Wedding Planning Without Overwhelm: Thoughts from a Painter and Mama of the Bride

Connor and Rachel's live wedding painting.

Planning a wedding is a journey filled with joy, anticipation, and, admittedly, a fair share of overwhelm. As both a live wedding painter and a mother preparing for my daughter's wedding in January 2026, I understand the myriad of emotions and decisions that come with this special time.

🌸 Step 1: Envision the Day Together
Before diving into logistics, take a moment to dream. Discuss with your daughter the atmosphere you both envision. Is it a cozy winter gathering or a grand spring celebration? Creating a shared vision board can help align your ideas and set the tone for the planning process.

My daughter and I picking out her wedding dress. Hearts for keeping the big reveal until January! :)

📅 Step 2: Choose a Season, Then a Venue
Selecting a season that resonates with your envisioned theme can narrow down venue options. For instance, a winter wedding might lead you to venues with warm, intimate settings. Remember, popular venues often book well in advance, so early selection is key.

💖 Step 3: Prioritize What Matters Most
With countless decisions ahead, it's essential to identify what elements are most important to you and your daughter (or son). Whether it's the cuisine, music, or capturing the day through art, focusing on top priorities can streamline the planning process.

As a live wedding painter, I've found that many couples cherish the idea of having a tangible, artistic representation of their special day. It's not just a painting; it's a timeless heirloom that encapsulates the emotion and essence of the moment.

Flowers and decor are a major decision and financial commitment.

👩‍👧 Step 4: Divide and Conquer
Effective communication is vital. Assign roles based on each other's strengths and preferences. Perhaps your daughter handles the guest list while you manage vendor communications. This collaborative approach ensures tasks are managed efficiently and reduces stress.

🖌️ Step 5: Embrace the Moments
Amidst the planning, it's easy to get lost in the details. Remember to cherish the journey and the memories you're creating together. These moments, from dress fittings to cake tastings, are as significant as the wedding day itself.

Incorporating a live painting into the ceremony or reception can add a unique touch. Guests often find it mesmerizing to watch the artwork come to life, and it serves as a beautiful keepsake for the couple.

Connor and Rachel's painting at the end of their wedding.

🎨 A Personal Note
Balancing my professional commitments with planning my daughter's wedding has been a whirlwind. Yet, it's a reminder of the love and dedication that goes into every celebration. If you're considering adding a live painting to your wedding, I'd be honored to bring your vision to life.

Request my Live Wedding Painting Price Guide

P.S. I recently wrote about 5 Reasons to Hire a Live Wedding Painter if you’re curious how it all works.

Love, 
Kitty