GENEALOGY SERVICES
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
Melissa went above and beyond to uncover fascinating details about my family's past. Her relentless pursuit of history and storytelling is an incredible asset to anyone looking to discover their roots.
T. YOUNG
For my grandmother's death certificate, Melissa deciphered the handwriting and naming convention of widows during her time. Her expertise removed all doubt about my grandmother's identity.
G. FINEZA ROSE
Melissa identified my stepfather's living relatives, so we could ensure ancestral photos were returned to the correct family members for preservation. I was thrilled she found so many and look forward to connecting with them.
M. STENDER
ABOUT
Hey, I'm Melissa!
Ancient royals. Vikings. Patriots. Enslavers and the enslaved. Mayflower ancestors.
My genealogy journey began 12 years ago when diagnosed with cancer. I set out to uncover our family medical history and found so much more. Through this wild ride I realized, genealogy would be my third act.
In 2025, I decided to pursue a Research Certificate from Boston University's renowned Genealogy Studies Program. Done!
I also completed National Genealogical Society (NGS) courses in African American Roots and 17th-
18th Century German Ancestors, and LegacyFamilyTree and FamilySearch RootsTech Nordic genealogy webinars.
Now as a professional genealogist, I specialize in discovering the people, stories, and moments that shaped family histories—even with little evidence.
I combine archival research, DNA analysis, and courthouse-to-cemetery fieldwork to reconstruct lives that deserve to be remembered.
Whether a family scattered across continents or simply kept secrets, there is almost always a thread to follow. And I'll exhaust every effort to shine a light home.
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CREDENTIALS
Boston University
2026 Certificate of Research, Genealogy Studies Program
Member, DAR
2026 Daughters of the American Revolution
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Lineage Committee
Gonzaga Unversity
B. A., Journalism
Member, APG
2026, Association of Professional Genealogists
Member, NGS
2025-Present, National Genealogical Society
Member, SGS
2026, Seattle Genealogical Society
GET STARTED
My rate is $65 an hour, plus expenses and fees, or flat-fee negotiable.
Just need a little guidance on where to begin? Request a research plan for just $250, then take it from there to investigate on your own.
Please complete and submit your research question below and I'll reply within 48 hours.