The Narrative Trust • STORIES THAT ENDURE

The Unabridged Record — $1,500

For preserving every word, exactly as you said it.

Before we meet, I'll spend time learning about your life so our conversation has direction without feeling scripted. The interview itself is relaxed. We'll talk for 60 to 90 minutes in the comfort of your home or wherever you’re most at ease. I'll ask questions, follow where you lead, and let the conversation find its own shape. 

You’ll receive the complete recording of our session — color and sound refined for clarity, but otherwise untouched. Every word, every pause, every laugh preserved. 

Delivered within two weeks.

Founding Family Rate — $500

As I establish The Narrative Trust, I'm looking for two families to help me build a foundational portfolio.

Because this work requires a high degree of trust, families need to see examples of the care I bring to the interview process. In exchange for your permission to share brief, carefully selected excerpts from our work together, you will receive the full Narrative Film experience at a deeply subsidized rate of $500. Your willingness to share your story provides immense value to this growing practice, and this pricing reflects my gratitude for that partnership.

You receive the exact same care, unhurried timeline, and heirloom-quality film. You'd simply be helping lay the groundwork for this practice by showing future families what this work looks like.

If you're curious about how this process works, I’d love to have a brief, no-pressure conversation to explore what this could look like for you and your family.

Note: This $500 rate is strictly limited to my first two clients.

ABOUT ME

I hold an MFA in Creative Writing and have spent 20 years in media and marketing. I built a career on communication, but I grew weary of the spin. Now I want to do work that matters — work that exists beyond metrics and algorithms.

I founded The Narrative Trust to focus on what I love most — people and their stories — and to help these stories endure.

I spent twenty years learning how to listen for the “message.” Now, I use those same skills to listen for the meaning. While I bring two decades of technical expertise to the table, my most important tool is a quiet, focused presence. I help people articulate their own history, creating an experience that is deeply meaningful long before you ever watch the final film

I believe every life contains distinct and meaningful chapters. My role is to collect those chapters into a story — in your own words — and preserve them with the dignity they deserve.

LET'S CONNECT

If you or someone you love would value an experience like this, let’s connect. I'd welcome the chance to hear a bit about your story and answer any questions.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What if I don't think I have anything interesting to say?

This is the most common concern, and it's never true. Many of us believe someone else's story is more compelling than our own — but their loved ones would wholeheartedly disagree. The small details matter most: what your childhood home smelled like, how you met your spouse and best friends, what you worried about as a new parent. These are the stories families treasure.

I'm naturally curious and come prepared with thoughtful questions to help us find a rhythm. My role is to gently guide the conversation and draw out the moments that matter — you'll be surprised how quickly you relax and find a rhythm once we start talking. 

Do I have to be ill or near the end of my life?

Not at all. While I work with individuals in hospice or with terminal diagnoses, I also work with healthy seniors who want to preserve their stories proactively. The best time to do this is before a crisis forces the decision. That said, I've found that proximity to life's end often brings clarity and willingness to speak openly. Whatever your circumstances, I'll meet you there.

What kinds of questions will you ask?

I tailor every interview to the individual, but I typically explore formative childhood memories, lessons learned from hardship, love stories (romantic and platonic), career journey, parenting reflections, and wisdom to pass forward. I can send a brief questionnaire beforehand, but the conversation itself is organic.

What if I get emotional? What if I get tired?

We take breaks whenever needed. And tears are always welcome — they're often a sign that we've found something important. Full disclosure: I cry easily, so you probably won't be alone.

If you get tired, we can split our time across two shorter sessions at no additional cost. There's no pushing through here. My goal is to meet you where you are and hold space for whatever arises

Can my family be in the room?

While I prefer the intimacy of a one-on-one conversation, that's entirely up to you. Some people are more candid one-on-one. Others feel more settled with someone they love nearby. We can talk through what feels right during our initial meeting — there's no wrong answer.

How long does the whole process take?

About two to four weeks from start to finish. After our initial meeting, we schedule the filmed interview at your convenience. Delivery takes two weeks for the Unabridged Record, and up to four weeks for the meticulously edited Narrative Film

What format will I receive?

Digital files via secure download link (MP4 format, playable on any device). The files are yours to keep forever, share with family, or upload to private family archives. USB drives or DVDs available upon request for an additional fee.

What if I want to add more after our first session?

It’s natural to realize you have more to share once we begin. I offer follow-up sessions at a reduced rate, and we can create additional films focused on specific topics such as military service, immigration stories, and professional legacies. We can cover it all and go as deep as you’d like.

Can you film couples together?

Absolutely. The standard package covers one subject, but I offer a couples rate for joint interviews.

Still have questions?

Reach out. I'm happy to talk through any concerns.

christina@thenarrativetrust.com