Pet Portraits Testimonials!

Melanie and Nicholas!
First off, you all did an absolutely amazing job! I cannot express how happy I am with the final product and you absolutely captured both of their personalities. In additional to wanting to thank you and Nicholas for the amazing job, I also want to express my appreciation for the continuous updates through the entire process. I know you all are quite busy so I am really grateful for all the updates and adjustments along the way. Here is Jen, Moose, and Shadow with your BEAUTIFUL portrait. Thank you again for your hard work, everyone is envious and my brother may be reaching out to get a portrait of his cat!
You two made this process so simple and we are so happy with it all turned out!
Cheers,
Brian

Hi Melanie and Nicholas,
I hope you are well. The Portrait of Wallace was an immense hit! The pictures are not that great but as you can see from Caitlin's face she was shocked and thrilled! I was so proud of my girl that they waited until we got there to open the package! "Wallace" is now hanging in the living room in a place of honor. The Wedding went perfectly, the guests all had a great time and the weather in New York was outstanding. I could not have asked for a better time.
Again, many thanks!
Beth Wallace

We have worked with Harlan Crow and his family for a number of years on some absolutely stunning portraits. Here is the collection so far. They have all been framed in handcarved frames which depicts items that are associated with each dog and the family. Exquisite. Harlan Crow is an art collector to some of the most saught after paintings in the world, so its wonderful to think there are a few Nicholas Beall paintings among them! Take a read of the wall Street Journal aricle about Harlan Crow along with some of his art collection.

Ted and Janice visited our studio to collect his framed oil painting of Ballycastle King along with a framed print. Ted is a returning client and we always go out for a meal when they visit to celebrate and catch up.

Hello Melanie and Nicholas!!!
It would be impossible to convey to you my complete happiness, awe and gratitude for the truly magnificent painting my husband, Kevin, gave me for my 50th birthday. It not only captures my beloved dachshunds perfectly, but our home as well. Now I know that my dogs will live forever and this time in my life has been captured so beautifully. It's SO beautiful!!
I am truly in awe of your talent, Nicholas, and so incredibly grateful to you for doing this work of art for me. I still can't believe it's mine and was made for me. It will be an heirloom for our children as it portrays our home and precious pets so perfectly. Check out the picture showing me and my family on Christmas Eve, my birthday, when I opened this amazing gift.
Thank you!!!
Kris Fitzpatrick

Hi Melanie and Nicholas,
I am very happy to let you know that the portrait of Jake arrived safely! It looks ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS in our dining room!! We could not wait to unwrap it (very impressive packaging that completely protected it!) and hang it up last night. The frame is also gorgeous and fits perfectly with the portrait.

The print is beautiful as well and will be perfect to take to France for our Wedding. Right now, I have it hanging up in my office at work – it’s just perfect.

Thank you both SO MUCH for the amazing work that you do. It has far exceeded our expectations and we could not be happier! We will definitely recommend you to others!
Warmest wishes,
Kim

You might be mistaken to think that the two photos below are identical.. look again! Our wonderful recipient of two portraits posed to have photos taken with them both. Kevin commissioned me to draw their family cats Lucy and Leo which you can see on the left (or top image). They then adopted a third cat called Lily and felt that they should include her in a portrait along with Lucy and Leo. Erika very kindly posed with both portraits. Kevin said that the sun was so bright that day Erika had difficultly seeing the camera, which we can all understand, so it was difficult for her to look and smile at the same time, but she was delighted with the drawings and they are displayed proudly in their home.

Hi Melanie and Nicholas,
Melanie and Nicholas - thank you, thank you, thank you!!! Simply put, it is just beautiful! And thank you for taking the photo with both of you in it! When looking at the painting, it occurred to me that you might not know what “kind” of dog Spyder is because it would be hard to tell from his picture......he is an Italian Greyhound. That means he is 16 pounds of attitude! Italian Greyhounds were the dogs of Italian royalty in the 17th century, and Spyder is quite aware of that - we call him H.R.H. But he is also the snuggliest dog you could ever want! We got a notice that his portrait should arrive on Wednesday. We can’t wait to get it, and I will be sure to let you know when it has safely arrived.
Karen

The amazing photo above was taken by Claire, the recipient of the two cat portraits in oils that you can see displayed on the wall. Barbara and Barrie commissioned us when their daughters cat Tia passed away suddenly. Claire loved the painting so much, Barrie commissioned a second oil painting for her other cat Bailey too. He is pictured above with the paintings!

Dear Melanie, Nicholas and Lily,
It has taken me many weeks to be able to email you a proper 'thank you' for Curly's portrait. As you know, we received the portrait just two weeks after the day marking the first anniversary of Curly's passing and receiving the portrait was extremely emotional. When I opened the package and saw Curly's face, so lovely and warm, I was immediately overcome with tears.

I thank you so very much for creating a stunning portrait of Curly. My family will cherish this portrait for the rest of our lives. You've also created a portrait which everyone who knew Curly, from our extended family of friends to the women who runs the rescue organization in California (The Brittany Foundation), that brought Curly into our life, can appreciate and admire forever.

I'm pleased to attached two photos of Curly's portrait in situ: one in which our dog, Sarah, was dignified and the other........well, you'll see. Please feel free to post either photo and this written gratitude on your website. Thank you, again, for giving us a lovely portrait of our Curly.

Sincerely,
Tracy Maguire
Camas, Washington

Hi Melanie and Nicholas,
Yes, I've just seen and commented on the blog update. Really exciting. Ian and I have a bottle of champagne ready for that big day. Patience - must wait for 'sticky edges' to dry out! :)Thanks again for being such amazing artists. I enjoy looking at all of your work. It is always of such a consistently high standard. But I like my painting best of all (big surprise!) All best wishes
Lynne
xx

Hi Melanie and Nicholas,
I've taken a look at the final stages pics and think it is a very skilled and beautiful tribute to the horse who 'stole my heart' forever. I can't begin to convey the joy that this painting gives me. I LOVE IT! It all looks accurate, and I appreciate that it may look a bit darker than it actually is due to cameras, lighting of the time, etc. You will recall that I'd like a giclee print of this painting (when ready) to go to the photographer. THANK-YOU BOTH for being such talented, professional and friendly artists. *Hug for Nicholas* (for bringing my 'big boy' Frisbee to life). All best wishes
Lynne
xx

Hi Melanie and Nicholas,
My husband took this photo this morning, as we both enjoyed a champagne toast to our new Frisbee oil portrait.  There was a brief sunny spell, before the skies went grey again, so we grabbed the opportunity of using natural light. As you can see, I am delighted with this commission, which Nick created for me. It's fine to have photographs of a cherished pet, but oils have an almost magical quality. I really do believe that Frisbee is going to land over that fence and keep on galloping. So yes, this painting is very special indeed. Many thanks, once again, to you both for being professional artists who really care about their clients. I shall follow your current and future commissions with interest. All best wishes
Lynne
:)
xx

Melanie and Nicholas, Picture looks perfect. Wouldn't change a single brush stroke. Can't wait to see it in real life! Thanks!!! Junior's portrait arrived safe and sound today. Nick did an incredible job, I feel like Junior himself is hanging on the wall! I will get someone to take a picture of me and Junior with the portrait before I head off to get it framed on Sunday, then will send you another one once it is framed. It's pretty funny, Junior is such a little guy that the painting is literally larger than life!

Awesome job Nicholas. Thanks so much, I will cherish it forever!

M

Dear Nicholas & Melanie, Just wanted you to know that I am so thrilled with how Purdys portrait is coming along. You have captured her so well. Purdy is always in my heart, and I miss her all the time. Watching her come to life in your painting, makes me so happy.
Also looking forward to seeing Milly and Molly :-) Thank you so much, Best regards, Amanda

Hi Melanie & Nicholas I know alan is organising with you when to collect the portraits, but I just wanted to say that I'm overjoyed with how they look.Molly on the left of the portrait is always ' camera ready ', so getting that photo wasn't that difficult really. Milly on the other hand is more of a challenge. . . Every time alan or I try and take a photo she strikes a pose (like she is chewing on a wasp) :) . . .Bless her ! . So that is another reason I love this portrait. . We got that one picture where her eyes are open and bright. I love my girls to bits, so I'm so happy nick has captured them so well. . Purdy looks fabulous also. . Couldn't be happier. With many thanks to nick for our beautiful portraits. . And to you for your help and contact during this process. Amanda x x

Hi Melanie, This has been a lovely experience.. so excited.. cant wait to get the portraits home..
I've shown so many people your website and everyone is impressed with how the girls look.. my sister remembers purdy fondly and she almost cryed when she saw her portrait.. as I did..I hope you know what you do brings happiness to many people.With many thanks always, Amanda x

Hi Melanie and Nicholas, Thanks once again for the paintings and your recent hospitality. Please find attached a couple of photo's.. including one with Amanda! Your paintings have been carefully positioned in a nice corner away from direct sunlight, in a fairly stable temperature and away from the kitchen area. Hope you have a great weekend. We'll definitely see you again another time - either collecting another painting / pencil drawing or somewhere in the Galapogas! Alan.

Hi Melanie, I've been looking at the portraits framed and they look stunning. . . I can't stop smiling. .
It's like Christmas Eve when your a child. . . Waiting for Alan to get home :) I've spoke to him and he's very happy with them, and said how nice it was to meet you both. .. I will get you photos when we have the paintings in place. Thank you so much . . And I know we will be back on your commissions list again, I have plenty of space on my walls. . . :) With all my best wishes to you both Amanda x x

Hi Melanie, alan got back at 11.15 last night.. and it was Christmas day.. I am so very happy.. what a talent Nick has.. I will treasure these paintings always.. please pass on my thanks to Jane also.. the frames are beautiful.. photos will follow when we have them in place. Many thanks always.. Amanda x x

Hi Melanie and Nicholas, The portraits arrived in good order. Our housekeeper chose the smaller with which she is delighted, and we brought the larger with us to Montana where we are having it framed to hang at Camp Arrowhead our vacation home.
Best regards,
Rip

Hi Melanie, and Nicholas
We are absolutely thrilled with it! It is such a likeness to her, we can't get over just how well you've captured her. And such perfect timing that I was back in the country to collect it! My brother will love it! Thank you so much, it will be very much treasured as Milly is a very special dog - it couldn't be more perfect.
All the best Harriet.

Melanie and Nicholas,
The portrait of Jessie is beautiful - and the most wonderful thing of all is that you have captured her personality in a really magical way - our brave little retriever with twinkling eyes and a heart of gold! She's just leaping off the canvas to us. You are both stars of the highest quality! I just can't thank you enough for everything - not least your kindness in helping me to sort things out, and your guidance and patience whilst we chose the background. The framer was pleased to see it as much of his work does not consist of portraits of that quality. The framer and I chose the frame easily - he smiled when he saw those little bits of wood or whatever that you enclosed. I hope you like our choice. He's actually going to hang the portrait in his gallery for the day, and I'm going to take our friends in to see the pictures, and hopefully David will see Jessie up amongst them!! Then I can tell him that it's sold - to him! The teashop are in on it too, and they are going to put a candle on the table etc. I have left your leaflet with details with him. More news after tomorrow!! M and J

Melanie,
I have received the portrait today and it has arrived safely. I am absolutely amazed at the likeness and from a short distance it still looks likes a photo to me. I am not going to show Paul until Christmas Day as although he knows about it I still think he is going to be totally gobsmacked when he sees it. I will definitely take a photo of it when it has been framed and send it to you for your website. I cannot thank you enough and hope you have a lovely Christmas and our best wishes for the New Year.

Hi Melanie and Nicholas,
The portrait arrived !!! It's magnificent . I cry every time I look at it because it's as though Ernie has come home again. We are so grateful for your talent, kindness and earnestness. These were the qualities that characterized Ernie, so it makes your painting that much more special to us. Nancy and Paul

Dear Melanie,
She looks sooooo beautiful! You have captured Fel's character perfectly. It could not be any more perfect. It makes me cry and I can't wait to see the painting in person! I could not possibly explain what this piece of art means to me. It will be cherished always! Thank you for all of the time you put into this Melanie, you are very gifted.
Much love, Tiffany

You and Nick have been a pleasure to work with. Your talent is amazing and you have been so accommodating to us.
I would say that you have excellent customer service but that sounds odd...like I was talking about Sears and that's not what I mean. You have been kind, thoughtful, and caring. Always ready to answer questions and make changes. I really tell everyone that you two are the very best at what you do. It is not easy to deal with people and you do it effortlessly. I also appreciate your phone calls. What a personal touch! Thank you so much, Nicholas and Melanie
Kay Witt

Did not imagine it could be any better. Coal's portrait arrived today. Our copies were fabulous but the real thing is so life like it is AMAZING!!!! Cannot thank you enough--we are ecstatic!I am bringing it to the framer tomorrow and will send you a picture when it is done. Fondly, Julie

My daughter and I just looked at the portrait . FABULOUS!! Nicholas truly captured Coal. So excited. I cannot stop looking at it. Just love it!!!!!! Julie

Dear Melanie, I received my painting of Fel today! I was sooooo excited to see it! It is even more beautiful in person. I will always have her in my heart, but now I can see her everyday also! Thank you for that!
I will take a picture and email you when I have it framed. I am going to enjoy it for a week before I take it to the frame shop! I will be in touch, thanks again.
Sincerely
Tiffany

Melanie, Yes it was a great success thank you! Lindy plans to write to you separately. Unfortunately Chilli is still some way from a full recovery and although there are glimpses of the dog (puppy really) we had before, there is still a long way to go. Whatever the outcome, the portrait will be a terrific permanent memory. Hope you are well and not working too hard!
Best regards
Ian x

Melanie,
What a beautiful portrait of our dog, Reggie.  You captured his best features, ears and the intelligence in his eyes, so well.  We can hardly wait to get it and hang it up.
Sally and Becky

Dear Melanie,
So I really couldn't wait until Sunday/Monday, so I took some time out and went to see some of my family, and showed some of my work colleges the final photo of the painting. Got a number of useful comments back, so if you're ready Ill begin:- Fantastic
Unbelievable (in a good way)
Perfect
Is that a photo Oh my god no its a painting!
Oh a picture of a dog, hold on that's Zeus, that's amazing!
Its really good don't change anything
When will you get it? I cant wait to see it hung
And finally, from my sister - That's really, really good do you think I should get one done of Taz?

Melanie,
Well, words can not describe how I feel when I look at his painting. It is beyond wonderful and is simply stunning. You even captured the little fuzzy hairs on his nose and his nose even looks wet. He looks as if you could reach out and touch him. Looking at his eyes, it almost looks as if I am truly looking into his eyes and can see his emotions and feelings. I am pleased if you can not tell, and no, please don't change a thing. I can't wait till Christmas, my husband is going to be shocked to say the least. Thank you very much, I will let you know my husband's reaction after Christmas. Beverly

Hi Melanie,
Thanks so much for posting the stages of the Diva picture on your website. It looks absolutely amazing!!! And so much better even than the photo! I love how detailed you can see the facial features which in the photo you can't, and the eyes have that special glow like all of your pictures that I like so much. I am looking forward to seeing the final image. Thank you so much for your update and many greetings and thanks to Nick too for his great work!
Best wishes
Brendon

Hi Melanie
Upon receipt of your email, I took the painting to our friends last night and they think it is absolutely wonderful. There was many tears and hugs etc. Thank you so much for the way that you have looked after us and for your patience. I am still amazed that you produced such brilliant results from the photos we sent. I will be recommending your website and you wherever possible. My friends intend to have the picture framed ASAP. When it is in place they will take a photo of it and send it to you.
Once again many thanks for the lovely picture
Kind Regards
Julian Shields

Hi Melanie, Everything arrived safely.  Thank you.  I am sorry it took so long to let you know, but honestly, its been much more difficult than I expected to have the portrait.  Its been raking up all the feelings of loss and sadness.  I suppose that means its very good work. I'm waiting for the frame
Thanks again

Hi Melanie
I forwarded the picture and video to Ruth and David and then called them on the phone. The only comment that I got was ………………WOW!!! That is a very big compliment from them. I think the painting is beautiful. Thank you very much. Can’t wait for the finished article, Kind Regards Julian Shields

Hi Melanie,
We haven't spoken before but I'd like to thank you so much for the portrait. I can't believe how Nicholas has captured Ben and Jake everything about them is so perfect.
Claire. x

Melanie and Nicholas
....The picture is really Zach! I looked at the boy himself and back to the picture and you have painted Zach, You really are amazing.....

Melanie The portrait is really stunning, Max, Chloe and Yoshi are absolutely perfect colouring, form and expression, you have done an amazing job.
Paul loves the portrait and is excited about seeing it on one of our walls! Debra.

Hi Melanie, IT'S HERE! It is even prettier than the photos online. Everything was in good order, we are ending up taking it to my brothers house in Sacramento. I'll send pics as soon as I get them on my pc. Thank you so much, I'm sure you will hear from our family in the future. Christy

Dear Melanie,
Your portraits and Patch and Sandy arrived today and I can't thank you enough. It is really beautiful and I know that Alan will treasure it very much. I don't know how you do it but did you realise that Patch's eyes follow you when you move about the room and its almost as if his face turns too? I was thinking about a mahogany frame, as Alan's furniture is all mahogany, but if you have any better suggestions please advise me. Once again, thank you so very much. Regards,
Ruth MacLennan

Hello Melanie,
Edwards picture is really wonderful, its going to make a great Christmas present.
Duncan.

Hi Melanie
The portraits arrived yesterday and they are gorgeous!! Thanks so much - and thank Nicholas, too. We're really very happy with them. It's been great working with you. Liz.

We received the portrait yesterday.  It looks amazing!  We are so pleased with your work.  We will send you a picture once we find the perfect frame for it.  Thank you again.
Take care. Sally and Becky

It is so fantastic, thank you so much. I can't wait to see it for real. I can't tell you how excited we are about this. Nelson is now a dad, so it's good to have a picture of the founder of a dynasty (we hope we will have his family for ever, as he's been such a great little companion to us). I really look forward to getting it. Thank you SO much. Lisa-Jane x

Hi Melanie and Nicholas,
Well he arrived today - and I "daren't" (see how I'm picking up so quickly) tell you that he sat on the porch for 2 hours! I work from home and get a lot of FedEx packages for work and they just drop them off. I heard the doorbell ring, but thinking it was them forgot about it. Anyhow, he was safe and sound : ) As for the portrait itself, I'm just speechless. He is beyond stunning. Just brilliant! There is not one thing I could alter. And I'm so glad I went up on the size as he is literally life size which I didn't realize he would be. It's like he's just sitting in the room with me. He's just beautiful - as beautiful as he was in real life - I could not be happier!! I'm a big sap and of course cried, but they are happy tears. I'm just so thrilled to be able to have this wonderful memory of him to carry with me always. He was such a special boy - there is not a day that goes by I don't think about him - so to have this to see everyday is just wonderful. It's just so very special. I can't thank you enough of course!!!! :) so THANK YOU!!!
Kelly

Hi Melanie and Nicholas,
Cheyenne’s portrait brings us joy every day. She is hung in a place that we see almost every moment that we are home. It has gotten easier to look at her & mostly the feelings are of joy & fond memories rather than sadness. I want to tell you that our friend who happened to also be her veterinarian saw her portrait the other day. He told us that he always has people coming in who tell him that they can do portraits, so that he can recommend them to his client (he has yet to find anyone that he would consider). When he took a look at Cheyenne he was speechless & said that it looked exactly like her. He said that this was the best that he has ever seen. Of course I did give him your website just in case he wanted to give it out. We absolutely love the painting & her expression is so lifelike it is amazing. We miss her terribly, but seeing her every day is very comforting. Thank you again for your extreme talent, professionalism & help with the entire process.
Best Wishes,
Miriam & Dan Borsch

Hello,
The painting is just absolutely beautiful!!! I love it!! I also love that it’s so different from Kali’s portrait. Their personalities are so different, not to mention how different they are physically. I think I’m just going to hang it as is. I love the naturalness (if that’s a word) of it unframed, which is just like Roxie. She’s a “no frills” kind of girl. As soon as I get it hung, I’ll send pictures. Plus, we’ve been having so much rain lately, I’d like to get a picture when it’s nice and bright outside. Can’t complain, though, because we desperately need the rain. I just wish I could tell all your potential clients that if you think the final painting is amazing, the painting will absolutely blow you away. When you see the painting for the first time, you just have to sit back and say “Wow – Unbelievable!!”. Francie Hallingse

My portrait has arrived and oh my god its beautiful!!!! I am so impressed with the detail that has been captured and the way the colours all work together its fantastic - thank you so much.
Lisa xx

Hi Melanie and Nicholas,
What a busy season we've had. I finally had some time to go through some emails and realized I hadn't yet let you know that the painting arrived and it's beautiful. It's really a very real portrait of Remy, it looks just like him. Thank you both again for doing such a great job.
Take care,
Marianne

Hi Melanie and Nicholas,
I just thought i'd let you know that the portrait went down an absolute treat! Lucy absolutely loved it and couldn't believe the detailed that was achieved and just how much you had captured Flynns very unique character. Lucy's family were even so impressed that they are considering getting a study of there dogs commissioned. So I just thought I should say thank you once again for the superb job that you and Nicholas did. Make sure to thank him for me.
Thanks again
Mark Seymour.

Hi Melanie and Nicholas,
We received the picture on Monday! We are so excited to see it in the person once we get it framed! Thank you again for everything. We have very much appreciated the communication throughout this project.
Best wishes
Mykayla

Dear Melanie,
Have just received Minke's portrait - it is fabulous and exactly her. Please give Nicholas a hug and a kiss from me. Andrew who is the art connoisseur says it is so smooth it looks like a pastel.
Many many thanks to you both
Love
Yvonne

Dear Melanie and Nicholas,
Have received the portrait safely! It is fabulous, I am so pleased!!! I have shown it to the lady who gave me Poppet - who is quite artistic herself and she loves it. Thank you both so much - a perfect present for my 21st!
Alison xx

Hi Melanie, He looks utterly gorgeous!!!! So amazing! what a gorgeous picture. Nick has captured him perfectly!
Thank you so much for all of your help and work! So excited to get him home in real life, it will make Katrine's Christmas!
Thanks again,
best wishes
Maja xxx

Hi Nicholas, I will be recommending your work and will not hesitate to use you again. The portrait is a fantastic likeness of Tango and will bring me much pleasure as he is no longer with us.
Regards
Colette

Hi Melanie, Amazing work! Better than I expected even. We love our horse and how he looks, but quite honestly Nick has made him look fancier than he is in real life. Thank you for making the reigns work they look very natural and flowing. We are actually finally moving in the house this Wednesday weather permitting and the portrait will be the perfect house warming gift for us. I will also be in contact Melanie about doing our dog Moose in pencil in the future as we love your work as well.
Thanks and we'll talk soon.
Cheerfully
David

Hi Melanie,
She arrived safe and sound, has been hung and looks beautiful thank you. Maybe a little emotional when she emerged from the bubble wrap.
We might be in touch with a view to having one of your pencil drawings of Molly (dog we lost a couple of years ago) commissioned in the New Year.
Regards,
Iain

Dear Melanie,
Should you ever need a testimonial we will be happy to provide the highest praise for your work that painting is so wonderful we were speechless when we saw it. (no a common occurrence!!) With best wishes and thanks
Fran, Mass and Nutley Dichello

Good Morning,
Here are pictures of Millie's portrait. We are so happy with how they look. You do beautiful work!
Sally & Becky

So its a definite NO CHANGES ARE REQUIRED so is that the painting finished? Please let me know as I am very excited. Look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best Regards,
Gary

The portrait looks wonderful. Thanks so much.
I am so happy to have the painting by Christmas. Thanks again, Jim

Melanie I have been traveling so i could not respond sooner; but, the portrait arrived last Friday. It looks great. Thanks again for your beautiful work. I have already given your info to my co-workers. Happy holidays
Jim

Melanie: Just looked at on line – absolutely fantastic! That’s my baby boy! Thanks so very much – I can’t tell you how much this means to me. Christine

Chester's portrait came today.  I am thrilled with it!!  You did an absolutely fabulous job.  It is breathtaking.

Here are the pics of Jim opening his present.  Feel free to post them on your website.  We think we're going to hang it here at home, but we're interested in getting some prints of the portrait for Jim's office and my office at work. We will be in touch.
Ellen

Dear Melanie,
Have just looked on your site we were both delighted to see all six stages of the painting of Abigail. You are truly a worker of miracles, as the depiction of her coat and the shape of her face are absolutely spot on! Pete

Hello Melanie
Looks good to me. I've been following the progress on your blog with interest and I'm pleased that you enjoyed working on Gina's portrait. I'm looking forward to seeing the finished portrait.
Regards
Patrick

Hello Melanie,
Portrait arrived to-day. Absolutely superb! Very pleased, and impressed with the packaging too.
Thank you.
Patrick

Hi Melanie and Nick, Good news and bad news - I gave Lin the painting, she loves it so much - the bad news she keeps crying when she looks at it Lol
Lin wants to email you both tomorrow, I will send you some pics ASAP. Regards
Gary x

Hi Melanie
Claire loves the picture of her boys and cant thank you enough its a truly beautiful painting.
Thanking you. Wayne

Thank you Melanie!! Once we get it framed and up I will definitely send you some pictures.  I will let you know once we receive it as well.

Thank you again for such a fabulous job!
Jordan

Hi Melanie,
Thank you and Nick for a fabulous job on Ashers Oil painting. We hung it in the hallway, so we look at it every day. Sorry not the best pic, it is from my phone.
Jordan

Hi Melanie, I think its stunning, Melanie, yes..thats my puppy. I don't foresee any changes, but if Martin has any comments, I'll forward them to you. Dom

Hey Melanie, Martin thinks its great! But most importantly, I love it. I know its wonderful because I really can't look at it without crying.. at least not yet. Let me know the next steps
thanks! Dom

Hi Melanie, Attached is the portrait framed. It looks amazing.  I can almost hear him bark.
Thank you Dom

My sister was home for a visit this past weekend and I showed her the portrait. She was floored!!! She said it is amazing that somebody can paint like that! She was helping decide where to hang it.

Hi Melanie and Nick,
Thank you so much, I am sure my family will be delighted.
Best wishes
David Baker

Dear Melanie,
Just a note to say how pleased I am with the picture of Ronnie, you have captured not just his image, but also his character! I would be also grateful if you would mind sending three more brochures“ my colleagues were equally impressed. Yours
Jane Dunlop.

Dear Melanie,
Just to say the painting was excellent and was very well received. I'm sure ill be in contact soon to have one done of my new dogs. Many thanks again.
Steve

Dear Melanie,
Just to let you know that there wasn't a dry eye in the house! Yours with thanks
Anne Nash

Dear Melanie,
This is just a short letter to thank you for painting a wonderful portrait of our dog, Kandy. I am very pleased with the outcome and the picture is so like her, I'm sure it will be a surprise on Christmas day. Yours Faithfully
Stephanie Cullen

Dear Melanie,
Just a short note to say thank you for a lovely painting.
Yours Faithfully
Simon West.

Dear Melanie,
May I say again how thrilled we, and the family are. I'm sure my husband will be over the moon. Thanks once again.
Judy Nash

Dear Melanie,
Thank you for the drawing of Humphrey, which is a really good likeness. It will be greatly appreciated by our daughter in law. When our new Springer Tirion is old enough to stand still for a photographs we will be in touch again. Yours sincerely
Hew and Anne Squirrel.

Dear Melanie,
Picture received safe and sound, thank you cheque enclosed for balance. We are delighted with the portrait and impressed with the likeness I strongly suspect one or two of us will be in touch in the New Year for pictures of our won pets can you send some order forms please. Many thank for an excellent job
Debbie Martin

Dear Melanie,
Thanks so much for the lovely painting. Please find enclosed the balance and a deposit for a painting of Fred, Tess and Lulu, for my mum and dad, Denny and Roberta. Merry Christmas
Anne Gamage.

Dear Melanie,
As usual we are delighted with the drawing you did of my mothers horse, please find enclosed a cheque for the remainder of the balance many thanks
Melanie.

Dear Melanie,
Just a note to say how pleased I am with the picture of Ronnie you have captured not just his image, but also his character! Please find a cheque for the outstanding balance. I would be also grateful if you would mind sending three more brochures my colleagues were equally impressed. Yours
Jane Dunlop.

Dear Melanie,
Thank you for the portrait of Betsy. I am sorry to say that she died 2 months ago. The portrait is a lovely memorial to keep as it is exactly like her; I have never known such a gentle dog before. Thank you for the hard work you put into the portrait to make it look so real. Yours sincerely,
L.J. Pridaux

Dear Melanie,
Just to say thank you so much for the portrait of Worzel that we have recently received. The likeness and detail is fantastic and we look forward to enjoying it for years to come. Thank you very much and keep up the excellent work.
Rob, Annette and Worzel

Dear Melanie,
The portrait was absolutely wonderful and like very much by my sister. Kind Regards
Nan Curtis

Dear Melanie,
I would like to thank you for the beautiful portraits you have captured the likeness exalt. I am sure they will bring a tear to the eye of my sister in law, they are a silver wedding present. Than you once again
Jane Picton

Dear Melanie,
Thank you for my portrait of my two Westies. I am delighted with your artistic skills. I think the portraits are very lifelike. Thank you
Pamela Hepps

Dear Melanie,
Many thanks for an excellent piece of artwork It doesn't just look like Luke, it is Luke! Again Many thanks
Deborah Duggan

Dear Melanie,
The portrait of Sophie arrived on Monday, thank you for much it is really lovely, and has been much admired. Thank you
Jean Gregory

Dear Melanie,
Thank you so much for the picture, its delightful and I'm sure my mum with be thrilled.
Stephanie

Dear Melanie,
Thank you again for the portrait of Kelly it was a very good likeness of her. Yours
Jacky Todd

Dear Melanie,
All of the pictures you did for our family are great, I cant wait to see their faces at Christmas. I am sure you will be hearing from me again when we get our next puppy. Thank you again
Emma Larkins

Dear Melanie,
Thank you very much for the portrait of Emma, It is a fantastic likeness and I'm sure Phil will be very touched and delighted by it. Best wishes for the future and thanks again for your hard work and effort. Yours
Nicky Kidman

Dear Melanie,
Thanks so much for the lovely painting. Please find enclosed the balance and a deposit for a painting of Fred, Tess and Lulu, for my mum and dad, Denny and Roberta. Merry Christmas
Anne Gamage.

Dear Melanie,
Picture received safe and sound, thank you cheque enclosed for balance. We are delighted with the portrait and impressed with the likeness I strongly suspect one or two of us will be in touch in the New Year for pictures of our won pets can you send some order forms please. Many thank for an excellent job
Debbie Martin

Dear Melanie,
As usual we are delighted with the drawing you did of my mothers horse, please find enclosed a cheque for the remainder of the balance many thanks
Melanie

Dear Melanie,
The picture was lovely; my daughter was really pleased with it. I have enclosed a photo of my granddaughter.
Love Blanch

Dear Melanie,
This is just a short letter to thank you for painting a wonderful portrait of our dog, Kandy. I am very pleased with the outcome and the picture is so like her, I'm sure it will be a surprise on Christmas day. Yours Faithfully
Stephanie Cullen

Dear Melanie,
Thank you for the portrait of Wooster; it is a very good likeness. Yours sincerely
Elizabeth Pollock

Dear Melanie,
We received the portrait OK and opened it with much excitement. It is absolutely beautiful, to look at Mikealas face and instantly recognise our lovely feline friend!! Oils do bring the picture to life and your skill has created a lovely treasure to enjoy. Our congratulations to you and many thanks for a job well done. I will write and let you know Lewis reaction when he opens it on his birthday. With much appreciation and thanks.
Dave and Marian Smith.

Oh my goodness! I can’t even begin to tell you how wonderful the portrait is! It is almost as if they are both sitting right in front of me. You are SOOOOOOOOO talented!Again, thank you so much for doing such a wonderful job…it is absolutely beautiful!

Dear Melanie – received the portrait yesterday and it made me cry! Even my husband had a tear in his eye. It is breathtaking. The e-mail picture you sent me does not do it justice…it is really amazing! I can’t wait to get it framed and up. I will certainly send you a picture of the completed masterpiece. Again, thank you so much…it really means a lot to us. Best Regards, Monique

Hi Melanie,That looks fantastic. Thank you very much. Regards, Neil

Hi Mel,
The picture is really Zach!. I looked at the boy himself and back to the picture and you have painted Zach, You really are amazing. I would like to buy some prints of his picture please could you tell me how I do this and how I pay you.
Thank you so much
Chris 

Hello Melanie
The picture you sent me looks amazing. you have really captured Tazz & Willow.I know my wife will adore it. I cant wait to see it hanging on the wall,
Thanks very much,
Stephen

Dear Melanie,
So I really couldn't wait until Sunday/Monday, so I took some time out and went to see some of my family, and showed some of my work colleges the final painting. Got a number of useful comments back, so if you're ready Ill begin:- Fantastic.....
Unbelievable (in a good way).....
Perfect....
Is that a photo....
Oh my god no its a painting!
Oh a picture of a dog, hold on thats Zeus, thats amazing!
Its really good don't change anything...
When will you get it? I cant wait to see it hung...
And finally, from my sister - Thats really, really good do you think I should get one done of Taz?

So its a definite NO CHANGES ARE REQUIRED so is that the painting finished? Please let me know as I am very excited. Look forward to hearing from you soon. Best Regards, Gary

Hi Melanie,I should have e-mailed sooner but we received Sugar's portrait and we love it!We have another dog, a bluetick coonhound, we would like done. I will let you know when we are ready to do this one. Thank you,
Jessica Donlin, CPA

Melanie
The portrait looks wonderful. Thanks so much. I am so happy to have the painting by Christmas.
Thanks again,
Jim

Melanie
I have been traveling so i could not respond sooner; but, the portrait arrived last Friday. It looks great. Thanks again for your beautiful work. I have already given your info to my coworkers.
Happy holidays
Jim

Hi Melanie
Thank you so much. We all love it! Roly looks great and I see no reason why we would want to change it at all. My assistants name is Daisy Geary Dyer who will be the best person to contact for delivery. After we have received it I will be in contact again as we have 2 other dogs, and am sure we will want portraits of them as well. Look forward to talking again soon John

Hi Melanie
Just to let you know that this arrived safely at our offices! John didn't open it up as it needed to be transported home after it arrived here.
I was very intrigued to get a glimpse but, sadly, I didn't! I bet it's brilliant!
Thanks so much Regards, Daisy

That's great Melanie, thanks!Thank you so much for all your work on this - you're obviously very talented!I'm very much looking forward to receiving it now. Kindest Regards,Susannah Bazell

Melanie,
Wow... We think it looks great... There are no changes at all...Thank you so much for helping us with this, we are looking forward to getting her home with us. Have a wonderful holiday season, and if you ever need anything from us, please don't hesitate to ask. Thank you again,
Dave & Jennifer Wilson

Melanie, Just a note to let you know Mandi's portrait arrived on Saturday.
It's absolutely gorgeous. You captured her so beautifully - the sparkle and love that was always in her eyes, her sweet wet nose and her elegance... It is truly magnificent. Thank you so much. With deep appreciation, Jennifer and Dave Wilson.

Hi Melanie,
It is so fantastic, thank you so much. I can't wait to see it for real. I can't tell you how excited we are about this. Nelson is now a dad, so it's good to have a picture of the founder of a dynasty (we hope we will have his family for ever, as he's been such a great little companion to us).I really look forward to getting it. Thank you SO much. Lisa-Jane x

Hi Melanie,Wow, that is really beautiful. I am actually a little teary-eyed right now. You have captured him beautifully, and so much faster than I expected! Thank you so much!! Amanda Reed USA

Dear Melanie,
Thanks for the prompt service. Its a brilliant likeness of Aslan considering you've never seen him in the flesh. I think its going to make a brilliant surprise, once again, thanks a million!!!
Adrian

Hi Melanie
Received the portrait this morning and it is absolutely brilliant. My Mum & Dad will love it but there may be a few tears!
Have a wonderful Christmas and a happy and prosperous 2003. Regards Paul

Hi Melanie, Just to let you know the portrait arrived safe and sound and looks great. Thanks ever so much. Kate"

Thanks it is AWESOME. I am having it framed at the moment... thanks again Roy x

Hi Melanie,
I received the portrait this week. It's absolutely amazing, my wife really loves it. If you plan to post this on your web, please let me know, we'll be glad to place a link to your site from our own homepage with our recommendations for your very talented abilities. Thanks so much, we'll cherish this for a life time.
Best Wishes
Charles

Hi Melanie,
Thank you once again for your efficient and friendly service. Will gladly recommend you to friends and family,couldn't wish for a nicer portrait.
Many thanks,
Nick

Hi Melanie,
It's absolutely brilliant just the way it is! I wouldn't change a thing; it's lovely :o)
I forwarded the draft over to Jackie's email and she said it looks exactly like him. :o) Thank you SO very very much!
Fondly,
Sue

Hi Melanie,
I can't remember if I sent you an email saying that I received "Rocky" in the mail on Saturday and I love it. I dropped it off today to have it framed and matted. I picked a very rustic frame and I hope it turns out as nice I expect it to. You did a gorgeous job and I know that Mark will love it. Of course when I asked how long it will take to have it framed, they said two weeks!! Yikes, after the trouble you went to to have it here in time! Hopefully it will be ready by the 15th! 'll send a photo when it's back. (It was hard to leave it there. I hope they take good care of him) Thanks again Betsy

Hi Melanie,
I don't think I ever wrote and told you about Mark's reaction to the portrait of Rocky... He LOVED it! It brought tears to his eyes. It really turned out so nice and I love the frame that I had put on it. I keep saying I need to take a photo of it to send to you. I will... soon!
Thank you again!
Betsy

My portrait has arrived safely and I am delighted with it. Thank you very much. He looks very proud and handsome. I have got it propped up at the moment and will get it framed in the New Year.
Thanks again
Micki 

Hi Melanie,
The portrait arrived safely and it is just so beautiful. You really captured Jez perfectly.
Again, thank you so much for doing this. It is really going to make my mum's Christmas. And I will definitely send you some photographs for the website, don't worry about that.
Thank you once again.
Rachel x

Melanie-
I received Jack's portrait on Tuesday, it arrived safely and looks great. It is so wonderful, and I just can't wait until it gets opened on Christmas Day! I am currently having it framed and I will definitely try to send photos of the portrait framed. I am also planning on taking pictures of it being opened on
Christmas, I think the response will be priceless from everyone in the room! Thank you so, so much for the beautiful portrait, I can't express how much this means to me. I also have horses and dogs, as well as riding at a barn in which there are over 30 customers who all are animal lovers as well! I will recommend you to all of them and hopefully they will be in contact with you for future portraits. Melanie, thank you again for your beautiful work! Shaunnah

Dear Melanie
The portrait arrived this morning as promised. One word - WOW! Thank you so much for capturing Henri just perfectly. I'm off to find a framer who can compliment your work. We're over the moon with it and I for one can't wait to give it pride of place in our main sitting room. Many, many thanks.
Kind regards
Gayle

Hi Melanie,
I received the portrait of Tess on Monday, and I am very pleased! It's beautiful!
I'm planning on giving it to Charlie (her Dad) tomorrow, I'm sure he will Love it.. I will ask him to take a picture when he frames it, and e-mail one to you Thanks so much!
Wishing you, and Nick Very Happy Holidays !!

Hello,Wow, that's brilliant! Even better than we'd hoped for. The mock-up was good, the initial stages were great, and this final result is just superb! You've captured Max to a tee, giving his portrait much more life than a photograph ever could. I'm sure some people who don't have a dog think getting a professional artist to create a portrait of them is crazy, but we think this is makes perfect sense. For all the intelligence dogs have, they just don't understand reminiscence and the need for humans to trigger memories and emotions, and therefore aren't a co-operative subject to a camera wielding owner! Having a portrait of this caliber commissioned captures Max perfectly, preserving him in his prime for us forever. Once again, Gail and I would just like to thank you for this piece of artwork, and for your accommodation to our suggestions and preferences.
Cheers, John and Gail (&Max!)

Dear Melanie, I don't think I will ever be able to explain how beautiful the portrait is or how you were able to capture our baby Hannah as we remember her. The precision of your work is absolutely amazing. Through your patience and guidance, we now have a piece of Hannah that we can share with those whose lives she touched. We will always miss our dear Hannah but at least with your help we will never forget our loving, caring, strong baby girl. We continue to hold onto that very special place in our hearts she touched and where she will live forever. When given the portrait, my husband cried and expressed how grateful he was that I had found you. He cannot believe that you were able to create such a perfect depiction of Hannah. Thank you so much for allowing me to work with you. We promise to keep in touch and hope that you have a wonderful summer! Sincerely, Ginger

Dear Melanie.
Just a line to thank you for doing such a lovely portrait of our Norfolk Terrier, Bronte! It really is her, a not just a Norfolk Terrier. Well Done. I gather that there was a certain amount of toing and froing of photos! I was rather wondering about all the photographs Chris was taking of the dog. Will be sure to spread the word this end. Quite a doggie crowd round here! With best wishes and many thanks for us all.
Wiz Dundas

Melanie
Charlie has arrived safe and sound this morning. I am absolutely thrilled with him and I know my Mum will be. What a surprise it will be for her. I will take a picture and forward that to you.

Thanks again Melanie, I think your work is incredible and I looked at many artists before deciding that I would like you to paint Charlie. Just shows I made the right decision! Wishing you all the best
Karen & Charlie Everitt x

Hi Melanie
I have received the portrait today and it has arrived safely. I am absolutely amazed at the likeness and from a short distance it still looks likes a photo to me. I am not going to show Paul until Christmas Day as although he knows about it I still think he is going to be totally gobsmacked when he sees it. It would have been nice to have got it framed before Christmas but it can wait until after when the shops are not so busy. I will definitely take a photo of it when it has been framed and send it to you for your website. I am sure Paul will want to message you with his comments as well. I cannot thank you enough and hope you have a lovely Christmas and our best wishes for the New Year.
Regards Donna

Melanie, Our portrait arrived yesterday and it is stunning! You captured Cooper perfectly. I can't wait to give it a proper frame and send you a photo of it in it's final spot in our home.
Thank you so much for creating a very special gift for Steve.
I'll be in touch!
Whitney Hi Melanie, my boss was very happy with his portrait, his daughter will love it!Thanks again Kristin.

Hi, Package has just arrived safe and sound.Thank you very much for a very well executed painting that has captured a perfect likeness of the cats Kind regards David Redwood

Dear Melanie
I am Vicky Redwood's mum and have just been given the wonderful portrait ofmy two cats. I just wanted to say a very big thank-you - it is absolutely wonderful and I am thrilled to bits with it.  You have managed to captureboth of them so well - amazing as we could not have given you two moredifferent subjects! It is sitting in pride of place above the mantelpiece where it willremain.Again, many, many thanks. You really are extremely talented. Kind Regards Rosemary Redwood

OOoooooooo my god, melanie!!! I got greedy and words can't describe how I feel about the painting--you captured his essence his being his soul--those eyes are his eyes and it makes me feel like he is with me watching over me and keeping me company again. I want to bring it to get framed in the am but I hate to give it up already!!!!!

I can't thank you enough and every person in my family who saw it raved over it too--everyone said "Now that is Greedy" they loved it. I can't thank you enough, it was worth every penny and more. I will keep in touch and let you know after its framed where I end up hanging it!!! And ill send you a picture of it!!!! Thanks so much again!!!!

Oh Mel!!!! It's absolutely brilliant just the way it is! I wouldn't change a thing; it's lovely. :o) The portrait is a gift for Wyatt's owners (I am just his breeder.) so I would very much like for you to mail it on directly to them. They will be expecting it. I forwarded the draft over to Jackie's eMail and she said it looks exactly like
him. :o)
Thank you SO very very much!
Fondly, Sue

Hi Melanie,
The portraits have safely arrived and we are taking them into be framed this afternoon. We want to make sure that we get them framed so in the event another hurricane comes we can load them up in the car and take them with us.

The portraits are ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS!!!!!! We can't possibly begin to thank you enough. They truly bring smiles to our faces. We will continue to tell family and friends about you and proudly display your artwork in our home.

Once they have been framed, we'll send you a picture so you can see the final product.

Thanks again,
Katherine & Shawn

Melanie,
I LOVE IT!!!! You have absolutely captured her – especially in the eyes. My husband is going to be THRILLED.
Best,
Linda J. Kessler

Hi Melanie,
I just got the portrait – it’s GORGEOUS! Thank you so much. I’ll send you a picture once it’s framed! You’re a genius!!
Best regards,
Linda J. Kessler

Hi Melanie!
The portrait is absolutely beautiful!
I don't think anything needs to be changed, and yes, you have captured Chloe's
character perfectly. Thanks so much!
Lydia

I received Toby’s portrait yesterday – it arrived in outstanding condition and he is beautiful! I’m knee-deep in packing for a trip to Hawaii tomorrow – I’ll write more when we return! Thanks so much – Hugs,
Marianne

Oh Mel,
I absolutely LOVE it! Its perfect! Thank you so much.
Everybody I have showed the emailed final image of the oil is blown away by it and how much like a photograph it is.
Never before have I seen such a wonderful oil painting. Even if it didn't mean so much to me I would be so amazed at the depth of the likeness and character you have captured. But its all the more special as its of my beloved girl.You have so done her proud! I never usually have a problem with articulating how I feel, but my goodness I am overwhelmed by these! Words fail me!!! Thank you so much. With much love and gratitude,
Rowena xxx

Hi Melanie,
Wow, this is fantastic! Now that we've seen this final stage we're absolutely delighted with it and think that the original decision was maybe the right one, and we would like to go with this portrait. It's just Islay to a tea and the colourings and spots on her nose are incredibly like-like! We can't wait to see it now, and hopefully you will get this e-mail before you go to the post office tomorrow. I'll let you know when it arrives safely!
Many thanks.
Regards,
Jennifer Bone

Hi Melanie,
Just to let you know the portrait arrived safe and sound this morning and is already hanging up in our lounge next to Homer! It's absolutely gorgeous and we are thrilled to bits with it. She looks very regal and the spots on her nose, and the detail around her mouth are absolutely perfect, and just capture her look.
We'll try and get them both to sit long enough next to their portraits and send you some photos!
Many thanks again for all your help and advice as always.
Best Wishes
Jennifer

Hi Melanie,
Yes, we are absolutely delighted with it, and the more we look at it up on the lounge wall the more we love it ... I can't get away with the detail of the spots on her nose, and you've made her straggly ears look fantastic!! The room just looks complete now with both their portraits, there was a space in the wall which has just been filled perfectly! By the way, I was having a read of your website last night, it's really interesting ... and Jenny looks gorgeous!!
We'll be in touch with some photos of "the family" soon!
Many thanks.
Regards,
Jennifer Bone

Hi Melanie,
I've been meaning to email you, but have been jammed with work lately. We received the portrait of our Labrador and could not be happier with the result! You have truly captured Bridger's beauty and character with your artistic ability! Because of you, we truly have an everlasting portrayal of her! Thank you again for all your hard work..........We will most defiantly recommend you!!!!! Thanks again
Jeff Berends

Hi Melanie,
The portrait arrived this morning!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you. We had planned on leaving Missouri this afternoon so I had been calling the post office every morning for the past 3 mornings to see if the package had arrived. When I called this morning, the post master said the package had arrived so we swung by, picked it up and started heading home to Texas. We will get together with Patti & Bill in the next couple of weeks to give them the portrait. I'll let you know how it goes when we meet with them. We can't thank you enough for all that you have done for our friends who have also lost their loved one. I'll keep you posted. Thanks again, Katherine

Hi Melanie
The portraits arrived yesterday and they are gorgrous!! Thanks so much - and thank Nick, too. We're really very happy with them.  When I get them framed, I'll send you a photo, if you are interested.  And I'll pass along your flyers to my vet friend.
It's been great working with you.
Liz.(Liz had a portrait from both Nick and myself, Nick painted their cat and I painted their dog)

Melanie,
You have such talent! Your eye for detail, color and depth is a gift from God. I have forward all the pictures to my mother and she cries every time she sees them. It is like Gipper is sitting in the room with us. Thanks for helping me in the grieving process and providing my a piece that will help me remember her for a lifetime! I can't wait to "get her home." Thank you so much for your hard work on this. Iris

Melanie, Gipper arrived today in the mail. I prepared myself as I opened it too cry, because I miss her so much. I did indeed cry not only because I miss her; but, because you did such an amazing job! I know you are told over and over you capture the pet and their personality so well, that's because you do! She looks so real...I wanted to pet her. You have a God given talent and you are able to bless so many people by providing them with memories of the little angles that have touched their lives. I really miss going to sleep with her by my bed....I can once again have her with me. Thank you for helping me remember Gipper! God Bless and have a Merry Christmas~Iris

Melanie
We were thrilled to see the painting
It is wonderful thank you & very much look forward to hanging it to have pride of place at home
Many thanks again & v. much looking forward to receiving the picture
Best regards
John

Hi Melanie
Mr.& Mrs. Sugiura just called us to tell us that painting was delivered to them today (May 18th) safely. They are far more than very happy with your work. Yoshie Sugiura told me that she was so moved by the beauty of the painting that she shed tears of joy. Jun and I thank you on their behalf for a splendid work you have done! They are inviting us to view the painting they now treasure, and we very much look forward to that.Thank you very much and best regards Jun and kyoko

Dear Melanie
Its beautiful , really beautiful , thank you so much.＼(^o^)／ We are extremely pleased with them. Thank you again. (^_^)/~~~~ Yoshie sugiura.

Hi there Melanie, I know you must be wondering if we received and opened the piece you did for us. It came, safe and sound, but had remained unopened on the dining room table. Barney's absence from this house and my life remains tender and raw. Knowing his image, rolled in bubble wrap and safe for the time being, waiting for me to reveal it took more "intention" that I was prepared to muster. A few days ago, with a bottle of very good champaign for emotional lubricant, we unwrapped our boy. Barney was home.

His eyes so clear, nose wet and tongue black spotted. I could even smell him. We cried buckets and buckets. Absolutely wonderful, we couldn't be more pleased. Thank you for being so kind and patient in allowing us to take our own pace with Barney's portrait. We have a place ready for him in the dining room and the background colors in Barney's portrait work perfect. Thanks ever so much,
Michael,(Barney's dad and Harmony's husband)

Hi Melanie,
Thank you. Izzy's portrait is astonishing. More than we could ever have hoped for. You have done a brilliant job of capturing her - it is a true likeness. The expression on her face and the look in her eye is Izzy as I remember her most - kind, loving, alert. A beautiful reminder of a lovely friend. Thank you once again. Will be in touch in the future for an Ozzy portrait.
Jane x
Melanie, The portrait arrived this morning which Kev opened at lunch time, gobsmacked to say the least.  He had no idea what I was upto and was truly shocked at the likeness of the picture to Tia.  He sat through lunch just staring at it taking it all in, think he was more impressed that the artist was in Wales.  Now I will just have to wait and see if he has remembered a pressie for me!!!!! Thank you so much again, Lyndsay.
Hi Melanie
Have just received my painting, It is so like the photo, you have captured them just right, I love it. Thank you so much Love and best wishes, Anna x

Hi Melanie,I saw the portrait you painted for mum at the weekend, it is absolutely beautiful, and the picture is so lifelike that the cats themselves have had to give it a second look! Mum is so pleased, she can’t stop talking about it and can’t wait until it is framed and up on the wall. Thank you so much, the picture surpasses all of our expectations and will continue to give mum lots of pleasure in the years to come. Many thanks Linda

Melanie ~ Just wanted to let you know that we got the painting placed, for now, on our mantle in our living room and I'm in total awe! I knew I loved it just from the pictures of it on your website, but actually seeing it in person... it's just amazing! Their eyes sparkle, especially Nikki's. We'd swear we could just reach out and touch Nikki... she and Scruffy look so vibrant. My husband and I are just thrilled with it!
Cheers,
Bonnie

Hello Melanie.
When I arrived home today my portraits were waiting for me. The portraits arrived safely. Unbelievable! I felt the mock-ups and final image you sent me were great, but to have the actual original artwork, and to see all the details up close and personal, is truly amazing. I can't wait to go out and look for the perfect frame to accent your wonderful artwork. Thank you so, so much. I am really happy with the final product, and will enjoy their presence in my home for years to come.
Best Wishes.
Carrie
Hi Melanie,
It looks terrific!  Maria and I really like it.  There's nothing we would change in it.  We're looking forward to receiving the original artwork and hanging it on our wall.
Joe

Dear Melanie,
Abigail has just arrived. We lost her just over 8 months ago and to be honest, I have had great difficulty in coming to terms with this, as I am sure you understand.
The portrait you have done for me is totally incredible and almost beyond words. I feel that she has found a way of coming back to keep an eye over us. I never really appreciated how moving a painting of a loved one can be - I have no idea how you have managed to capture her not only in looks, but also in character and spirit. We are so lucky to have found you and your talent. I am having difficulty moving away from the picture at the moment to get on with my day! I can't thank you enough for what you have done for me. I don't know if Pete mentioned.....we have two more bunnies......!
Thank you so much, warmest wishes, Juliet Long

Melanie,
Just wanted to let you know the portrait of Anna arrived safely. I couldn't be more pleased with it, she looks so real! Cheers,Glenn

Dear Melanie,
Your portraits and Patch and Sandy arrived today and I can't thank you enough. It is really beautiful and I know that Alan will treasure it very much. I don't know how you do it but did you realise that Patch's eyes follow you when you move about the room and its almost as if his face turns too? I was thinking about a mahogany frame, as Alan's furniture is all mahogany, but if you have any better suggestions please advise me. Once again, thank you so very much. Regards,
Ruth MacLennan

Oh my god hes beautiful thank you XX Debbie

Hi Melanie
Just to let you know that my husband really liked his picture and thought it was a true likeness. He thought at first it was a boxer picture that happened to look very like Brodie and then he realised it was him but couldn't understand how we'd managed to get an oil picture of him done. We just have to sort out getting it framed now.Thanks again. Andrea

Dear Melanie : Thank you so much for this beautify painting for Carlli, I am so happy with it, and I just show off to all my co-worker, everyone said that is a very fantastic painting, you are excellent, I am really appreciate you, I will share with my boy friend and Carlli tonight, I think Carlli will be very very happy, this is his first painting. Thanking so much make he so special. I am looking forward for the next painting. Thank you very much! Best Regard, Caroline

Hi Mel,What can I say................it is absolutely perfect in every way, you have certainly managed to capture the true characters of each and every one of our dogs, the picture just defies belief, you are truly a very talented person and I am so glad that I 'found' you - this will be the best present ever and one which I will never be able to match in the future.Thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart, its wonderful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can't wait now to see it for real. Dawn xx

Hi Melanie,
I received the portrait of Tess on Monday, and I am very pleased! Its beautiful!
I'm planning on giving it to Charlie (her Dad) tomorrow, I'm sure he will Love it.. I will ask him to take a picture when he frames it, and e-mail one to youThanks so much!
Wishing you, and Nick Very Happy Holidays !!

Melanie-
I received Jack's portrait on Tuesday, it arrived safely and looks great. It is so wonderful, and I just can't wait until it gets opened on Christmas Day! I am currently having it framed and I will definitely try to send photos of the portrait framed. I am also planning on taking pictures of it being opened on
Christmas, I think the response will be priceless from everyone in the room! Thank you so, so much for the beautiful portrait, I can't express how much this means to me. I also have horses and dogs, as well as riding at a barn in which there are over 30 customers who all are animal lovers as well! I will recommend you to all of them and hopefully they will be in contact with you for future portraits. Melanie, thank you again for your beautiful work! Shaunnah
Hi Melanie,
The portrait arrived safely and it is just so beautiful. You really captured Jez perfectly.
Again, thank you so much for doing this. It is really going to make my mum's Christmas. And I will definitely send you some photographs for the website, don't worry about that.
Thank you once again.
Rachel x

My portrait has arrived safely and I am delighted with it. Thank you very much. He looks very proud and handsome. I have got it propped up at the moment and will get it framed in the New Year.
Thanks again
Micki

Dear Melanie,
The portrait has arrived!I cannot adequately express my appreciation.I feel as though my sweet boy, Maximilian, is now here both in body and spirit.The resemblance is striking, the workmanship outstanding! You have captured his essence, heart, and character perfectly. I am forever indebted to you for giving me the opportunity to keep him forever close.We all still miss him terribly. I hope to put the portrait on his website with both (due) credit and links as well as soon as possible. I’ll be in touch soon when thats accomplished. I hope we can work together again soon for (maybe?) another portrait and some website hook-ups.Right now, I am just too overwhelmed..Thanks Again and Kindest Regards,Carol Di Bari

Hi Melanie,
Just thought I would let you know that I've received the portrait!! It is awesome. It's so awesome in fact that one of my other dogs Tulsa, saw the portrait up against the wall and growled at it, like it was real!!! So not only do I think you totally captured Ally, but so do other dogs! Ally & I just love it! I will be sure to send you a picture once it's framed and I look forward to order more portraits in the future!!
Shalah & Ally Instance

OH MY GOD, IT IS SOOOOOOOO BEAUTIFUL. I CAN'T EVEN DESCRIBE HOW EXCITED I AM. AND YES, KEEPING IT A SECRET IS GOING TO TAKE ALL MY EFFORT. THANK YOU SO MUCH. YOU ARE TRULY AMAZING!!!!!!!, MICHELLE" HI MELANIE, I ALMOST FORGOT TO EMAIL YOU-BEEN SO BUSY AT WORK THIS AM. WELL JOHN'S BIRTHDAY WAS LAST NIGHT AND I FINALLY GOT TO GIVE HIM THE PAINTING. HE COULD NOT BELIEVE IT. HE WAS THRILLED. COULDN'T BELIEVE IT CAME ALL THE WAY FROM ENGLAND. HE SAID TO TELL YOU HOW REMARKABLE YOU ARE AND I AGREE. THANKS ONCE AGAIN, MICHELLE

Hi Melanie,
I jokingly said to my father and step mother, that for my 21st birthday I would really like a portrait of my very first legally owned pet dog. My mother owns dogs and I still live with her along with Jaffaman (My Springer). Yet there is nothing quite like your own dog, the dog that you train and see bloom from a naughty scared puppy to a loving family dog. My Jaffaman was brought as an 8 week old puppy, he was very under socialised and needed a lot of work to help him feel confident and secure within his new home. I work with dogs within my job at the Blue Cross Adoption centre in Burford, Oxfordshire.

Over this three nearly four year period of being in my job I have worked with many breeds of dogs, but you can't beat a Springer Spaniel.This portrait of Jaffaman is extremely life-like, Melanie Phillips has captured Jaffaman perfectly. I wake up every morning and see my picture on the wall and feel so pleased and proud of my present which I can cherish forever.

A photograph is not as good as this picture, this is something I can keep on show forever. I have looked at other works by Melanie Phillips and all her dog portraits are very life-like and true not only to the breed but I am sure that as my Jaffaman looks so good that they are true to the original living dogs that she is painting. 

Melanie Phillips is a very talented artist and I highly recommend her to anyone who is looking to immortalise their pet. I cried when I got my portrait, I was just so amazed at how an artist could capture Jaffamans attitude and features from a few simple photographs. This is a 21st I can keep for a life-time, and a dedication to all my hard work that have put into Jaffaman to help him become the Ja ffaman he is today. Wendy Heather

WOW!!  THE PICTURE IS JUST SUBURB!  What a beautiful painting Mel - you've really captured them both perfectly - I am totally blown away by it!  I wouldn't want to make any changes to it all thanks - it's wonderful! I've shown Stephen and he is really really happy with it - he said "When can we get it!?!" My father's got 3 Bichon Frisees (spelling?!) - I noticed you've painted one of these before and she looked gorgeous so I'm sure he'd love to have a painting of them...his new addition is a Doberman!! Quite an odd group they look going out for a walk!! I can't tell you how pleased I am with this...thanks so very much, Love Alexia xx

Hi Melanie - well he arrived today I'm just speechless. He is beyond stunning. Just brilliant! There is not one thing I could alter. And I'm so glad I went up on the size as he is literally life size which I didn't realize he would be. It's like he's just sitting in the room with me. He's just beautiful Melanie - as beautiful as he was in real life - I could not be happier!! I'm a big sap and of course cried, but they are happy tears. I'm just so thrilled to be able to have this wonderful memory of him to carry with me always. He was such a special boy - there is not a day that goes by I don't think about him - so to have this to see everyday is just wonderful. It's just so very special.

I can't thank you enough of course!!!! :) so THANK YOU!!!
Kelly

Hello Melanie,
We received the portrait yesterday. It looks amazing! We are so pleased with your work. We will send you a picture once we find the perfect frame for it. Thank you again. Take care.

Sally Ward & Becky VanDonslear
Dear Melanie and Nick,
The portrait has arrived safe and sound and is absolutely beautiful- the colours are so rich and it is just like Sherry!! Thanks so much for getting it to us today, on the 21st! It was a great thrill to receive it.

Our present to Jess was the purchase of Sherry, whom she has had on lone for ages now and intended buying when she finished varsity and was working. She is over the moon now and it makes the portrait even more important! We feel really happy with the picture and wouldn't hesitate to recommend you- Jess has already been showing the copy to her friends at the stables!

Kindest regards,
Keith, Lyn and Jess

Hi Melanie,
That looks great, you have captured him well.
Thanks Paul

Hi Nick
I think my sister has beaten me to it to let you know what she thinks about your painting. I think she quite likes it!!! It was priceless to see her face when she opened it up - the surprise, wonder and emotion. She thought Nick's artwork was absolutely incredible - the light, the texture, the way he captured their little wet noses! The likeness and detail to the photos is totally remarkable.

I was particularly pleased that my sister was thrilled with Minnie's portrait (the black cat on the left). Minnie is my Sue's shadow, a complete "mummy's girl". She's not a healthy cat and in most photos she looks a bit bat-like, so that this has come out so well is worth more than its weight in gold.

And the frame - absolute perfection!!! Sue's husband thought that I had taken a frame from one of their mirrors! It works to perfection - love your framer, please do pass on my huge thanks and complements for a fantastic selection. Thanks again to both - it's been a pleasure!! Sharon x

Ffion absolutely loved the portrait! I'm not sure if I mentioned it, but Meg had passed away fairly recently. Ffion and the rest of her family thought it was a lovely present and a fantastic likeness. Indeed, everyone was very surprised by the attention to detail of the work e.g. the collar and the tag and all the little colours on Meg's paws!

Enjoy your holiday... you both certainly deserve it! Thanks again for everything. If you're still in the business, I'm sure I'll be contacting you somewhere down the line to request another of your brilliant portraits... maybe a horse or cat next time! Take care! Gwynfryn

Hi Nick,
Just to let you know the portrait arrived on Thursday but I have waited till today to give Dad his present as the whole family was here. We all think it is fabulous and we had a laugh when he realized he'd signed for his own present! Dad is thrilled with it. Thank you Nick for all your hard work and to you as well Melanie for all your help.
Best Wishes.
Linda. Brenda loves IT! We're looking into where we can get it framed. Just as soon as it is framed will send a jpg pic.....thanks again and will be in touch....Jerry

Hi Nick,

Just to let you know the portrait arrived safely today. It was my mum's birthday today so perfect timing! She was absolutely thrilled, it really is beautiful, thankyou so much! She is going to get it framed and then send you a picture.

Thankyou for helping me give her such a special birthday, it really means a lot.
Erin xx

Hi Nick, We cant belive the portait, its superb and our daughter will love it.
Best regards, Carol and Peter

Hi Melanie
Finally, we have the lovely portrait of our beloved pet, Maybelline, you so conscientiously painted, framed and on the wall. We are thrilled with the final out-come and marvel at the likeliness to her real feline being. Our friends have also commented on the realness of the portrait and the quality of the workmanship.
Thanks for the commitment to excellence.
Warm Regards.
Jack & Judy Cory
Las Vegas, Nevada

Hello Nick, We have at last had the fabulous portrait of our Lizzie framed and have attached a photo for you to see. The framer was brilliant, very experienced in pastel work. After looking through 15 frames and 20 boards I felt this the best combination for both complimenting the lovely colours of her as well as the velour.

I am absolutely delighted with the portrait. She now hangs next to our french doors in a corner not open to direct sunlight or near a radiator and it is aboe a corner where she would sit and watch the world go by. Everyone who sees it are breth-taken by the detail and beauty.

I cannot thank you enough for the delight you have brought in bringing her 'alive' to keep a watch over all we do. John swears she is frowning at him as she used to! Best wishes,
Lindsay & John Godsell

Hi Melanie,
Gail's mum has recently moved, and now that her new home is fit for decoration, she has put Sam's portrait at the focal point of her living room. The picture is a bit grainy but the frame is a graphite coloured wood, with light and dark border to accentuate the pencil lines.

Jean is just thrilled with her piece of artwork! She was really pleased when we presented her with it on her birthday last year, and knowing she would be moving she kept it safe before framing and hanging it. Now she admires it every day, laughing to think Sam was once that small!

Hope all is well with you and yours.
Best regards,
John Maclean

Just to let you know that Bracken arrived Friday afternoon and was admired by everyone in the office.She looks even better in the flesh. I will definitely send you picture after she is framed.
Thanks ever so much, Gill

Just had the picture back from the framers and had your lovely painting framed in a walnut frame which works beautifully with the colouring. She is now all wrapped ready for Christmas!
I will send you one other from a different viewpoint. Gill x

Hey you two,
Our picture of Herby is up on the wall and has been for a while. I’ve taken some pics, but with the flash and all, I’m not sure they really show how fantastic it looks. People have commented on the ‘photo of Herby’ and it’s not until they climb on the sofa and check that it becomes apparent that it’s actually a fantastic pastel painting.We are all very pleased with the final picture, although of course it also sometimes makes the kids feel a bit sad. We would all like to thank you both for providing us with our Herby picture, we all look at it every day.
Kindest regard,Mike Cork.

Hi Nick,
Wow, the portrait looks great!  Thank you so much!
Fei

Nick,
I promised you I would take a picture of the framed pastel, and here it is. Thank you again for the wonderful picture!
Fei

Hello!
Ted and Kate were totally stunned & speechless with it and had no idea, which was great, he hung it up straight away (which means he reeeeaallly likes it) in the main part of the house so I can see it every time I go up there :-))) Everyone who's seen it has loved it.

I printed out the almost finished photo of the painting and went with my best friend to play around with matt colours and frames before it got here, so the matt colours are oyster and a reddish brown, the frame is a very dark brown with red tones to it, even the chick at the framing place commented on how gorgeous it looked. Thanks so much, it's just brilliant!
Mel.

That's perfect, its Jasper to a T. Thank you.

I have received today, thank you it is better in real life than in the email, i will get it framed and send you a photo. Thank you very much this is really apprieciated.
Best Regards
Helen

Here are couple of photo's of the framed portrait. The lady you framed this was very taken with this and may be in touch for a portrait of a horse. Thanks a lot
Helen

Hi Nick,Just received back from the framers the picture of Oscar. I am sending you a couple of pics I would like to thank you again, everybody who sees it agrees its a perfect copy of just how they remember him. Regards Mike x

Hi,
Just a note to say molly's portrait arrived safely - it is beautiful and I am sure Neil will love it!
Thank you very much.
Best wishes and have a great Xmas. Alison
Dear Nick,
It is awesome, thank you so much! Nick has caught Comet's essence perfectly which was the most important thing for me. I was quite moved to tears when I saw it. Thank you again, this is the best Christmas present. I hope you both have a wonderful Christmas and all good wishes for the new year.

Dear Nick
The portrait arrived safely and we had the unveiling at mum's house. All agreed it was fantastic. Thank you again! Take care
Tina

Hi Nick, Received my portrait today – it’s absolutely lovely. Thank you so much. You will come highly recommended! Rachel

Hello Nick,
The portrait is beautiful - looking at it brought a few tears - you have
captured them so well - the frame is a perfect choice. As soon as I put the portrait on the wall, Blitz (Whisky's brother) jumped on the back of the settee to have a look and put up his paw.Thank you very much - it brings back lovely memories of the ones I have lost. Speak to you soon.
Sandra

Hi Melanie and Nicholas,
First, I am thrilled by the painting. As you said, this really more a portrait than a painting. I must admit to mixed emotions when I look at it, given the quick, unexpected and early death of Wilson to AHA. However, while my emotions may start with sadness, it soon turns into a smile thinking about all the good times and his sweet personality. I don’t know that you ever get over it completely, it’s just that the memories evoke more smiles faster as time goes by. I really can’t wait to see Carol’s face when she sees the picture. I’ve got a feeling it will invoke a bit on emotion for her a well. There was a basketball coach here in the US, someone you’ve probably never heard of (after all we don’t even play the proper football). His name was Jim Valvano and he had cancer while still in his prime. He was very successful and popular and before he died, they started a cancer research fund (Jimmy V fund) in his honor. ESPN televised an event establishing the fund and it was one of Valvano’s last public appearances. One of the things he said was: “To me, there are three things we all should do every day. We should do this every day of our lives. Number one is laugh. You should laugh every day. Number two is think. You should spend some time in thought. And number three is, you should have your emotions moved to tears, could be happiness or joy. But think about it. If you laugh, you think, and you cry, that's a full day. That's a heck of a day. You do that seven days a week, you're going to have something special.” I have a feeling your painting will cover her for 1 and 3.Once we get the painting framed, I’ll be sure to send you a picture (may take awhile as I suspect Carol will be looking for the perfect antique frame) Thanks again for sharing your artistic talent… I suspect there may be a PBGV in your future.
Kelly