Looking for truly unforgettable wedding entertainment? Scottish artist Andrew Knott creates live guest portraits, giving couples a unique keepsake and guests a lasting memory of the big day
Planning a wedding in Scotland? Looking for a unique way to entertain your guests while giving them a keepsake they’ll treasure forever? Live wedding illustration is becoming one of the most creative trends for couples who want something truly memorable.
We caught up with Andrew Knott Illustration, a talented Scottish wedding artist who paints portraits of guests as the big day unfolds. Working live at the celebration, Andrew captures each guest’s personality and style with expressive ink and watercolour sketches that double as entertainment and favours.
Andrew shares how he started, why couples love hiring a live illustrator for weddings, and his tips for making the most of this creative experience.
Andrew believes weddings are the best way to combine his art and his people skills. He offers packages to suit different budgets
Meet Andrew Knott Illustration: Scottish live wedding artist
“I’m a wedding artist who specialises in producing illustrations of guests. I work on-site at events and weddings, creating custom portraits in real time. It’s a brilliant way to bring a creative and interactive element to the celebration, while also giving people a unique keepsake to take home.”
“I’ve always loved drawing, but just as important to me is working with people and being part of meaningful moments…
“With some encouragement from a few friends who were already established in the wedding industry, I decided to take the leap. I got myself set up, put the word out, and quickly got my first booking.”
Andrew’s signature style
“I work with line and wash, blending expressive ink lines with soft watercolour to bring each portrait to life… It’s important to me that the illustrations still feel lively and natural, while offering a flattering and recognisable likeness.”
Andrew's fashion training is evident in his style. He has a keen eye for detail and a passion for capturing a person's essence
Why couples book a wedding illustrator
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Interactive entertainment: “Guests love watching the creative process unfold.”
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Memorable keepsakes: “Each guest leaves with a hand-drawn portrait they can treasure forever.”
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Personal touch: “Being there to capture those moments in real time feels like such a privilege.”
What is a wedding painter? A guide to adding live art to your wedding
A day in the life of a live wedding illustrator
“It usually starts with a good coffee and a drive to the venue… Once the guests head in for dinner, the real work begins! I settle in and start sketching, bringing each guest to life on paper.”
“Do it! It becomes such a focal point for your guests throughout the day… It’s also important to find a wedding illustrator who fits your aesthetic and your vision.”
“For me, it’s all about capturing a person’s energy and likeness… Because I draw this way, guests can relax, and I often encourage them to exchange a glance with one another.”
“No two weddings are ever the same and I love being able to bring something truly unique to each couple’s special day. On top of that, I get to work alongside many inspirational suppliers.”
“When I first started Andrew Knott Illustration, I would read Tie the Knot Scotland to learn more about the wedding business… Looking ahead, I’m excited to expand my offerings to include more personalised wedding stationery that ties into the live illustration experience.”
"Guests love being able to recognise friends and family as they com to life on paper"
Quickfire round with Andrew
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Favourite wedding tradition? Handfasting – actually tying the knot.
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Big wedding or intimate elopement? Intimate elopement.
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Favourite Scottish wedding venue? Venachar Lochside.
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Splurge item if it was your wedding? The music.
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Dream celebrity client? Actor and presenter Siobhan McSweeney.
