Capturing your day
I’m a portrait artist based in Derbyshire, with over 10 years’ experience painting people and meaningful moments.
When you choose me to be your wedding painter, I paint a unique piece on canvas live at your wedding or event, working from reference photographs and video taken during the celebration. We agree the moment in advance, and I complete the final artwork in my studio using oil paints and varnish — creating a piece you can keep forever.
How it works
Before the Wedding
We’ll discuss your vision for the painting and choose the moment or atmosphere you’d love to capture on canvas — for example the ceremony, first kiss, or another meaningful scene.
On the Day
I will arrive early to set up and work on the under-painting. At our pre-agreed moment I will take some photos and video to use as a reference whilst painting your likeness. I will then continue working on the painting during your reception.
After the Wedding
I take the painting back to my studio to refine details, deepen colour and finish the piece in oils before varnishing. This ensures the final artwork feels complete and lasting.
The finished painting will be hand delivered to you (locally) approximately 8 – 10 weeks after the wedding.
Sample Portfolio
2027 Packages
All packages include:
- Full consultation with me prior to your wedding to discuss your painting and preferences
- Up to 2 hours set-up and under-painting time, prior to your ceremony
- Dedicated time on the day to take reference photographs to paint from
- Studio finishing and varnishing for best quality and longevity. Completed paintings will then need time to dry and will be ready for shipping/delivery in 8-10 weeks
- Complimentary shipping, or hand delivery within 15 miles of my home studio (Wirksworth, Derbyshire)
Packages
Memento
£650
An intimate portrait focused on the couple, capturing a special moment between you both on your day.
• One 16 x 24 inch (40 cm x 50 cm) canvas painting
• 4 hours of live painting during your ceremony and reception
• Mixed media under-painting, finished in oils
• Up to a week of studio refinement time and varnishing after the wedding
Keepsake
£850
A larger portrait of the couple, celebrating your chosen moment together and including more background detail and scenery. This package also includes some extra keepsakes to treasure. The perfect balance of detail, feeling and storytelling.
• One 20 x 24 inch (50 cm x 60 cm) canvas painting
• Up to 6 hours of live painting during your ceremony and reception
• Mixed media under-painting, finished in oils
• Up to 2 weeks of studio refinement time and varnishing after the wedding
• A timelapse video of your painting being created
• One 8 x 10 inch (20 x 25 cm) Giclée art print of your finished painting
Heirloom
£1,150
A statement heirloom artwork designed to capture not just a moment, but the full story of your day, including additional figures and meaningful personal elements.
• One 24 x 30 inch (60 cm x 80 cm) canvas painting
• Up to 6 hours live painting during your ceremony and reception
• Up to 4 extra figures included in composition
• Mixed media under-painting, finished in oils
• Option to include collaged elements such as vows and sheet music in the composition
• Up to 3 weeks of studio refinement time after the wedding and varnishing
• A timelapse video of your painting being created
• Two 8 x 10 inch (20 x 25 cm) Giclée art prints of your finished painting
• Framing options available (may include an additional fee)
Bespoke Package – from £1,500
If you’re looking for something completely unique, perhaps over multiple canvases or a longer event, this bespoke package allows us to work together to design a live painting that will be extra special and exactly to your requirements.
This package includes:
- Bespoke mixed media and oil painting on canvas
- Live painting for your required hours on site
- Extra figures included
- Option to include collaged elements such as vows and sheet music in the composition
- Studio finishing time as needed and varnishing
- Extra Giclée art prints as required
- Timelapse video of your painting being created
- Framing options available
My style
My paintings are expressive and contemporary, using layered brushwork and rich colour to capture the atmosphere of a moment rather than every tiny detail.
The aim is to create something that feels alive and full of movement, like a memory rather than a photograph. I always aim for a good likeness in my portraits but they are expressive and impressionistic rather than hyper-realism.
FAQs
What moment can be painted?
Most couples choose a moment from the ceremony (such as the first kiss or walking back down the aisle), but this can be flexible depending on your preference.
What happens if the ceremony is outdoors and it rains?
I just need a sheltered space nearby so the painting materials stay protected.
Will the painting be finished on the day?
The painting will be well underway, but it will be completed in my studio afterwards to ensure the best result.
Can guests watch you paint?
Yes — many couples enjoy this as a form of gentle entertainment during the reception.
How far can you travel?
Travel within 25 miles of Wirksworth, Derbyshire is included. For venues further afield a small cost will apply to cover time and travel.
For venues further afield:
• 25–60 miles: £50
• 60–100 miles: £100
• 100+ miles: from £150
For locations requiring extended travel or early/late access, accommodation may also be required.
Can I purchase a package as a gift for the couple?
Yes absolutely, get in touch and I would love to chat about your idea.
What is your availability and how do I book?
Please email me at lydiapaints@gmail.com to enquire about availability and booking.
Lydia Atkinson Art 