Frequently asked questions

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Can I pay in instalments?

 

Of course. Instalments can be made as different stages of the project are completed. Check out the different packages available.  

 

Are interviews face-to-face?

 

Yes, usually they take place at the person’s home. Imagine it as a being a friendly chat. I will guide you through the process. 

 

I can travel for an interview in Northumberland and the Scottish Borders (including Edinburgh and Newcastle). For longer distances please get in touch and we can arrange either a visit or a remote call. 

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Can you do remote calls?

 

Yes, remote calls using WhatsApp, FaceTime, Skype, Microsoft Teams and similar user friendly apps are definitely a possibility.  If you need additional help setting up your computer/phone/tablet for video calls I am more than happy to provide that support. 

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Can you use regular telephone calls?

 

Yes, that is also an option. Telephone calls, whether it's a landline or mobile, work just as well, and I have experience conducting interviews over the phone. If it is more convenient, I can also travel to meet you in person as an introductory meeting, and afterward, we can have weekly phone calls where you can share your life story with me.

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How long are the interview sessions? 

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Typically one interview session lasts between 90 to 120 minutes. 

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Do I need to prepare beforehand? 

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Before each interview session, I will send you a few memoir prompts which are designed to jog your memory. You don’t have to write anything down, nor do you need to prepare. All you need to do is try to revisit these past moments. Alternatively, if you already know exactly which stories you want to share and you are happier to write things down you are more than welcome to do some preparation beforehand. It's totally up to you.  

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How long does it take? 

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Normally it should take between four to six months to complete a project depending on the scale of the project.

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Can I arrange more interviews? 

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Additional interviews can be arranged at an additional cost.

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Can I order more copies of the book?

 

Yes, additional copies can be ordered at an additional cost. 

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I have photos that I would like to include in the book but need help with digitising them. Would you be able to help?

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Certainly, I will scan them for you and get them ready to be incorporated into the final product. Just make sure they are not copyrighted or you have received the rights. Capturing your family story is not complete without incorporating some of your favourite photographs. 

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I would like a custom memoir that is not currently offered on your website. Can this be done? 

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Feel free to get in touch so we can discuss your specific requirements. The prices can be adjusted accordingly. 

I have different materials (documents, written notes, articles) that I've collected over the years that would be useful for my memoir. Can you consider them when writing my life story?

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As long as it is a reasonable amount of material, I would be very happy to consider them. I am a researcher at heart, and those materials can provide more context for your life story. 

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Where can I see a sample of your work? 

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Certainly, click here to read a sample chapter of a memoir I've recently completed. 

Is the memoir private, or is it for the wider audience? 

Most of my clients decide on a private memoir, which they then share with a selected group, usually their children, close friends and other family members. Having your memoir published (for the wider audience) is certainly possible and something I am more than happy to talk to you about.