowed to use my business to step in and support our community whenever it needs us. The Styled Stories began as an organizing business, and it still is—but in January, a new branch of it came to life, and I couldn’t be prouder.
I’ll carry the faces and stories of the families we helped with me forever. Our city was hurting, and together, we showed up for her in the biggest way possible.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Alia, the founder of The Styled Stories, a professional organizing business based in Los Angeles. I help people create spaces that not only function beautifully but also tell the story of who they are. For me, organizing isn’t just about putting things in order—it’s about creating calm, clarity, and a sense of home that reflects each person’s unique lifestyle.
What makes The Styled Stories unique is the way it blends design with community. My work has always been about more than just organizing—it’s about connection, supporting people, and helping them feel more grounded in their spaces. I like to say I don’t just “declutter” a closet or a pantry—I help people fall back in love with their homes.
Right now, I’m focused on helping people simplify their homes while continuing to grow the community-driven side of my business. At the heart of it all, I want to show that organization isn’t just about things—it’s about people, their stories, and the spaces they live them in.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A moment that really shaped how I see the world was in January, when the devastating fires hit the Palisades and Altadena. Seeing my community step up—friends, family, clients, and neighbors volunteering their time and resources—was incredibly humbling and inspiring. It showed me the power of community and human generosity, and how even small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect. That experience taught me that real impact isn’t just about big gestures—it’s about showing up, listening, and giving where you can, and it’s a perspective that continues to guide both my life and my work.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely—running your own business is hard, and it can sometimes feel lonely. There were many moments when I was burnt out, overworked, or struggling financially, and my imposter syndrome would creep in, making me question whether my work was making a difference or if I should even keep going. But I’ve been so lucky to have incredible clients who reminded me that what I do matters—that The Styled Stories makes a real difference in their lives. Those reminders kept me going, and here I am today, five years in, stronger than ever. Of course, there are still ups and downs, but I’ve learned that I can handle them, and that keeps me moving forward.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I deeply admire people who lead with empathy, integrity, and generosity—those who make a positive impact simply by how they treat others, not by their status or influence. Right now, I would have to say my boyfriend embodies this for me. His character is truly why I fell in love with him. The way he handles everything—with such grace, compassion, and patience—is incredible. I am constantly in awe of him and always learning from him. Even when the weight of the world is on his shoulders, he shows up for everyone in his life with empathy and kindness. Watching him navigate life this way reminds me every day that true leadership and impact come from character, not power.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I truly feel like I’m doing what I was born to do. From starting The Styled Stories to creating spaces that help people feel grounded, I’ve always been drawn to work that combines creativity, organization, and service. While there were times early on when I worried about following a “safe” path or doing what I was told I should do, I realized that my most meaningful work comes when I follow my instincts and passions. Every day I get to help people simplify their homes, tell their stories through their spaces, and make a real difference in their lives—and that feels like exactly what I was meant to be doing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thestyledstories.com/
- Instagram: @thestyledstories_
- Other: Substack: https://substack.com/@thestyledstories
