There are certain venues that immediately spark a painter’s imagination, and Willowdale Estate in Topsfield, Massachusetts is one of them. From the stone architecture to the lush gardens and signature green-trimmed windows and doors, every detail feels rich with color, history, and character—exactly the kind of setting I love to translate onto canvas.
Enjoy this Highlight Reel
A Quiet First Look Before the Day Began
Before guests arrived, Kaleigh and James shared their first look in the back courtyard. The space was calm and intimate, framed by florals and old stone walls. We took photos and videos during this time, and one pose in particular stayed with me—their relaxed closeness, their natural smiles, and the unmistakable happiness between them.
That moment became the inspiration for the painting.
Their expressions said everything. There was no need for anything posed or forced—just two people genuinely happy to be together.
Preparing the Painting Before the Ceremony
Before the ceremony began, I spent time sketching the scene, mapping out the architecture, composition, and placement of the courtyard. This quiet preparation is an important part of my process, allowing me to thoughtfully plan the painting before the day unfolds.
As guests arrived and filled the courtyard, the energy steadily built. You could feel the excitement and anticipation—laughter, greetings, and the sense that everyone truly wanted to be there. It already felt like one big family coming together.
Painting Begins During Cocktail Hour
It wasn’t until cocktail hour that I officially set up my easel and began painting. Cocktail hour took place inside Willowdale Estate’s beautiful mansion, filled with unique rooms, winding hallways, and fascinating details throughout. One of my favorite discoveries was a vintage photograph of the original owners, who were married on the grounds—a quiet and meaningful reminder of how many love stories this estate has witnessed over time.
Once the painting began, layers of color, movement, and atmosphere started to come together on the canvas, guided by everything I had observed earlier in the day.
Laughter, Celebration, and a Full Dance Floor
The reception was filled with joyful, energetic moments. The speeches were full of laughter and good-natured teasing, keeping the room light and fun. From the first dance to a packed dance floor later in the evening, the celebration felt effortless and full of life.
One of my favorite parts of the night was welcoming guests who stopped by the easel. Watching them follow the progress of the painting—and seeing their excitement as the scene took shape—is always such a meaningful part of live wedding painting.
The Finished Painting
The completed painting reflects everything that made Kaleigh and James’ day so special: the beauty of Willowdale Estate, the intimacy of their first look, and the joyful energy of a celebration shared with family and friends. It’s a piece meant to be lived with—an heirloom that holds not just the image of the day, but the feeling of it.
A Note from James
“Linda is the best! We hired her for our wedding in July 2025 and we could not be more impressed with our experience. Our guests loved her too. Our painting just arrived for the holidays and it came out perfectly. Linda is prompt, professional and talented!” – James
A Lasting Way to Remember a Wedding Day
It was truly a joy to be part of Kaleigh and James’ wedding day and to create a painting that will continue to tell their story for years to come. Live wedding painting is rooted in tradition—observing, sketching, and painting from life—then carefully refining the piece in the studio so it becomes something timeless.
If you’re planning a wedding at Willowdale Estate or another historic New England venue and are drawn to the idea of a one-of-a-kind, handcrafted wedding painting, I would love to connect.
For more information go to www.lindasmarinoart.com/live-painting
