Frequently asked questions.
How do you even start researching someone’s genealogy?
I begin with a consultation where you tell me names, dates, or even just a grandparent’s name or birthplace. From there, I search historical records like censuses, immigration lists, military rolls, and more, building your tree step by step!
Do I need to take a DNA test?
Nope! DNA is helpful but not required. I focus on public records, historical documents, and official sources. If you do have DNA results, I can use them to enhance the search, but they’re not needed to get started.
How far back can you trace?
Every family is different. Some records go back hundreds of years, while others may be limited. I’ve successfully traced families as far back as the 1400s when records allow.
Can you find records for people who were enslaved?
Yes. While it’s challenging, I use wills, bills of sale, census records, Freedmen’s Bureau files, plantation documents, and more. With patience and research, powerful stories can be uncovered.
How long does it take?
Timelines vary depending on the depth of research and your goals. Some projects take a couple of days, sometimes weeks, others a few months. I’ll always try and give you an estimated timeline upfront.
Will I get a family tree at the end?
Yes! You’ll receive a visual family tree, timelines, historical context, and detailed notes. I make sure everything is clear, well-documented, and formatted in a way you can share or keep forever
What if I don’t know anything about my family?
That’s totally fine! Even with just a last name or one detail, I can usually uncover something! Even a location, a sibling, or a story, that opens up new doors and leads to other breakthroughs.
How much does it cost?
offer different packages depending on how in-depth you’d like me to go and how far back you’d like your tree traced. We’ll talk through your goals and budget, and I’ll recommend the best option for you. Payment plans are also available to fit your project, and new promo codes are sent to your email regularly when signed up for our email campaign!