It starts with a conversation

Be clear about what it is you want to know. Gather together any information you already have…..and then let’s talk!

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Project Scoping

Every project is unique, so the first step is a conversation where we explore what you already know about your family and what you hope to achieve. Together, we will agree on a scope for your project and choose the path that makes the most sense for you – one of my Research Packages, or a Bespoke Project.

Should we decide on a Bespoke Project, I will prepare a proposal and quote that will include an estimate of research time and cost.

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Research Packages

My fixed-price Research Packages are designed to give you clarity about what’s included and what to expect. Each package comes with a written report (Word or PDF), copies of key documents where available, and suggestions for where the research might lead next. The fee is inclusive of GST and covers my time and reporting. Any extra costs such as certificates, postage, printing, or archive fees are charged at cost, and only with your agreement beforehand.

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Starter Family
Snapshot
$400

If this is your first exploration of your family tree, or if you have some information and want to extend your knowledge, this package will give you the kick start you need.

  • Up to 5 hours of research

  • A family tree chart covering 2–3 generations

  • A summary report with key source documents

  • Recommendations for next steps

  • A GEDCOM file can be supplied on request

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Family Tree
Builder
$800

If you are looking for more than just names and dates, this package offers the opportunity to delve deeper into the past and learn more about your family story.

  • Up to 12 hours of research

  • A family tree chart extending 3–4 generations (as records allow)

  • A detailed narrative report with contextual notes and key source documents

  • Recommendations for next steps

  • A GEDCOM file can be supplied on request

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Brick Wall
Breakthrough
$850

Some brick walls come down quickly, others take time. This package offers space for deep reflection, careful search, steady progress, and clear options for what to do next.

  • 10 hours of focused research on a specific genealogical problem

  • Initial review of existing research and records

  • Targeted investigation across relevant archives and databases

  • Regular progress updates, with options to adjust the research direction

  • A written report detailing findings, evidence, and possible next steps

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Bespoke
Projects
POA

If you’d like something more in-depth — for example a family history book, comprehensive research about the life of a particular ancestor, help in making sense of your DNA results – then a Bespoke Project may be what you need.

Or perhaps you have reached the end of a Research Package and would like to further the investigation.

I can prepare a detailed proposal and quote tailored to your specific requests that will include an estimate of research time.

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Doing the Research

The work begins once we’ve agreed on the way forward and a deposit is paid. Family history is full of surprises, but not every mystery can be solved. Records may be missing, fragile, or beyond reach. What I offer is time, care, and expertise, with a commitment to search thoroughly, share openly what is found — and what is not — and guide you honestly on next steps. If it becomes clear the trail has ended, I’ll let you know and outline the options for pausing, redirecting, or concluding.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • I take my work — and your family’s story — seriously. I’m a member of AAGRA and follow their standards for ethical, accurate research. You’ll always receive sourced work, regular updates, and honest guidance about what the records can — and cannot — reveal.

  • If you choose one of my fixed-price Research Packages, the cost of your project is agreed upfront.
    If you’d like to extend the research, or prefer a Bespoke Project, my rate is $60 per hour. Costs such as official certificates, archive access fees, postage, and other incidentals are charged separately at cost. I’ll always check with you before purchasing any additional records.

  • Timeframes vary depending on record availability, location, and how complex your family history is. As a guide, tracing both maternal and paternal lines back 3–4 generations typically takes around 4–6 weeks. If delays are likely — for example, with archives, certificates, or overseas repositories — I’ll keep you updated.

  • Absolutely. Research you’ve already completed is very helpful in shaping the strategy for your project and ensuring we avoid duplicating work. If you’d like to continue exploring your family history after I’ve completed my part, I’m happy to offer guidance and suggestions.

  • At the end of your project, you’ll receive a written report (including family tree charts) in Word and/or PDF. I can also provide a GEDCOM file if you’d like to upload the results into a genealogy program. If you prefer, I can build your tree directly in Ancestry.com for you.

  • You can find Little Things Genealogy Terms & Conditions here.

Ready to get started?

Let's Talk!