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Featured Member Caricatures by Marlene Top Performer

Caricatures by Marlene

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4.82 
(62 reviews)
  • Wheeling, IL
  • Caricaturist
  • Travels up to 60 miles
  • $100-125 per hour
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Voice Over Demo CD
  • 1. Voice Over Demo CD
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Low color, higher speed

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Media Overview Reviews Booking Info
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Overview

I create caricatures with personality for parties, events, advertising and promotions around the Chicagoland area and via the Internet. Each drawing is as unique as the person being drawn, so why settle for the usual big head with funky little bodies? My background in writing, voice acting and artistry will bring personality and fun into your drawings so that guests can take home more than a piece of cake as a memory of your event. Not in Illinois? I can create gift caricatures and caricature/cartoon art for the web via the Internet. Please note, I have a 1 hour minimum.


62 Reviews

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Verified Review
Joan K. • December 5, 2020

Fantastic

Marlene was fun to work with and with absolutely stellar artistic talent. We are a stickler for details and she came thru beautifully. Very happy customers we are! Bravo!!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thank you and Ho Ho Ho! Not a Grinch!

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Verified Review
Michelle Z. • April 10, 2017

Amazing! Great for Corporate Events!

Marlene was one out of two caricaturists we hired for a 150 people Mardi Gras themed recognition event this past Saturday. She was on time and very professional. Her station was a hit! I don't know how she did it but she managed to deliver great drawings and fast! We definitely look forward to booking Marlene again!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

You folks were awesome. Thanks for the great review!

Photos from this event

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Verified Review
Alexis • November 2, 2013

Marlene is fabulous!

Marlene was great! She is so talented and so patient with children. From the moment she arrived there was a line. Marlene stayed longer so all of the children could have their drawings, she didn't want to disappoint them, what a great heart she has! Thank you Marlene for helping to make X-Cite Night a great success!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thanks so much for your glowing review. It's means so much to me and it's what I love to do, to make people happy with the work I do, which isn't really work. It's fun!

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Verified Review
Maria A. • January 30, 2023

Awesome Caricaturist

Kids and adults had fun. Very professional and arrived on time. Wonderful work. Our guests were all very happy with their souvenirs.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
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Verified Review
Nicole R. • October 17, 2022

Talented Artist and Very Detailed!

Marlene was great at my nephew's birthday party. She drew every picture with details, colors and a bit of each of the kids personalities into each picture! The kids loved it and so did all of the adults. She is very talented and would highly recommend her for any event!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thank you so much and for letting me know the kids were happy with their drawings. That fills my heart.

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Verified Review
Isidora K. • September 18, 2022

Good job!

Thank you

Hired as:
Caricaturist
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Verified Review
Vanessa C. • September 12, 2022

Great entertainment

Everyone loved Marlene’s work. She showed up on time and even worked over time. Everyone’s favorite part.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thank you so much. This was an awesome party.

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Verified Review
Eva P. • August 31, 2022

Great addition!

Super fun experience to have at my wedding. Highly recommend Marlene for any event.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
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Verified Review
Brianna N. • July 29, 2022

SO happy with our wedding caricaturist

I surprised my sister for her wedding with a caricaturist. I am so unbelievably happy we went with Marlene! She treated all of our guests with such kindness and warmth and made them feel special with personal details added to their drawing. She was incredibly patient with all the little kids who swarmed her asking a million questions. We ended up extending our time with her because she was such a hit! Thank you, Marlene!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Aww, so sweet. This is what I enjoy about my work - the people!

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Verified Review
Phyllis • May 3, 2022

Naruto

Marlene is amazing. She was able to accommodate our Naruto theme in her drawings. Thank you for all your help again!

Hired as:
Children’s Party Entertainment
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thanks so much! Great kids.

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Verified Review
Aneta • May 3, 2022

Big hit at the party!!

Marlene was a great communicator, on-time, and very nice. Everyone at the party was amazed and loved having their pictures drawn. She did a great job!!!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
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Verified Review
Kerry D. • March 7, 2022

Great Experience!

Marlene was fantastic! We had a great day with Marlene drawing caricatures for our family for my father in law’s 70th birthday party! Marlene was kind, professional and patient. I would definitely hire her again!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thank you so much. It was my pleasure.

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Verified Review
Mike S. • November 3, 2021

Excellent

Marlene was awesome, she did a great job. I would defiantly recommend her to anyone. Her drawings were funny and enjoyed by everyone at our party. She was awesome with the kids as well as the adults.

Thank You Marlene.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

I so enjoyed working at Mike's party and it makes me so happy to know that I contributed to that happy gathering.

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Verified Review
Anna Z. • August 4, 2021

i guess i am the "lucky" unlucky customer

I hired Marlene for my kids' golden birthday so it was quite special to me. I was very excited and told everyone about it and she was the "it thing" for the party, especially since she would be fun for both adults and kids. I booked it. Same day I got a question about the address which was not in event details, as it does not ask you that when you fill it out. I sent the address. There is a message thread to prove it in case I also get the "there are 2 sides to every story." She did not show up.
I ask why she did not make it. I had 2 more quotes so if I knew she was not available I would have gone with somebody else and this really did upset both me and my husband. 2 years ago I had a caricaturist who mixed up her days. She said I am sorry this never happened to me before and that was it. Marlene first writes me, let me repeat-this is written-that she does not know how this slipped through the cracks and she did not know it was booked. And she can do a free caricature of my family. Ok, that's pretty nice of her. I did note that she wrote me a question so at that point something is already odd. How do you not know it is booked when you ask me for the address? And I have written proof that address was sent. I got no response about how she can't make that or anything. She told me there was no communication and let's put it behind us. Again, these messages show up in your account. I was done though. And then hours later she writes me that the address was not provided. I don't know why she needed another version if I was not pressing anymore, but ok. I wrote her about how it bothers me that she gives me multiple versions of why this happened. At this point I feel disrespected as a customer because she must think I am an idiot. Why not just say I am sorry and that's it. Why try to shift the blame? At least stick to your story, even if it has holes in it. I wrote her back and her message starts, "anyways." She has plenty of good reviews so she must be sweet and charming to most people, but my experience was different. As soon she heard something she did not like the conversation turned sour. I wrote her that I wanted to hire her for a job and that I pride myself on being a good tipper and good customer. Just saying because I am trying to anticipate how she will spin my words. I get the sense that might happen. This is probably a third or fourth bad review of my lifetime. I don't usually waste the time. But I do not appreciate when somebody can't just say sorry without shrugging the blame and then act like I do not have a reason for complaint. This made everything so much worse. I am just one person though. Just make sure she takes you seriously and shows up.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
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Verified Review
Kristen C. • June 9, 2021

Such a talent!

Marlene was incredible! She is very kind, great with kids and above all extremely talented. Our guests were thrilled with their caricatures. We definitely will be hiring her again!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

You're so sweet! Thank you!

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Verified Review
Ashley M. • March 7, 2021

Wonderful as Always!

This is the second time I have secured Marlene and it was fabulous as always!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Great party. Great people. Great fun!

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Karen S. • January 5, 2021

Don't Hesitate!

I contacted Marlene just prior to Christmas to inquire if she could do a caricature to include 3 people and a dog in 4 days. Luckily, she was willing! During the creative process, she accommodated me in multiple ways… she made ongoing revisions (my wish list went on and on) and sent several proofs to review (and re-review). The finished product was quite exceptional especially since she was working on such a tight deadline. Accolades and thanks to Marlene for her professionalism and talent!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

So glad I could make this wish come true. It’s a nice way to end the year.

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Verified Review
Beth • September 13, 2020

Everyone loved it!

Marlene was great, talented and kind warm friendly personality! Everyone liked their drawings and got to take them as mementos from the wedding.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thank you for the complement. I enjoyed sharing my talents in the lovely wedding environment.

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Verified Review
Diane R. • July 26, 2020

Top Notch

Marlene was great! Captured guests beautifully, but of course, with a bit of humor. Marlene stayed an hour extra to make sure as many guests as possible were able to get their caricature. Will definitely keep her mind for another event!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
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Verified Review
Roma H. • March 2, 2020

Great

Marlene was great! She even stayed over time to get a few more guests in which was so nice! Would definitely have her at another event!

Hired as:
Silhouette Artist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

This was a great party. I had a little time off when the belly dancer performed so we all had a hoot!

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Verified Review
Michelle P. • January 12, 2020

First Birthday Party

Marlene was great! She stayed longer to make sure everyone got a caricature done and she personalized each one based on their interests / hobbies. I would highly recommend Marlene for any event.

Hired as:
Children’s Party Entertainment, Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thanks for your review. I aim to please and stay on target!

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Verified Review
Bruce R. • November 15, 2019

Outstanding!

Marlene came to our event before the required time. She was friendly and very professional. Our guests loved the caricatures she provided. We would hire Marlene again!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

I so enjoyed working at this event. It goes on my favorites list.

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Verified Review
Ivy • November 1, 2019

very satisfied

Our guests loved her work!

Hired as:
Children’s Party Entertainment
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thanks so much. Always a pleasure.

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Verified Review
Marisa J. • July 30, 2019

Amazing, Wonderful, and Talented!

We hired Marlene for our twins 1st birthday party and we can’t say enough good things about her. Her caricature drawings were a huge hit! She arrived early and stayed until all the kids had pictures done. She is extremely talented and all of our guests raved about her. We would 100 percent hire her again! Thank you, Marlene, for making our party extra special!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thanks so much! You were all a great bunch.

Photos from this event

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Verified Review
Laura P. • July 29, 2019

Excellent Service

Thank you, Marlene, for your beautiful art! Our guests had a blast :)

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thank you! It was a blast.

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Verified Review
Dennis B. • May 19, 2019

personable,talented everyone loved her work

see above

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thanks so much. Your wedding was a joy to work at.

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Verified Review
Rachel O. • April 24, 2019

Hit of the party!

Marlene showed up promptly, prepared with lots of fun pre-drawn bodies like Batman and Moana, and got to work! All of the kids who wanted a drawing were able to get one before the time was up, as she worked pretty quickly. There were never more than two or three kids waiting that I saw. I only got a chance to see a handful of the drawings before they walked out the door, but the ones I did see, she captured a great likeness, including the birthday girls! Would definitely consider hiring her again for a future party!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thank you so much! It fills me with joy to know that the kids enjoyed themselves and had a memory to take home.

Photos from this event

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Verified Review
Maha M. • March 18, 2019

Great Job

Marlene did an amazing job with the drawings and accommodating all the kids. She did not leave until everyone had a drawing done. She arrived early and gave herself enough time to set up.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
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Verified Review
Sonya C. • January 13, 2019

Fantastic!

Everyone raved about having their drawings done. It was so much fun and Marlene was absolutely fabulous. I can’t wait to have a reason to use her again. My guests definitely wanted her business card.

Hired as:
Caricaturist

Photos from this event

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Verified Review
Abraham B. • January 12, 2019

Great job!

Did great with the kids and adults. Accommodated everyone, even stayed longer for the birthday girl :)

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thanks so much! It was a pleasure!

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Verified Review
Asrar K. • December 25, 2018

Was excellent.

Really great job in a busy party.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thank you!

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Verified Review
Kennetha A. • November 15, 2018

6 yr old Birthday party with incredible drawings.

Marlene was great! It was a big hit and they all loved her wonderful drawings. She even stayed over her time booked to draw all the kids pictures that were standing patiently in line. Will definitely book again and again!!!!!!!

Hired as:
Children’s Party Entertainment
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

How sweet! Thanks for the review. The kids were wonderful.

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Verified Review
Evan A. • November 6, 2018

Great!

Marlene was a huge hit! She drew our guests animals for them!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thank you. I had a fun time.

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Verified Review
Rosie R. • October 16, 2018

Great attraction!

Marlene was great! Most of my guess had a great experience and loved the drawings!!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thank you! It was enjoyable drawing those wonderful people who make up your family and friends.

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Verified Review
Khayla R. • September 30, 2018

Marlene was AMAZING!!

Marlene was absolutely amazing!!! I strongly recommend booking her for any event that you are planning. She stayed way longer than was booked and didn’t give any hassle. Thank you for everything Ms. Marlene, we will be using you for events in the future!

Hired as:
Caricaturist

Photos from this event

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Verified Review
Jane S. • September 24, 2018

Wedding reception

Excellent choice for wedding reception. Pleasant and a pleasure to have at our daughter's wedding. She was engaging with guests and her drawings were awesome, loved the color she added to the drawings to make them come alive. I would absolutely hire her again.

Thank you Marlene

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

It was a pleasure to be at your wedding reception and glad I could entertain those kids.

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Verified Review
Crista B. • September 9, 2018

Marlene was amazing!

Marlene arrived on time and ready to draw. She drew for 5 hours straight for our block party! She stayed additional time to get through the whole line. Her caricatures were amazing! Funny and cute! She even colored some that looked so good! We will have her again!!

Hired as:
Caricaturist

Photos from this event

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Verified Review
Patti S. • September 1, 2018

Wonderful

I was so impressed by Marlene’s talent and her speediness. This did turn out to be more popular at the wedding then I expected but she kept up and the work was beautiful. The kids were happy. The adults were having fun with it. Really a wonderful woman and talent.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thank you for the review. Glad to keep those kids happy and busy.

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Verified Review
Tiffany M. • August 19, 2018

Prompt and Professional

Marlene arrived and set up early and did a great job for the time we booked her.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thank you so much.

Photos from this event

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Verified Review
Kelly A. • June 5, 2018

Wonderful!

Wonderful!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thanks for the stars. You are wonderful!

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Verified Review
Stephanie S. • March 17, 2018

Fantastic

She did a great job. Everyone loved their drawings

Hired as:
Children’s Party Entertainment, Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thanks so much! It was my pleasure.

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Verified Review
Tatamia G. • March 4, 2018

Great, Great, Great

Marlene was nothing outside of great... very friendly, on time, and her pictures were beautiful. The kids love her.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Awesome! Thanks for the great review. Happy 1st birthday, Terrace.

Photos from this event

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Verified Review
Lea G. • January 20, 2018

Excellent Caricature Artist/Great with Kids

Marlene was extremely patient in drawing 20+ four year olds at my son’s art themed birthday party. The pictures were colorful and she made the kids’ personalities and interests come to life. For example, my son was drawn as a Mickey Mouse artist. Everyone loved and and loved their pictures.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

So glad everyone enjoyed my work. It’s what I love to do.

Photos from this event

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Verified Review
Marisol Z. • November 8, 2017

Marlene was very good!

Marlene showed up early and set up. She was very well prepared. This event was a fundraiser and my only regret is that she decided to do colors and a lot of details on the caricature which prevented more customers to get in. At the end of the 2 hrs, a long line of unhappy customers were left without getting their caricature done. I think it would have been just fine to do a black and white face to speed up the process.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
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Verified Review
Irene S. • August 15, 2017

Great artist! Very entertaining.

Marlene was great. The caricatures came out wonderful! She is very detail orientated, so attendees should plan to be spending some time getting each one done. Marlene entertains you during this time with great stories.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thanks for the glowing review. Yep, never boring head-only drawings. Each one has a personality.

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Verified Review
Karrie K. • August 14, 2017

Awesome!

Marlene was awesome. She arrived on time, ready to go. So friendly & personable. A really great addition to our company picnic. Everyone loved her and she go a lot done in a short time window!
Thanks again Marlene!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
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Verified Review
Yates • August 5, 2017

Fun night

Marlene was fun. She fit right into our family. Engaged folks in conversation as she drew which was delightful and made the time go quickly. Sketches are so adorable and captured all our personalities. Marlene is great

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Such a lovely family! They made me feel like a family member. I enjoyed my time with them.

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Kirk H. • January 2, 2017

Excellent Job

Marlene did an excellent job and was well received by adults and children alike. I must admit her caricatures were better than I expected and I would recommend allowing her the additional time necessary to add color as it makes the drawings pop. Good communication prior to the event, arrived early, and was able to tailor her drawings to our theme.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Merci beaucoup! It was a fun French themed party.

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Yvonne G. • December 18, 2016

Great experience!

We loooved Marlene! She was conversational and used what we told her about ourselves bio to make the caricature more Personalized. She also added a lot of details and color! We had a great experience working with her and we would definitely recommend her!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
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Verified Review
Amanda A. • December 16, 2016

Very sweet

Marlene is wonderful to work with. She naturally fits into the excitement of the party.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Aww. I'm a party girl and love to make people smile & laugh. Thanks!

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Verified Review
Andrew L. • October 16, 2016

Everyone praised her

Marlene is delightful to work with and does a fantastic job. Everyone loved her and praised her drawings. Highly recommended!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
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Verified Review
Donna H. • September 21, 2016

Amazing artwork!

Marlene does amazing, fun artwork. We hired Marlene to draw caricature portraits of children at a birthday party as their "party favor." The party favor ended up becoming party entertainment as well since the kids loved watching the creation and seeing the finished art! Marlene did great personalizing each caricature as she asked the kids about their interests and incorporated it into the caricature. She was very courteous and professional. Just a heads up that you will need to include the set-up time as part of the cost. Thank you, Marlene, for a great experience!

Hired as:
Children’s Party Entertainment, Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Actually, there is no charge for set-up time. I take about 15 min. or less and then away we go.I watch my time with my cellphone nearby and begin the billing time when I begin drawing. If there was an error, let me know.

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Verified Review
Joanne L. • September 12, 2016

disappointing

Marlene is a very good artist...but that is the only positive!! I had a terrible experience..she was not available after my original contact and booking!!..It was only after I called GigSalad rep..that I heard from her a couple of days before my event!!. I fully believe she had NO INTENTION of honoring her commitment to my event...and she told me at that time she had another "gig" and would only be able to stay 2 hours!! I NEVER said I wanted her for only 2 hours..she told me that was 2 hours minimum.!! I had told her I would tell her once the invitations had been sent out and we had a head count!! When I booked her I had not even sent out invitations!! In addition she arrived before the arranged time( dinner was still being served!!) so she could leave to go to her other event!! MORE the half of my guests did not get drawn!!! I was soooo upset!..SO DISAPPOINTED!!! I totally would NEVER recommend her!! She totally spoiled my sisters 80th birthday!!..I HOPE SHE made a lot of money on that second gig!! because that is all she cared about!!! NOT VERY PROFESSIONAL!!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

There are two sides to every story.

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Verified Review
Paul M. • August 21, 2016

Engagement!

Unbelievable!! Simple to plan out surprise engagement! Marlene was extremely prompt, caring, talkative, inexpensive, and totally worth every penny!!! Her drawing was very good and she spent a lot of time on the creativity and detail!!

Thank you Marlene and best wishes in your future!!

Sincerely,
Paul & Jennifer (soon to be) McSkimming
❤️❤️❤️

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thank you so much and I'm so happy that I could be part of your memory. May you have a wonderful life together!

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Verified Review
Robert Z. • August 8, 2016

Caricatures By Marlene was a smashing success

Marlene came early and was very flexible with her starting time as the crowd arrived late. Her drawings were very funny and humorous but not over board like some I have seen. I would book her in the future for sure.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thanks Robert. I enjoyed the crowd and the block party and was glad to be part of the fun.

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Verified Review
Raj • July 4, 2016

Really good!

Excellent work.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Thanks so much, Raj. It was a pleasure drawing at your adorable son's party.

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Verified Review
Pier L. • December 29, 2014

Marlene Rocks!

This was the first time we booked a caricaturist and Marlene was the absolute best. We had a big family Christmas party and Marlene jumped in and did caricatures of the whole gang one by one. Everyone was delighted and she ended up staying at least two hours longer than booked! We would love to see Marlene again!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
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Sandy H. • August 3, 2013

Great experience!!

Marlene was fantastic! We have six kids, but we only had four with us. I've always wanted a caricature of all of them together. I happened to have a snapshot of the absent ones and she worked them into the zany family potrait. She laughed and joked with the kids while she worked. They had a great time and at the end, we had a wonderful picture.

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Evan S. • April 9, 2013

Truly Captures the Spirit of the Subject!

I have used Marlene for caricatures on two occasions and she does remarkable work, bringing out the humor and personality of her subjects. I would recommend her for any event that requires a quality artist who works quickly and creatively.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
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Laurie H. • April 9, 2013

Great Work!

We had Marlene work at our annual martini party and the guests loved her work. She brought in elements of our theme and really captured the fun of each persons face.
If we do this type of entertainment again we will certainly work with her again.
We've also contracted her services for a special award where we wanted a touch of whimsy. The end result was fantastic and full of wonderful little details.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
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Brandee T. • April 9, 2013

Loved by kids of "all ages"

I hired Marlene for a birthday party for my grandkids. She set up planning on working with caricatures for the kids, and ended up drawing for most every adult there as well. Of course, all of the kids loved her and the idea was so very different for a birthday party, so she was the big hit. Even our grandparents had their pictures drawn and absolutely loved it!

Hired as:
Caricaturist
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Lori B. • April 9, 2013

Marlene's Work is Witty and Memorable

We first met Marlene at a festival several years back, and since then have sought her out to do additional caricatures for us, which now hang proudly on our walls. Her work is distinctive not only for her excellent artwork, but also for the wit and good humor she brings to each subject. Her art stands above the norm, and I've confidently recommended her to others for their events and parties.

Hired as:
Caricaturist
Caricatures by Marlene

Response from Caricatures by Marlene:

Oh my. Finally saw this after so many years. Thank you.

+ 58 More Reviews

Write a Review

Booking Info

  • Profile
  • Calendar
  • Testimonials
  • Setup Requirements

Price Range: $100-125 per hour

Languages: English

Insurance: $10 - I have liability insurance through K and K Insurance.

Phone Number: Call

About

Caricatures or voice overs - it's all about communicating an idea! View my samples and listen to the audio demo available at this site.

With a background in art education and a diverse art background in graphics & illustration, and scriptwriting and voice acting for puppetry, I like to bring a lot to the table when doing my caricatures. I graduated with a degree in art education from Southern Illinois University at a time when art teaching jobs were scarce, so my path took off in a different direction, and while I do cartoon and caricature workshops and presentations, working with the public is what I love and caricatures are what I do. I have a working background in production and advertising art and illustration and have some book illustration to my credits. I've done my time serving on the board of the Graphic Artists Guild of Chicago as treasurer and served 2 years as treasurer of the National Caricaturist Network (people trust me with their money) and today bring my own brand of family-friendly humor to my caricature work around the Chicagoland area and even into Wisconsin.

Additional Booking Notes

I just need a table and chairs near an electrical outlet for my tabletop lamp should the room be dimly lit or we are working outdoors in the evening. My minimum booking time is 1 hour for events that are 20 miles from me and my minimum is 2 hours for further distances.

Services Offered

Caricaturist Children’s Party Entertainment Silhouette Artist Voice Actor

Upcoming Booked Events

April 15, 2023 • 2:00pm - 5:00pm Children’s Birthday Party
May 13, 2023 • 5:00pm - 8:00pm Personal Occasion
May 27, 2023 • 5:30pm - 10:00pm Wedding Reception

Past Booked Events

March 25, 2023 • 5:30pm - 8:30pm Birthday Party
March 18, 2023 • 3:00pm - 5:00pm Children’s Birthday Party
March 11, 2023 • 3:00pm - 7:00pm Nonprofit Event
January 28, 2023 • 1:30pm - 3:00pm Children’s Birthday Party
December 03, 2022 • 6:00pm - 8:00pm Personal Occasion
October 15, 2022 • 5:30pm - 7:30pm Children’s Birthday Party
October 08, 2022 • 12:30pm - 2:00pm Children’s Birthday Party
September 17, 2022 • 1:00pm - 2:30pm Religious Celebration
September 11, 2022 • 12:30pm - 3:00pm Teen Birthday Party
September 10, 2022 • 4:30pm - 6:30pm Birthday Party
August 27, 2022 • 8:00pm - 10:30pm Wedding Reception
August 27, 2022 • 10:00am - 2:00pm Retirement Community Event
August 06, 2022 • 11:30am - 2:00pm Fair
July 30, 2022 • 1:30pm - 3:30pm Festival
July 28, 2022 • 1:30pm - 3:00pm Festival
July 23, 2022 • 1:30pm - 4:00pm Wedding Reception
July 17, 2022 • 12:30pm - 2:30pm Children’s Birthday Party
June 30, 2022 • 10:00am - 2:00pm Corporate Event
May 07, 2022 • 2:00pm - 3:30pm Children’s Birthday Party
May 01, 2022 • 3:30pm - 5:00pm Children’s Birthday Party
April 30, 2022 • 3:00pm - 4:00pm Religious Celebration
March 06, 2022 • 1:00pm - 3:00pm Birthday Party
November 27, 2021 • 5:00pm - 6:30pm House Party
November 20, 2021 • 6:00pm - 9:00pm Wedding Reception
October 30, 2021 • 6:00pm - 10:00pm House Party
September 04, 2021 • 6:00pm - 10:00pm Quinceañera
September 04, 2021 • 1:30pm - 4:00pm Children’s Birthday Party
August 28, 2021 • 7:30pm - 9:30pm Wedding Reception
August 14, 2021 • 6:00pm - 9:00pm Wedding Reception
August 14, 2021 • 1:00pm - 3:00pm Campus Event
August 01, 2021 • 2:00pm - 5:00pm Children’s Birthday Party
July 24, 2021 • 9:00pm - 11:00pm Birthday Party
July 04, 2021 • 6:00pm - 9:00pm Wedding Reception
July 03, 2021 • 7:30pm - 10:30pm Wedding Reception
June 26, 2021 • 5:00pm - 7:00pm House Party
June 26, 2021 • 2:00pm - 2:45pm Children’s Birthday Party
June 05, 2021 • 4:00pm - 5:00pm Children’s Birthday Party
March 06, 2021 • 7:00pm - 9:00pm Birthday Party
December 01, 2020 • 6:00pm - 7:00pm Surprise
October 10, 2020 • 5:30pm - 7:30pm Wedding Reception
September 12, 2020 • 3:30pm - 4:30pm Wedding Reception
July 26, 2020 • 12:00pm - 2:00pm Bridal Shower
July 25, 2020 • 2:00pm - 4:00pm Graduation
May 12, 2020 • 6:00pm - 6:30pm Birthday Party
March 07, 2020 • 6:00pm - 8:00pm Birthday Party
March 01, 2020 • 4:00pm - 5:30pm Nonprofit Event
February 29, 2020 • 1:00pm - 4:00pm Bridal Shower
January 18, 2020 • 6:00pm - 8:00pm Launch Party
January 11, 2020 • 4:30pm - 6:30pm Children's Birthday Party
December 22, 2019 • 1:00pm - 2:00pm Children's Birthday Party
December 19, 2019 • 4:00pm - 6:00pm Cocktail Party
December 13, 2019 • 5:30pm - 8:00pm Christmas Party
December 05, 2019 • 5:30pm - 9:30pm Christmas Party
November 14, 2019 • 7:00pm - 10:00pm Fundraiser
October 26, 2019 • 2:30pm - 4:00pm Children's Birthday Party
October 19, 2019 • 6:00pm - 8:00pm Children's Birthday Party
July 28, 2019 • 5:00pm - 7:00pm Children's Birthday Party
July 27, 2019–July 28, 2019 • 9:00pm - 12:00am Wedding Reception
July 27, 2019 • 3:30pm - 5:00pm Wedding Cocktail Hour
June 29, 2019 • 6:00pm - 7:30pm Children's Birthday Party
June 29, 2019 • 3:00pm - 7:00pm Children's Birthday Party
June 22, 2019 • 7:00pm - 11:00pm Wedding Reception
June 08, 2019 • 3:00pm - 5:00pm Festival
May 18, 2019 • 7:30pm - 10:00pm Wedding Reception
April 20, 2019 • 3:00pm - 5:00pm Children's Birthday Party
April 16, 2019 • 4:00pm - 6:00pm Corporate Event
March 16, 2019 • 4:00pm - 5:30pm Children's Birthday Party
January 12, 2019 • 7:30pm - 9:30pm Birthday Party
January 06, 2019 • 12:30pm - 1:30pm Children's Birthday Party
December 31, 2018 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm Children's Birthday Party
December 30, 2018 • 4:00pm - 6:00pm Children's Birthday Party
December 22, 2018 • 8:30pm - 11:30pm Children's Birthday Party
December 11, 2018 • 7:00pm - 9:30pm Christmas Party
December 02, 2018 • 2:00pm - 4:00pm Children's Birthday Party
November 17, 2018 • 6:00pm - 10:00pm Christmas Party
November 10, 2018 • 1:30pm - 2:30pm Children's Birthday Party
November 03, 2018 • 7:00pm - 9:00pm Convention/Trade Show
October 13, 2018 • 2:00pm - 4:00pm Children's Birthday Party
October 06, 2018 • 6:00pm - 7:30pm Teen's Birthday Party
September 29, 2018 • 3:30pm - 5:00pm Children's Birthday Party
September 22, 2018 • 7:30pm - 10:30pm Wedding Reception
September 08, 2018 • 5:00pm - 8:00pm Holiday Party
August 30, 2018 • 6:00pm - 9:00pm Corporate Event
August 18, 2018 • 7:00pm - 8:30pm Anniversary Party
August 13, 2018 • 5:00pm - 7:00pm Corporate Event
August 11, 2018 • 6:00pm - 10:00pm Wedding Reception
July 28, 2018 • 12:30pm - 1:15pm Children's Birthday Party
July 14, 2018 • 7:00pm - 9:00pm Children's Birthday Party
July 04, 2018 • 2:00pm - 4:00pm Holiday Party
May 15, 2018 • 7:00pm - 8:30pm Cocktail Party
April 14, 2018 • 6:30pm - 7:30pm Fundraiser
April 14, 2018 • 3:30pm - 5:00pm Children's Birthday Party
March 11, 2018 • 1:00pm - 3:00pm Children's Birthday Party
March 03, 2018 • 3:00pm - 5:00pm Children's Birthday Party
January 20, 2018 • 2:00pm - 4:00pm Children's Birthday Party
December 01, 2017 • 6:30pm - 8:30pm Birthday (Child)
November 04, 2017 • 7:00pm - 9:00pm Festival
August 12, 2017 • 8:00pm - 10:30pm Birthday (Adult)
August 11, 2017 • 11:30am - 1:30pm Corporate Event
August 04, 2017 • 6:30pm - 8:00pm Birthday (Adult)
June 30, 2017 • 2:00pm - 4:00pm Surprise
April 08, 2017 • 6:30pm - 9:30pm Corporate Event
April 02, 2017 • 5:30pm - 7:30pm Birthday (Child)
February 18, 2017 • 3:00pm - 4:30pm Birthday (Child)
December 31, 2016 • 6:00pm - 8:00pm Birthday (Child)
December 17, 2016 • 6:00pm - 7:00pm Holiday Party (Christmas)
December 10, 2016 • 7:00pm - 11:00pm Holiday Party (Christmas)
October 30, 2016 • 2:00pm - 5:00pm Holiday Party (Halloween)
October 08, 2016 • 5:00pm - 7:00pm Birthday (Child)
August 28, 2016 • 5:00pm - 7:00pm Birthday (Adult)
August 20, 2016 • 3:30pm - 5:30pm Birthday (Child)
August 19, 2016 • 8:30pm - 10:30pm Wedding Engagement
August 06, 2016 • 2:00pm - 4:00pm House Party
July 30, 2016 House Party
July 03, 2016 • 7:00pm - 9:30pm Birthday (Child)
July 02, 2016 • 5:30pm - 8:30pm Birthday (Adult)
April 16, 2016 Anniversary Party
February 13, 2016 Dinner Party
October 10, 2015 Bar/Bat Mitzvah Party
September 26, 2015 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm Waukegan, IL
September 23, 2015 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm DeKalb, IL
September 20, 2015 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm Rolling Meadows, IL
September 19, 2015 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm Spring Grove, IL
September 18, 2015 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm Evanston, IL
September 14, 2015 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm Evanston, IL
September 14, 2015 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm Macomb, IL
September 12, 2015 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm Forest Preserve in Chicago
September 05, 2015 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm Oak Brook, IL
September 03, 2015 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm Schaumberg, IL
September 02, 2015 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm Schaumberg, IL
August 22, 2015 Nonprofit Event
August 18, 2015 Corporate Event
June 25, 2015 Corporate Event
December 28, 2014 Holiday Party
September 27, 2014 Birthday Party
May 31, 2014 Birthday Party
May 24, 2014 Birthday Party
April 26, 2014 Other
February 09, 2014 Bar/Bat Mitzvah Party
October 31, 2013 Halloween Party
January 12, 2013 Birthday Party

View More

Setup Requirements

A table and chairs near an electrical outlet if the room is dim. Outdoors, I need to be in the shade.

Testimonials

Marlene did a spectacular job at my son's 1st birthday party. We had over 24 children and she provided each one of them with a portrait that they all enjoyed. Marlene went above and beyond bringing cowboy themed pictures that went along with Nico's theme. We have had her at three family parties this year alone and everytime we are never disappointed. We are looking forward to seeing her again at a another family party in the future!!

-Kimberly

– Kimberly L.

I just wanted to let you know how happy we at United Alloy were with you in making our 10 year celebration a huge success. I would highly reccomend you to anyone who needs a great artist and just wonderful personality for thier event. Thank you Marlene!

– Karen S.

"We wanted to thank you again for lending your considerable talent to helping us reach our prospective clients at the Consorta exhibit at the Sheraton Towers on the 18th.  Thanks again for being so patient with everyone, and if we can give you a recommendation at any time, all you have to do is ask……"

– Jerry B

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