Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take you to draw a couple?

A full body and portrait takes around 10 - 12 minutes to draw and are on an a5 sheet of paper. I use very high quality archival materials. Of course I can fit a few people on a sheet (6 maximum) but that would take more time. If you want me to reduce the drawing time per couple to fit more in I absolutely can, but this would remove colour.

Can I have a personalised paper?

I can hand write the couples names and stamp it with a date stamp. I would do this on each individual sheet with an ink and pen in a calligraphic style.. This would be an extra £100.

Can you do a drawing from a screen or do you need people there?

Of course if you or your guests would rather enjoy the event then pose for a portrait, I can take a picture of you and draw from the reference image. Although posing for a portrait is a bit of a commitment but most of the time people find it relaxing and it's a moment of calm and reflection in your busy day.

Can you draw our ceremony?

Absolutely, I can do it live or from a picture. If I’m doing it live I would have to get to the wedding venue early in order to draw the static elements (backgrounds, interiors etc.) It should take around 2-3 hours depending on complexity. I can also do it from a picture after the ceremony has happened and can arrange for it to be delivered safely in a cardboard tube.

What happens when we hire you?

I pencil your date into my calendar then send you an invoice of 50% of the agreed fee. Once paid, your booking is secure and I send you a artists day plan document which we can both update to capture any details and information of the big day. We will then have a call to iron out any details. While staying in communication. Then a week before hand we could either jump on a call or confirm by email a run through of the day. I will send my second invoice at this point.

What Packages would you recommend?

Every wedding is different. I would say choose the package that makes most sense with the plan of your day. I would work with you in figuring out what package works best with your schedule.

Do you work digitally or physically?

A5 portraits I prefer to work physically but with the A3 Big Day drawing I can draw digitally on ipad. The advantage of drawing physically is that everyone can take home their drawings that day and hold the physical drawing in their hand! The advantage of drawing on ipad is that you can manipulate everything and undo, although you will have to wait for printing time before you receive anything. Digital drawings can be sent to phones instantaneously.

Photos

I will be taking photos of my work and your guests during my shift. This is very important for a freelancer. I have a sign saying that photos are being taken, letting your guests know. If for any reason they don't approve, I'll happily oblige. I would also love to use your professional photos for my personal promotions. We can agree before hand with the photographer.

Timings

In relation to above, understanding your time schedules is really important so our artists day plan document is key in understanding where I need to be and where. This should be updated if any changes happen. If the day gets wildly delayed, I will accommodate any changes and work with you in helping it all run as smooth as possible.

Do you travel?

I can travel, although anything further then 75 miles from my location a full days fee would be required. I would prefer to drive. Anything further then that would incur a proportionate travel fee (to be decided).

Parking

Driving is always preferential and an agreed place to park, is great. But if parking is an issue and it isn’t too far, its easier I can load everything up into a large bag and get public transport.

How Long Does it take to set up?

Half an hour is a safe amount of time to set up although I always aim to be really early. I agree with Alan Shearer when he says: "If you're on time, you're late"!

My drawing station

In your wedding planning we would need to decide where I would go, think about creating a sense of calm, somewhere where the guests can momentarily get away from the hustle and bustle of the party. I can draw either with tables and chairs provided by the venue or bring my own easel.

Good lighting

I have lighting, but being in a well lit place is always important.

Plug access

Access to plugs for ipads and chargers is always advantageous, but I have an extension chord I can use.

Breaks

For a long shift I would require a short break every 3hours or so. I would appreciate being fed, but if this is a problem I can bring lunch.