Frequently Asked Questions
Booking & Pricing
1. How much do watercolor guest portraits cost?
My rate is $180 per hour, with a 3-hour minimum booking ($540). The total cost depends on how many hours you'd like me to be at your event. Once I know your event date, location, and approximate guest count, I can recommend a booking length that works best for your celebration.
2. Is a deposit required to reserve my date?
Yes! A $100 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your date. The deposit goes toward your total booking fee, and the remaining balance is due before the event or by the end of the event.
3. How far in advance should I book?
I recommend reaching out as early as possible, especially for popular wedding dates and peak wedding season. Dates are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis once the deposit is received.
4. Do you travel to events?
Yes! I provide on-location watercolor guest portrait services for weddings, bridal showers, engagement parties, and other special events. If more then an hour and a half from where I live I may ask for a travel stipend. Travel arrangements and any additional travel costs can be discussed based on the event location.
5. What types of events do you paint at?
Literally any event! I do alot of weddings, but I also do birthday parties, corporate events, holiday parties, bridal showers, engagement parties, anniversary celebrations, and other special occasions.
The Portrait Experience
6. How does the live watercolor portrait experience work?
Guests are welcome to stop by my painting station whenever they'd like. I'll take a quick reference photo, and then they can return to enjoying the celebration while I work on their portrait. They can come back later to pick it up if it's finished during the event.
7. How long does each portrait take?
Each portrait typically takes about 5–10 minutes, depending on the number of people and the details involved. I work continuously throughout the event to create as many portraits as possible during my booking.
8. How many guests can you paint per hour?
I typically complete approximately 6–10 individual or couple portraits per hour, depending on complexity. Couples are painted together as one portrait.
9. Will every guest receive a portrait?
Because each portrait is individually hand-painted, the number I can complete depends on the length of the booking and how many guests participate. I cannot guarantee that every guest will receive a portrait during a standard booking, but I work throughout the event to accommodate as many guests as possible.
If you have a specific goal of having every guest represented, please let me know! I may be able to discuss a customized arrangement that includes additional studio work after the event.
10. What happens if my portrait isn't finished by the end of the event?
No worries! Any portraits that I've started but haven't completed during the event will be finished in my studio and mailed directly to the event host at no additional charge. I'll write each guest's name on the back so the portraits can easily be distributed afterward.
11. Do guests need to stay while you're painting their portrait?
Not at all! I'll take a quick reference photo, and guests can go right back to enjoying the celebration. They can return to my station later to pick up their finished portrait if it's ready.
12. Do guests have to participate?
Absolutely not! Participation is completely optional. Guests are welcome to stop by if they'd like a personalized watercolor keepsake.
13. Can couples or groups be painted together?
Yes! Couples and small groups are welcome. I generally recommend one portrait per guest so that as many people as possible have the opportunity to participate.
Setup & Event Logistics
14. What do you need from the venue?
I'll need:
-
A 4–6 foot table.
-
One chair.
-
A tablecloth that reaches the floor or conceals supplies underneath.
-
A shaded area if I'm painting outdoors.
I bring my own painting supplies and equipment.
15. Where should the painting station be located?
Ideally, somewhere guests can easily find me, but not right in the middle of the main entrance or a high-traffic area. I love when guests naturally wander over because they're genuinely excited to have a portrait painted!
I've found that when I'm placed front and center, there's always an enthusiastic relative (we all know an Uncle Gary 😂) who gets lovingly volunteered for a portrait, despite having absolutely no interest in one. He'll stand for the photo, disappear into the party, and somehow never make it back to pick up his portrait!
I'd rather have my station in a spot that's easy to find for guests who are interested, without making anyone feel pressured to participate. After all, the best portraits are the ones people actually want!
16. When do you arrive at the event?
I typically arrive approximately 30 minutes before my scheduled start time to set up my painting station and prepare my materials.
17. Do you need a break or a meal during the event?
I generally prefer to paint continuously throughout my booking rather than take a formal meal break. If a meal is being provided for vendors, a to-go meal would be greatly appreciated!
18. Can you paint outdoors?
Yes! I can paint outdoors as long as there is a shaded area to protect my artwork and supplies from direct sunlight. I also use my phone to reference the photos and direct sunlight prevents me from seeing my phone! (like trying to take a selfie on the beach! can't see!) please let me know in advance if the event will be outdoors.
19. What if I have a large wedding with 200+ guests?
Larger weddings are absolutely welcome! I'll help you determine an appropriate number of booking hours based on your guest count and expectations. For very large events, I may recommend additional artists to accommodate more guests.