Live Guest Illustrations

How does it work?

During your event, any guests who wish to have a portrait illustrated will come to our table to get a photo taken by either my assistant or me. This photo is used as a reference image so that guests are free to mingle about or stay to watch. I work in the order of first come first serve unless specified beforehand by the client(s)/event organizer. Guests can pick up their completed portraits throughout the event or at the end before they leave.

What is your illustration style and what art medium do you use?

Portraits are done in a faceless style with focus on each guest's attire, skin tone, hair color and hairstyle. Each portrait is completed on a 5 x7 inch sheet of pH-neutral watercolor paper in pencil, ink and watercolor. A clear sleeve is provided for each completed piece for safe keeping.

Transform your next event into an unforgettable experience with personalized artwork that will wow your guests!

This fun and interactive party favor serves as a unique alternative to traditional photo booths, offering live entertainment while creating custom, original art pieces that attendees will treasure for years to come. Whether it's a baby shower, bridal shower, wedding, birthday celebration, graduation party, or even an office event, this innovative approach not only adds a touch of creativity but also leaves lasting memories for everyone. Elevate your celebrations and provide guests with a memorable keepsake that captures the spirit of the occasion in a truly special way. Make your event stand out with the gift of art!

Each portrait takes about 9-12 minutes to complete (most of them being of couples). Please take into account transition times between each guest/portrait. I can illustrated about 4-6 couples or 8-10 single guests per hour. Again, these numbers are approximations and dependent of the overall flow of the event.

Are there any restrictions?

Yes, there are so that we can best accommodate as many guests as possible while we're onsite:

• One portrait per guest or couple

• Two to three guests maximum per portrait

• I will only paint from photos taken by either my assistant or me at the event

What happens if portraits are not completed by the end of the event?

Depending on the guest count and time, I may not get to illustrate everyone while on-site. For this reason, it is important to note that we DO NOT guarantee that everyone will leave with a portrait. Keep in mind that some guests may not want to participate as well. There are 2 options for when I reach the maximum amount for the night:

1. Put up an "At Capacity" sign to indicate that I will not be taking anymore new photos for illustrating and will be spending the remainder of the time finishing the portraits of guests I have already photographed.

2. If the clients wish for me to continue, there is an option for taking unfinished portraits back to my studio to complete for an add-on fee. These remaining post-event portraits are at a discounted rate of $10/person. Once finished, I will mail them to the clients to distribute to their guests. Turn around time is about 4-6 weeks from the time the add-on payment is received.

Currently Booking 6 Months Out

How long does it take you to complete a guest portrait?

What will you need provided on the day of the event?

I will need tables and 2 chairs with close, easy access to an electrical outlet. Two rectangular 6 to 8 foot tables are preferred so that that there's sufficient space to set up supplies, work and lay out completed portraits for guests to pick up.

If I am to paint at the cocktail hour and the reception and they are in different locations, I will need designated tables and chairs set up at both sites.

If the event is outdoors, I will also require shelter from the elements such as an awning, umbrella(s) and/or tent.

Will you travel?

Yes! I am currently based in Binghamton, NY but I am willing to travel. For venues that are located at distances great than 60 miles round trip, I will charge a travel fee that covers time and expenses such as transportation, food, and lodging. Details regarding travel fees will need to be discussed on an individual basis.

How do I book you for my event?

After fully reviewing MelMac Studio's live guest illustrations page, please submit your event details via the inquiry form below. If available, Melissa will set up a consultation call with you to discuss event details.

A 50% non-refundable retainer (plus any travel fees) is due when the contract is signed to lock in your booking. The remainder is due one week before the event date. Please note, failure to complete the final payment one week before your event date will result in a cancellation of your booking and loss of your retainer.

Availabe 4 to 6 hours on-site

Pricing starts at $300/hr plus tax