We had the good fortune of connecting with Maira De Leon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maira, what do you attribute your success to?

I think the most important factor(s) about the success behind what I do is; 1. the unique way that I capture such a special moment-in-time 2. the art that I produce will be treasured for generations to come

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve been a fine-art artist for over 19 years. Painting is my dearest passion and the greatest joy is to be able to share that with the world by capturing some of the most special moments LIVE during weddings. When I paint, I don’t just transfer what I see onto a canvas… I immerse myself in the environment and surroundings and I transfer that feeling to the brush. It’s truly a magical process.

The best part about what I do is knowing how much happiness and joy it gives my clients. It’s such a beautiful thing to see their faces light up when they see the finished product! And, to know that this painting will be treasured for generations to come is really the ultimate satisfaction for me. I create art that lives forever– what?! It’s insane. I am humbled. I am honored. I am forever grateful to God for giving me such an extraordinary gift.

Back in 2020, I decided I wanted to paint weddings. I researched everything I needed to get started and luckily, it wasn’t hard to book my first client (thank you Erica Page!) I painted my first wedding in March of this year, 2021 and my business has grown exponentially ever since. Every time I paint at a wedding, I lose myself in time… kind of like that movie “Soul”, when the main character plays a piano. It’s almost euphoric! I think everyone that works in their purpose and passion will understand what I’m saying.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way are; 1. to believe without a doubt that the gift that God gave me will make a positive impact in people’s lives. 2. making connections with my clients whether it be via video, phone call or face to face prior to the event is essential to the entire process. 3. overthinking is a confidence killer. I do not overthink it anymore, I go with the flow!

I want the world to know that this is not only one of, if not, the most unique way to capture a wedding… but, it is also a great way to entertain the guests! I love this part so much because I get to interact with different people from all walks of life and sometimes, get to know bits and pieces of their artist side. It’s a memory that will last a lifetime, not only for the bride and groom but for all the guests as well.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend wanted to hang out in the city for a week, I would suggest these places:

– South City Kitchen (food)
– Cafe Intermezzo (dessert)
– Urban Grind (coffee)
– Krog St. Tunner (art/graffiti/walking)
– Krog St. Market (some of the best sushi)
– Slutty Vegan (vegan food)
– Piedmont Park (picnic and small mini photo session)
– “The Roof” on Ponce City Market (arcade/games/drinks/chill)
– Nine Mile Station (good food and great city views)
– SkyLounge (drinks and views)
– The BeltLine (scooters/bikes/walks)
– The Fox Theatre (live performances)
– The Atlanta Aquarium (best aquarium)

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have always been a genuinely grateful person. I get excited over the little things and give thanks even for the smallest additions to my growth. There are so many people to mention because I’ve been an artist ever since I can remember and many wonderful people helped shape my story along the way. But, to keep it short and sweet, I would love to dedicate this shoutout to the ones who have always believed in me and have supported me throughout my artistic journey. These awesome humans are: my best friends; Ana and Samara Delira, my family, and my amazing husband, Jose Algarin to name a few.

Website: www.maipaintslive.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/maipaintslive

Facebook: www.facebook.com/maipaintslive

Other: Email: maipaintslive@gmail.com

Image Credits
Good Studio Co. LLC

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