Testimonials
Introduction
Throughout my career, I’ve had the chance to work closely with artists, students, clients, and industry leaders who value intention, professionalism, and the craft of beauty.
Whether through education, mentorship, or creative direction, my work has always centered around one purpose:
to elevate, guide, and empower those who choose to grow in this field.
The messages shared here come from individuals who have stepped into that work with me — in class, on set, through my writing, or within the educational resources I design.
I’m deeply grateful for their trust, their presence, and their reflections.
I promise to bring clarity, honesty, and care to your artistry — teaching beauty with truth, refining technique with integrity, and guiding your growth with emotional intelligence.
No overwhelm, no illusions — only elevated education you can trust.
—Jacques Besner, makeup artist, teacher, experiential designer and writer
Commentary from former students
Some beginnings feel like destiny. After years immersed in science, stepping into Jacques’ Makeup Art class at LaSalle College, felt like entering a new magical world, and within the first hour, something clicked. It felt like a doorway opening, like I had finally arrived where I was meant to be.
I’m grateful he was the one standing at that threshold. Jacques carries a depth that goes far beyond technique. With roots in Montreal’s drag scene and a rich artistic background, he brings history, culture, and lived experience into the craft.
He teaches with openness, kindness, patience, and a genuinely big heart; the kind of presence that makes students feel seen, supported, and free to explore. As a painter myself, I connected deeply with the artistic and cultural dimension he brought to the classroom.
Technically, Jacques gives permission to play. His way of mixing pigments, textures, and colors encourages experimentation rather than convention.
He guides without restricting, allowing each student’s artistic identity to emerge naturally and authentically.
Even after school, we stayed connected, and he continued to support my journey as an artist. Anyone, whether starting out or refining their skills, would be fortunate to learn from him.
—Amal Afoussi, former student LaSalle College, makeup artist, hair colorist & stylist, painter
In my opinion - absolute best teacher in the beauty industry!
With decades of experience and a heart full of passion, he continues to share his endless knowledge, tips & tricks, and creative artistry with all of us.
His guidance has shaped and inspired me and so many artists.
A must-follow for anyone who wants to elevate their craft and learn from the best! Thankful for having had the time to learn from you.
— Nastasia De Paoli, former student LaSalle College, National Education Specialist for Marcelle Cosmetics
Jacques is instrumental in providing a safe and nurturing environment for an artist to freely explore and develop their creative talents.
His mentorship and support have been invaluable in shaping me into the makeup artist i am today, and I am grateful for his guidance and friendship.
—Anjuli, former student LaSalle College, and owner of AJsens
Jacques Besner made a great impact on my life and career. Despite some challenges that made my stay in Montreal a little harder, he was always kind, funny, understanding, and helpful. I learned so much from him and improved my skills tremendously. I will always be grateful to him.
Want to learn from someone who truly knows makeup inside and out? Don’t hesitate — it’s really worth it! 🫶🏼
— Isabel Hoyos, former student, photographer and makeup artist
I wouldn’t be the pro MUA I am today without Jacques — I walked into Jacques’ class barely knowing anything about makeup artistry, and I walked out a professional.
The techniques, tips and tricks he has taught me are what shaped my career.
He showed us that makeup is truly a form of art and confidence.
It not only trained me, but shaped me into who I am today!
It was an honor to be taken under Jacques’ wing and I hope you too can experience this course.
— PAINTED BY ARIEL, former student LaSalle College, makeup artist
Jacques is the best teacher I have ever had. He pushed me to be the best artist I could be from day one and really gave me "la piqûre" for the craft even when my motivation was low.
He is talented, patient, thorough and now a friend and a fellow artist that I respect and value a lot. Whoever gets to have him as a teacher should feel lucky and really take the opportunity to learn the most from him.
—Philippe Hudon, former student LaSalle College, makeup artist
I attended Inter Dec College in fall of 2017 where I first met Jacques. He was my teacher for Fashion & Beauty Artistic Makeup & Master Class programs at Inter-Dec College.
I look back at these times as being one of the best of my life so far. Jacques was always so kind and patient with me, especially since I was struggling with anxiety. He never made me feel stupid when I had questions and would always help me in any way I needed.
He gave me the confidence as a makeup artist and encouraged me to start standing up for myself.
Even when I was having a hard time with co workers in my retail job, he met with me and gave me a pep talk to keep going. I love you forever Jacques! I thank the universe every day that our paths have crossed!
— Caroline Csabai, former student Inter-Dec College, hairstylist and makeup artist
Commentary for the Bridal Makeup — A Professional Guide
What an impressive guide! I wish I would have had this when I first began my own career in makeup! Congratulations, Jacques! This is such a complete, holistic approach to bridal makeup (and makeup in general),
You succeeded not only to prepare the budding MUA with every possibility to consider when it comes to technique and application, but also provide important, professional hacks which go beyond the makeup application and serve so well in the day-to-day. Your years of experience and passion for the craft certainly come through, bravo!
— Stéphane Côté, Digital Education Manager at MAC Cosmetics
I’m really impressed — not just by the makeup techniques (the crying bride and finicky foundation tips already helped with clients!), but by how comprehensive this guide is.
The business insights, client archetypes quiz, email and contract templates… I honestly think it’s worth way more than I paid. I keep referencing it — and I haven’t even finished reading it yet.
— Audrey, former student Académie Édith Serei
I had time to look at your book and I have nothing but good comments to give you. It's super well detailed and easy to understand.
I particularly liked the contextualization followed by your advice as well as the samples for the contracts.
When you start it's stressful and you can get a little lost in all this, so your book is really a good guide to help your students know where to go!
— Florence, former student, LaSalle College
WOW! So many useful tips, advice, and scenarios — you’ve done an amazing job. I’ve never come across anything like this on the market. This is the ultimate guide for any beginner makeup artist!
— Milena , former student Laurier Macdonald Vocational Center, current mentee
Ready to explore the guide they’re talking about?
Discover the Bridal Makeup — A Professional Guide in the Store.
Commentary from models
I worked with Jacques Besner on multiple projects at Collège LaSalle as a model for him and his students. He always made me feel comfortable, but what stood out the most was his incredible knowledge of makeup — something that was rare at the time.
As a Black model, I always felt safe working with him. Jacques made sure his students understood proper makeup techniques and always strived for the best results.
Expert is the word for him! 👏🏾🙏🏾
— Olivia Saizonou, former model and founder of Live and Celebrate
Commentary from former colleagues
Jacques is an artist through and through.
He shares his passion with such precision & clarity, which makes him a natural educator.
I’ve had the pleasure of working with him. He believed in me and helped push my career in the right direction.
I owe him a lot.
Thank you for everything you’ve done for me Jacques!
Sincerely
—Keven Chicoine Forest, former colleague at LaSalle College, Pro Business Manager at MAKE UP FOR EVER
Jacques is a fantastic educator.
Detail oriented and extremely knowledgeable. He can take any student and turn them into true artists!
I recommend him as both a mentor, educator and program formulator alike.
—Gabbie McGuire, former colleague at LaSalle College and founder of Gabbie McGuire Beauty
If you feel called to learn, collaborate, or bring this level of care to your team, you can reach me directly through the Contact page.