Stack of sketchbooks on a wooden desk with a jar containing paintbrushes in the background.

Why Would Anyone Care?

Selling custom watercolor portraits is an idea I've had for a long time, and have tried to launch before, but the season just wasn't right. Now fully relaunched, I aim to serve people looking for custom, heartfelt gifts. No AI, and no digital products. 

I believe art has a way of helping us slow down in a world that never seems to rest - even though it desperately wants to. By offering custom portraits drawn and painted from your personal reference photos, I'm able to thoughtfully and intentionally capture moments in time, so you're able to slow down and reflect on the joyous moments God has given you through the years every time you glance at your painting. 

  • A Faith-Based Business

    As a Protestant Christian, I pray that, Lord willing, I run my business like one. I believe the Bible is the infallible true Word of God, and that Jesus loves us.

    This means that I reserve the right to refuse service to anyone requesting that I paint anything which goes against God's Word. Should I feel that this is what you're asking me to do, I'd love to reach out with revision suggestions, but understand that sometimes this is just not what you as a customer will want. I will of course offer you a full and swift refund should a situation like this arise, and hope to use respectful communication throughout the order cancellation process. 

  • Zero Use of AI in Artwork

    Unfortunately, many watercolor portrait services on the internet do not actually paint. They simply feed your photo through AI tools to change it to look like watercolor and print it on paper.

    AI-generated art defeats one of the purposes of at all - the fact that it is created by human hands and imagination. Often, the making of the art is just as important as the end product. That's why I never use AI to create artwork. For someone who wants a truly personalized gift, you need a person to make it. And that's the difference.

  • Personal Order Process

    As a small business, I have the privilage of working closely with clients rather than offering an impersonal shopping experience. You're able to email me all your questions and suggestions rather than just emailing me a photo(s) blind and hoping it turns out the way you want it. I email process photos throughout the entire painting process so you can ask for revisions nearly every step of the way, and am able to keep in touch with you as often as you need.

“I’m Lydia Lake, and I serve people who are looking for a way to preserve their memories in a real, tangible way through custom portraits”

Your big milestones (proposal, wedding, sweet sixteen, graduation, etc) and little moments (that selfie by the lake, build-your-own-pizza night, your kids holding hands) are what I do. Just for you.

Although young, I have done an art program at the Savannah College of Art and Design, and have gone abroad to study the art and history of Italy with Hillsdale College. Currently, I live in GA's Golden Isles, running my online shop and living life as a full-time student.

Painting is something I love to do, and I believe I should share it. 

  • Step 1

    Explore the shop and pick the custom watercolor portrait you need. 

  • Step 2

    Send me your reference photos, and I’ll start painting. Then, with your approval, I’ll mail your finished portrait!  

  • Step 3

    You’ll have a finished painting of one of your favorite moments – just for you. 

A Little About Me

1. I lived in an RV for 6 months traveling across the country

2. 2D animation is my secret passion

3. I'm a pitiful-but-earnest violin student

4. I've read Little Women 5 times

5. Procrastination is my best super power

I Can't Wait to Meet You

I strive to serve my clients well, and I have a keep-repainting-until-you're-satisfied policy, so you can be confident you'll get what you ask for, every time. I'm here to serve, and want my customers to not only enjoy the end product, but also the process.

The amazing thing about custom watercolor portraits is that I have the privilege of hearing and painting your stories. I sincerely want to work with you, and I'm so excited to get started :).

See You Soon, Friend

Let's create something wonderful together - just for you.