Live Wedding Painting FAQs

HERE'S HOW IT WORKS...

Before your event, we chat about the painting so that I know what you want me to include. Then on the day, I paint a scene of your choice, live on the spot. I arrive a few hours before the guests, set up my easel and begin drawing out the view. By the time guests arrive, I am painting the venue and adding the decorations. I continue to paint as the event unfolds, adding the VIPs and surrounding activity as I observe it and using a few photos to help me paint details. Guests can watch and speak to me as I work, and the painting will be done for you to take away at the end.

How long does it take?

As a guide, most of my paintings were completed in 4-8 hours at the event. Shorter events are not a problem though, and your live painting is planned around your schedule, so get in touch to discuss how I would paint for you within the time available.

Will it look like me?

You will be able to recognise yourselves and your guests from the painted likenesses. The figures are small and not intended to be detailed portraits, but they will look like you!

How many guests can you include?

I have different packages which allow you to choose how many guests are included. There are packages which include just the couple or small family group, or I can paint up to a maximum of around 15 guest likenesses in addition. More than this tends to work against the design of a harmonious and natural composition. Please contact me for a brochure so that you can take a look and decide which type of painting best aligns with your requirements.

Do you travel outside London to paint?

Yes, but travelling further will cost a bit more. I am based in Essex so have a flat rate for East Anglia and the South East. If you are outside of this area I may need to add a bit for travel and a hotel, depending on the time of year and exact location. Contact me for a quote, with your venue and date.

How far in advance do I need to book?

I am generally booking around a year in advance, but I do often have last minute availability, so please get in touch as soon as you have a date if you want to book.

How do you prepare for a painting?

I always liaise with the venue ahead of events to sort out practical arrangements for the day. I like to have the order of the day so that I know times and locations. A telephone consultation, or even a few phone calls as the day approaches, is the best way to make sure I know what you want in the painting. I am also happy to discuss ideas by email if you prefer. I do not need to visit the venue in advance, because it will look completely different on your day when it is decorated and you and your guests are there.

Do you paint from photos?

I regret that I am not currently able to create studio paintings from your photos, as I am booked up with live work for the next year.

What materials do you use?

All of my materials are archival quality, which ensures the best and most enduring outcome. Your painting should last as long as the ink on your marriage certificate. I use Winsor and Newton, Daler Rowney and Liquitex paints on stretched cotton canvas as standard. Acrylic paint is the most suitable medium for speed painting at events, and it is what I always use for live work at event venues. The materials are water based and non-toxic, but very high quality and light-fast, and I also varnish the painting with a permanent gloss coat when it is done to give it an extra layer of protection. I can paint in oils at some events subject to prior discussion and an extra charge.

Does the painting have to be framed?

The painting is on stretched canvas and can be put on the wall as it is. It doesn't need to be behind glass. I do not provide a frame, but it is easy to have it framed if you want to, either by buying your own frame online and fitting it yourself, or by taking it to a special framing shop. If you are not experienced at framing I recommend that this is done professionally.

How do I book?

If you want to book, let me know and I will send you a booking form to complete. I ask you to let the venue know that you want a live painter, and I will send them my insurance details. My partner deals with my bookings on my behalf, so you will liaise with him to get the date in the dairy. I regret that I cannot hold dates provisionally without a booking form and deposit of £100, which is refundable if you cancel. The balance would be due 4 weeks before the event. I don't offer specific payment plans but you are welcome to pay in instalments if you discuss with me at booking.

Can I make copies of my painting?

Although the artist owns the copyright to any works produced, I have no objection to you creating your own reproductions for personal and non-commercial use, such as additional prints for family members and thank you cards. You do not need to order these from me or seek permission to reproduce your painting.

Photo courtesy of David Pullum Photography, from a wedding at The Londoner in 2022

Film by Carmo Braz for Ed Pereira Photography, from a wedding at Morden Hall in 2022