There’s no business like it

Jennifer Ng

A freelance makeup artist is one of the most challenging positions in the beauty industry. It takes endless hours of persistence and self-promotion.  Jayna Bussiere, a Vancouver-based freelance makeup artist and hair stylist, shares what keeps her going in this competitive industry.

GLOSS: Favourite thing about your job?
JB: My most favourite thing would be that no two days are alike. One day I'm beautifying a bride and the next I'm "sewing" an actress’s mouth shut on the set of a horror movie. I love it!

GLOSS: Biggest challenge?
JB: Having an inconsistent income. It can be scary sometimes, not knowing if I'll be able to pay my rent or eat next month, but I just stay focused on doing my best every day and everything seems to work out.

GLOSS: When did you know you wanted to work in makeup?
JB: I was studying psychology in Kelowna and doing makeup as a hobby. I started getting so involved in it that I was neglecting my studies. I was online one day when I stumbled across the website for Blanche Macdonald. It outlined all the different careers and opportunities in the makeup industry, and I knew it was my calling!

GLOSS: Advice for anyone who wants to work in the industry?
JB: Never stop learning, work hard to promote yourself, and be easy to work with!

GLOSS: Who inspires you and why?
JB: My mom. She has a very successful home business as an aesthetician. When I was 10 she decided to go to school to do nails, and so many people doubted her. They said she'd still have to have a "real" job - whatever that is. Now she's laughing all the way to the bank! I always think of her and her struggles and it helps me to stay focused.

GLOSS: Favorite makeup trick/tip/secret?
JB: Defining your eyebrows makes a world of difference, and don't forget blush - the right colour in the right place makes you look happy and radiant!

GLOSS: Best gig?
JB: I got to do hair and makeup for two weeks of photo shoots in Hawaii. That was amazing. I had to keep asking myself "Can this seriously be considered work?!”

Jayna Bussier: www.jaynamarie.com