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Every wedding has its own story, and I'd be honoured to help tell yours through art. Whether you're planning an intimate celebration or a grand country house wedding, I look forward to hearing all about your plans. Cherie Smith founder & Artist
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Cherie is experienced in live event painting and proficient at creating elegant watercolour portraits. During your wedding celebration, she is capable of transforming special moments into beautiful hand-painted keepsakes. As your guests relax, celebrate and make memories, they’ll receive a personalised illustration to take home—a unique favour that captures the joy of your day.
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More than entertainment, it’s an experience. Guests love watching each portrait come to life, making live illustration a thoughtful addition that brings conversation, excitement and lasting memories to your wedding.
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​For live wedding guest illustrations, this approach is translated into expressive, elegant portraits created during your celebration. Each guest receives a beautifully hand-painted keepsake that reflects their personality while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic throughout the collection. For bespoke bridal and wedding portrait commissions, the process allows for a greater level of artistic refinement.
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Based in Essex and available further afield I work closely with every couple to add a personal, artistic touch that reflects the style and romance of the celebration.​
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Working across London and connecting counties I create elegant guest portraits and live illustrations that bring a refined artistic presence to weddings and private events.
How it works
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Arrival at your wedding venue. I arrive in plenty of time before your guests so I can settle in, familiarise myself with the space and prepare everything before the celebrations begin.
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Setting up my workstation. I create a dedicated illustration station in a suitable location, keeping my materials organised and easily accessible while ensuring I remain unobtrusive throughout your wedding.
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Capturing reference photographs. As guests arrive and throughout the celebrations, I take quick reference photographs. These allow me to capture each person’s likeness, clothing and individual character while they enjoy the day naturally.
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Creating the illustrations live. During the reception drinks and dinner, I work continuously on your guest illustrations, bringing each portrait to life in my signature style. Guests can relax, enjoy themselves and watch their artwork develop.
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Displaying the finished artwork. Once completed, each illustration is placed on a dedicated display table or stand. Guests can browse the artwork and collect their portrait whenever they are ready, creating a lovely keepsake to take home.
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A special portrait of the newlyweds. Your bride and groom portrait is given special attention and is displayed in a beautiful frame on the display table. It remains on show throughout the duration of your wedding, becoming part of the day’s décor and a lasting piece of artwork to treasure.
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A unique wedding keepsake. By the end of the celebration, your guests leave with an original piece of artwork created especially for them — a personal reminder of your wedding day that they can treasure long after the celebrations are over.
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Watching the artwork come to life is all part of the experience. Guests love seeing the creative process, chatting as they pose, and collecting a personalised piece of art that reminds them of your special day.
More than just a wedding favour, live illustration creates memorable moments. It gives your guests an interactive experience and a one-of-a-kind keepsake they’ll treasure long after the celebration. Every portrait is individually crafted in the moment, making each piece as unique as the person it’s created for.
Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, live wedding illustration adds a thoughtful, elegant touch that leaves a lasting impression on both you and your guests.
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Why Choose Cherie Smith - Fine Art Wedding Portraits?
✔ Over 25 years of artistic experience
✔ Experienced live event artist
✔ Calm, friendly and professional approach
✔ Elegant hand-painted keepsakes created during your celebration
✔ Based in Essex, travelling throughout the UK
✔ Passionate about creating artwork your guests will treasure
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A personal note people often ask me why I love creating live portraits The answer is simple—I’ve always been happiest with a paintbrush in my hand. Whether teaching art, painting at events or creating wedding portraits, I love seeing creativity bring people together. There’s something incredibly special about capturing a fleeting moment and turning it into a keepsake that will be cherished for years to come.
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Tap to "Learn More" and secure your booking into 2027 ! ✨
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