Hi, I’m Olya, the illustrator behind Olya Draws Live (at) olyadrawslive

I create natural, flattering portraits that truly resemble your guests. These are not caricatures, but illustrations that capture expressions and personality in an elegant and flattering way.

I work both live (from around 5-6 minutes per guest) and from photos, which allows flexibility depending on your wedding timeline. For larger weddings, additional portraits can be completed in my studio and posted to you afterwards.

I’m friendly and approachable and love chatting with guests, helping them feel comfortable while I draw. I also speak French and am happy to welcome international guests.

From my experience, what works best is starting with live portraits, capturing guests face to face during cocktails /mingling hour and then taking photos for references before they head into dinner and continue illustrating from those references, while everyone is seated, so more guests can be drawn and can collect their portrait at the end of the day.

Alongside live illustration, I offer bespoke illustrated artwork including wedding stationery and A3 or A4 illustrated moments such as engagements, vows, or first dances. These can be created on the day or completed in my studio.

Each wedding is tailored individually. I share a guided price list and offer a Zoom call so we can meet, talk through your ideas, and create something that feels right for you.

Based in London and happy to travel across Greater London, Surrey, and Kent.

Thank you for your interest, I’d love to hear from you!

Best wishes,

Olya