
GenealogY services
I’m Jessica, the genealogist behind Cherry Tree Genealogy. I’m a researcher and lecturer, offering genealogy-related presentations (either in person or online), family history research reports, genealogy coaching, basic DNA analysis, record retrieval, and vital record translation in the North Carolina capitol region and beyond.
I built my business out of a love for family history and a desire to help others discover the stories of their ancestors.
Want to know more? Read on to learn about what I do and then send me a message! I’d love to work with you.
Connect with me:

Services
What can I do for you?
Research
Want to learn more about your family history? I’ll do a deep dive into historical documents to provide you with a report full of fascinating details about your ancestors.
Lecturing
I’m available to speak on various genealogical topics for genealogical or historical societies, library audiences, and other interest groups. Now booking speaking engagements for 2026-2027!
Coaching
Whether you want to start working on your family history and don’t know where to begin, or are an experienced family researcher facing a “brick wall” problem, together we can map out a plan to guide you in the right direction.
DNA Analysis
I can help you explore your DNA testing options to find the best fit for your genealogical needs, explain the results of a test you’ve already taken, or use your DNA matches to find genetic links to your relatives and ancestors.
Record Retrieval
When you need a document housed in the greater Raleigh area, I can access it for you. Nearby repositories include the North Carolina State Archives, Olivia Raney Local History Library, UNC Chapel Hill’s and Duke University’s special collections, among others.
Translation
I offer translation into English for vital records originally written in German, French, Italian, Latin, and Polish.
Happy Customers
I want to thank you…
for all your work in connecting me to my family. I went years without having information about my biological family and you connected us. You are awesome at what you do.
A.M.
Jessica filled in the missing pieces…
that led to finding out so much about the maternal grandfather I never knew. I gained many new cousins and so much family history.
G.D.
You will be blown away…
not only by what Jessica is able to discover, but also by how beautifully she integrates the information into a cohesive and fascinating narrative!
E.B.
FAQs
How much do you charge?
$25 an hour for research*, coaching, or record retrieval, and $10 per page for translation.
Lecturing and DNA pricing vary by project due to each client’s individual needs. Please contact me directly for a quote if you are interested in DNA analysis or booking a speaking engagement.
*10 hour minimum/$250 initial investment for research. No such requirements for other services.
If you do genealogical research for me, what can I expect to receive?
I will deliver a narrative report emailed in PDF format with full source citations and copies of relevant documents included. If you’d like your report printed and mailed to you instead, that can be arranged. To see a few sample excerpts from my client reports, please click here.
Why is there a 10 hour minimum for research?
Ten hours is generally adequate time to locate relevant genealogical records, examine them carefully, evaluate the information pertaining to your family, and produce your client report. Authorizing less time could result in the inability to make sufficient progress towards solving your genealogical problem.
Where can I find a list of your current lecture topics?
For more information on hiring me to speak for your group or event, please click here.
What is genealogy coaching?
Rather than hiring me to dig up your family facts and deliver a finished product, we’ll work together to get YOU on your way to finding genealogical success on your own. If you’re a beginner who needs some pointers and basic best practices to get started, I’ve got you covered. If you’ve already done some research but could use a fresh set of eyes on your work, I can do that. Coaching sessions are designed to be 30-minute meetings tailored to your specific needs.
Can I hire you as a genealogy coach if I don’t live in North Carolina?
Absolutely! I can use Google Meet to work with clients remotely, or we can communicate by phone if you prefer.
Consultation
Ready to learn about the people whose lives led to yours?
Let’s get started!