Hello, I’m Helen
I’m a Live Event & Wedding Illustrator Based in Reading, Berkshire
I paint live portraits at weddings and corporate events in the UK and beyond, capturing guests (and pets) in under 10 minutes in a fun and expressive style.
I also develop bespoke artwork for brands and private clients, and host creative workshops for corporate teams looking for mindful, engaging activities.
I truly love what I do, and my passion can be seen in every painting I produce and the events I capture.
We invited Helen to create live plant portraits of our customers during our shop's first anniversary celebrations. Helen is a fantastic illustrator who vividly captures individuals; she's brilliant to work with and always embraces new ideas. We highly recommend working with Helen :)
— Jacqueline, Midrib Plants
A Lifelong Love Of Creativity
I've loved painting and drawing since I was a kid, and I first explored illustration while studying for a fashion design degree.
After uni, I spent over ten years working in the retail industry as a product technologist for UK retailers like The White Company, Ted Baker, and Habitat. I had some great experiences during this time, but I always found myself wishing I could spend my days making art and exploring illustration.
In lockdown in 2020, redundancy gave me this opportunity, and I grabbed it with both hands.
Getting My Start as a Wedding Illustrator
At first, I sold cards and gifts online and at art markets. Then, in 2023, I pivoted my business to become a wedding illustrator.
Over the past few years, I’ve been lucky enough to work with countless lovely couples who’ve trusted me to bring an extra sprinkle of connection and creativity to their celebrations.
I’ve also expanded the live illustration side of my business to working with brands and corporate clients, including Westfield, John Lewis, Assouline, and 1 Hotel Mayfair. No two events are the same, and I still get really excited about every booking I receive.
Sharing My Creative Passion Through Teaching & Networking
I love sharing my skills with others, which is why I offer one-to-one mentorship for artists looking to get into the live illustration industry.
I also host networking events for creatives in the Reading area, and lead public and private retreats, online classes, and art workshops in London, Berkshire, and the surrounding area.
Helen’s illustration magic was part of our wedding and so beloved by our guests!
We not only adored the styles of the portraits and the joy of the guests, but the kind and creative wonderfulness that Helen’s drawings brought to our special day! We are so grateful!
— LJ
A Few Random Facts About Me
I live with my husband and our Romanian rescue dog, Dee Dee
I often sew my own clothes and make clothes and gifts for friends and family
I'm an avid reader and enjoy browsing second-hand bookstores and our local library
I love swimming outdoors, and I'm often found at Thames Lido in Reading
I travel as much as possible, and Malaysia is my favourite place (so far)
I’m a keen cook and a member of a cookbook club in Reading
Going to gigs and festivals has always made me happy
My Values
My personal values are incredibly important to me, and I prioritise inclusive, eco-friendly work practices wherever possible.
I’m also a feminist, and I feel strongly about elevating women in creative industries so they can pitch for opportunities, charge their worth, and grow their businesses.
I love collaborating with clients and brands that feel strongly about inclusivity, empowerment, and sustainability. If this is you, I’d love to chat about how we can work together!
How To Work With Me
As a live illustrator for weddings and live events, and an art educator for public and private workshops, it’s such a privilege to cultivate joy and connection through my work.
Live Event Illustration
Live art delivers a unique experience and engaging, shareable content that makes your event truly impactful.
Creative Workshops
Tap into your creativity and find a moment of mindfulness with my beginner-friendly workshops and classes.
Wedding Illustration
Create charming keepsakes with live guest portraits that capture the magic of your special day.
We booked Helen as our illustrator for our corporate xmas party and everyone loved all her portraits! Will definitely hire her again.
— Joyce
Press & Media
As an experienced artist and live event and wedding illustrator, I love chatting about illustration, running a small business, creating a community and embracing rejection.
I’ve been featured in publications including Stylist Magazine, Absolutely Berkshire Magazine, and BBC News, and I’ve also been a guest on podcasts including Being Freelance, Creative Career Change, and Business Nest Natters.
Please get in touch if you’d like to book me as a guest or request a contribution on an upcoming feature.
Let’s Talk!
Whether you’re thinking about hiring a live illustrator for a wedding or event, booking a creative workshop for a corporate away day, or commissioning a watercolour artwork, I’d love to hear from you.
Head over to my contact page to let me know what you’re looking for, and I’ll get right back to you.
