Custom wedding (specifically bride) illustrations were the very first custom offering I ever started created. It’s now grown into all sorts of custom illustration offerings including couples, friends, family, etc and I love offering all sorts of options so everyone can find what they’re looking for! However, when it comes to custom, the process can be a bit more confusing than simply buying an art piece and I get the same common questions over and over so let’s do an official FAQ on how to order a custom wedding illustration:
who are custom sketches for?
Literally anyone and everyone as art should be! The whole point of ordering a custom piece is to have something special that you can connect with before or after the wedding day. And they make great gifts as well because who doesn’t love something custom made for them? Here at SamiaLynn we are inclusive and not here to judge. No matter who you married or who you’re gifting to, everything is an option.
can you sketch [insert your idea here]?
It’s the number one question I receive and my favorite answer this always: “when you can draw, you can draw anything!”. If you have a specific art style in mind, I always ask for example photos so I can let you know whether or not that’s a style I can accomplish. If you love the way I draw already then I can draw you anything you’d like! This is your vision, I’m just here to make it happen
does it have to be an exact photo of what i want?
Absolutely NO! If you do have an exact photo you’d like me to draw, that’s amazing. However, most of my clients want to “build” their custom piece so aside from the people/pets/background you want to be the focal point, feel free to send me any inspiration photos, or photos for specific poses, clothing, scenery, etc. These photos also, by no means, need to be professional, but if you’re getting a sketch of any clothing that has a pattern or embellishment (lace, beading, etc) on it then I will need clear/close up photos. If it’s a wedding dress and you know the designer, you can always let me know and I will look up the gown if you don’t know the exact style number or name.
how does the process work?
Like I mentioned in the previous question, we’re building this piece together and go through it step by step! After you send over photos, descriptions, ideas, etc, I will work on a super rough draft for you to approve the layout. If we’re working through multiple ideas, I will send those over at the same time so you can pick which one you’d like to go with. From there I’ll send you the final lines and you’ll approve it or request changes before I fill it in with color and details.
What if i don’t know what i want?
That’s totally fine! I love bring a vague idea to life! We’ll just go over what you’re generally looking for, who you might be gifting it to, and your “why” behind the order. Talking it out always brings the right answer to the surface.
Can i pick the illustration size?
The default size for custom wedding illustrations are 11x14”, but all sizes are certainly available and are custom quoted so feel free to ask!
What is the turn around time?
For custom illustrations, an approval of the rough draft is required before I will complete the order and ship out. The faster the approval, the faster the completion. Typically, I can ship out within 1 week of the order, however, if I have a number of orders to complete it could take up to 2 weeks. First class USPS domestic US shipping is included in pricing which (depending on where it’s going) takes roughly 3-7 business days. Rush rates for both creation and shipping are available for an extra fee.
where can i buy a custom sketch?
I sell custom illustrations through my website and Etsy. Items available through samialynn.com are only shipping in the USA and Canada right now, but hopefully will go international soon! If you’re not in the US or Canada, or would like to ship elsewhere, you can purchase through my Etsy shop here
how do illustrations ship?
All regular sized illustrations are shipped in a plastic sleeve with chipboard in a non-bendable envelope along with a piece of cardboard for extra sturdiness to ensure the paper stays flat. All custom, non-framed illustrations come wrapped in tissue paper and ribbon. Orders larger than 11x14” are shipped rolled up in a tube. Option to add a free gift message if it’s being sent directly to the recipient!
i have more questions!
I’m always here for you! Just send an email to samantha@samialynn.com and I’m happy to answer any questions you may have. Hope to hear from you soon!
Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn
