Photo By: Brittany Smith with Kairos Studios
Nursing to World-Traveled Live Painter
When you think of wedding professionals, a live painter might not be the first role that comes to mind. However, Elysia King’s story is a fascinating one, blending an unexpected background in nursing with a passion for creating art that has made her a sought-after talent in the wedding industry. I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Elysia, who shared her unique journey and insights into the world of live wedding painting.
A Surprising Start
Elysia didn’t start her career with a paintbrush in hand. In fact, her background is in nursing, a field far removed from the world of art. “I didn’t go to school for art,” she begins. “I went to school for nursing.” Her transition into live wedding painting was purely serendipitous. A friend asked her to paint at their wedding, and after she posted her work online, the response was overwhelming. “More and more people started reaching out, asking if I would do this for them,” she recalls. What started as a favor for a friend quickly became a side hustle, and Elysia soon connected with another live painter in North Carolina.
“At the time, I thought it would just be a fun thing to do on the side,” Elysia admits. But fate had other plans. Her work began to take off faster than she ever imagined, and before long, she was painting at weddings every weekend. The demand was so high that Elysia found herself earning more from painting than from her nursing job, leading to a pivotal decision. After a particularly influential painting for a social media influencer, her Instagram following skyrocketed, and she was suddenly booked out six to eight months in advance.
The Joy of Wedding Painting
When asked about her favorite part of working in the wedding industry, Elysia’s passion shines through. “I enjoy working with couples and connecting with others in this field,” she says. For her, the stakes are high, but in a way that brings joy rather than stress. “I still get that enjoyment from working with people, but it’s a more positive outlook compared to nursing,” she explains.
What to Look for in a Live Wedding Painter
For couples considering hiring a live wedding painter, Elysia has some sound advice. “Always double-check their portfolio,” she emphasizes. “The painter needs to be able to meet the expectations of the couple, and a portfolio is the best way to ensure that.” Her emphasis on the importance of a good match between a couple’s vision and an artist’s style cannot be overstated.
Elysia’s Process
Elysia’s process from hire to delivery of the final painting is both thoughtful and meticulous. After a couple or a wedding planner reaches out to the company that manages her scheduling, Elysia sets up a call to get to know the couple better. “I try to learn as much as I can about the couple to make sure I can create something that truly represents them,” she explains. Establishing a connection with the couple is crucial to her process.
On the day of the wedding, Elysia arrives one to two hours early to set up and adapt to the event’s schedule. The painting itself usually takes about six to eight hours, and by the end of the night, the couple is thrilled to see the completed work.
Booking Tips and Budgeting Advice
Elysia’s popularity means that couples interested in her services need to plan ahead. “I’m usually booked solid six months out,” she advises. “If there’s an artist you really like, try to book a year in advance to make sure you get them.”
For those working within a budget, Elysia has a candid reminder: “If you’re looking for a quality painting experience for your wedding day, you need to be ready to pay for it.” The demand for live wedding painting has grown significantly, and with it, the cost. “I joke that I wouldn’t be able to afford myself,” she laughs, but the message is clear—quality artistry comes with a price.
Life Beyond Weddings
When Elysia isn’t painting at weddings, she remains committed to her nursing roots through continuing education. “It’s a way to keep my brain active and always learning,” she says. In addition to her professional development, she enjoys deep dives into the styles of various artists and educating herself on their techniques. And, of course, as a mother, she stays busy with her children, balancing her life as a creative professional and a parent.
Elysia’s Inspiring Journey to Becoming a
World-Traveled Live Wedding Painter
Elysia King’s journey from nursing to becoming a world-traveled live wedding painter is a testament to the power of passion and the unexpected paths that life can take. Her story is an inspiration for anyone looking to turn a hobby into a thriving career, and her advice offers valuable insights for couples looking to add a unique touch to their wedding day.
