My journey into genealogy began decades ago, long before online records and DNA tests made family history easily accessible. After immigrating to Canada from Scotland in the mid-1980s, I was often asked about my heritage. My answer was always simple:
"I'm Scottish — and so were all my ancestors!"
The truth, however, was that I knew very little about the people and places that shaped my family story. Curiosity quickly took over, and I began searching for answers.
Today, I live in Victoria, British Columbia, but my roots remain firmly planted in Scotland. Having been born and raised there, with family still living across Scotland, I bring both personal insight and formal genealogical training to family history research. While I enjoy helping people explore all branches of their ancestry, Scottish family history remains a particular passion and area of specialization. And yes, after more than 40 years in Canada, my Scottish accent remains just as strong as the day I stepped off the plane!
My late Aunty Joyce — my dad's sister — became my greatest inspiration. She shared a handwritten family tree along with generations of stories that had been passed down through the family, including the tale that we were connected to the infamous Rob Roy MacGregor. I was immediately hooked.
At the same time, my mum quietly warned me to be careful about digging too deeply because "you never know what skeletons you might find in the closet." Years later, that warning would inspire the name of my genealogy business.
What started as a hobby soon became a lifelong passion. Over the years, I spent countless hours researching records, chasing clues, and disappearing down genealogical rabbit holes — often with far more enthusiasm than organization!
Eventually, I decided it was time to learn how to research more effectively and apply professional genealogical methods. In 2020, I enrolled with the International Institute of Genealogical Studies and began working toward the Professional Learning Certificate in Genealogical Studies, specializing initially in Scottish records and later expanding into Canadian research. This extensive program includes over 40 courses, and I am now nearing completion.
Fittingly, part of my education was funded using money left to me by Aunty Joyce, the very person who sparked my love of family history. It felt like the perfect way to honour her memory.
Today, I created Skeletons in the Closet to help others begin their own family history journey with confidence. Through education, guidance, and practical research support, I help people avoid common mistakes, stay organized, and build a strong foundation for discovering their family stories.
Although Skeletons in the Closet is based in Canada, I work with clients wherever they call home. Modern genealogy research reaches across borders through digital archives, online records, and international resources, allowing me to assist individuals and families throughout Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.
Whether you're just beginning your research, trying to organize information you've already gathered, or hoping to uncover your Scottish roots, my goal is to help you move forward one clue at a time.
And yes... sometimes you really do uncover a few skeletons along the way.