About Elena
Hi, I’m Elena, an artist who loves turning moments into lasting memories.
I believe the most fleeting, beautiful moments deserve to be remembered as art.
I’ve loved drawing since childhood and even minored in animation, but after graduation, I pursued a traditional career at incredible tech companies, including Tesla, Adobe, and AWS. Last year, I made the difficult decision to quit my job and pursue my art full time, and I’ve never been happier!
I discovered live guest portraits and live painting while planning my own wedding in 2025. Picking up my pen again led to creating Elena Illustrated, where I now create timeless keepsakes for couples who want their celebration to feel as unforgettable as it is beautiful.
Whether it’s through live guest portraits, live paintings, or bespoke commissions, my goal is always the same: to make people feel seen, special, and celebrated.
My style blends modern elegance with a painterly touch. Each portrait is drawn freehand with ink in real time with no templates or stencils, capturing individuality with care.
I use professional-grade materials and a process honed for both speed and emotional impact. No two faces are ever the same because no two people are!
I’m based in the San Francisco Bay Area (San Jose), where I live with my husband. Outside of painting, you’ll find me traveling, playing harp or piano, exploring restaurants, or at home binge watching the latest TV show.
Clients often tell me I made their day extra special and that their guests are still talking about it long after their event. That means everything to me!
I cannot wait to bring your celebration to life
My Mission
My mission is to make people feel seen, celebrated, and cherished through heartfelt art that captures the magic of the moment.
Each piece I create is drawn freehand with care and intention without templates or shortcuts. Whether I’m illustrating a guest in real time or capturing a full wedding scene, I strive to honor the beauty of the moment and the people within it. I believe art should feel personal, elevated, and meaningful as a reflection of your story, not just a pretty picture. It's about both creating a special experience at your event and something you’ll treasure for years to come.
80+
Weddings & celebrations
6,500+
People & Animals painted
15+
Corporate Events &
Brand Activations
Where I’ve painted
Villa Montalvo
Asian Art Museum
Viansa Winery
PayPal Park
Moscone Center
Carmel Valley Ranch
The Walt Disney Family Museum
Casa Real at Ruby Hill Winery
Palm Event Center in the Vineyard
Blanco Urban Venue
Park Winters
Hayes Mansion San Jose
The Club at Ruby Hill
Silver Creek Valley Country Club
Regale Winery & Vineyards
Nella Terra Cellars
Elliston Vineyards
Main Parade Lawn at The Presidio
Garré Vineyard, Restaurant, & Event Center
Carmel Fields by Wedgewood Weddings
Stonetree Estate by Wedgewood Weddings
Hacienda de las Flores
Golden Gate Club at The Presidio
Saratoga Springs Events & Weddings
Monserate Winery
Mavericks House
White Swan Castle
Treehouse Hotel Silicon Valley
Harborview Restaurant & Bar
Aracely Cafe
This is a curated selection of venues where I have recently brought live art to. I have extensive experience at many other locations and look forward to celebrating with you wherever your event takes place!
Words from Our Clients
“Professional, responsive, and very detail-oriented. I finally feel like my social media represents my business in a polished and cohesive way.”
“She truly understands branding. Every post feels aligned, thoughtful, and on-point. I’ve received more engagement and inquiries since we started working together.”
Chaterine K., Lifestyle Brand Founder
Words from Our Client
Every Detail Was Handled With Care And Creativity
From the very first meeting, I could feel their dedication and passion for design. The team balanced functionality with aesthetic harmony in every element. The result is a home that feels perfectly curated yet inviting.
Natalie A. Wilson
Words from Our Client
"The Transformation Exceeded Everything I Imagined"
What was once a dull, empty room is now my favorite place to be. Their creativity and attention to light and proportion completely changed the atmosphere. It feels both inspiring and deeply comforting every day.
Claire M. Silverton