My Journey to Becoming a Live Wedding Illustrator in Sydney
If you told me a year ago that I’d be sketching real-time portraits at weddings across Sydney, I probably wouldn’t have believed you. Sure, I’ve been drawing since I was a kid — but I never imagined illustration could become my full-time career.
For years, I focused on food illustration — another passion of mine as a dedicated foodie. I’ve always loved sketching beautifully plated dishes, cafés, and desserts. It was fun, creative, and a way to stay connected with Sydney’s vibrant food scene. But it wasn’t my main income — more a passion project than a business.
Then in April 2025, everything changed. I joined a live illustration masterclass that completely transformed my creative path. That’s when Let Me Draw You was born — a bespoke live wedding illustration service based in Sydney.
Art has always been part of my life, but live sketching at weddings gave it a whole new purpose. Now, not only do I get to draw every day, I also get to meet amazing couples and guests, hear their stories, and be part of one of the most joyful and meaningful days of their lives.
A Game-Changing Course: Belinda Xia’s Live Illustration Program
In April 2025, I became a founding member of Belinda Xia’s live illustration course — a program designed for artists who want to turn their creative talent into a profitable, sustainable business.
Belinda’s course was a complete roadmap. From pricing, to client communication, event preparation, and guest engagement, she covered everything needed to thrive as a live wedding sketch artist.
One of the most important lessons I learned? You are the brand. People don’t just book your art — they book you. Your energy. Your presence. Your personality. Belinda showed us how to confidently show up as the face of our business — especially on Instagram, which she teaches as a key platform for attracting dream clients.
Learning to Be Visible (and Booked!)
Like many artists, I used to hide behind my work. I believed the art should speak for itself. But Belinda taught me that visibility builds trust — and trust leads to bookings.
I started to:
Show my face more on Instagram
Talk directly to my audience in stories
Share behind-the-scenes clips from weddings and events
Post real-time guest reactions and finished sketches
These small changes made a big difference. People began messaging me saying, “It feels like I already know you!” — and that’s exactly what you want in a relationship-based business like weddings.
Why I Chose Live Wedding Illustration
So why weddings?
Because it’s so much more than just drawing. At weddings, I’m capturing emotions — the joy between couples, guests, kids, and family members. The sketching process becomes an experience in itself. Guests come over to watch, chat, pose, and often return later to say thank you. It’s personal, interactive, and unforgettable.
Whether I’m sketching at a garden ceremony, a vineyard celebration, a rooftop reception, a backyard party, a restaurant wedding, or a luxury ballroom, every location brings its own unique energy. And in Sydney, the demand for live wedding sketch artists is growing — couples are looking for ways to make their day more personal, engaging, and memorable.
Launching Let Me Draw You in Sydney
After completing the course, I officially launched Let Me Draw You, offering live sketching for weddings, corporate events, private parties, and special occasions all across Sydney. What I offer is simple but meaningful: live, real-time portraits that guests can take home as personalised keepsakes. Every sketch is hand-drawn on the spot and unique to the moment.
It’s a creative alternative to photo booths or traditional favours — and couples love that their guests leave with something beautiful, emotional, and one-of-a-kind.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a live wedding illustrator in Sydney wasn’t something I planned. But it’s easily the most fulfilling, joyful path I’ve taken — and I’m so thankful for every couple and celebration I get to be part of.
If you’re an artist or creative wondering whether you can turn your passion into a business, here’s my advice:
Say yes to new opportunities. Invest in education or mentorship. Show up as yourself. The right clients will find you.
Art has always been part of me — but now I get to share it in a way that makes others feel seen, celebrated, and remembered. And that’s what I love most about being a live wedding illustrator.
Ready to Capture Your Special Day with Live Wedding Illustration?
If you’re planning a wedding in Sydney and want to add a unique, personal touch that your guests will treasure forever, let’s chat!
Explore my portfolio to see how live sketching can beautifully bring your celebration to life.