Workshops for Hire

GENEALOGY WORKSHOP

Learn to Investigate Your Family History

Have you always wanted to investigate your family history but did not know how to begin? Have you become overwhelmed by all of the information available on the internet, or wondered if it is even correct? Or perhaps someone you love feels this way and would like guidance on how to learn more about their family history?

Modern Memoirs is here to help with an online workshop series on best practices for conducting genealogical research. The program provides a solid foundation for people who are new to genealogy and offers good reminders of key concepts for those who are more experienced. Our 5-part Genealogy Workshop Series can be conducted online or in person, expanded or reduced to fit the group’s schedule and needs.

Please contact Genealogist Liz Sonnenberg to inquire about how you can bring this program to your site.

Modern Memoirs Genealogist Liz Sonnenberg holds a BA in journalism and linguistics from the University of Wisconsin in Madison. After decades of work in newspapers and publishing, Liz completed a Certificate in Genealogical Research from Boston University, which emphasizes professionalism and adherence to the Genealogical Proof Standard. As a professional genealogist, she brings to her work at Modern Memoirs the conviction that one of the most important things you can do for your loved ones is to share your genealogical discoveries with them. She is honored to help clients research their ancestry, document and organize findings, and preserve and craft their family stories.

WRITING WORKSHOPS

Share the Facts and Find the Good: Writing (Advance) Obituaries

Modern Memoirs President Megan St. Marie will guide participants through the process of drafting, revising, and sharing obituaries and advance obituaries, which she describes as “memoirs or biographies in miniature.” This program can be offered as a single 90-minute introductory session in person or online, or as a series with time for participants to write and share their work, and for addressing related types of writing such as eulogies and ethical wills/legacy letters.

Once Upon a Memory: Writing from Personal and Family History

In a program suitable for senior citizen groups, libraries, heritage organizations, and other civic and community organizations, Modern Memoirs President Megan St. Marie will provide a brief overview of her company’s services aimed at documenting, researching, preserving, and publishing personal and family histories. She will then guide participants through a series of writing prompts that will invite them to draw on their own memories and family histories. The goal will be to demonstrate how engaging in writing and life-review work can be a means of fostering self-discovery and deepening familial connections. Participants will be encouraged, but not required, to share their work as time permits, and there is no obligation for them to further engage Modern Memoirs services.

This writing program can be expanded or reduced to fit your group’s schedule and can be conducted in person or remotely via video conference.