
Frequently asked questions

General
Q: What is “legacy design” and how is it different from a traditional will?
A: Legacy design is about more than dividing assets — it’s about shaping how your story, values, and life lessons will live on. While a traditional will covers legal and financial matters, legacy design focuses on the emotional and personal side: the memories, beliefs, and messages you want to leave behind. It’s about creating something your loved ones can hold close, not just file away.
Q: What is an ethical will, and why might I want one?
A: An ethical will is a heartfelt document — written, recorded, or both — where you share your values, life experiences, hopes for the future, and blessings for those you love. Unlike a legal will, it’s not about money or property; it’s about meaning. Many people create one to pass along wisdom, preserve family history, and give comfort to future generations.
Q: Who is Ash and Morning for?
A: We work with individuals, couples, and families who want to preserve the heart of their story. Some come to us during major life milestones — marriages, births, retirements — while others are navigating illness, grief, or simply want to make sure their memories are captured while they can still tell them.
Q: How is your approach different from other legacy planning services?
A: We combine structured guidance with creative storytelling. You won’t just get a template — you’ll get a process that draws out your voice, your history, and the emotional threads that matter most. Every project is as unique as the life it represents.
Process & Experience
Q: What does the process look like from start to finish?
A: We begin with a conversation — either in person or over video call — to learn about you and what you hope to leave behind. Then we guide you through a series of gentle prompts, interviews, and creative exercises. From there, we shape your words, stories, and images into a polished legacy piece. You’ll have time to review, refine, and add final touches before it’s completed.
Q: How long does it take to complete a legacy project?
A: Most projects take between 4–8 weeks, depending on the complexity and your pace. We move as quickly or as gently as you need — some clients finish in a month, while others take several months to allow time for reflection.
Q: Do you offer in-person or remote consultations?
A: Both. We work with clients locally in person, and with clients around the world through secure video calls and online collaboration tools.
Q: How much time do I need to commit?
A: Typically 4–6 hours of conversation spread over several sessions, plus time to review drafts and materials. If you prefer, we can do most of the work for you based on recorded interviews, so your time commitment is minimal.
Q: What happens if I’m not sure what I want to include in my legacy document?
A: That’s very common — and part of our job is helping you discover what matters most to you. We’ll guide you with questions and exercises to uncover the stories, values, and memories that should be preserved.
Confidentiality & Trust
Q: Is my information kept private?
A: Absolutely. Your words, images, and recordings are stored securely and shared only with the people you authorize. We treat every story with the utmost care and confidentiality.
Q: Will my story or materials be shared publicly?
A: Never, unless you give explicit permission. Your legacy is yours to keep private or to share on your terms.
Q: Can my family access my legacy project while I’m still alive?
A: That’s entirely up to you. Some clients choose to gift their legacy while they’re living; others leave instructions for it to be shared after they’ve passed.
Practicalities
Q: How much does it cost?
A: Projects are tailored to your needs, so costs vary. We can provide a transparent, no-pressure quote after our first conversation.
Q: Do you offer payment plans?
A: Yes. We believe everyone’s story is worth preserving, so we offer flexible payment options to make the process accessible.
Q: What if I need to update my legacy documents later?
A: Life changes — and so can your legacy. We offer update sessions so you can revise your project as your story evolves.
Q: Do you work with my lawyer or financial planner?
A: Yes, and it’s often helpful. We can collaborate with your professional team to ensure your emotional and legal legacy complement each other.
Special Considerations
Q: Can you work with families going through grief or end-of-life planning?
A: Yes. We approach these situations with deep care, patience, and respect. Sometimes, the process of creating a legacy can be a source of comfort and connection during difficult times.
Q: Do you help with creative elements like photos, video, or audio?
A: Absolutely. We can incorporate images, archival material, and audio or video recordings to make your legacy as vivid and personal as possible.
Q: Can you create a legacy for someone who has already passed?
A: Yes. We work with families and friends to piece together stories, photographs, and memories into a tribute that honors the life and spirit of someone who is no longer here.