Meet Briceson Buck-Ducharme | Makeup Artist & Cosmetics Executive

We had the good fortune of connecting with Briceson Buck-Ducharme and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Briceson, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I’m inspired by everything around me. As an earth sign, I’m naturally grounded and observant—I like to take a step back and really soak in my surroundings. When you slow down and become present, you can actually feel what’s happening all around you. Tuning into each of your senses allows you to find beauty in even the smallest details, and from there, you can create art that feels deeply connected to the world.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art lives at the intersection of transformation and connection. Whether I’m doing makeup for a photoshoot, a drag performance, or a client’s special day, I approach each moment with intention, care, and a deep respect for the process. What sets me apart is that I don’t just see makeup as surface-level—it’s energy work. It’s storytelling. It’s a shared moment of trust and vulnerability. I’m not interested in covering someone up; I want to help reveal something powerful within them.

I’m most proud of the spaces I’ve helped create—both on and off the stage—where people feel seen, celebrated, and empowered. From launching the Apocalyptic Ball in Denver to taking on leadership roles in beauty and mentoring the next wave of artists, I’ve always been drawn to building community through creativity.

Getting to where I am today professionally wasn’t easy. Like many artists, I’ve faced my fair share of imposter syndrome, rejection, and unexpected detours. There were moments I thought I wasn’t “enough”—not bold enough, not polished enough, not ready. But with each challenge, I’ve learned how to show up anyway. I’ve leaned on my community, my mentors, and my husband—who reminds me constantly that I am capable, even when I forget it myself.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that growth isn’t linear. Sometimes your biggest breakthroughs come after your hardest setbacks. And every version of you along the way deserves love and credit for getting you through.

If there’s one thing I want people to know about me and my story, it’s that I’m here to create with heart. My brand—whether it’s through makeup, drag, mentorship, or artistry—is all about transformation rooted in truth. I want people to walk away feeling more connected to themselves, more confident in their own skin, and reminded that beauty isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting LA for a week, I’d want to curate the kind of experience that hits every sense—sight, sound, taste, texture, and of course, soul. Most of my friends are creatives, so the trip would be about feeding their spirit, sparking inspiration, and creating space to breathe, play, and connect.

Day 1: Ground & Glide Into LA
We’d start with a grounding walk at Will Rogers State Beach—it’s beautiful, serene, and has history as one of LA’s queer beaches. After that, breakfast at Great White in Venice to ease into the city with chill vibes and fresh flavors. We’d wander Abbot Kinney for some boutique exploration and creative inspo. Dinner would be at Gracias Madre in WeHo—stunning plant-based Mexican cuisine, with a patio that feels like a whole moment.

Day 2: Museum Energy & Magic
We’d dive into the art scene with The Broad, The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, and then grab a late lunch at Farmers Fridge, right across the street. Afterward, cocktails at Redbird’s lounge or sunset at Perch. For dinner, Bestia is always a hit—elevated, exciting, and buzzing with energy. If we’re feeling adventurous, a lowkey hang at CutiesLA pop-up or event (if one is happening) would round it out with community warmth.

Day 3: Drag + Queer Joy in WeHo
We’d start the day with brunch at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker in WeHo—an iconic spot for a laid-back vibe with delicious food. Afterward, we’d stroll through the West Hollywood Design District, exploring galleries and boutiques that have that modern, artistic edge. In the evening, we’d head to The Abbey for one of the best drag nights around—this is a WeHo staple, known for its electric energy and iconic performances. If we’re still vibing, we’d head to Micky’s for late-night dancing and another round of killer drag shows. If we’re feeling artsy or adventurous, we could check out The Roxy for live music or any other cool event happening in the neighborhood. To wind down, we’d grab a late-night snack at Pura Vita, the first plant-based Italian restaurant in LA, offering a cozy atmosphere and decadent bites.

Day 4: Reset & Recharge
A full reset day: sound bath at The Den Meditation or a breathwork class at Open, followed by a nourishing lunch at Kismet in Los Feliz. A walk through Barnsdall Art Park gives us green space and art energy, and then a dreamy golden hour trip to Griffith Observatory—classic LA views for deep convos and quiet reflection.

Day 5: Aesthetic Overload & Queer Culture*
We’d explore LACMA, The Academy Museum and swing through Melrose Trading Post if it’s Sunday. For dinner, Bavel in the Arts District is a perfect way to wind down—lush interiors, bold flavors, and a little glam. After dinner, maybe a queer poetry night or zine fair at Junior High LA—an inclusive, affirming creative space.

Day 6: Eastside Vibes & Creative Flow
We’d spend the day in Silver Lake and Echo Park. Brunch at Sqirl—a neighborhood classic with inventive, seasonal dishes and a vibe that feels like LA art kid meets urban garden. Then it’s vintage shopping along Sunset, followed by a mellow afternoon at Echo Park Lake for paddle boats and people-watching. Drinks at Bar Flores, then dinner at Cena Vegan if we’re craving something laid-back. If we’re up for it, Silverlake Lounge for some underground queer performances or open mic realness.

Day 7: Soulful Sendoff
We’d start with a stroll through Venice Beach, soaking in the energy of the boardwalk and the vibrant, eclectic mix of art, street performers, and quirky shops. We’d grab a casual bite at Gjusta—a local favorite known for its artisanal breakfast options and laid-back atmosphere. Afterward, we’d explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard, checking out the boutiques and galleries along this trendy street, soaking in the creative energy. For lunch, we could head to The Butcher’s Daughter—a plant-based cafe with that classic Venice vibe. Then, a relaxing afternoon at Santa Monica Pier, taking in the iconic beachside views, or perhaps some time at Tongva Park for a bit of greenery. As the evening rolls in, we’d head to The Rooftop at The Bungalow in Santa Monica for a stunning sunset view and cocktails to close out the trip with that perfect mix of luxury, cool vibes, and coastal breezes.

Every stop is intentional—art, grounding, laughter, good food, queer joy, and connection. That’s what LA is to me: a place where transformation happens in both the loud, sparkly moments and the quiet, soul-shifting ones.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people who’ve helped shape my journey, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. I’m especially grateful for the incredible mentors I’ve had in both makeup and drag—people who saw something in me, pushed me to grow, and helped me find my voice. Their guidance truly changed my life. I also want to acknowledge every person who’s ever sat in my chair. I consider makeup to be an incredibly intimate process—one built on trust—and each of those experiences has helped me become a more polished artist, a stronger mentor, and a more grounded human being.

Most of all, I want to thank my best friend and rock—my husband, Aaron. He’s been my partner in life for the last 19 years, standing by me through it all. From helping me bring the Apocalyptic Ball to life in Denver, to championing me when I doubted myself, to encouraging me to go for jobs and opportunities I once thought were out of reach—he’s always believed in me. One of our biggest leaps of faith was moving to California to chase our dreams, and he did it without hesitation. His unwavering support and love mean the world to me.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bthemakeupslayer/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bricesonbuckducharme/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@bthemakeupslayer

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@bthemakeupslayer

Image Credits
Natalie Morrow 1st Pic
Davide Laffe 2nd Pic