a vibrant celebration: live watercolor guest portraits for a traditional mexican wedding at 173 carlyle house

Jan 24

The Setting: Historic Downtown Norcross: After Jackeline and Emilio said their vows in traditional Catholic ceremony at the Cathedral of Christ the King (an almost 100 year old gorgeous church in Atlanta!), guests made their way to one of my favorite hidden gems in charming Historic Downtown Norcross: 173 Carlyle House. This venue is the epitome of "Old World" nostalgia. Walking through the doors feels like stepping back in time, with ornate chandeliers, cozy fireplaces, and curated artwork that creates a sophisticated, grand atmosphere. As an Atlanta live event artist, I’m always inspired by venues that have such a deep sense of history and character, and are all just a short drive of my hometown!

The Atmosphere: Cocktails, Mariachis, and the First Dance Jackeline and Emilio made their day all about blending tradition and culture with a fun, vibrant energy. The cocktail hour was held in a stunning outdoor space covered by a crisp white tent on the venue’s side lawn. This is where I set up my watercolor station—right in the heart of the action.

While a full traditional Mariachi band filled the air with music, I had a front-row seat to the couple's entrance and first dance. (This location also allowed me to begin photographing guests early and start painting BEFORE the bride and groom arrived.) Seeing them surrounded by doting family and friends sipping cocktails while I captured the likeness of their guests was truly magical. The energy of a Latina family is unmatched—the laughter, the style, and the genuine excitement for the art made the evening fly by.

The Benefit of an Intimate Guest Count: One of the most frequent questions I get from brides is, "Can you paint everyone?" For Jackeline and Emilio’s wedding, the answer was a resounding yes! Because this was a more intimate gathering of about 70 guests, I was able to paint almost every person who requested a portrait. There is just no better feeling than that! (In my experience, about half or two-thirds of your guests will request a portrait; the others will just enjoy watching the process and chatting with me.)

The reception and party lasted late into the evening, allowing me to take my time with the details—capturing the bright colors and festive attire that made this Norcross wedding so visually stunning.

Why Live Art Fits a Traditional Celebration: Whether you are having a large gala or a smaller, intentional gathering like this one, live painting serves as both entertainment and a heartfelt thank-you gift. In a culture that prizes family and memory-making, these watercolor keepsakes are the perfect way to honor the people who traveled to be by your side.

As an added touch, I noticed that I painted the mother of the bride at the reception, but there was a second photo of her with her sister that I did not get to by the evening’s end. I made sure to paint that one after the event as a gift and ship it to the bride. I always try to capture the family member and honored guests of the happy couple!

Planning a Norcross or Gwinnett County Wedding? If you are looking for a unique wedding favor for your 2026 or 2027 celebration, I would love to bring my brushes to your venue. Whether your style is "Old World Historic" or "Modern Garden Tent," watercolor portraits add that "something special" your guests will never forget.

Check my availability for your date at 173 Carlyle House or across North Georgia by inquiring here!

One final note: Lana Marie Photography did such a fabulous job capturing the emotion and traditions of the day; There were too many beautiful photos to share, so I may have gone a bit overboard below.. I hope you enjoy!!