Where are you in your family history journey?
Maybe you’re just curious. Maybe you’ve inherited someone else’s research. Maybe you’ve hit a wall. Wherever you are, I can take it from here.
Two ways to work together
Tailored to how involved you want to be in the process.
Genealogy Research
I work across multiple databases and, when needed, reach out to or visit repositories directly to find what you’re looking for.
Consulting
Not ready to hand it off? I can guide you through the next steps so you can continue the research yourself with confidence.
$100 deposit due before research begins and applied to your final total. Any remaining balance is due when your report is delivered.
- A free 30-minute consultation to get started (not counted as billed research time)
- Dedicated research time focused entirely on your project
- A written report with full source citations
- Copies of all documents found
Frequently asked questions
How much does genealogy research cost?
My research rate is $50 per hour with a two-hour minimum. Every project begins with a free 30-minute consultation, which isn’t counted as billed research time.
How do I pay?
I accept payment through PayPal, Venmo, or Zelle. After your free consultation, and before I begin researching, I ask for a $100 deposit, which is applied to your final total. Any balance for billable hours beyond the two-hour minimum is due when I complete and deliver your research report.
What will I receive at the end of a project?
A written report with full source citations, plus copies of all the documents I find. You can see exactly where every fact came from and check it for yourself.
How long will my project take?
The timeframe depends on the complexity of your project. Whatever it involves, I keep you informed along the way.
What happens in the free consultation?
We talk for 30 minutes about what you’re hoping to find and where your research stands. There’s no obligation. It’s simply a chance to see whether we’re a good fit.
What’s the difference between research and consulting?
With research, you hand it off to me. I search across multiple databases and, when needed, contact or visit repositories directly. With consulting, you stay in charge of the research, and I guide you through the next steps so you can continue with confidence.
What should I tell you when I get in touch?
Whatever you have. A name, a branch of the family, or a brick wall you’ve hit is plenty to start. If you’ve inherited someone else’s research, that’s welcome too.
Do you only research families in Central New York?
New York State, especially the Central New York counties, is my main specialty, along with dual citizenship and lineage societies. If your family’s story leads elsewhere, send me an email and we’ll talk about whether I’m the right fit.
Can you help with dual citizenship or lineage society research?
Both are among my specialty areas. Tell me which you’re pursuing and where you are in the process, and we can talk about how I can help.
What are your qualifications?
I have a Master’s degree in Library Science and more than 25 years of experience in libraries, supporting patrons with research, document analysis, and citations. I also hold certificates in Mastering Genealogical Proof and Mastering Genealogical Documentation, and I’m a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists. I follow the Genealogical Standards of the Board for the Certification of Genealogists and the APG Code of Ethics.
How do I get started?
Email me at wendy@icantakeitfromhere.com and tell me a little about what you’re looking for. I’ll get back to you within two business days, and we can set up your free consultation.
Let’s connect
I’d love to hear about your family history project.
Email Meor write to wendy@icantakeitfromhere.com