On the Move? New Memorial-Area Biz Helps with Relocation, Packing, Downsizing and More

On the Move? New Memorial-Area Biz Helps with Relocation, Packing, Downsizing and More

IT'S NO SECRET that the real estate industry is booming nationwide. Inventory is down, prices are up, and folks are on the move. Just last week, for example, closings on homes increased by 60 percent compared to the same timeframe last year, despite a dearth in available properties.


To meet the increased demand, a new biz has landed in the Memorial area, promising to make the process of transitioning between homes easier on everyone.

Gulf Coast Moves is an offshoot of the Connecticut-based Coastal Town Moves; owner Laurie Maggio moved from Wilton, Conn., in 2020, bringing her business with her to H-Town. Having herself relocated 10 times in the last 20 years, Maggio is something of an expert in the process.

Gulf Coast Moves specializes not only in packing and moving, but also home-staging, organization, rentals, renovations and, uniquely, downsizing. It's a member of the National Association of Senior Move Managers, catering to empty nesters and seniors looking to settle in to a new lifestyle. "Sorting through a lifetime of possessions is challenging and can be so emotional," says Maggio, a mom and a former NBA marketing manager.

In addition to general moving and organization services, the company can also help organize estate sales and consign big-ticket items, coordinate donations and trash pickup, and help figure out short- and long-term storage options. An initial consultation is free, and all clients receive a customized plan.

People + Places
Chapman & Kirby Launches Free Concert Series for Spring

Danny Ray and the Atlantic Street Band performs May 31 (photo from dannyrayatlanticstreetband.com)

CHAPMAN & KIRBY, THE premier event destination in Houston’s East Village, is thrilled to announce the launch of its Spring Music Series, kicking off on Friday, April 12. Chapman & Kirby has become synonymous with top-tier events and unforgettable experiences, many attended by celebrities both local and worldwide. With concert ticket prices soaring to hundreds and even thousands of dollars in the last year, this eight-week music series promises to be a welcomed opportunity to engage with live music for free, showcasing an eclectic lineup of talented acts.

Keep Reading Show less

ONE OF THE many amazing things about William Shakespeare is how well his comedies and tragedies communicate when reimagined in contemporary settings. Shakespeare’s language may be highfalutin, but the Bard always had his ear to the street — and always gave audiences a healthy dose of grand guignol (i.e. blood and more blood) along with the poetry.

Keep Reading Show less
Art + Entertainment

Serial entrepreneur and spa visionary LeBrina Jackson

NESTLED IN THE heart of France, the town of Vichy holds a rich history in the world of wellness and hydrotherapy. Acquiring fame for their alkaline springs in the 17th century, the Romans were among the first to recognize the therapeutic benefits of the springs. They established a French spa known as “Vichy,” which still exists today and continues to attract spa-goers from around the world to experience the transformative effects of hydrotherapy.

Keep Reading Show less