Beginning a new campaign with some close friends and for some new players and I find myself trying to weave some 'greater' tapestry of their origin stories.  For two of them it makes tons of sense because they unbeknownst to the other have class race choices that were very in line with each other.   I have been going so far as to start rolling out long term npcs that will be involved with their history.

This is not even an ongoing game yet and all I am waiting for is to get some more information from the other players stories and integrate them into this 'greater' tapestry i mentioned.  Take their ideas and make them more.  I worry that it takes away some of their freedoms.

You could ask them, maybe? 

I've always enjoyed creating these tapestries.  You're crafting a campaign layout with an arching story.

Remember to let them exercise their freedoms and you won't have any issue.  If they choose to ignore your NPCs or go an alternate direction - so be it.  As DM, you're providing the opportunity while leaving the decisions up to them.

It's fun to go all the way back in your character's backstory, but agreeing with some other's, don't be surprised if it isn't a big part of the game. However, this just makes your party a more cohesive unit and aids in making character decisions. Go for it!

Once I started talking with some of the other players they have been very receptive so far to me questioning them further about their characters.  Teasing out some fun plot points and more developed ideals.  Most of them have been opting to roll their traits randomly and fitting it into their initial ideas which has made for some good discussions.

This has also given me a good look at what they are looking for from the game, still pretty excited getting things prepared.  Hoping I get to use some of the ideas that are bouncing around and writing down as much as I can for use later.  I feel like I'm writing a novel at times but even that has been entertaining, when a brief npc description ends up looking more like an intro to a short story (which I guess it is).  

I think my next step for the moment is getting some extras events set up for when inevitably people decide to go off the rails.  Small events like thieves and brigands with a little extra setup.  So many strong persuasion skills amongst them I am wondering what kinds of scenarios I can add for them to talk and bluff their way through.

depends on the campain.