About

In Your Own Words was established to provide a structured and dignified way to preserve personal history.

The foundation of this work was shaped by first-hand experience of memory change within my own family. Witnessing how quickly clarity can diminish reinforced a simple conclusion: important conversations should not be left to chance.

Rather than approaching this sentimentally, a considered framework was developed — bringing preparation, structure and professional discipline to what is often an informal process.

The result is a calm, guided format designed to preserve a life story cohesively and respectfully.

A Considered Legacy

A life story contains more than dates and milestones.

It carries judgement, character, perspective and voice.

Photographs capture moments, documents record facts, but a voice — reflecting calmly on a life lived — preserves something far more personal.

In Your Own Words provides a structured and professional way to document that voice for future generations.

This is not an informal recording, it is a considered legacy service.

Who This Is For

This service is for:

Individuals who value their life story and wish to preserve it thoughtfully

Families who want to document memories before detail fades

Parents and grandparents who wish to leave something meaningful behind

Adult children seeking to safeguard a family history

Families navigating early memory decline who wish to record stories while clarity remains

The Process

Each commission follows a defined structure to ensure calm, clarity and cohesion.

1. Private Consultation

A confidential conversation to understand your intentions, your family context and the scope of the film.

2. Planning Meeting

A detailed pre-interview discussion to identify names, milestones, influences and defining experiences.

Preparation ensures the filming feels composed and unhurried.

3. Filming Day

A professionally guided conversation, recorded in your home or chosen location.

The environment is calm, respectful and structured — never rushed.

4. Editing & Refinement

The footage is carefully shaped into a cohesive, watchable film that preserves the integrity of the story.

5. Delivery & Archive

Secure digital delivery of the final film, with master file retention for long-term safeguarding.

Discretion and professionalism are maintained at every stage.

Dementia-Supported Option

For families affected by memory decline, a capacity-sensitive format is available.

This option:

Utilises a shorter, structured session

Is contracted through a family representative

Follows safeguarding best practice

Is offered at a 30% reduced fee

The aim is to preserve stories respectfully, while clarity allows.

Details are discussed privately to ensure suitability.

Professional Standards

This work involves trust.

Accordingly:

Fully insured

Basic DBS checked

Safeguarding policy in place

Clear contractual agreements

Confidential handling and secure storage of all material

A Personal Legacy Film is treated as part of a family’s long-term archive.

Investment

A Personal Legacy Film is a bespoke service.

Each commission includes:

Private consultation

Structured planning session

Professionally filmed interview

Careful editing and refinement

Secure digital delivery

Archived master file retention

Investment typically begins at:  £1,850

Final fee may vary depending on scope, duration or additional contributors.

A clear written proposal is provided following consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t know what to say?

The planning session ensures themes and milestones are identified in advance. The conversation is guided — not improvised.

What if the subject becomes emotional?

The pace is unhurried and respectful. Breaks are always available.

Who owns the film?

Ownership and usage rights are clearly outlined in the client agreement.

How is the footage stored?

All material is handled confidentially and stored securely.

A Private Consultation

If you are considering preserving your story — or that of someone close to you — the first step is a confidential consultation.

Consultations are available by appointment.