Live Event Painting

The first step is to submit an inquiry using the form above. Please include as much detail as possible so I can best understand your vision. I’ll be in touch within 24–48 hours to begin the booking process and discuss your preferred package and payment plan. Once you’re ready to move forward, I’ll send over a contract and invoice for your review. Your date will be held for one week while you look everything over and ensure it feels aligned. Once both are signed and submitted, your date will be officially secured on my calendar.

Absolutely! I love bringing live painting to all kinds of celebrations: concerts, birthdays, retirement parties, fundraising galas, corporate events, and more. If your event has guests and a meaningful moment to capture, there’s a beautiful opportunity to create something unforgettable. Not sure what you’d like painted? That’s part of the fun! We’ll schedule a consultation to explore ideas, refine your vision, and walk through the entire process so you feel confident and excited every step of the way. Fill out the inquiry form above and let’s create something incredible together!

Absolutely! I love to travel and frequently paint at events nationwide. Travel fees are based on the distance from Columbus, Ohio and are customized to your event. For locations more than 3 hours away, a travel fee will be applied to cover accommodations. For destinations 5+ hours away, travel includes flights, rental car, hotel, and applicable luggage fees. I’m always happy to provide a personalized travel quote based on your event location.

Yes, I offer this service as well! Please check out this page to learn more about my guest illustrations. On average 8-15 portraits can be produced an hour, with an expected 30-50 portraits completed per event. There is a 4-5 minimum for hiring just this service. Feel welcome to submit an inquiry for any additional questions!

Occasionally, my responses can end up in spam or junk folders. While I do my best to follow up promptly, if you haven’t heard from me within a week of your inquiry, please check those folders first. If you still don’t see a reply, feel free to reach out directly at leah@artabellagallery.com. I’d love to connect with you!

Once your signed contract and paid invoice are received, your event date is officially reserved on my calendar. About a month before your event, I’ll reach out to gather final details and schedule our consultation call. During this call, we’ll finalize your painting concept, walk through the day-of process, and answer any questions so you feel completely confident and excited. I remain available leading up to your event for any last-minute thoughts or updates. From there, I’ll prepare everything needed and arrive on the day ready to begin bringing your moment to life on canvas.

I paint with high quality water-based acrylic paint on pre-stretched cotton canvas. The paint is non-toxic and extremely quick drying, allowing for easy cleanup and transport of the painting after an event. After the painting is complete, I coat it in a UV-resistant, archival quality gloss varnish to ensure the longevity and vibrancy of the piece.

The painter typically sets up in a location that offers a strong view of the selected scene while staying out of the way of the ceremony, reception flow, vendors, and guests. The exact setup location is usually planned in advance with the couple, planner, venue, or photographer. My setup is designed to be both elegant and unobtrusive. I bring a portable French easel, a small display stand, and a protective floor covering, along with all of my painting materials (acrylic paints, brushes, palette, water jar, apron, and more). I also include a few minimal marketing materials near my station, such as a QR code to my social media and business cards for guests who are curious about the process. I require a space of approximately 4’ x 4’ and access to a standard electrical outlet for lighting. While not required, a nearby cocktail table is always appreciated for additional workspace.

After your event, I’ll bring your painting back to my studio in Columbus for finishing touches (unless you’ve requested otherwise). Depending on your selected package, completion typically takes 2–6 weeks. Once I’ve refined the piece, I’ll send you a side-by-side update of your painting as you last saw it and with the final touches. At this stage, you’re invited to share any feedback or request adjustments. My goal is for you to feel completely in love with your painting! Once approved, the piece is professionally varnished for protection and shipped to you at no additional cost.

Absolutely! I would be happy to create a customized painting for you based on professional photographs from your event. This allows me the flexibility to work at my own pace, without the pressure of performing and completing it in limited time. To learn more about my studio portrait paintings, please check out this page.

I offer extras such as additional paintings, prints, custom thank you cards, and more. Please see the 'Optional add ons' section above to learn more. If you are a non-profit, I am more than happy to offer a 30% discount for any of my packages.

It’s best to book your live wedding painter as early as possible, especially if your wedding falls during peak season. Many couples reserve their date several months to a year in advance because live wedding painting requires the artist to be present at the event, which means availability is limited to one wedding per date.

Yes. Live wedding painting makes a thoughtful and luxurious wedding gift for couples who value art, design, and sentimental keepsakes. Parents, family members, or close friends may choose to gift a live wedding painter as a memorable surprise for the couple. Commissioned studio paintings make great gifts, too!