Why You Should Have a Live Wedding Painter and Live Illustrator at Your Wedding

A live wedding painter and a live illustrator at a desert wedding

As a live illustrator, people often ask me whether they should have an illustrator or a live wedding painter at their celebration. And my answer is always: Why not both? A live wedding painter captures a completely different experience than an illustrator, and both add special charm and excitement to your day. 

The Difference Between A Live Wedding Painter And a Live Illustrator

There are a few key differences between a live wedding painter and a sketch artist like me! First, live wedding painters tend to capture a scene. They usually focus on the couple, painting a moment from the ceremony or reception in detail. They paint on a larger canvas, trying to capture the feeling of the moment in their work. 

Meanwhile, a live illustrator is here to entertain your guests, creating a portrait of individuals or groups. These sketches double as wedding favors and provide something special for the guests to bring home with them. And, while painters use canvas, illustrators work with paper and pens or even offer digital portraits! Essentially, live wedding painters create a piece of art for the couple, while an illustrator creates art for the guests. Both are fun to watch and give your guests a unique experience! 

What To Consider When Having Both At Your Wedding 

If you choose to have both a live wedding painter and illustrator at your wedding (which I highly recommend!) you should keep a few things in mind. The joy of having artists at your weddings means you get a piece of art and a guest experience, and you want the experience part to run smoothly! Try to place the artists in two different places during the reception so a crowd doesn’t form and bottleneck your walkways. Artists also require a decent bit of space, as well as ample lighting and tables for their materials! Be sure to consider this when designing the floor plan for your cocktail hour and reception. 

Live Wedding Illustrator Near You 

I love working alongside live wedding painters. I think any way you can add more experiential art to your wedding is a great idea! If you are looking for a fun and memorable experience to add to your wedding day festivities, check out my live illustration services! I even have a list of incredible live wedding painters to recommend to you. Wherever your wedding is, we can create an experience that gets your guests talking and leaves them with a tactile reminder of your celebration!

Artists in cover photo:

Guest sketches- SamiaLynn

Canvas painter- Paige Reesor Art

Ava And The Bee