Booking a live wedding painter is a new decision for most couples, so it’s hard to know what to ask. Every painter works differently, and there’s no one right choice. The best way to find yours is to do your research: look at plenty of portfolios, notice which styles you love, and then ask questions so you know exactly what you’re booking.
Loose and atmospheric, or detailed and realistic? Bright and bold, or soft and romantic? Acrylic, oil or watercolour? Spend time on painters’ websites and social media before you get in touch. Personal preference matters more than anything else, because this is a painting you’ll live with for years.
Close-ups can be flattering. Ask to see whole canvases (have a look at Katie’s portfolio for examples), and photos from the day showing a painting in progress, so you know what to expect.
It’s reasonable to ask whether the painting is started from a blank canvas, and whether any part is printed, traced or projected. Techniques vary, and most painters are happy to explain theirs. A clear answer means you know exactly what you’re paying for.
Some painters finish at the wedding, others add studio time afterwards; how long a live wedding painting takes explains the difference for extra detail. Neither is wrong, but you should know which you’re booking.
For studio-finished paintings, several months is common, especially in peak wedding season. Be cautious of very quick turnarounds on highly detailed pieces.
Most packages include the couple, with a charge for each extra person (see what a live wedding painter costs). Canvas size also limits how many people can be painted well.
Many painters include travel within a set radius and charge mileage beyond it. Check whether an overnight stay will be needed for a distant venue.
Painters often arrive an hour or two before the ceremony to set up. Ask about space, light and whether they need a power socket, and pass this on to your venue.
Many venues require it. A professional painter should be able to send it to your venue in advance.
For outdoor ceremonies, agree a covered spot with your painter and venue in advance.
Expect a planning call or questionnaire covering your timings, key moments and anyone to include. A painter who asks lots of questions is usually a good sign.
If you’d like favours your guests take home, ask whether the painter offers live guest illustrations, or works with a second artist or team so both can run at once.
Check the deposit, when the balance is due, whether instalments are available, and what happens if your date changes.
Castles (our castle venue guide), barns, gurdwaras (our South Asian weddings guide) and hotels all have their own quirks with light and space. Experience at a similar venue helps.
If you’re considering Katie Bowden Art, you can see the venues Katie has painted at, read the FAQ, or book a call to ask any of these questions directly.
