Frequently asked questions about live wedding painting.

How does commissioning a live wedding painter work? 

 I meet with the couple (or, alternatively, the painting can be a thoughtful gift from friends or family) to determine what the painting will depict. I set up at the venue an hour ahead of time in order to lay in the architectural or landscape details and will remain on-site until the open dancing starts. And yes, I love to answer guests' questions, and encourage them to watch the "painterly" process! It's an added element of live entertainment on your special day!

What do you charge for wedding paintings? 

My wedding painting packages begin at $3500.

Please contact me with the date, time, and location of your event and venue, and I will give you full booking details and a quote. If you are undecided, I am happy to chat with you if you are just interested and would like to know more, want to check my availability, or would like a rough estimate. 

How much space do you need to set up? 

About 5’ x 7’. I bring my own equipment and don’t need extra tables, chairs or lighting. I am happy to place my easel on a clean drop cloth if requested, am fully insured and can provide an insurance rider for the venue if needed. A small table at the event is always appreciated. 

How long does it take to complete my live wedding painting?

 Depending on the size of the painting and the details required, I occasionally finish the work at the event itself if you prefer a looser, impressionistic style in acrylics.  In general, I prefer to bring the work back to the studio where I can concentrate on the artwork.

Do you offer thank you cards or professional, limited edition prints of the finished painting?

Yes! I am happy to take a professional photograph of your painting and create thank you cards, limited edition, signed prints for family or friends, and even things like pillows.

How do I book you? 

I require a retainer and a signed contract to secure your painting. Full payment for the painting is due within 2 weeks of the event.

How far in advance do I need to contact you? 

I suggest reaching out once you have a date + venue chosen - 1 / 2 years before your wedding day. That said, I do occasionally have cancellations so it never hurts to inquire.

Do you travel outside New England? 

I travel for Domestic + International weddings / engagements /special events in the US and abroad

Where are you located? My studio is based in NH.

What are your travel fees?

Packages include travel for the first hour and a half beyond the studio. Events further than that will accrue $.67 per additional mile plus any necessary toll/parking fees.

I travel throughout the country and internationally. Travel costs will be included in your proposal and will include compensation for airfare or mileage, hotel accommodations 2+ hours from my studio in NH, and a rental car if necessary. Events more than 4 hours away by car will be assessed a minimum travel stipend of $1000 for East Coast celebrations and $1500 for West Coast celebrations (for time spent traveling, meals, and miscellaneous expenses). International travel is billed individually. This stipend is not required for weddings located at a driving distance of less than 4 hours from my home studio.

If it is required that I ship the painting back to the studio to complete, then shipping + handling and insurance will also be added to your proposal.

What else do you paint? 

I  paint wedding bouquets, bridal shoes, and dresses - even the groom's outfit! Of course, as a professional artist, I also paint and sculpt traditional portraits. You can view my studio work here.

Do you paint from photos? 

Wedding or special event already happened? I also create paintings (at a substantial discount)  from events that have already occurred and can easily work from photographs, highlighting the best parts of the photo and adding to or even removing other aspects. 

Do you offer any special deals? I am proud to support our active military, first responders like police and firemen, and nurses by offering an exclusive discount to any of the above.

New England wedding painter Carol Lake paints an 18" x 24" wedding painting of a bride and groom leaving their ceremony at a seacoast New Hampshire vineyard wedding venue
Beautiful couple captured in a live wedding painting during their first dance in NYC