Charles Burns – Silhouettist
Charles is a well-known silhouettist: a wedding artist who cuts portraits of your guests
Wedding Artist
Wedding Entertainer
Quick and Accurate Silhouette Portraits
Nearly 30 Years Experience
Come Home With Unique Mementos of Your Big Day
Has attended many royal events
Business details last verified on 4th of January 2026 by the Guides for Brides team.
Prices
Typical Price: £1,800
Price Range: £1,200 - £2,400
About Charles Burns – Silhouettist
Charles will move around the room cutting interactive portraits of your wedding guests freehand with a pair of scissors. Each silhouette takes about 2 minutes to make and is mounted on a souvenir card printed with your names and wedding date. After the event, you'll receive a set of prints featuring all the silhouettes as a unique artistic memento of the day. You can can book Charles Burns himself or (for those on a budget) one of a small, hand-picked team of silhouettist who work with him.
After leaving art college Charles began his career as a street artist in Covent Garden, London, drawing portraits for tourists. During this inauspicious beginning he taught himself to cut silhouettes because "nobody else seemed to be doing it".
Today he is a well-known figure, making appearances at some of London's most elegant high-society events and attending weddings all over their UK and overseas. He three times cut the portrait of the late Queen Elizabeth, as well as silhouettes of both current monarchs.
Guests are amazed at the speed and accuracy of his portraits and will leave will a unique memento of your big day.
Special Guides for Brides Offers
Discounts often available for midweek bookings
Instructions
Please ask
Terms and conditions
Subject to availability
Contact & Location
Charles Burns – Silhouettist
May Barn Studio, Emmer Green, RG4 8UA, Berkshire, United Kingdom
FAQs
Really anywhere. I've attended events in Singapore, Dubai and the USA. I work regularly all over the UK.
I usually attend for around 3 hours. My favourite time to work is during the drinks reception and wedding breakfast. I'm happy to split the time if needed.
I'm happy to work next week, if I'm available. That said, some clients book me more than a year ahead, so it's really hard to predict availability until you ask. If I'm not available myself, I might be able to arrange another artist to work instead. I never publish availability online.
Yes you can. The best way to do this is to set up a video call with me (which is a good idea anyway). I can cut your silhouettes live over the video link, as we chat about the wedding, and pop them in the post for you afterwards. This will give you a really good sense of how I work, the speed at which I cut, and how accurate the portraits can be.
From £1200. However, most couples book my "wedding package". It costs a bit more but includes lots of extras you'll like.
Our Sustainability Commitments
Silhouettes are cut from paper and card. We take care to source these from environmentally-conscious suppliers.
Why Couples Recommend Charles Burns – Silhouettist
Couples and their families consistently describe this silhouettist as a highlight of their wedding day, offering a unique and magical form of entertainment that provides a real "wow factor". Guests are frequently amazed by his rare talent, with many having never seen a silhouette artist at work before, making it a brilliant conversation starter. His work provides a special and personal memento for everyone to take home, with many guests and family members framing their portraits afterwards. Several couples have even incorporated their own silhouette into their wedding stationery, from 'save the date' cards to wedding favours. Beyond his incredible skill, the artist is repeatedly praised for his warm, friendly, and engaging personality. He is seen as both a professional entertainer and a delightful guest, who fascinates attendees and works hard to ensure everyone receives a keepsake. This service is highly recommended for those seeking a truly memorable, unique, and classy addition to their special day.
Customer Reviews
21 reviews
Customer Service Shortlist 2026
Customer Service Finalist 2024
Federation of small businesses
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