Meet Bronwyn LeAnne | Makeup Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bronwyn LeAnne and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bronwyn, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
This is something I have struggled with a few times in my career. I have been doing makeup on and off since I was 18 years old. There have been times where I had to decide to give up at the moment because life was pushing me in a different direction at that time. I do wish that I hadn’t given up sometimes because I could be much further along in my career than I am now but I have learned not to have any regrets and that during that time giving up or taking a break was the best decision for me. Being a Makeup Artist is an amazing career and one that I truly love more than anything but it can also be inconsistent and unsteady depending on where you are working. I feel that the best way to know how you should keep going or give up is to listen to your instincts at the moment. I have taken a break before to switch working from one company to another or deciding to go out on my own. I gave it all up to explore other careers at one point and even focus on my kids but makeup always seemed to find its way back to me even when I wasn’t trying. I finally decided to listen to the signs and relaunch my career. This time with a fully open mind and opening up myself to all opportunities. It was at that moment that I knew I should not only keep going this time but recognize that I am finally at a point in my life where giving up is not an option.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart from other Makeup Artists is my personal struggle with autoimmune issues and my lifestyle as a vegan. I started struggling with health issues a few years ago and it was a real eye-opener for me. I started paying close attention to what I was putting on my face and I was shocked to learn that there are a lot of toxic ingredients in our makeup. Due to being vegan I do not buy or use any makeup that has been tested on animals so my kit is fully vegan. Because of this and my autoimmune issues, I completely revamped my kit and now I brand myself as a clean makeup artist. I am able to take clients that have autoimmune issues like myself or other illnesses that would normally not allow them to get pampered by a makeup artist due to the fear of what someone may use. I love making others feel beautiful and being able to offer this to everyone. No matter what, making sure my clients leave feeling their best selves is something I truly pride myself on. I also feel that I am very versatile as a makeup artist which also sets me apart. I can work on a wedding one day and then a music video the next. I love getting my hands on all aspects of art. I got to where I am today by deciding to follow my passion and this time jump in both feet and not give up no matter what the struggle. It is not always easy but I overcome challenges by taking things one day at a time. I have learned so many lessons along the way. I have learned that not everyone is going to like how I do makeup and my style may not be for some people but that is okay. I have learned that everyone is different and you have to be able to constantly adjust yourself for your clients. I have learned that in our industry, everything is always changing and new trends come up and so further education is key to continued success.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting me in my area I would first take them to grab a chai tea and breakfast at Milk Organics In Vista. We would probably head down to Encinitas which is my favorite place to be. Grab lunch at Plumeria, walk down to the Moonlight Marketplace, and grab some amazing vintage clothing. Catch a concert somewhere or visit an incredible art museum. Hit up some of the farmer’s markets. We have some of the most amazing outdoor markets full of food, music, and the best people.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have been lucky enough to have a wonderful support group so there are a few people that I would have to give a shout-out to. My brother was the first one because he introduced me to makeup when I was little. My brother Mark was an amazing makeup artist and watching him when I was little was life-changing for me. He taught me so much and always encouraged me to pursue a career in makeup. My mom, dad, and my other mom (yes, I have two), and honestly all of my family have always not only supported me through all my dreams but no matter what have never allowed me to give up. They push me to stay strong and follow my passion. I was lucky to work with so many wonderful people over the years from my job at MAC to A Style Concierge and Scissors and Guns. I was honored to work with some of the most amazing and talented artists in San Diego. All of my wonderful friends who have always supported me and fueled my talent. All of you truly accept me for who I am and have loved my crazy creative self endlessly and I will be forever grateful.

As far as someone in the industry. I have to thank MAC Cosmetics, Jeremy Harris, Michael Lee, and Pinky Dillion I truly learned SO much working for or with all of these incredible artist visionaries. I got incredible training at MAC and got to work alongside some of the best in the industry.

Website: www.bronwynleanne.com

Instagram: @bronwyn.pulchrify

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYVmln-EnCmOLFsEjclgTnA

Image Credits
Michael Lee and Lisa Marie Hoelstad