Wow your guests with live illustration by Aya Illustration. Elegant, hand-drawn portraits created in real time, capturing the style and spirit of your wedding. A unique keepsake and unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
Hello, I’m Zhanna — a live event artist and illustrator with a lifelong love for drawing and a BA in Illustration from Falmouth University. My work blends my passion for people and art into something truly unforgettable: live illustration that captures the spirit, style, and joy of your event in real time.
I founded Aya Illustration to offer couples a unique and stylish experience that elevates their wedding day. Each live sketch tells a story — the essence of your guests, their outfits, and the mood — all rendered in a signature style that’s elegant, flattering, and deeply personal.
There’s no need for guests to sit still — I (or my assistant) discreetly take quick reference photos, so they can enjoy the celebration while I work. As the party unfolds, guests return to a beautifully curated pop-up gallery to collect their bespoke artworks — a stylish and sentimental memento to cherish forever.
One-of-a-kind live portraits in A5 format, hand-drawn on luxury watercolour paper
No templates or repeats — every piece is created from scratch
Complimentary envelopes or mounts (included in the Platinum package)
Signed and embossed with the Aya Illustration artist’s seal
Pre-printed embellishments like floral designs, confetti, couple's initials, or messages, custom-designed to match your event aesthetic
A complimentary A4 couple's portrait as a gift — either illustrated from a favourite pre-wedding photo and presented on the day, or created post-event and mailed within two weeks
Choose from three curated packages designed to suit your event, or let’s create something entirely bespoke. I’d love to hear your ideas and help bring your vision to life.
Live illustration is more than entertainment — it’s an experience. It delights, surprises, and creates genuine connection. A beautiful icebreaker and treasured keepsake all in one.
I’d be honoured to be part of your celebration. Let’s turn your wedding day into timeless art.
Aya Illustration is available for weddings and events year-round, with bookings taken up to 12 months in advance. Due to the bespoke nature of live guest illustrations, I accept a limited number of events each month to ensure every celebration receives my full attention and creativity.
To secure your date, early booking is highly recommended — especially for peak wedding seasons (May–September). I am available across London, Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Surrey, Hampshire, and the South West, with travel further afield available upon request.
Aya Illustration offers three beautifully curated packages to suit your celebration, each designed to create a unique and unforgettable guest experience:
Silver - £600 (4 hours of live illustration)
Gold - £900 (6 hours of live illustration)
Platinum - £1300 (8 hours of live illustration)
Plus:
– Complimentary bespoke A4 couple portrait
– Premium mounts or envelopes for all guest illustrations
– Additional illustrations completed post-event if needed
Custom packages and extended hours are available upon request. Travel fees may apply depending on your event location.
What is the best time for live guest painting?
The ideal time is during your wedding drinks reception. The natural daylight provides perfect conditions for sketching and creates a relaxed atmosphere as guests mingle.
How many illustrations can you create per hour?
On average, I can illustrate 6–8 full-length individuals per hour, which is approximately 4 couples.
Will you be able to illustrate all my guests?
Each package includes a set number of live illustrations. I typically draw up to 10 people per hour. Any additional guests can be illustrated after the event in my studio for an additional fee.
Can you illustrate at outdoor events?
Absolutely! I'm happy to work outdoors as long as the illustration station is set in the shade or under cover, in case of rain or strong sunlight.
What materials do you use?
I work exclusively with high-quality materials, including 300gsm acid-free watercolour paper, waterproof and lightfast fineliners, and professional-grade inks and brushes for refined details.
Do you offer digital illustrations?
No, I focus solely on traditional hand-drawn illustrations. I believe in the tactile beauty of live sketching and the personal connection it brings.
Do you travel?
Yes. Aya Illustration is available for weddings across the South West, including Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, London, Surrey, and Hampshire. Further travel can be arranged upon request.
What if a guest loses their illustration?
Lost artworks can be recreated: £40 for a couple and £20 per person, completed and sent post-event.
