Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re curious about commissioning a portrait, joining my drawing lessons, or adding live wedding drawing to your special day, you’ll find answers to the most common questions below. My goal is to make every step — from ordering a custom piece to learning in the studio — feel clear, simple, and enjoyable. If there’s ever something you’re unsure about, please don’t hesitate to reach out — I’m always happy to help!
Commissions & Custom Artwork
How do I order a custom portrait?
You can find full details about the commission process, available sizes, and pricing on my Commissions page.
Why is full payment required upfront?
Because each portrait is custom-made and one of a kind, I’m unable to resell completed pieces if a client changes their mind. Requiring full payment upfront ensures that your spot is officially reserved and that the time and materials going into your piece are protected.
I do, however, understand that sometimes plans change. I offer full refunds up to 48 hours after an order is placed, and 40% refunds up to 7 days after placing an order. After 7 days, commissions become non-refundable, as work and preparation are already underway.
I do, however, understand that sometimes plans change. I offer full refunds up to 48 hours after an order is placed, and 40% refunds up to 7 days after placing an order. After 7 days, commissions become non-refundable, as work and preparation are already underway.
What if I place a bulk order of 3 or more custom portraits?
For larger or bulk orders, I’m happy to offer discounts and flexible payment options. These are discussed individually to find an arrangement that suits both your needs and my scheduling. Please reach out through the contact form or via email at [email protected] to begin that conversation before placing your order.
Can I request changes to my portrait once it’s started?
Minor touch-ups can usually be accommodated, but because each piece is drawn by hand and sealed upon completion, extensive revisions aren’t possible. We’ll review your preferences and reference photos thoroughly before I begin to ensure your portrait captures exactly what you have in mind. If extensive work is required (ie. combining multiple photos, removing photo elements, adding unique elements, or fully custom pieces), I will put together a mock-up of your piece before work begins, which we can look at together and make any adjustments to prior to things being put on paper.
How long will my portrait take to complete?
Turnaround time varies depending on the season and current bookings. Most portraits are completed within 1 to 2 weeks depending on size and complexity. You’ll receive an estimated completion date when I begin, and you'll receive an email from when me when your piece is up in the queue, and again when it's complete along with a photo of the finished product!
Do you ship portraits?
Yes! Each drawing is carefully packaged for safe delivery. Shipping costs are added to your invoice and vary by location. Free pickup in Brantford is also available, and in London Ontario on select dates. I currently only offer shipping within Canada, but do plan to expand to the United States in the future.
Drawing Lessons
Where are lessons held?
Lessons are typically taught from my home studio in here in Brantford — a cozy, creative space where students can learn comfortably. I also offer the option to teach at students’ homes for an additional travel fee. Full details and pricing can be found on my Classes page.
What ages do you teach?
I currently offer lessons for all ages from 8 years old and up who love to draw and want to grow their artistic confidence in a fun, encouraging environment. No prior experience needed!
What do lessons cost?
Private lessons start at $60 for one student, taught from my home studio. Each additional family member is +$20 per session, non-family is an additional $60, up to a maximum of 4 students for a private lesson. If you’d like me to come to your home instead, travel costs apply (please see the Classes page for details and exact pricing).
Why do you require a card on file?
Having a card on file helps streamline payments for those who prefer to pay that way and provides security in the event of a no-show or late cancellation. Cards will never be charged without pre-authorization by the cardholder, except in the event of a late cancellation (less than 24 hours’ notice) or no-show. This system helps keep lessons running smoothly, allowing more time and energy to focus on creativity and learning.
Do you offer online lessons?
I’m currently developing online classes and pre-filmed courses for students who can’t attend in person — stay tuned for updates in upcoming newsletters and on social media!
What if we need to cancel or reschedule a lesson?
I kindly ask for at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Lessons canceled with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged in full, as time has already been spent preparing for that session and it’s unlikely that I can fill the spot with another student on short notice.
Do you offer group rates?
Yes! I offer discounted rates for large groups, with pricing adjusted based on the number of participants. These sessions are a wonderful way to learn together, and can either be one-time events, or ongoing lessons — there are perfect for clubs, community programs, or family art days. All materials are included in the group rate unless otherwise agreed upon. Please reach out for a personalized quote and to discuss scheduling options.
Artwork, Prints & Market Events
What materials do you use for your charcoal portraits?
Each portrait is drawn by hand using charcoal pencils, willow charcoal, and white conte on high-quality, acid-free art paper. This combination gives the drawings their soft, detailed finish and ensures they’ll last beautifully for years to come. Every piece is gently sealed with a charcoal safe spray fixative once complete to protect it from smudging.
Do you offer prints of your original artwork?
Yes! I offer a selection of fine art prints of my original charcoal pieces, including limited runs of seasonal prints throughout the year. Each print is mounted on foamboard and carefully sealed in clear packaging to protect the image. You can find the current collection in my online shop, and I often bring market-exclusive prints to markets and events as well.
What are your “Mini” charcoal pieces?
My Mini series are small (3"x3" or even smaller!), hand-drawn charcoal originals that explore playful, seasonal, or storybook-inspired subjects — perfect for gift-giving or starting an art collection. Each Mini is signed, sealed, and unique. Availability changes often, so keep an eye on my social media or subscribe to my newsletter for updates when new ones are released!
Where can I find you at local markets?
I regularly take part in artisan and maker markets throughout the year, often in the Brantford and Southern Ontario area. Upcoming market dates and locations are always shared in my newsletter, the homepage of my website, and on Instagram and Facebook — follow along there to see where I’ll be next!
Do you take custom requests for prints, Minis, or other items?
Depending on the season and my current workload, I occasionally take on small custom Mini concepts, limited print requests, or bookmark designs. Feel free to reach out through my contact page if you have something special in mind — I’m always open to creative ideas when time allows!
Do you have a physical store or studio we can visit?
Not yet — but hopefully one day! At the moment, my website serves as my main shop for commissions, original artwork, prints, and other shop items, and you can often find me at artisan markets throughout Southern Ontario during the year.
My dream is to eventually open a small gallery and art supply store right here in Brantford, where I could continue teaching lessons, host workshops, and collaborate with other local artists to showcase their work. It’s a goal I’m steadily working toward, and I can’t wait to share more when and if the time comes!
My dream is to eventually open a small gallery and art supply store right here in Brantford, where I could continue teaching lessons, host workshops, and collaborate with other local artists to showcase their work. It’s a goal I’m steadily working toward, and I can’t wait to share more when and if the time comes!
Live Wedding Drawing
What is live wedding drawing?
Live wedding drawing is a one-of-a-kind way to capture your day as it unfolds. I attend your celebration in person and create a hand-drawn charcoal portrait of you — the couple — on your wedding day. The piece is drawn live from a photo taken by me at a specific moment that we've previously discussed in our consultation together leading up to the big day, blending the spontaneity of the moment with the fine-art quality of a custom portrait.
How far in advance should we book?
Because wedding season fills up quickly, I recommend booking at least 4–6 months in advance to secure your date. Availability varies by season, so early inquiries are always encouraged.
What does your live drawing service include?
Each live wedding booking includes an initial consultation, over the phone or in-person, on-site charcoal portrait creation of the couple, with optional refinements added in my studio afterward to perfect fine details, framing, and the added bonus of live entertainment for you and your guests as your piece comes to life! Travel costs within Ontario vary based on location, with additional options available for extended travel upon request.
How can we inquire or book?
You can get in touch here through my Contact page, or reach out directly via email to [email protected] to request your free, no obligation information package. If you'd like to learn more or want to move ahead with booking, we'll schedule a date and time for a call to discuss the details of your day!
Still have some questions? Fill out the form on the Contact page and I'll get back to you!