Live Portrait Illustration for Weddings & Parties
The Basic Info:
Add a unique, interactive touch to your event: I sketch quick, expressive portraits from life while guests sit and chat.
Expressive, lively, and full of personality, my portraits are whimsical illustrations—like something from a storybook. Using bold markers and scribbly pencil crayons, I mix colours directly on the page for a spontaneous, textured effect. The result is a vibrant, characterful portrait with plenty of naivety.
Prices start at £150 per hour (minimum 2-hour booking). My daily limit is 6 hours, including short breaks.
I draw fast and from life—not photos—capturing individuals, couples, and families as they sit and chat.
Portraits take 4 minutes per person, up to 20 minutes for small groups.
I can complete around 12 portraits in 2 hours, so for weddings and large events, 4+ hours is recommended.
I use brush pens, watercolour pastels, and coloured pencils, to create each unique portrait.
A6 paper is used for individuals and couples, and A5 for groups.
Each portrait is packaged in a protective sleeve with a branded backing card.
Guests receive my details if they’d like to order a digital copy (printable up to A4 for personal use only).
I require a table, a few chairs, and a well-lit and/or sheltered spot.
Bookings are secured with a deposit.
Already interested in getting an illustrator to your event? Fill in your details below.
But if you’d like more info, keep scrolling.
The In-Depth Info:
No matter what the celebration, live portrait illustration adds a fun and memorable touch. It’s a unique form of entertainment, and best of all—every guest leaves with a one-of-a-kind keepsake to treasure.
How It Works
During your event, I’ll be sketching quick, lively portraits from life. Guests can sit, chat, and watch as their illustration takes shape in just a few minutes.
Speedy sketches: I take around 4 minutes per person, and up to 20 minutes for groups.
Flexible format: I can draw individuals, couples, and families - head and shoulders or full-length.
Beautiful materials: I use brush pens, watercolour pastels, and coloured pencils on professional-grade paper.
Tailored sizing: I draw on A6 paper for individual and couple portraits, and A5 paper for groups and families.
Protective packaging: Each portrait is packaged in a protective sleeve with a branded backing card, so guests can safely take theirs home straight away.
Every portrait is an original artwork, created for personal enjoyment. Guests receive my details if they’d like to order a digital copy later (printable up to A4, for personal use only). Copyright remains with me as the artist, so portraits may not be reproduced or used commercially without permission.
Pricing & Booking
£150 per hour (minimum 2-hour booking).
Maximum booking: 6 hours per day (with short breaks).
Event size: I can draw approximately 12 portraits in 2 hours, so for larger gatherings like weddings, I recommend booking at least 4 hours.
What I Need from You
I bring all my own materials, but I do require:
A well-lit space with a table and some chairs (one for me and a few for the guests).
A location sheltered from wind and rain if outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can guests reserve a portrait in advance?
At busy events, I work on a first-come, first-served basis. However, if you’d like a reservation system in place, we can discuss how to manage it.
Can you draw larger groups?
Yes! Small families take around 15 minutes, while larger groups take a bit longer. I use A5 paper for groups to fit more people into the picture. If you’d like a special group portrait, of the bridal party for example, I’d be happy to create one—this needs to be booked in advance for an additional cost that reflects the extra time and detail involved.
Do you only do weddings and parties?
Not at all! I also illustrate portraits live at corporate events, festivals, markets, and other special occasions. If you’re planning something unique, feel free to get in touch.
Can you match my wedding’s colour scheme or theme?
I use my signature bright, expressive colours, but if you'd like custom touches—such as specific backing card colours—I’d be happy to discuss options.
What’s your payment and cancellation policy?
Deposit: Once you’re happy to go ahead, a non-refundable deposit of 30% is required to secure your booking. This covers the time spent preparing for your event and any lost opportunities for other bookings.
Final Payment: The remaining balance is due 1 month before the event.
Cancellations:
If cancelled 2 months before the event, no further payment is required.
If cancelled within 14 days of the event, 100% of the total fee is still payable, as it is unlikely I will be able to rebook the date at short notice.
Rescheduling: If you need to reschedule, let me know as soon as possible and I’ll do my best to accommodate a new date at no extra charge, provided I have availability. The deposit will be transferred to the new date. If I am unavailable, the cancellation terms above will apply.
Why Book a Live Illustrator?
A fun, interactive experience - guests love watching the portraits come to life!
A brilliant keepsake - far more personal than a party favour.
Great entertainment - something fun and unusual that guests of all ages enjoy.
Interested? Get in touch to check availability and book your event!
