by Nicki Xu
Live Wedding & Event Painting
About Me
Hi, I’m Nicki — a watercolor artist based in Boston. I paint live at weddings and events, transforming moments into timeless heirlooms with softness and intention.
Each piece takes 40–80 hours to complete. To ensure quality, I only accept 2 weddings per month. I also share behind-the-scenes stories and heartfelt reactions with a global audience of over a million followers.
Services
Live Wedding Painting
A custom painting of a meaningful moment, created live on your wedding day.
A full-day experience where I sketch your chosen wedding scene — often the ceremony or first dance— on-site.
After the wedding, I bring the piece back to my studio and spend 30–60+ hours refining the details by hand.
Each painting is delivered within 3 weeks, professionally framed and ready to display.
Guest Portraits
Mini watercolor sketches your guests can take home — live at your event.
I set up a small table during your reception and sketch guests in real-time. Each portrait takes 8–10 minutes and is gifted to them as a unique keepsake.
It's a fun, memorable way to entertain your guests and make them feel special.
Combo Package
The most popular choice — a full wedding painting + guest portraits.
Experience the best of both. I first paint your wedding scene (usually the ceremony), then transition to live guest portraits during the reception.
The painting is finished in-studio after the event and shipped framed, while your guests go home with portraits in hand.
HOW IT WORKS
Booking Steps
Explore Services
Choose from Live Wedding Painting, Guest Portraits, or a Combo Package. Each service has its own page with full details, pricing, and samples.
Submit the Inquiry Form
Share your event details, preferred services, and any questions via the online request form.
Review & Confirmation
I’ll respond within 2–3 business days with availability. Once we finalize everything, a 30% retainer secures your date.
Pre-Wedding Consultation
We’ll review final logistics and preferences the month before your wedding — including scene selection, timing, and special notes.
Event Day & Painting
I’ll arrive early, set up in the designated area, and begin painting or sketching depending on your package.
For service-specific workflows and delivery info, visit each service tab.
Gallery
Live Painting
Guest Portraits
TRAVEL & BOOKING
Travel Policy
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Based in Boston, MA — East Coast bookings preferred
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Nationwide travel available by request
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No travel fee for events within 50 miles of Boston
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For longer distances, travel fees apply based on the event location, roundtrip transportation, hotel lodging (usually 1–2 nights), and potential per diem
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All travel fees will be quoted upfront during the booking process
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If flights or train tickets are required, I will handle booking based on best available rates at the time of confirmation. The client may also offer to book on their end if preferred.
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For venues over 150 miles away, a two-night stay is typically required
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Additional days for travel/setup may incur an extra fee if required by venue timeline
Booking Info
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Submit your request form with details: event date, venue, and service(s) desired
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Replies within 2–3 business days to confirm availability
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A 30% retainer secures your date (non-refundable)
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Balance due 1 week before the event
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Last-minute inquiries (within 3 weeks) may be subject to availability and expedited pricing
*You’ll receive a full contract and invoice once your date is confirmed.