Moving with Heart: How Custom Moving Solutions and Sensational Seniors Are Helping the Tri-Valley Thrive

Moving isn’t just about boxes, tape, and sore backs. For many families, it’s an emotional milestone—downsizing after decades in a beloved home, helping parents through a major transition, or clearing out memories after a loss. It’s no wonder the process feels overwhelming.

That’s where Andriana Mendez and her husband, Art Lahde, come in. Together, they own Custom Moving Solutions and Sensational Seniors, two businesses built on compassion, community, and practical know-how.

I recently sat down with Andriana for A Few Minutes with Margy to hear how she helps people in the Tri-Valley navigate change with confidence—and even a little joy.

From Danville Roots to Serving the Community

Andriana is a true Danville native. “I grew up here, my mom still lives in the same house I grew up in,” she said. “So community has always been at the heart of what I do.”

In 2017, she and Art launched Custom Moving Solutions, a full-service move management company. Think of them as event planners—but for moving. They help with everything from sorting, packing, and moving to unpacking, donating, and even hauling away what’s no longer needed.

“We work with people who feel stuck or overwhelmed,” Andriana explained. “Our job is to guide them, set up a plan, and keep everything on time so they can focus on what really matters.”

Whether clients want to be hands-on or prefer to hand over the keys and say, “You take it from here,” Andriana and her team make it happen.

Stress-Free Moves—à la Carte or Full-Service

One of the best things about Custom Moving Solutions is flexibility. You can choose à la carte services—just the packing, for instance—or let them handle the entire move from start to finish.

“We do more than 400 jobs a year now,” Andriana shared. “We’ve grown to eight employees and even added Sensational Seniors events as part of our give-back to the community.”

Sensational Seniors: More Than Moving

After COVID, Andriana saw another need—connection. “I wanted older adults to have a space where they could learn, connect, and feel supported,” she said. That’s how Sensational Seniors was born.

Through workshops and events, Sensational Seniors brings together trusted local professionals to share knowledge in a non-salesy, approachable way. Past sessions have covered everything from aging in place to financial planning.

“It’s about giving before doing business,” Andriana said. “We want people to leave with tools to enrich their lives, whether they’re planning a transition or just looking for resources.”

Upcoming Events You Don’t Want to Miss

This August, Sensational Seniors is hosting a workshop on Proposition 19—explaining how older homeowners can transfer their property tax base when moving or downsizing. It’s a simple change that can save thousands of dollars.

Then, on September 24th from 9 a.m. to noon at St. Philip in Dublin, Andriana will host a much larger Resource Fair with more than 60 local vendors. From senior services to health, finance, and housing experts, attendees can explore a wide range of free consultations and guidance—all under one roof.

And here’s the best part: it’s free and open to everyone, not just seniors.

Why It Matters

Change is never easy. Whether it’s downsizing, retiring, or navigating life after a loss, transitions can feel paralyzing. That’s why Andriana’s work matters so much.

“People come to us stressed and overwhelmed,” she said. “By the end, they’re relieved, grateful, and ready for what’s next. That’s the best part of my job.”

And it’s not just about moving boxes. It’s about building trust, community, and hope—one family at a time.

How to Connect

If you or someone you love is preparing for a move—or if you simply want to plug into valuable local resources—Andriana’s team is here to help.

Visit custom-movers.com to learn more about Custom Moving Solutions or to schedule a consultation.

Visit sensationalseniors.net to see upcoming workshops and events, including the September Resource Fair.

Or call Andriana directly at 925-895-4411 for friendly, personalized guidance.

Final Thought

Moving doesn’t have to feel like climbing a mountain with a sofa strapped to your back. With the right team, it can be a positive, even empowering experience.

As Andriana proves every day, when you mix professionalism with compassion, you’re not just moving things—you’re moving lives forward.

So whether you’re planning a move, downsizing, or just curious about local resources, take the first step today. Reach out to Custom Moving Solutions or attend a Sensational Seniors event. You might find that your next big transition is easier—and more uplifting—than you ever imagined.