Caricature Artist Near Me
"It was perfect! Everyone is Still Talking About it!"
- Celeste Hayes, Daphne, AL
✨ Flattering. Fast. Unforgettable. ✨
Live Entertainment
Your Guests will Rave About
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The Gulf Coast's Premier
Trusted by Brides, Planners and Fortune 500 Companies
Across the Gulf Coast and Nationwide
Why Events Fall Flat
(and How My Caricatures Fix It)
Too many weddings, parties, and corporate events follow the same recipe: A DJ, a photo booth, food, decorations, and favors. On paper, it looks fine.
But in reality, hosts and guests hit the same problems:
-
Bored Guests Scrolling on their Phones
-
Awkward silences
-
People make polite excuses and leave early
*Yawn*
But give your guests something They're genuinely excited about
...and that changes everything.
Before Kathy's Live Caricatures
After Kathy's Live Caricatures
What Makes My Live Caricatures Different
I hear it again and again from clients: “Everyone is so excited you’re coming!” There’s something about having your caricature drawn that brings out that little-kid feeling in people—even the grown-ups.
But it isn’t only the idea of caricatures that creates the excitement. With 27 years of experience, I know how to make guests feel comfortable, keep the energy going and turn each drawing into entertainment for everyone watching.
Smiles like this are why I love being a live caricature artist.
Soon, the room becomes an interactive gallery as guests compare their caricatures, laugh together and connect with people they might not otherwise have spoken to.
My caricatures aren’t just funny drawings. They’re premium live entertainment that makes weddings, corporate events and parties unforgettable. If you’ve been searching for a caricature artist near me who offers something more polished, personal and engaging, this is the difference you’ve been looking for.
The Caricature Artist Near Me
Meet Kathy
Guests Get Excited About
Hi! My name is Kathy Buskett, and I'm a wife and mom,
probably a lot like your own mom. I'm also a professional caricature artist near me
In the 27 years that I've been a live caricature artist,
I’ve drawn more than half a million people at weddings, parties, and corporate events across the country — including a decade in Las Vegas working for Fortune 500 brands like Samsung, AT&T, and Cirque du Soleil.
Today I’m based on the Gulf Coast, serving Baldwin County Alabama, Mobile, Pensacola, Destin, Biloxi, Jackson, New Orleans, Baton Rouge and beyond (yes I travel!) I specialize in creating flattering, fast, unforgettable live art that doubles as entertainment and favors.
Caricatures, for me, are more than entertainment — they’re a reminder of love and laughter, a way to bring joy to this crazy world we are all walking through, a way to bring people together, and to make a difference.
I get to put smiles on folks' faces for a living - literally! I'm grateful to God for giving me this great gift. The gift of bringing others JOY. I couldn't ask for more than that .
“For me, art has always been more than drawing — it’s a ministry. I really love people. I help them as I draw them, and I find common ground with whoever sits in my chair. That’s why I do what I do.”
— Kathy Buskett 🎨 ✍️
A Baby Hugs her caricature at a 70th Birthday party at a country club in Citronelle, AL
This review still makes me cry. I'm so grateful for a job that I get to do that allows me to bring people this much joy.
What Sets Caricatures By Kathy Apart
Why Clients Trust Me With Their Most Important Events
Not every live caricature artist offers the same experience. After 27 years as a professional caricature artist, including 10 years working in Las Vegas, I’ve learned there’s a lot more to this job than simply being able to draw.
Every event is different, so I tailor my art to fit the feel of your celebration. You might choose lighthearted black-and-white sketches to keep the energy moving, elegant full-color portrait-style caricatures as premium keepsakes, themed caricatures with bodies to match your event, or modern digital caricatures.
Whatever style you choose, it’s more than a funny drawing. It’s live entertainment your guests can enjoy together and a personalized keepsake they’ll treasure for years.
When you’re choosing an artist for your event, four things make an enormous difference in the experience your guests have: flattering style, speed, professionalism and fun.
Flattering Art Style
If you’ve seen extreme-exaggeration caricatures on social media, you might hesitate to hire a caricature artist. After all, you and your guests want to look better—not worse.
People often sit down and ask, “You’re not going to mess me up, are you?” I tell them, “Not unless you ask me to!” It gets a laugh and immediately puts them at ease.
My flattering, feel-good style is closer to a cartoon portrait: about 90% likeness and 10% exaggeration. I soften unflattering details, emphasize each person’s best features and adjust the exaggeration to suit the guest.
The result is a fun caricature that still looks like them, one they’re delighted with and proud to show off. That’s exactly what you want for a wedding, party or corporate event.
A Nurse gets a Caricature at a convention
at the Marriott Riverside
In New Orelans, LA
Speed matters when you’re choosing a live caricature artist. The faster your artist can draw, the more guests receive caricatures—and the less time they spend waiting in line.
I placed fourth in a world speed-caricature competition and can draw approximately 20–30 faces per hour, depending on the style. Most guests take only two to three minutes.
Incredible SpeedMe
That incredible speed comes from 27 years of experience, not from rushing the drawings or sacrificing likeness. Your guests still receive fast, flattering caricatures they’ll be excited to take home.
The result is shorter lines, more smiling faces and live entertainment that keeps your event moving and your guests happy.
I Draw 20-30 people per hour, which is twice the industry average!
Filmed at the Beach Club Resort and Spa in Fort Morgan, Alabama - Where I've been a part of their summer entertainment lineup for three years. Guests love the live caricatures, and with family entertainment every night in the summer, it's a must-visit Gulf Coast destination.
A Professional Caricature Artist near me
Hiring an entertainer shouldn’t give you one more person to manage. You should be able to enjoy your event knowing your guests are in experienced, dependable hands.
That peace of mind comes from hiring a professional caricature artist with 27 years of experience, including a decade drawing live caricatures in Las Vegas.
Major brands such as Samsung, Coca-Cola, AT&T, Hyundai, Verizon and Cirque du Soleil have trusted me with their events, along with more than 100 brides and clients who have left over 100 five-star reviews.
Your wedding, party, corporate event or special occasion deserves an entertainer who arrives early, communicates clearly and provides a fun, clean experience for every guest.
I’ve never missed an event, and my money-back guarantee protects your investment.
You won’t have to babysit your entertainer. You can relax, enjoy your event and trust that your guests are in good hands.
That’s me drawing live digital caricatures for Samsung in 2012. My husband, Buddy, and I managed the team for what became the largest digital caricature event in the world. It was so successful that Samsung took the concept on a world tour.
Read the CNET article: Samsung Galaxy Note cartoonist—The stylus is mightier than the pen
A Fun, Interactive Experience
Your guests deserve more than someone quietly drawing pictures from photos in a corner.
They deserve to be part of a unique and fun live caricature experience!
Many people have never gotten a caricature, so they’re understandably a little nervous.
The first thing I do is put them at ease by introducing myself and shaking hands—or doing a fist bump. Then I give them a few quick instructions.
Part of that includes letting them know they can relax and have FUN without sitting perfectly still or holding a smile the whole time. They can talk to me, ask questions and laugh along while I draw.
If they’re lucky, I’ll tell them a story! My favorites include the time I drew a real-life mobster, how I got married by “Elvis” by mistake, and when I met Michael Jackson in Las Vegas. Spoiler: he was an impersonator!
At the end, guests often remark, “That was fun!” Then they hang their caricature and remember their fun, unique experience at YOUR event for years to come.
Kathy Buskett is one the most Flattering, Fast & Professional
Caricature Artists Near me
Event For Joe Bullard Automotive
Mobile, AL Fort Conde Inn
Put Smiles on Your Guests’ Faces — Literally
Gulf Shores, AL
Columbia Southern University
Graduation Party
Picture this:
You're at an event.
There’s a crowd gathered around an artist’s chair laughing, pointing at drawings, showing them to each other.
Part of you wants one.
Part of you is nervous.
So you stand there for a minute watching.
The people in front of you seem to be having a blast. The drawings are actually flattering. Cute. Not mean.
So finally, you get in line.
A few minutes later it’s your turn.
You sit down a little awkwardly, not quite sure what to do.
Then the artist smiles, reaches out her hand, and says:
“Hi, I’m Kathy. It’s nice to meet you.”
Suddenly it doesn’t feel so intimidating anymore.
She tells you:
“Just look right at me. You can talk, laugh, sip your drink… just have fun.”
And while she’s drawing, she chats with you like an old friend.
A couple of minutes later she says:
“Okay… ready to see it?”
“Wait — already?”
She laughs and says she hears that a lot.
Then she flips the drawing around.
And somehow, in just a few minutes, she’s turned a blank piece of paper into something joyful and completely YOU.
You laugh.
“Okay… I LOVE this.”
And suddenly you’re carrying it around the room showing everyone you know (and maybe even some people you don't ).
Create an Atmosphere of
Joy & Laughter At your Events
Perfect for:
Weddings
Corporate Events
Themed Events
Birthday Parties
Family Reunions
Trade Shows
Quinceaneras
Baby Showers
Bridal Showers
Bar & Bat Mitzvahs
Resort Events
Employee Appreciation Events
Retirement Parties
... And Much More!
The BEST Icebreaker Around!
Ladies Night Out
Daphne, AL
Belforest Point Venue
Caricature Artist Near Me
Fall 2025
Destination Wedding
Tybee Island Chapel
Tybee Island, GA
Caricature Artist Near Me
Spring 2025
Company Picnic
Electricians Union
Mobile, AL
Fall 2025
Cookie-Cutter Events →
Unique Experiences
Brandi, a mother of the bride, booked me as a surprise wedding gift for her daughter Maelyn. All of Maelyn’s friends were getting married that year, and Brandi said she wanted something different and special for Maelyn's wedding.
So when Brandi saw me at another wedding and she saw how caricatures changed the whole atmosphere of the reception, she knew she wanted me at her daughter's reception.
Guests were laughing, interacting, and getting to experience a once in a lifetime activity - with a built in personalized favor that would hang in homes for years, sometimes decades.
So Brandi called me up and she hired me. Maelyn's wedding was not only beautiful, it was also FUN.
At the end of the night, Brandi told me this was exactly why she’d hired me — because caricatures turned her daughter’s reception into something truly unforgettable.
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Maelyn & Tyler’s wedding at The Berry Barn in Amite, Louisiana
No-Shows? No Way.
Every host’s nightmare is having no one show up.
So, when Jamie organized a nonprofit pet event in Gulf Shores, she promoted caricatures ahead of time, and spots sold out immediately. Why?
Because caricatures are a bucket-list experience. Guests RSVP early because they don’t want to miss their chance.
That’s the power of caricatures: they get people (and dogs) to show up on time, stay engaged, and leave with a keepsake they’ll never forget.
Pet Event in Oragne Beach, AL
Yes I draw Pets! All kinds.
I have drawn hamsters, bunnies. lizards, parrots, parakeets, turtles, giraffes, lions, pandas, koalas, and sloths. And of course dogs and cats .Those are just ones I can recall!
Low Foot Traffic to
Business Booming
Imagine spending hours picking out swag, hauling it across the country, and setting up a beautiful booth, only to watch people walk right by without even stopping. It’s heartbreaking - but it happens all the time.
Caricatures change that. They draw a crowd - literally!
Every guest leaves with a keepsake branded with your logo — something they’ll keep and remember for years.
With digital caricatures, you can even collect emails instantly, with zero waste. Even your competitors will want a speed sketch!
And Guests often keep their caricatures right in their homes - with your branding on them - for years.
How's that for ROI?
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The bride and groom dreamed of having their daughters in their caricature favor. When time ran short, I finished from photos — a surprise gift to make their wedding keepsake complete.”
From Left on the Table →
To Framed on the Wall
I know the sting of favors left behind firsthand.
At my own wedding 25 years ago, I hand-folded hundreds of origami roses — painted, stemmed, and wrapped in floral tape. They were beautiful, personal, and they took forever.
But at the end of the night, I looked out over the tables and saw two-thirds of them still sitting there.
I was crushed.
That’s the problem with most favors: guests don’t really want them. But caricatures? They’re different. They’re a bucket list experience most people have always wanted but never had the chance to try. Guests take them home, frame them, hang them on their walls, and keep them for years.
From Stressed to Blessed
Planning an event can feel like juggling a hundred details at once. Favors, entertainment, keeping everyone happy — it’s enough to wear any host out.
But when caricatures are part of the plan, that takes some of the weight off your shoulders.
You can cross two things off your list when you hire me as your caricature artist near me
to draw sketches at your event - Entertainment AND Guest Favors.
Take Celeste, for example. At her son’s animal-themed birthday party, I drew every child with their favorite exotic animal — even a kinkajou! The kids were thrilled, and the parents loved that the caricatures doubled as unique, flattering party favors.
When one child lost his drawing, I simply redrew it later and delivered it for free. What could have been a stressful moment turned into proof that caricatures really do take the pressure off.
Celeste still calls it the “BEST way to upgrade your parties!!” And That’s the relief I bring to every host — weddings, birthdays, corporate galas, or fundraisers -- and the difference in hiring a True Professional.
Rock-Solid Reliability
What Fellow Event Professionals
Say About Me
After nearly three decades working at weddings, corporate events and for other special occasions, I’ve learned that reliability matters just as much as talent.
When you hire entertainment for an important event,
you want someone who shows up prepared, treats your guests with respect, and helps everything run smoothly.
That’s the standard I hold myself to.
In over 27 years as a professional caricature artist, I’ve never missed an event. I’ve drawn live caricatures through illness, bad weather, family emergencies, and even the day before giving birth to my first daughter. Why?
Because once you trust me with your event, I take that responsibility seriously.
Jenni Tarrant is a highly respected balloon artist and one of my closest friends in the industry. We’ve worked many events together over the years, and she’s seen firsthand how I interact with guests and bring the drawings to life.
My process reflects that commitment. Before any retainer is collected, we both sign a simple booking agreement that protects both of us.
If I were ever to miss an event (which has never happened), your money would be refunded. If you need to move your date, your retainer can be applied to another date, pending my availability. Situations like that are rare, but I believe having clear, fair terms gives everyone peace of mind.
The result is simple: your guests have fun, they leave with something memorable, and you get to relax knowing everything is in good hands.
Trusted by Leading Companies and Organizations
Member Since 2005
As Seen at These High-Profile Events:
World Of Concrete Convention
Hyundai Booth
LV Convention Center
Kathy Buskett is one the most Flattering, Fast & Professional
Caricature Artists Near me
The Largest Digital Caricature Event in the World
CES Convention
Samsung Booth
LVCC
Coca Cola Convention
LV Speedway
Read My Interview with CNET HERE
Recent Celebrity Caricature Highlights
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Miss Mississippi
Biloxi, MS
The Beau Rivage Casino
Corporate Event
The Farm Workers' Bureau
Caricature Artist Near Me
Private Party for
Brandon Styles
Foley, AL
Caricature Artist Near Me
Jamaal Roberts
Art Commission
Presented to Jamal Roberts, American Idol
by the City Of Atmore
and of course... THE KING
LEGENDS Event
Belforest Point, Daphne AL
Caricature Artist Near Me
Okay, that last one was a joke —
But in all seriousness, I’ve drawn plenty of high-profile clients whose names I can’t share due to privacy.
If that’s you, rest assured: I’m happy to include a confidentiality clause in your contract upon request.
You’ll be treated like every other guest I draw — not as a commodity, but as a human being.
And if that’s what you’re looking for… you’ve found it.
What All of This Means Is,
You Can TRUST ME with your Events
If I can work for some of the Top Tier Brands in the world, I can help you too!
Please browse through my site and
Check out the pictures of my caricatures drawn live at various events. You can find my Portfolio HERE
Real Events. Real Clients. Real Reactions.
“Not only is she an artist, but a fun personality as well. What a success — she made the evening so much fun!”
— Reva Hammond,
Private Party Host,
Foley, AL
Winter 2023 and Spring 2025
“Kathy was amazing to work with from start to finish. Her communication throughout the whole process was great, and she made booking super easy. Once at our event, Kathy did a really great job engaging with all of our attendees, and everyone loved their caricatures. I would 100% book with Kathy again.”
- Aneesah Abdallah
Corporate Event for
Future Digital Finance Corp
Mardi Gras Themed Welcome Event
New Orleans, LA
Hitlon Riverside
“ She is fast, talented, and super friendly. Highly highly highly recommend.”
Sarah Parker Smith,
Pensacola Beach, FL
Blue Angels Party
2023, 2025
"We wanted to give our guests something they'd take home to cherish. Absolutely the best decision, and touched by how many people loved it and how it went beyond just a part of the entertainment. I can't recommend Caricatures by Kathy enough!"
Deja, Bride Jackson, MS The Plant Venue, Bridgerton Themed Wedding, Winter 2024
SOME CELEBRITY "QUOTES"
"Haters Gonna Hate."
- Taylor Swift Caricature
"With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility."
- Peter Parker, AKA Spiderman Drawing
"He's Dead, Jim."
- Spock Caricature
...And if that didn't make you smile,
you definitely need more fun at your next event!
How It Works: Hiring Me as
Your Caricature Artist near me
What to Expect
Expect the Unexpected...
In a good way. This is the Dean of the University of West Florida who hired me to draw caricautres at their holiday luau party. Unexpected - and FUN!
Before Your Event
During Your Event
After Your Event
It all starts with a custom quote. I’ll ask a few quick questions about your date, location, guest count, and goals. We’ll follow up with a quick chat to make sure we're a good fit for each other.
Once you’re ready, I’ll send a simple contract and reserve your date with a 50% retainer. (Need a payment plan? I’m happy to discuss options.)
I arrive early, set up fast, and work without needing oversight.
I bring everything I need, with the exception of 3 chairs.
I work quickly and keep the energy high and guests smiling all night long.
Your guests leave with a one-of-a-kind keepsake —
Many of my reviews say that the guests were talking about the caricatures for long after the event!
I also provide photos of your event upon request, so you can relive the fun later. (This is not somehting everyone offers)
And Then You're All Set!
I will stay in contact over thedays, weeks and months leading up to your event.
Please Note: Dates are held only with a signed contract and retainer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
One FAQ answered: Do I draw pets? YES! I drew pet caricatures from photos at the Orpheum in New Orleans this summer (2026) click to zoom, these were mighty tiny (It's what the client wanted -
I aim to please)
How long do your caricatures take?
Usually about 2-3 minutes per person, and I talk to you while I do it, so it flies by pretty fast. Guests are always surprised by my speed.
How many people can you draw per hour?
20–30 guests per hour in black & white. Color or cartoon bodies take a bit longer.
Do you do weddings, corporate events, and parties?
Yes! I work at all types of events — from elegant weddings to trade shows to backyard birthday parties.
Can you draw couples or groups together?
Absolutely — I can draw up to 6 people comfortably on one page, and it’s a favorite for families or friends. If you let me know ahead of time, I can procure larger paper and draw larger groups.
How large is your paper?
I draw on XL paper - 12X18 - twice the size of most caricature artists near me
So that I can fit more people per page
It also puts on more of a SHOW - guests enjoy watching while which keeps them happy and entertained while they wait.
Do you draw themes? Yes! I LOVE drawing themed events! Guests can choose any cartoon body they like. I can also bring “body boards” with popular options to help them decide. See my themed event page HERE and my wedding themes page HERE
Why are some of your drawings color and some black and white?
Clients choose which they prefer. Color does take more time. But when I have a smaller group, I can often add color. There's no additional fee for color or for bodies, and
the guest(s) of honor always recieve color and bodies if they want them.
Do Guests Pay?
No, never. You pay me a flat hourly fee. Contact me, and I will give you a quote.
Do you offer digital caricatures?
Yes — drawn live on a tablet, displayed on a monitor or large screen as I draw,
and instantly shareable by text, email, or QR code.
What areas do you serve?
I’m based on the Gulf Coast and draw at weddings, corporate events, and private parties in Mobile, Fairhope, Daphne, Spanish Fort, Gulf Shores, Baldwin County, Mobile County, and Escambia County, Pensacola, Destin, Biloxi, Hattiesburg, Jackson, Birmingham, New Orleans, Baton Rouge and I travel nationwide for larger events such as wedding weekends and large conferences, trade shows and other corporate events.
What do I need to provide?
Just 3 chairs — I bring my own portable easel and don’t need a table unless you’d like to provide a side table for guests. Backdrops are optional enhancements.
How does Booking work?
See this section HERE
Is this your full-time job?
Yes — I’m a full-time caricature artist, which means I’m fully dedicated to my craft and my clients. It also means I practice constantly, and I really do have this down pat. Which is absolutely what you need for live entertainment.
Referrals are always appreciated.
Do you create other kinds of art?
I have an AA in Fine Art, and I can draw or paint pretty much anything. I’m always open to interesting creative projects involving art, teaching, team building, or public speaking.
Fun fact: I was once a CEO, but I gave it up to move from Las Vegas to the Gulf Coast so I could raise my children near their grandparents. I’m also a music minister and a published author and storyteller.
If you're lucky I might tell you a story. Like about the time I drew a real-life godfather in new jersey at a 4-H fair. Or the time I got married by Elvis - by mistake!
And if you're REALLY lucky you might even hear me do one of my SpongeBob or Patrick impersonations. I'M READY!
If you’ve been searching for a caricature artist near me, chances are I can help —
and I do travel worldwide for larger events.
📌 For a full list of questions and details, visit my FAQ page.
Still have questions?
Check out my Full FAQ Page for more answers — or just ask me! I promise I don’t bite (unless you touch my markers). Tell me about your event below, and I’ll help you plan caricature entertainment your guests will rave about.
Let’s get to the drawing board!—
Fill out the form below and I’ll be in touch within 1 business day.
How Much Do Caricatures Cost?
My Caricature Entertainment
is the
Same Price or less than
a Photo Booth
and Much More Fun!
At theme parks, a single caricature can cost $85–$100 per person, and the lines are so long many people don’t get one.
I draw 2–3 times faster than the average artist, so far more of your guests are included—making my flattering and fun caricatures one of the best values you can bring to your event.
Caricature Prices Vary Based on the following:
-Type of event
- Number of Hours
-Number of Guests
-Location
The starting rate for parties is $199 per hour.
For Corporate Events the starting rate is $299 per hour.
Weddings are different because I reserve the entire day for your wedding. Most weddings I charge $1497 for 4 hours.
Contact me to get a personalized quote
Travel is additional
I do offer payment plans
at no additional charge
Most folks book early to secure their date and spread out payments - Weekend dates do fill up quickly
I take pictures of every single guest (unless they opt out, which is rare)
and send them to you afterwards.
This service is included in every package!
This way you can enjoy your party and still not miss the fun!
My Guarantee to You
A Professional Caricature Artist Near Me
You Can Trust
I believe in treating every client fairly — and part of that is protecting you with a clear, written contract.
If I don’t show up for any reason (which has never happened — not even the day before I gave birth!), you’ll receive a 100% refund.
No other caricature artist in the Gulf Coast offers this kind of guarantee. (Actually, I don't know of ANY that offer this guarantee.)
And if something happens on your end (God forbid), your retainer is never lost. Instead, you can apply it to another date or event of your choice (as long as I'm available)
Your investment is always protected.
I never accept a retainer until the contract is signed by both of us. That way, everything is in writing — what I provide, when I’ll be there, and what happens if life throws a curveball. No surprises. No risk. Just peace of mind.
Your Guests Will LOVE It
Watch this bride and groom's reaction
When they see their surprise Caricature
The perfect touch for their Disney Fairytale Wedding.
You’ll hear it over and over: “That was so much fun!”
Your guests will leave with beautiful keepsakes, big smiles, and lasting memories — and you will be remembered as the host who gave them an experience they’ll talk about for decades.
“Caricatures by Kathy was the LIFE of our party!!! “
Elizabeth Burkett,
Ocean Springs, MS
The Chimneys Restaurant
Graduation Party
Dates Book Up Early - Let's Make Yours
One to Remember!
People don't always realize how booked my calendar is.
There are very few people who do what I do. According to one booking site, there are fewer than 1000 full-time caricature artists worldwide.
I really hate having to tell folks I'm booked because they waited too long. If you want this, if you have to have it for your next event, BOOK EARLY
If you want Me to come to your party or special event, Put Smiles on Everyone's Faces (literally), and send everyone home with flattering custom artwork that will remind them of your party for years to come,
CONTACT ME now.
My calendar books up fast!
Styles and Pricing