Professional Makeup Artist based on the Gold Coast.
Professional Makeup Artist based on the Gold Coast.
Bronte is a professional makeup artist who has carved a name for herself in the worlds of fashion, commercial, TV and bridal beauty. With a signature style that enhances natural features and brings out everyone’s best side, she’s worked with global brands, landed in the pages of British Vogue, and even had her handiwork appear on screen in the award-winning Elvis film.
We chatted with Bronte about how she got her start in the industry, the career highlights that still feel surreal, and the go-to beauty products she swears by. Whether you’re a beauty lover, bride-to-be, or a budding MUA yourself, you’re going to want to bookmark this one.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m Bronte Scullion, a makeup artist with a deep passion for all things beauty, fashion, and creativity. Makeup stuck with me from a very young age, I always had a creative flair, so when I decided to pursue it professionally, it didn’t surprise anyone. I work across the fashion, commercial, TV, and bridal industry, no two days are ever the same.
Some weeks you’ll find me on set shooting with globally recognised fashion brands, ad campaigns or TVC’s, and on weekends I’m often part of a bride’s most special day. I also have a love for travel, and one of the things I adore about this career is how it takes me to places I’ve always wanted to travel to, meeting the most incredible people along the way
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I moved to the Gold Coast from Sydney, in 2004. I’ve watched the Gold Coast evolve so much over the years, so it will always be home!
How did you get started as a makeup artist?
It all began in my bedroom, filming makeup tutorials for YouTube and sharing them online for years. That’s where my passion really took off. I jumped at any opportunity I could, doing work experience in high school, assisting makeup artists on the weekends, and practicing on my family and friends whenever possible.
At 18, I enrolled in beauty school, and shortly after graduation I moved to Sydney on my own to start my first makeup counter job at MAC Cosmetics. This was a major turning point for me as MAC was a brand I had loved and used for years! Working there taught me so many of the fundamentals that I still use in my artistry today. The following year, I took the leap into working full-time as a makeup artist for major projects and I haven’t looked back since!
How would you describe your signature makeup style or approach?
I would describe my signature style as an elevated soft sculpted glam, but it is really dependent on the face and what features I want to enhance.
I would say my most requested look is a dewy, bronzed glow, making the cheeks and eyes the focus of the look. I love to enhance one’s natural beauty, making them feel beautiful in their own way.
What are some of your favourite projects you’ve worked on?
A major project I worked on in 2020 and into early 2021 was the Elvis film. I had the privilege of working on this film for many months and contributing to its overall aesthetic. The days were long, sometimes over 10 hours, whether in the crowd rooms or on set. I gained so much respect for the film and TV crews, who work tirelessly to produce world-class results.
It was an incredible honour to work on a film that went on to receive major recognition, winning awards for Best Film, Best Costume Design, and particularly earning an Oscar nomination in 2023 for Best Achievement in Makeup and Hairstyling.
Can you tell us a bit more about your 1:1 lessons, who are they best suited for?
My 1:1 lessons are designed for the everyday person, wanting to elevate and perfect their everyday makeup routine. I also teach 1:1 Makeup Artist lessons, for artists stepping into the industry, or wanting to elevate their skill set.
In the personalised lesson, we will go through their current makeup routine, and break it down to see what they can change or tweak to make it easier for them. I like to demonstrate on one half of the client’s face, teaching them my techniques and tips, and then have them replicate it on the other side of the face. I then send through a tailored notes list of all the products I recommend and the steps I used to achieve the look.
With the makeup artist lesson, it’s a similar approach, but I like to take the time to talk through the skills they are wanting to improve on and how we can elevate them. I also like to take a look at any of their social media platforms and give guidance on how they can improve their content, branding and visibility, as a strong online presence is now essential in our industry.
And for those wanting to learn in a group setting, I have a masterclass in the works coming very soon! It will be a full day of education, tips, and all my go-to techniques shared in one place. So keep your eyes peeled, I can’t wait to share more soon!
What has been your biggest career highlight or moments in your career thus far?
One of the biggest highlights of my career so far has definitely been working on the Elvis film. Being part of such a globally recognised production was incredibly special and an experience I’ll never forget.
Another standout moment has been having my work featured twice in British Vogue, a huge pinch me moment. The features came from two incredible campaigns I worked on in 2024 for Sueur Swim, one of which I was flown to Sydney to be a part of. The second was shot on Stradbroke island last November, a photo from that campaign ended up on the front page of British Vogue’s Accessories and Swimwear section.
More recently, my work for Petal and Pup’s Fall Campaign was featured on billboards in both Seattle and Chicago. Seeing my work displayed globally like that was completely surreal. Another major moment was shooting a TVC for The Langham Gold Coast x Qantas, which went live as an inflight ad last October on Qantas flights. It was a two-day shoot with such a high-level production, another project I’m incredibly proud of.
And this weekend, I’m heading overseas to Vanuatu for a destination wedding. Getting flown internationally for work is still such a surreal and full-circle moment. It’s something I always dreamt of growing up, and now being recognised by both brands and clients on that level truly means the world to me.
Where’s the best place for people to see your work and book in with you?
For all commercial, fashion, tv and bridal bookings the best place to reach me is via email – [email protected].
For all event bookings and 1:1 lessons head to my website: makeupbybronte.com
You can follow me on socials here: @makeupbybronte.
What advice would you give to someone who’s just starting out in the makeup industry?
The best advice I’d give to anyone wanting to work in makeup industry is to hustle and work hard. There will be tough days, long hours, setbacks, or moments of self-doubt, but the key is to keep going and never give up. If you stay consistent, your hard work will eventually be recognised.
I also highly recommend connecting with other creatives in the industry and setting up test shoots or collaborative content days.
It’s something even established artists still do to stay inspired and keep that creative spark alive. Building your network and portfolio through genuine collaboration is one of the most valuable things you can do early on.
If you could only use three makeup products for the rest of your life, what would they be?
This is such a hard question, and one I get asked all the time! But if I had to choose, I’d say concealer, mascara, and lip liner. You’ll never catch me without them, they’re my absolute go-to products for feeling put together!
How do you choose to spend your days off?
I usually start my days off with a walk along North Burleigh – Burleigh, I always love to then grab a coffee from Tarte Bakery or a matcha from Next Door Espresso. Followed by catching up with friends or you’ll either find me at Mecca or Sephora (no surprise there).
Small wardrobe, big impact.
Curating a tight edit of pieces that you love is guaranteed to see your closet consuming less while, quite literally, saving you time, money; and stress on the daily.
Firstly, let’s get clear on what a capsule wardrobe actually is…
A capsule wardrobe is a collection of thoughtfully curated, easily interchangeable items designed to maximise the number of outfits you can create. These long-lasting looks focus on a quality over quantity philosophy, while streamlining your closest and embracing fashion sustainability.
But before you start culling your wardrobe, you must be clear on your desired personal style. Your wardrobe, (no matter how big or small), must reflect your style and be in complete alignment with your body shape, personality; and lifestyle.
Here are my five must-have items to build your first capsule wardrobe…
Depending on how casual, corporate or elevated your lifestyle is, a classic white tee or button-up shirt is the perfect base to any wardrobe. Simple, clean, timeless and will match or layer with almost anything; a white top will likely be your most worn item in a capsule wardrobe.
Denim as a fabric holds such great durability and adds an understated yet edgy structure to an outfit. Shorts, skirt or jeans; find the perfect denim cut and wash for you. Plus, this trans-seasonal staple can be paired with any colour of the rainbow.
A comfortably elevated option and a beautiful dopamine hit. A maxi dress provides an easy reach when you receive those last minute invitations, and can be dressed up or down as you please. You can opt for a floral, pattern or stick to a plain colour; the maxi dress requires very little thought!
Although matching sets may seem quite on trend at the moment, (and that’s not what a capsule wardrobe is about), the value-per-wear and versatility of a set is enormous. Wear each piece as a separate or as a pair, dress with heels or with flats, top buttoned up or open with a tank underneath; a matching set covers all bases.
So often it’s the footwear that can be the Achilles heel of a head-to-toe look. Many of us will spend time and change our entire outfit, simply because we had no appropriate footwear to match. A simple tan sandal/slide or white sneakers are a perfect final touch to the wardrobe. You won’t have to think about matching or discomfort, agreeable and versatile footwear is where it’s at always!
Words by Lauren Doogan
Creative Director of The Sculpted Look.
When it comes to creating show-stopping beauty moments, few do it with the artistry and precision of Nina. As the founder of The Sculpted Look, a premier agency of elite hair and makeup professionals, Nina has spent years mastering the craft of making people look and feel unforgettable.
From her early beginnings as a trained hairdresser and cinematographic makeup artist in the film industry to leading major makeup departments for national television networks, Nina’s journey is one of passion, precision, and dedication to beauty in all its forms. Whether it’s a red carpet appearance, a high-profile TV production, or a bride’s big day, Nina and her team bring a level of care, skill, and creativity that sets them apart.
We chatted with Nina to about her career path, her inspiration behind The Sculpted Look, and what it really takes to make someone camera-ready.
How long have you been a Gold Coast local
I have lived on and off from the Gold Coast since I was 18 years old (so a while now), traveling to different states and locations for work but nothing compares to the Gold Coast.
What do you love the most about the Gold Coast
The sun, the sand and the endless sunshine. It’s just magic. The energy here is inspiring and effortlessly chic, which is exactly what I channel through my work. It’s the perfect backdrop for beauty, creativity and living a life that feels as good as it looks.
Tell us a little more about yourself
By sunrise, I’m a pilates instructor, road runner and ocean lover. By sunset, I’m in my creative element – creating hair and makeup looks, from television, to red carpet events, weddings and sporting sidelines. Now, I lead The Sculpted Look, a boutique agency bringing high-end beauty to life for everyone to feel that sprinkle of glamour.
We’ve noticed you often use the phrase “Your Look, Elevated” in your work – can you share what that means to you and how it reflects your approach to beauty?
“Your Look, Elevated’ means enhancing your natural beauty in the most refined, effortless way. It’s about helping you feel confident, polished, and truly yourself – just with a little extra glow.
What inspired you to launch The Sculpted Look?
After years of working solo – from international bookings to iconic locations right here at home – I saw a need for something more refined. The Gold Coast has become a global destination for weddings, film, and events. The Sculpted Look is here to deliver high class looks in all aspects of beauty.
You’ve worked with everyone from celebrities to everyday clients – how do you approach creating a look that feels both personal and impactful?
Whether it’s a celebrity or a bride, my approach is always the same – it starts with connection. I take the time to understand who they are and how they want to feel. From there, it’s about enhancing their natural features in a way that feels effortless, elevated, and radiant.
What’s one beauty or styling myth you wish more people knew the truth about?
The biggest myth? That more makeup means more glam. Truth is, no one needs multiple layers to look their best. It’s all about placement, skin prep, and enhancing your features rather than hiding them.
What advice would you give to someone who’s just starting out in the hair and makeup industry?
Say yes, show up early, and always bring good energy!
What are your Gold Coast favourites?
Café: Anywhere serving caffeine (too many goodies)
Restaurant: Siblings
Bar: Nineteen at The Star
Beach: Currumbin dog beach, it’s like Disneyland for dogs
How to look after your skin.
Lauren Kate is a facialist, maybe not a term you’ve heard before, but now you have. Lauren opened her boutique facial clinic The Facialist (I see what you did there) in Miami in 2017 offering eager Gold Coast faces essential, clinical and luxury facials and well, she’s had a steady following ever since. In fact, Lauren is in such high demand, she is currently on the hunt for a new location to expand her popular business (when things return to normal). We caught up with Lauren to get the down-low on how we can look after our skin at home…
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I am South Australian born but the Gold Coast has been my home for 20 years.
What do you love most about the Goldie?
The landscape, the Gold Coast has incredible beaches and just a stonesthrow inland, a backdrop of valleys and rainforests, one of the most beautiful destinations in the world!
Tell us about The Facialist.
The idea for The Facialist was born when I was teaching skin science, I would see students come through my classes, learning about the skin and performing clinical treatments that they may not be able to afford to have themselves.
The Facialist is a space for all ages, all genders and all skin conditions where the emphasis is on skin health and self love, not sales goals. A beautiful space where you can have top notch treatments, delivered by advanced skilled therapists at a price that doesn’t make your eyes water. Whether it is a clinical corrective treatment or much needed me-time you seek, we have you covered.
What’s a good routine that I should get into for looking after my skin at home?
Keep it simple, Cleanse, Treat, Hydrate, Protect. Cleanse daily to remove pollutants and cellular waste, treat individual skin concerns with a select serum, hydrate with a moisturiser to correct and maintain the skin barrier and protect with SPF! A good Facialist can help you tailor your skin care products to meet your skin health needs.
Are there any food or drinks that play with your skin that we should limit/avoid? And are there any that are beneficial?
Absolutely! Foods rich in Magnesium, Zinc, Vitamin C, E & EFA’s are my favourite big players when it comes to skin, think dark leafy greens like spinach, nuts, seeds, avocados, mangos, lemons and bananas to name a few. And to limit, alcohol and sugar. Alcohol can cause facial flushing, pruritus, impared immunity and disrupted skin barrier function, and excess sugar attacks the skin’s collagen and elastin and has a causative link to acne.
I got sunburnt (oops), what should I do to not peel?
Sunburn is skin cells in trauma, the ‘peel’ that follows is the skin’s way of shedding dead, dying and damaged cells from your body. It’s best to let your skin handle this but you can speed up the healing with cool compresses and gentle soothing moisturisers such as aloe vera.
I’m starting to get some fine lines, what can I do?
Ditch the sugar and the sunshine! Excess sugar sabotages skin in a process called glycation, basically hijacking the beautiful proteins in your skin and causing them to become rigid, the UV Radiation from our sun attacks these same proteins. Skincare products containing Retinoids, a form of Vitamin A, are a great idea to throw into your night-time skin routine, Retinoids work to combat damage to the skin’s proteins and promote new collagen production, treating pesky fine lines and wrinkles.
Should I exfoliate?
Yes, but don’t overdo it. Skin cells naturally exfoliate themselves but as we age the process slows down, this can contribute to congestion and leave your skin looking dull. How often you should exfoliate and what with, comes down to your individual skin condition, it’s always best to reach out to your Facialist to make sure your exfoliant is right for you.
What’s the best option for getting rid of blemishes?
This is a tricky one, the cause and condition of the skin are important factors, there are tons of quick fixes however they may resolve the blemish temporarily but don’t treat the underlying cause. The best option? Call us.
My skin looks dull and lifeless, anything I can use around the house to look fresh again?
The best thing you can use around the house are your own hands! A gentle home facial massage will give you back your glow. Massage has many benefits, it will help to improve circulation, simulate cellular turnover, aid lymphatics and relax muscles, leaving your skin more radiant. Take care not to pull, it should be gentle with flowing strokes upward and from the centre.
What do you think is a must-have item for your skin?
SPF! Enjoy the sunshine, but do so safely. I prefer a good physical sunscreen.
(there is more on our blog on this topic: protection or poison)
What’s your best piece of beauty advice?
Your skin is a reflection of your internal health and wellbeing, diet and lifestyle have huge implications on your skin health, regular facials and a good skin care routine are only part of the picture. My favourite beauty advice is to ‘Feed your Face’. What are you eating, what aren’t you eating, are you getting enough?
Tell us your favourites on the Gold Coast:
Coffee spot: Hide N Seek
Café for breakfast: Caffeine Kings
Restaurant for dinner: The North Room
