BLOSSOMING
Jay-lee
Nicole J
Nicole J
Jay-Lee Seymour is a Vancouver-based Coast Salish makeup artist whose artistry is defined by bold, dramatic, and edgy looks that empower her clients, particularly within the Indigenous community. With over five years of experience, Jay-Lee specializes in creating striking eye makeup and glamorous transformations that make her clients feel
Jay-Lee Seymour is a Vancouver-based Coast Salish makeup artist whose artistry is defined by bold, dramatic, and edgy looks that empower her clients, particularly within the Indigenous community. With over five years of experience, Jay-Lee specializes in creating striking eye makeup and glamorous transformations that make her clients feel confident and regal. Passionate about using premium products like MAC and YSL, she delivers not only impeccable results but a luxurious and personalized experience for each of her clients.
Jay-Lee’s journey into makeup artistry began in high school and has since evolved into a career shaped by both formal education and mentorship. She studied at the renowned Blanche Macdonald Centre and later received invaluable guidance from Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week (VIFW) and mentor Marlayna Pincott. These experiences have played a pivotal role in refining her craft and developing a distinctive approach to beauty that is both fierce and empowering.
Her clientele includes members of the Supernaturals modeling agency, Indigenous designers, and individuals from the VIFW community, among others. Jay-Lee’s work has garnered attention in prestigious publications and campaigns, including features in Vogue, Chatelaine, Aritzia, and Sharpie, as well as a notable appearance in a documentary about the opioid crisis in downtown Vancouver. Her diverse portfolio showcases her versatility, while her commitment to projects with cultural and social impact remains a driving force in her career.
Beyond makeup, Jay-Lee is an advocate for physical wellness and mental health, promoting a holistic approach that balances both personal and professional growth. With ambitions to expand her artistry globally, she looks forward to collaborating with international music artists and bringing her empowering vision to new audiences worldwide.
4o mini
SEEDLINGS
Chelsea Behnsen
Chelsea Behnsen
Chelsea Behnsen
I'm Chelsea Behnsen (she/her), a proud member of the Oneida Nation of the Thames, based in Vancouver. I’m passionate about helping others look and feel their best.
After five years in the esthetics industry, I took a break during the pandemic to stay home with my children. During this time, I completed a communications internship with Indigenous 150+, which led to a full-time position, and I also completed the I-CEDAR business program to further develop my entrepreneurial skills.
In 2024, I returned to my beauty career by enrolling in the Global Makeup Diploma Program at Blanche MacDonald and ACCESS, while also interning with Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week as a makeup mentee.
I specialize in waxing, laser hair removal, facials, and both gel and natural nail services. In makeup, I enjoy creating glamorous, skin-focused, and special effects looks. I’m passionate about natural skincare and hope to one day create my own line of products.
I’m excited to continue growing in this industry, blending my cultural heritage with my creativity.
Lindsay Tanner
Chelsea Behnsen
Chelsea Behnsen
Lindsay Tanner, born and raised in Vancouver, is a proud member of the Waywayseecappo First Nation, Treaty 4. Her passion for makeup began early, inspired by her love of dance and growing up in a creative, performance-driven environment. For Lindsay, makeup has always been more than just an art form—it is a powerful means of self-expression, confidence, and connection to community.
She honed her craft at the renowned Blanche MacDonald Centre and has since gained valuable experience interning with Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week. Outside of makeup, Lindsay is also an accomplished hip-hop dancer and has a deep passion for music and streetwear.
Whether working in the makeup room, the dance studio, or exploring new creative ventures, Lindsay is dedicated to empowering others. She is committed to enhancing, rather than masking, her clients' natural features, always striving to amplify confidence and celebrate individuality through beauty.
Cecilia Prince
Cecilia Prince
Cecilia Prince
Cecilia Prince: Indigenous Makeup Artist & Entrepreneur
“Through dedication, passion, and artistry, I aim to inspire my community and show that a better life is achievable.”
Hello, I’m Cecilia Prince, a proud member of the Nak’azdli Whut’en and the Beaver Clan (Lhts’umusyoo), based in Vancouver, BC. I am currently enrolled in the Global Makeup Program at Blanche Macdonald Center, where I have been developing my skills since February 2023.
My journey in makeup artistry began at age 16, sparked by more than just the desire to enhance physical beauty—it became a powerful avenue for healing, self-expression, and reclaiming my identity. Overcoming personal challenges, including alcohol addiction, grief, and the generational impacts of residential schools, has given me resilience and purpose. Through my work, I am committed to breaking generational cycles and showing my children that perseverance, passion, and dedication can create a brighter future.
Mission as a Makeup Artist
My mission is to not only enhance the natural beauty of others but to empower them and instill confidence. From bridal makeup to special events and cultural celebrations like pow-wows, I approach each look as an opportunity to uplift and inspire. Specializing in natural, elegant styles, I prioritize flawless, long-lasting results while embracing cultural elements that blend tradition with modern artistry.
Beyond building my makeup business, I am passionate about volunteering for children’s face painting events and women’s gatherings, such as bridal parties and pow-wows, to give back to my community. I strive to lead by example, showing that following one’s passion can pave the way for personal growth and community impact.
Training & Expertise
• Makeup Fundamentals
• Cosmetic Retailing
• Bridal Makeup & Hair for Bridal & Fashion
• Airbrushing
• High Fashion & Cutting-Edge Makeup
• Makeup & Hair for Stage, TV & Film
• Prosthetics Makeup
Vision for the Future
My goal is to establish a welcoming makeup studio where clients receive personalized makeovers. Additionally, I hope to travel, working on fashion shows, photo shoots, and with high-profile clients. Ultimately, I envision a sustainable business model that balances my professional ambitions with family life, enabling me to contribute to my community.
My Journey as an Indigenous Entrepreneur
Driven by the desire to inspire and uplift my community, my path as an entrepreneur has been shaped by both challenges and triumphs. Overcoming alcohol addiction and confronting the impacts of residential schools taught me resilience and the power of creative expression. Makeup became not just my profession, but a vehicle for healing and empowerment.
Currently, I am building a makeup artistry business that enhances beauty while promoting self-confidence. I plan to volunteer at community events, from children’s gatherings to women’s celebrations, fostering a sense of connection and joy. Through my work, I aim to break generational cycles, inspiring my children and others to pursue their dreams passionately.
Cecilia Prince
Indigenous Makeup Artist & Entrepreneur
Willow Auger
Cecilia Prince
Cecilia Prince
Willow Auger (she/her) is a Nêhiyaw Iskwew (Cree woman) from Bigstone Cree Nation, located in Treaty 8 Territory in northern Alberta, and is now based in Vancouver’s Lower Mainland. A passionate makeup artist with six years of freelance experience, Willow is set to graduate from the Blanche Macdonald Global Makeup Program in January 2025.
With a background in performing arts—including dance, figure skating, theatre, and film—Willow brings a creative and versatile approach to her work. She has contributed to the film What We Carry as a junior producer and is currently involved in several exciting upcoming projects while continuing to pursue her passion in the makeup industry.
Willow’s journey into beauty began in a small community where makeup and hairstyling were uncommon. From a young age, she felt a strong desire to stand out, embracing the transformative power of makeup to boost confidence and self-expression. She believes that when you look good, you feel good—and that feeling can fuel greater self-assurance and accomplishment. Her goal is to help others feel their best, whether through makeup, styling, or simply being their authentic selves.
In addition to her freelance work, Willow has had the opportunity to work on high-profile fashion events in Vancouver, Seattle, and beyond, including Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week in November 2024. She has collaborated with notable photographers like Autumn Pham, in-house photographer for Aritzia, as well as designers such as Pam Baker, Yolonda Skelton, and Copper Canoe Woman. She also had the honor of working on the makeup for the Snotty Nose Rez Kids concert in support of their “Savage Kids” clothing line.
Willow’s passion for beauty and makeup is deeply tied to her commitment to being a role model for the next generation, especially the children in her community. Having grown up in a small town, she is driven to show young people from her reservation that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. Her work is rooted in the belief that her success is not only for herself but for the generations before and after her, with every step taken to uplift others and inspire confidence.