My first live illustration event was in 2016!

I can work on physically or digitally, depending on your preference and the atmosphere of the event venue. Physical illustrations have a classic, nostalgic vibe while digital illustrations lean more sleek and modern.

With physical illustrations, I typically use Copic markers on archival art paper - especially for larger events like weddings and corporate fundraisers. The quality of the Copic markers is unmatched and allows me to work very quickly, and guests are left with a piece that will stay bright for many years!

For smaller events, like bridal showers and intimate store pop-ups, I offer genuine watercolor illustrations. The beautiful, slower process of watercolor illustration adds a soft, romantic touch to the experience.

For digital illustrations, I break out my iPad and Apple Pencil! The final drawings are printed immediately from a mini desktop printer and emailed to the guests. The digital illustration email template can include any additonal info or thank-you message, as an easy follow-up to the event.

Each drawing takes about 9-10 minutes for an individual, or 15 minutes for a pair). Genuine watercolor may take a bit longer with the drying time.

If you're hoping to squeeze in more guests during an event, I also offer a 'monochrome' style - essentially, removing the coloring and relying on the outline to capture the figures. Working with just the sketch is an elegant, timeless style pulled from vintage fashion designers like Dior, Schiaparelli, and Chanel.

It depends on the size of the guest list, venue space, and event schedule.

For small gatherings, guests can stay nearby and mingle while they are illustrated (this is particularly handy for corporate parties to encourage networking). 

At larger events, I like to use a sign-up sheet and photo references. Guests are free to dance and eat, then swing by throughout the event to pick up their finished illustrations.

At a wedding or other sit-down event, I typically snap a few quick photos of the guests so that I can work through dinner without drawing attention. This let’s me fit in as many illustrations as possible!

For either medium, I will need a table to work at - preferrably ground-level (instead of high-top) and larger than a cocktail table. If there is a space in the venue that is well-lit when the party begins, that is ideal (but I bring along a small, cute desk lamp as a backup just in case).

For digital illustrations, I will need to be near an outlet for the mini printer.

Of course! I offer branded template paper at an additional fee. As the date gets closer, I'll work with you to set up a drawing template that suits the event (or we can leave it blank)!

For weddings, the drawing template usually includes your names and date, wedding logo, or a thank-you message on the back. If you love your wedding stationary or are sticking with a specific color scheme, we can work those into the design.

Corporate event templates, often include the brand logo, maybe the event name and date, etc. If you have brand guidelines and/or files handy, I can put my Graphic Design degree to good use!

While based in Chicago, I'm more than willing to take this show on the road! I've had the opportunity to illustrate all over the Midwest, and along the west coast! Venues more than 2 hours from Chicago will incur added travel expenses. 

I’ve worked at a variety of events from weddings and rehearsal dinners to corporate parties and pop-ups! Don't hesitate to reach out if you have an idea or want to brainstorm how live art might fit into your next event.

I've drawn (and drawn on) all sorts of things at live events: handbags, jewelry, pets, and monograms, to name a few! If you have a specific subject in mind, I am open to brainstorming the process and pace to see if it's feasible for the event!