Madylyn and Darren knew one thing when it was time to get married: they were eloping. Nestled deep into the Colorado Mountains, they said I do with just myself, the photographer and the dogs as their witnesses. After the sweetest exchange of “I do’s”, they headed into Breckenridge to take photographs while I hung back and worked on their painting. A private elopement live wedding painting. This was a first for me!

The couple was from out of state and really had hoped to display the painting at their reception. The reception was in a week or so, and they were heading back home soon. We were about two hours away from Denver, so I knew I was not going to have time to bring the painting back to my studio. I had to complete this painting here and now. 5 hours to finish and varnish an 18×24. Mady asked to please include their 2 dogs and their 2 horses within the painting.

Developing the Live Wedding Painting

I have spent the past several years training to understand oil paint. The issue with oil paint is that it takes days to fully cure. That was not an option for this situation. While opting for quick drying acrylics, I went to work. Struggling with the dry mountain air, I used Golden Open acrylics with a thinning retardant. The bride wore a delicate appliqué floral wedding gown with a large tulle bow veil. While the groom wore a grey suit, black slacks and a red tie. Their colors fully complemented the forest floor adding to the interest within the painting.

When Mady and Darren came back to the house, they were sun-kissed and brimming with love. A finished painting was waiting for them! We were able to adjust some aspects of the painting on the spot that they wanted corrected. After a quick varnishing their masterpiece was ready to go. I packed up my equipment and left this new happy family in their bliss. While I wish the painting may have turned out differently, I felt heart warmed and satisfied with Mady and Darren’s appreciation for the piece. One thing was certain about creating a private live wedding painting: it was the most special addition to a most special day.