Monday, August 20, 2012

Going to the Chapel...And Painting the Reception!


About a year ago, I began to get requests to paint at wedding receptions and it has been so exciting to do these events!  I have to admit, at first I was scared to death!  I mean, it's a one-shot thing...you don't get to re-do this one!  I think what makes it so special is that it is done from life at the event and years from now, the couple can look back and see guests just as they were and know it was painted right then & there.  It's also fun entertainment for the guests who stop by to find out what in the world I am doing and then return later to see how it's evolved.  They love to spot themselves in it, too!  I really enjoy interacting with the guests - especially the children who love to be painted into the picture. 

This past Saturday I had the privilege to paint at the reception of the daughter of friends I used to go to church with.  Some friends of the brides parents gave this as a gift to the couple which I thought was a great idea!  I saw so many friends from my former church and met lots of people. 

I get to the event about an hour before all the guests arrive and start painting the "still" features - windows, flower arrangements - that will be included in the painting.  Then before I know it the guests are coming in and I start painting like crazy to include as many as I can!  Finally, the bride and groom arrive and they take their place in the painting.  The band is playing and people are laughing and dancing; the painting is falling into place and what usually starts out a bit on the anxious side for me turns into a real party and I'm singing and dancing a bit myself! 

No comments: