Valentina
The Wedding Painter
The beauty of
your love, painted live
at your wedding, for you to
have and to hold.
Based in Portland, Oregon
A gust of wind catches her train just right.
Wishful bubbles blow through.
Our bride and groom jump over a broom.
Dew sparkles on the flowers.
The band plays in celebration,
and the magnificent cake makes its appearance.
In a single painting, many moments come together, like poetry.
Gallery
Hello!
I’m Marina Valentina. After painting a few friends’ weddings, and finding the experience more fulfilling than I ever imagined, I knew I wanted to be part of many more. With a foundation in fine art and animation, I draw on decades of observation to infuse each piece with it's unique dynamic movement and narrative flair.
Painting, to me, is more than copying what’s visible; it’s translating that which is felt but not seen; weaving unseen energies together. Translating whispered glances into feathered strokes, quickening heartbeats to brighter colors. Through glimmers, reflections, and silken florals, the magic of the day ultimately reveals itself, bringing it all back to what matters most: your love.
”Our guests were so impressed that we had a live painting happening and they realy enjoyed watching the piece take shape before their eyes. It was a really lovely way to capture us all sharing the moment together.”
~ Kyle Huth
~testimonials~
”I loved how Valentina was totally organized and self-contained, having her mobile set-up made it easy to integrate with our wedding layout. Also, I noticed how many of our guests (and some of the shyer ones) were curious and drawn to chat with her and admire her work. Her station became a pleasant and welcoming focal point for guests to engage.
The finished piece is more beautiful than I could have imagined, dynamically capturing the pinnacle of our Vows with incredible detail.”
~ Rebecca Smith
"Working with Valentina was a dream. We couldn't believe how perfectly she captured our wedding in a single painting. Our theme was whimsical-magical, and she absolutely nailed it! Now we have a forever cherished, one of a kind, work of art that commemorates our love and wedding day. We feel lucky beyond words! Thank you Marina!"
~ Lia Spathas
A love beyond words.
How the day unfolds
Setup & First Strokes
A couple of hours before guests arrive, I’ll quietly set up my easel behind the ceremony seating. As guests trickle in, they’re often intrigued to see a painter, applying the first brushstrokes on the canvas.
Ceremony & Gathering
During the ceremony, I may photograph fleeting moments to reference later in the painting. If the celebration moves to a separate dining or dance area, I follow—this is when the painting begins to come together. Guests wander over to peek, ask questions, and share their impressions. Those moments of connection are some of my favorites.
Twilight Finish & Studio Time
As the sun dips low, I pause and leave the work illuminated on its easel for everyone to enjoy. After the festivities have come to an end, I bring the piece back to my studio, where I spend the next couple of weeks refining forms and details until it is as beautiful as the emotion and spirit of your day.
One price, allowing each painting to inform it's own true completion.