What services do live event fashion illustrators offer?

Blog by London Artist & Fashion Illustrator Elyse Blackshaw

A Little About What I Do

I get asked all the time what my job actually is, and honestly, it changes all the time (in the best way). I'm a fashion illustrator and live event artist based in London, and my work sits somewhere between art, fashion, events, and branding. It's playful, pink, fun, and always made to make people smile.

Elyse Blackshaw illustrating live at The Shard, London

Whether I’m sketching portraits at an event, painting drink cans by hand, or designing illustrated place mats for a table decor, I’m usually doing something that brings a bit of colour and character into the room.

So here’s a little breakdown of the kinds of things I do...and how we could work together!

Live Portraits at Events

This is probably what I do most often, and one of my favourite parts of the job. I create quick, hand-drawn fashion-style portraits of guests at events—whether that’s a store launch, press dinner, wedding or private party.

It’s not just about the drawing...there’s a real buzz to it! People love watching the process, and they get to leave with something completely personal to them. It’s a great way to bring some creative energy to an event, and a keepsake for your guests. Know who is coming already? I can also create pre-drawn portraits for your guests in advance. Contact me to find out more.

Illustrating live for Querido & pre-drawn portraits New Balance x Office staycation

Personalised Product Illustration

I also paint directly onto products! Everything from drinks cans to perfume bottles, candles, mirrors, notebooks, you name it. These can be done live at events or created in-studio in advance.

It’s a really fun way to personalise PR mailers, elevate a launch moment, or offer something unique at an in-store experience. I can create everything from custom gifts to branded event pieces.

Illustrated Tableware & Event Details

One of the most underrated ways to bring personality to an event: illustrated tableware. I can design custom place mats, menus, name cards, coasters... you get the idea. I love drawing so any surface or product is a new challenge I am willing to embrace!

It might sound simple, but a beautifully designed table can totally change the mood of an event. I love working with event planners or brands to create designs that feel playful and personal, and tie everything together visually.

Graphic Hoardings & Illustrated Displays

From fashion week pop-ups to storefront hoardings, I create large-scale illustrations that bring a sense of fun and vibrancy to a space. Whether it’s for a brand activation or a longer-term installation, I love creating work that turns heads...and gets photographed! I can work digitally or hand paint the artwork.

Seasonal Cards & Illustrated Gifting

Around the seasonal holidays (and honestly, all year round), I work with marketing and event teams to design illustrated cards, packaging and gift elements. These can be part of PR boxes, customer gifting, or limited edition campaigns.

Everything I do in this area is designed to feel personal, playful and on-brand... basically not just a generic “Happy Christmas” card.