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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • Will you illustrate everyone?
    That is always the goal! I aim to illustrate as many guests as possible during the booking. My assistant will take photos of guests to help keep the process smooth. Some guests may be a little camera-shy at first but with encouragement and explanation of our services we photograph as many as possible as we do our best to capture everyone! If only a small number of guests (5-10) remain at the end of the booking, we will always try to complete them at the venue out of goodwill if time allows . As the event nears its final hour, if new guests arrive wanting an illustration, we will take their photo and let them know we will try to complete it in time. If we are unable to, we can arrange to have it posted to them. However, to avoid disappointment, we may have to turn guests away toward the very end of the booking if time does not allow for more illustrations. If you have specific guests you would like prioritized (typically all-day guests), please let us know in advance so we can ensure they are illustrated first. For larger guest counts, if we run out of time, there are a couple of options: If my schedule allows, I can stay longer for an additional hourly fee to complete more illustrations on the day. Alternatively, I can complete the remaining illustrations at home and post them. This would be an additional £70 per 10 illustrations (covering approximately 20 guests), including tracked postage to each guest. Additionally, I illustrate a larger bride and groom portrait after the event to ensure the highest quality. This will be posted out to you once completed.
  • Do you do discounts and sales?
    Yes I regularly do discounts and sales over on social media @ellysiumillustration or if you sign up to our club I can send emails when there are sales. The discounts apply to LIVE illustrations and custom orders on etsy.
  • How many guests can you illustrate in the allocated time?
    I typically illustrate around 10 guests per hour. I work alongside an assistant who helps with photographing, packing, and engaging with guests to keep the process efficient. I always aim to have an assistant, as it speeds up the workflow. However, if an assistant is unavailable, this may slow things down slightly. Additionally, some guests may want to chat about their illustrations, or they may have more intricate outfits, which can also affect the speed. This estimate is based on previous LIVE illustrations, but I always strive to illustrate as many guests as possible to ensure everyone has a great experience. If you have a larger guest count, I recommend booking a longer time slot to accommodate more illustrations and avoid any disappointment.
  • Do you do NHS/Teacher Discount?
    Yes! We offer 10% off all Live Illustrating services and Etsy orders* with proof of occupation. *Please note: This discount cannot be combined with other active sales. Proof of occupation (such as an ID card) is required. Be sure to check out our social media for the latest sales and offers!
  • How do I book?
    You can book in a number of ways! Simply drop me a message on Instagram or send me an email confirming that you'd like to book. Once you're ready, I will send you an email with a wedding contract outlining all the details we've discussed. As soon as I receive your deposit, your booking will be secured, and we will keep in touch leading up to your big day!
  • How does my deposit and payments work?
    To secure your date and prepare resources, I require a non-refundable deposit, which will be quoted based on your package. Since both myself and my assistant may need to book time off in advance if your date falls on a working day, this deposit ensures that your date is fully reserved. The remaining balance can be paid in any installments that suit you, but the full amount must be paid no later than two weeks before your event date. I will contact you during this time to remind you and discuss any final details you'd like to include. All payments are non-refundable unless cancellation is made by me, the illustrator. In the unlikely event that I need to cancel, all payments, including your deposit, will be refunded in full.
  • Do you need breaks or refreshments provided?
    I arrive 15 minutes early to set up and take about 5 minutes to pack up once I’ve completed my session. Any refreshment breaks I take are very limited and will not be included in your booking slot. No setup, takedown, or breaks are deducted from your illustration time. This means that if you book me for 6 hours, I will be illustrating for the full 6 hours. Breaks are taken in my own time, and we usually take care of our own food and drinks, so there’s no need to worry about us!
  • Do you travel?
    Yes! I am based in the North-East of England, and I offer free travel within my local area, including Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham, Northumberland, Carlisle, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire, and surrounding areas. If you are located outside this region, I am still happy to travel to you! However, an additional fee of £0.50 per mile (round trip) will apply. For locations more than three hours away, I may also require accommodation, which I will include in your quote as part of your inquiry.
  • How much are LIVE illustration packages?
    I understand this is a common question! However, I provide quotes only after an inquiry, as pricing depends on several factors, including the year, venue, guest numbers, hours, and inclusions. To help me give you an accurate quote, please include as much information as possible when making an inquiry. I will provide the prices for all three packages, and if you're looking for something more tailored, I can also create a custom package just for you! 😊

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