Meet the Genealogist
Hi, I'‘m Amber
the founder of Vintage Branches Genealogy and your new genealogy consultant in Wisconsin!
In addition to degrees in anthropology and archaeological research, I hold certificates in genealogical research, have practical experience in leadership positions with state and local genealogical societies, and work experience as a professional genealogist.
Vintage Branches Genealogy is committed to delivering a satisfying experience for every client, every time.
I strongly believe in participative research where I work closely with my clients to not only provide them the information and service they are looking for but also to inspire them to learn more about genealogy and perhaps adopt it as a new hobby.
Our Mission
Vintage Branches Genealogy is a relationship-focused, Wisconsin-based genealogical research service that connects people to their history.
Our Values
Partnership, Trust, Collaboration, and Service Excellence
Why I Became a Genealogy Consultant
I've always loved history and have always been curious.
That curiosity led me to think about my ancestors -
⤇ who were they,
⤇ what were they like,
⤇ what experiences did they live through?
These questions drove me to hire a professional researcher to help me learn more about my family's past but I left the experience unimpressed with just about the entire process: the cost, the results, and the service.
This was the turning point for me. I realized there was a need for genealogy research services that are tailored to the client, reasonably priced, and built on collaboration and partnership throughout the engagement – and that I could be the one to provide that service.
I love to solve other people's family mysteries
I launched Vintage Branches Genealogy in 2021.
Since then I have found that I love to solve other people's family mysteries. I am drawn to the stories of other people, and want to make a difference in their lives, helping my clients discover who they are, learn more about their heritage, and possibly ignite a flame in them to do their own research or learn how to be better hobby genealogists themselves.
It all started with my own family history…
I've been researching my family history for many years, and each year I find out something new and exciting about them. It never gets old either.
My family has been in Wisconsin since the 1800s, traveling Westward in the US after leaving their country of origin. I've been fortunate that some of my family members have left a trail of their existence, but more often than not it has been a puzzle, slowly piecing their lives together.
Many of the pictures on my website reflect my ancestors: Genett, LaSage, Bibinger, Lockery just to name of few.
All close to my heart.
Genealogical Education
Bachelors of Science in Anthropology, 1998
University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh
Masters of Science in Anthropology, coursework
University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
Genealogical Research Certificate, 2019
Boston University, Center for Professional Education
Mastering Genealogical Proof Study Group, 2020
Professional Genealogy (ProGen) 49, 2021
American Genealogical Studies, 2022 National Genealogical Society
Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh
Research in the Great Lakes Region, 2021
Law School for Genealogists, 2022
Professional Genealogy Practicum (in preparation for certification), 2023
Professional Memberships
National Genealogical Society
Association of Professional Genealogists
Genealogy Business Alliance
Virtual Genealogical Association
Wisconsin State Genealogical Society (Board Member and Social Media)
Wisconsin Historical Society
Researching your family, but need more help?
Hiring a professional genealogist can help you with those hard-to-solve research questions.
Brick wall and dead-end research?
DNA results hard to decipher?
Tracing an immigrant ancestor?
For example…
A client of mine recently discovered her grandmother. She didn't have much information to go on but together, through genealogical research and a partnership, we developed a picture of her life and who she was.
It meant so much to her to understand and learn more about the grandmother she never got to meet but felt a close connection to.