Are your ancestors’ stories calling?
You feel called to uncover your family history but are overwhelmed by where to even begin?
You drown in ancestry websites, databases, and resources without a clear path forward?
You dream of creating a meaningful family heirloom that future generations will treasure?
You struggle to transform dusty records and dates into the rich narratives your ancestors deserve?
You hit frustrating "brick walls" in your research that seem impossible to break through?
You have names and dates, but still feel the emptiness of missing the real human stories?
My Homeward Bound Handmade Book Intensive is Your Answer!
This seldom-offered 5-day handmade book intensive provides a rare opportunity to work directly with me in my private studio.
We'll begin with two immersive days of genealogical investigation where you'll learn my signature research methods to uncover the hidden stories behind your ancestors' names and dates.
Then, we'll transition to three transformative days of creative expression, where I'll guide you in crafting these discoveries into a soul-satisfying heritage book that your family will treasure for generations.
This intimate workshop represents my unique approach to blending rigorous historical research with artistic documentation - methods I rarely teach in person.
YOUR JOURNEY:
FROM DOCUMENTS TO HANDMADE BOOK
Most genealogy researchers collect names and dates, but true family history goes deeper.
This workshop takes you beyond the basics of frustrating no-results research into the realm of meaningful discovery and creative documentation.
You'll first uncover your ancestors' stories through Erin’s trademark of deep-diving investigation as she shares her Heritage Hunting method - then you’ll transform those discoveries into a beautiful handmade book that honors their legacy, and yours, for generations to come.
WHAT YOU'LL ACHIEVE
Over five intensive days, you'll work closely with Erin to:
Master advanced genealogical research techniques to break through brick walls
Extract rich narratives from seemingly dry records
Develop a bookbinding technique that showcases your discoveries
Create a one-of-a-kind heritage book that combines research and artistry
Document your family's unique journey through both words and images
WORKSHOP OVERVIEW
DATES: October 9-13, 2025 (Thursday-Monday)
TIMES: 9:30am - 4:30pm daily (with 1-hour lunch break)
LOCATION: Erin's studio, greater southwest Houston Area (exact address provided upon registration)
CAPACITY: Limited to 6 participants to ensure personalized instruction and attention
A detailed schedule will be provided to registered participants. Each day includes morning and afternoon sessions with a lunch break.
DAYS 1-2: RESEARCH PHASE
Dive into guided genealogical investigation using my signature research methods.
You'll learn specialized techniques for uncovering family stories that go far beyond names and dates.
Through personalized guidance and structured research sessions, you'll make breakthroughs in understanding your ancestors' lives and experiences.
DAYS 3-5: CREATIVE DOCUMENTATION PHASE
Transform your discoveries into a tangible heritage book through carefully structured creative sessions.
You'll learn my unique approach to blending historical evidence with artistic expression to create a meaningful family heirloom.
From bookbinding foundations to narrative development, you'll craft a one-of-a-kind ancestral book that tells your family's story.
PRICING & REGISTRATION:
PAYMENT OPTIONS:
1 full payment of $1,897
5 monthly payments of $397 each
Workshop price includes access to Erin's research brain to work on your family tree, workshop materials, comprehensive art and bookmaking supplies, daily lunches.
Limited to ONLY SIX participants. Early registration is recommended to secure your place in this intimate, hands-on workshop.
ENHANCE YOUR EXPERIENCE:
OPTIONAL CUSTOM RESEARCH & EPHEMERA BUNDLE
Give yourself a head start! When you arrive at the workshop, you'll receive:
In-depth Research on one family line — Erin will personally research one branch of your family tree before the workshop begins, diving into archives and specialized databases to uncover hidden stories and breakthrough documents
Custom Ephemera Collection — A beautifully curated bundle of historical document and photograph reproductions, vintage papers, and creative elements specifically related to your ancestors and their time period
Research Summary Report — A professionally prepared dossier of all findings, including potential narrative threads, historical context notes, and document analysis
Ready-to-Use Materials — All items will be prepared and ready to incorporate into your heritage book during the workshop
This exclusive pre-workshop service ensures you'll begin the intensive with substantial research already completed and artistic materials ready for immediate use. It's perfect for those who want to maximize their creative time during the workshop or focus on a particularly challenging family line.
Ancestral Discovery Bundle: $697
Must be booked at least 4 weeks before workshop - a consultation with Erin is required prior to purchase which will be due in full after we agree to work together. Please email me at erin@erinfaithallen.com to schedule your consultation.
Limited to TWO participants who have registered for the workshop — must be booked at least 12 weeks before workshop date. ⏰
WHAT TO BRING
Laptop computer for research time is ideal (or a tablet or phone)
Subscription to research database such as Ancestry is preferred and optional
20+ laser copies of family documents / photos etc
Small meaningful objects that represent your heritage (optional)
Flash drive for backing up digital materials (optional)
Family tree information (as much as you currently have)
Apron or clothes that can get messy during art processes
Your favorite art supplies (optional, basic supplies will be provided)
MATERIALS PROVIDED
Access to Erin's research brain to work on your family tree
One-on-one creative guidance from Erin
Basic mixed media supplies (you should still bring your favorites)
Premium research guides from Erin's forthcoming signature genealogy course, including her proprietary systems for breaking through research barriers, extracting meaningful narratives from historical records, and documenting discoveries using her proven Heritage Hunting framework.
Daily lunches
A new group of friends!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need prior genealogy experience to attend this workshop? 🔍 While some familiarity with family history research is helpful, this workshop is designed for various experience levels. Beginners will receive additional guidance during research sessions.
What if I don't consider myself artistic? 🎨 This workshop focuses on meaningful documentation rather than fine art skills. The techniques taught are accessible to everyone, and Erin provides step-by-step guidance throughout the creative process.
How does the Custom Research and Ephemera Bundle work? 📦 After registering for this add-on, you'll schedule a consultation call with Erin to discuss which family line you'd like researched. You'll provide any information you currently have. Erin will begin the custom research and ephemera collection process. Everything will be ready for you as a beautifully bundled surprise when you arrive at the workshop.
Can I work on multiple family lines during the workshop? 🌿 Yes, though focusing on one main family line for your book is recommended. You'll learn techniques that can be applied to any family line after the workshop.
Will I complete my family research during the workshop? 🔎 Genealogy is an ongoing journey. While you'll make significant discoveries during the workshop, the focus is on developing research skills and creative documentation techniques you can continue to use long after the workshop ends.
What if I have dietary restrictions for the provided lunches? 🍽️ Gluten free and vegetarian options will be available for your meal, and you may want to bring snacks just in case.
What is the cancellation and refund policy? 📝 All sales are final once your registration is confirmed. In the case of unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters, health emergencies, or other acts beyond our control, we reserve the right to reschedule the workshop to ensure the best possible experience for all participants.
SPACE IS LIMITED!
DATES: October 9-13, 2025 (Thursday-Monday)
INVESTMENT: $1,897
Space is limited to ONLY SIX participants to ensure personalized attention and an intimate creative environment. Early registration is strongly recommended.
Questions? Email erin@erinfaithallen.com