If you’ve been to a wedding recently or scrolled through wedding TikTok, you’ve likely noticed a new trend: live wedding painting. In addition to traditional photographers and videographers, many couples are hiring painters to help preserve a moment from their special day. Keep reading to learn the benefits of live wedding painting and how to choose the right artist.
What is Live Wedding Painting
Live wedding painting is exactly what it sounds like: it’s when an artist paints a picture of your wedding in real-time. The painting captures a specific moment from the big day — the first kiss, recessional, first dance, cake cutting, or wedding exit.
Wedding painters set up shop at a specific location throughout the ceremony or reception and work on their craft throughout the event. Depending on the artist’s personal style, it can be a realistic image or curated to match a certain aesthetic with your wedding colors or other special touches.
Benefits of Live Wedding Painting
This medium has been around for years but has recently gained traction. Why the sudden rise in popularity? Today’s couples seek unique forms of wedding entertainment and artistry. Here are a few reasons to consider live wedding painting at your own celebration:
- It doubles as an activity. No one wants their wedding guests to be bored! Live wedding painting is an interactive and engaging addition to your ceremony or reception. Guests can watch the painter in action, ask questions, and check progress as the night goes on. The grand reveal of the final product can also be an exciting addition to your wedding schedule.
- It tells a story. Photos are great, but there’s something special about a hand-painted canvas. It captures the emotions and essence of your wedding in a way no camera can.
- It’s a unique keepsake. Live wedding painters take great aim to reflect each couple’s personal style in their artwork. The finished product is something tangible you can hang in your home to remember your big day.
- It’s a great gift. In lieu of pots and pans, some families organize live wedding painting as a gift for the newlyweds, making it all the more special. Conversely, some couples choose to give the painting to loved ones who were unable to attend the wedding. Either way, it’s a thoughtful memento!
Questions to Ask Your Live Wedding Painter
As with any wedding vendor, you want to be thoughtful about who you hire as your live wedding painter. Here are a few questions to consider before settling on an artist:
- What moment do you want to capture? There’s no shortage of picture-perfect moments on your wedding day. Think about what’s most important to you, who you want included in the painting, and when you want it to happen. The artist can also provide recommendations based on their expertise and previous experience.
- What style of painting do you envision? Just as each couple has their own aesthetic, each artist has their own style. Look for a painter that can channel your personal style and complement it.
- When will the painting be completed? Some artists offer same-day turnaround so the painting can be presented during the reception while others make final touches after the event.
- How much do you want to spend? Data from Brides.com shows that couples spend at least $1,000 on live wedding painting. Artists may offer different packages based on canvas size, style, or timeframe.
Booking a Live Wedding Painter
If you’re interested in live wedding painting, don’t wait to explore it. Wedding experts recommend booking this service early as providers may be limited due to popularity and niche.
Need some help? Use Eventective’s wedding directory to find artists within your budget and location.
Rachel Kauffman is a Detroit-based content writer, bookworm, and cat mom to two feisty felines.
