FAQs

Here are answers to the questions I’m most often asked.

What information do I need to get started?

Just a few basic details — your parents’ and grandparents’ names (if known) and any dates or locations you have.
If you don’t have much, that’s completely fine. I can work with even the smallest clues.

How far back can you research?

Most family trees can be traced back 3–5 generations with standard records.
Beyond that, it depends on the availability of parish, military, and regional archives — but I’ll always let you know what’s realistic.

How long does a family tree take to create?

This varies depending on complexity.
A simple 3-generation tree usually takes 2–3 weeks. But that also depends on what you want from the outcome.
Larger or more detailed projects will take longer, and I’ll give you a clear timeline before we begin.

What if my family has a ‘brick wall’?

Brick walls are common — and they’re often solvable.
I offer focused 1:1 sessions to help break through research dead ends using new techniques, fresh records, and a second pair of eyes.

Do you use DNA results?

At the moment, I don’t specifically analyse DNA kits — if you have you have already done one and you are willing to share the results with me then I can use this to help research. I can guide you on how to interpret them in a future session.

Do you work with adoptive or unknown parentage cases?

These cases require a different approach.
I can often help uncover documentary evidence, but for biological tracing it is something that I am learning myself at the moment and I may recommend specialist resources.
Feel free to message me first to discuss.

Do you work outside the UK?

Yes — many UK families have ancestors in Ireland, Europe, and the Commonwealth.
Where records are accessible, I can usually help.
If not, I’ll be clear about limitations before any work begins.

How will I receive my results?

What you will receive will depend on what you have ordered. But the basic you’ll receive is a clean, easy-to-read digital family tree and a summary of the records found.
This can be printed, shared, or kept for future research.

Can I upgrade my tree later?

Absolutely.
You’re welcome to return at any time to expand your research, explore new branches, or add additional generations.