Every artist has a starting point, a moment, a place, or a person that sets their creative spark on fire. For me, that place was right here in Milwaukee.

Cayla at graduation standing beside her Elvis Presley painting — one of her first big art pieces.

High School: Where the Spark Began

I’ve always been drawn to art. In high school, I took every art class I could fit into my schedule. I was lucky to have teachers who didn’t just teach technique they encouraged creativity. They taught me the basics, helped me build a strong foundation, and reminded me that art could be more than a hobby. It could be a way of life.

Cayla celebrating graduation at UWM, marking a new chapter in her creative journey.

College: Exploring, Evolving, and Finding My Style

When I came to UWM, I actually stepped a little away from art. But I couldn’t stay away for long. I took a figure drawing class that completely changed how I saw people and movement. It taught me how to draw fast, capture emotion, and see the beauty in real, imperfect moments. That class was the bridge that connected my early passion for art with what I do today.

Cayla meeting David Uhl, a professional living artist, who continues to inspire her.

A Turning Point: Painting Through Grief

In 2020, I lost my dad and that year changed everything. He was always the one behind the camera, capturing everyone else’s memories, so finding photos of him for the funeral was really hard. I decided to paint a memorial portrait of him — not because I planned to, but because it felt like the only way I could process the loss. That painting reminded me how powerful art can be. It was healing. It was connection. And it was the moment I realized I wanted to dedicate my life to creating things that truly mean something.

The memorial portrait of my dad in his happy place, up north, fishing.

Inspiration Strikes: Discovering Live Wedding Painting

Around that same time, I came across @watchmaggiepaint on social media. Watching her paint live at weddings felt like magic capturing the emotion, the energy, and the love of a moment in real time. I was instantly inspired. I knew that was something I wanted to bring to life in Milwaukee.

Cayla holding one of her live wedding paintings, surrounded by her earlier work.

The Leap: My First Wedding Show

In 2022, I took a leap and signed up to exhibit at the Wonderful World of Weddings show. It was my first time putting myself and my art out there in that way. That’s where it all began. From that one show, I started booking live paintings for couples who wanted something truly one-of-a-kind.

Since then, I’ve painted at weddings, corporate events, private celebrations, and everything in between. Each event is a new story, a new connection, and another reminder of why I started this journey.

Cayla at her first *Wonderful World of Weddings* show booth, where it all began.

Building Connections & Community

One of the biggest parts of my journey has been connecting with others who share the same creative drive. Through Wisconsin Craft, a nonprofit that supports artists across the state, I’ve learned so much about what it really takes to build a sustainable art business—from pricing and promotion to finding balance as a working artist. I’ve also met mentors who’ve generously shared advice and encouragement along the way.

Within the wedding industry, I’ve made some incredible friendships that have become such an important part of my story. One partnership that stands out is with Caroline Cavalcante, a talented Milwaukee-area photographer and dear friend. We meet monthly to talk business, swap ideas, and cheer each other on as two women growing our creative dreams. Beyond that, the wider community of artists, makers, and wedding professionals in Milwaukee has been nothing short of inspiring—reminding me how much stronger we are when we collaborate and lift each other up.

Picture of the “Dream Team” from a styled shoot Cayla and her close wedding “friendors” put on earlier in 2025.

Today: Living the Dream

Fast forward to today, art isn’t just my career. It’s my story. It’s my way of bringing people joy, preserving memories, and sharing beauty in the most authentic way possible. Becoming an artist in Milwaukee wasn’t just about learning how to paint. It was about finding who I am.

And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Becoming an Artist in Milwaukee — Where It All Really Began