Barleylands Wedding Fayre as a Live Wedding Painter

I saw an advert for the first wedding fayre taking place at Barleylands and made some initial enquiries to see whether it would be a good fit for me as a live wedding artist. I have been slowly learning how best to place myself within the wedding industry and how to make the most of showcases to reach new couples who are looking for something unique for their day. As this was a brand new showcase, I was a little apprehensive at first. I wasn’t sure if it would have the footfall or interest, although it is such a beautifully placed location for a wedding fayre.

In the end, I decided to go for it and packed up the car the day before with absolutely everything, as once again I wasn’t sure how much space I would have or how much I’d be displaying. When I arrived, I was greeted and directed by the amazing ladies at LilyMae Rose Dressmakers and Ivy Blu Bridal and Prom Boutique, who showed me to my spot in the upstairs function room. I was so pleased with the space. It was indoors, spacious and I could spread out a little, making room for the large table and my easel. The lift was a huge bonus, as it meant I didn’t have to struggle with my trolley or carry everything up the stairs.

I was the first one in the room, which meant I could plan my stand exactly how I wanted without disturbing neighbouring stalls. After an hour, my stand looked absolutely beautiful and, once again, completely different from all the other showcases I’ve done. As the other stall holders arrived, the room began to come alive. I said hello to them all and had a wander around to see what the fayre had to offer couples. I was genuinely surprised. There were so many vendors, all spaced out perfectly so couples could walk around without feeling overwhelmed by too many people in one room. I even had a lovely chat with Downham Hall, who were so kind and inviting and asked me to exhibit at their showcase in January.

Once I returned to my stand, it was time to paint as couples began to walk round. At first, it was fairly quiet, which gave me a chance to get into the zone and begin working on my live wedding painting. Within minutes, the whole room came alive. There were so many couples wandering around and chatting. Some were getting married in 2026, others in 2029, and most were local to the area. I realised once again that, although I am more than happy to travel anywhere in the UK as a live wedding artist, I really do love working within the South East where I can travel home the same day.

I had so much fun talking to everyone, including my lovely neighbours. As a bride myself for 2026, I still have a few bits to sort, so chatting to the vendors about their services was brilliant. I am always drawn to small, local businesses rather than large companies. Having been in business for five years now, I know how important it is to support others and help them grow their dreams too.

I had some wonderful conversations with couples about their wedding day. From whether their dog would be sitting beside them for the painting (my answer is always yes) to choosing the perfect backdrop within their venue. I could see how excited they were to discuss the tiny details that mean the world to them. I also loved telling them my story, from start to finish, and seeing their faces when they heard how quickly I learned to do what I do. I always bring my favourite drawing with me, Blue. I show them my very first drawing from March 2020 and then Blue, which I completed in December 2020. It blows them away every time and it always reminds me that I carried this talent my whole life and I am just so grateful I rediscovered it.

At the end of the day, I was pleasantly surprised when Juliana, my five year old daughter, turned up to help me pack away as my little assistant. She is the reason I work so hard, why I put so much into my art and give up so much time. I want her to have every opportunity in life she deserves. Although I was exhausted, I was buzzing for hours afterwards because the day had been so amazing.

The footfall, the organisation, the layout and the atmosphere were all incredible. For their first ever showcase, it was a huge success and I am so pleased I said yes. I cannot wait for the next one.

I am now taking bookings for live wedding paintings for 2026 and 2027- view my PACKAGES HERE