Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney Rhem
Hi Courtney, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
With over 20 years as a celebrity makeup artist, my journey started at Bare Essentials, Dior, and MAC Cosmetics, where I developed a passion for diversity in beauty and honed my technical skills. Along the way, I learned the value of inclusivity in every shade and style, and in 2013, I channeled that vision into launching Waxx Cosmetics—a brand focused on celebrating all faces through innovative, inclusive products.
While building my career, I felt an ever-growing need to give back to the community that inspired me. This led to founding Glammatically Correct, Inc, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering under-resourced youth. I wanted to go beyond makeup, teaching young people the skills of the beauty industry alongside the importance of inner confidence and resilience. Today, Glammatically Correct is a space where young individuals can cultivate their artistry, grow their self-worth, and envision a brighter future.
This journey has shaped me as both a professional and a person, and I’m honored to use my platform to create change and inspire the next generation in the beauty industry.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, especially as Glammatically Correct has grown. While there’s a rising interest in our program, one of the biggest challenges has been encouraging the girls to open up and connect. They come in saying they love makeup, but getting them truly motivated to dive into the hard work that artistry demands isn’t always easy. Some of them struggle to stay committed when they realize the level of dedication and skill-building it takes to succeed.
Building that motivation and confidence has required patience and understanding. We had to find ways to inspire them, showing them how makeup is more than just a skill—it’s a way to express themselves and build inner strength. Seeing that moment when they recognize their own potential makes all the challenges worth it. It reminds me why I’m committed to making this program a place for young women to not only grow as artists but to flourish as empowered individuals.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a makeup artist with over two decades in the beauty industry, I specialize in creating looks that go beyond enhancing appearances; I focus on capturing the essence of a person or character. My work spans film, television, fashion, and celebrity styling, and I’m known for my ability to adapt my approach to suit the unique needs of each project. Working on film and TV sets, I’ve learned the importance of continuity, ensuring that every look aligns perfectly across scenes and maintains its impact under high-definition cameras.
One aspect that sets me apart is my commitment to inclusivity and versatility. From my early years with brands like Bare Essentials, Dior, and MAC Cosmetics, I developed a passion for understanding and celebrating diverse beauty. This has shaped my technique and allowed me to create looks that honor different skin tones, facial structures, and personal styles, which my clients deeply appreciate.
I’m especially proud of launching Waxx Cosmetics, an inclusive beauty line, and founding Glammatically Correct, a nonprofit that empowers under-resourced youth by teaching makeup artistry and self-confidence. Makeup, to me, is more than a profession—it’s a transformative tool for storytelling and empowerment.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of my favorite childhood memories is giving makeovers to my neighbor’s foster daughter, who had special needs. She was incredibly sweet, and I loved putting makeup on her, telling her how beautiful she looked. Her face would light up with happiness, and those moments were filled with so much genuine joy. It taught me early on how powerful makeup can be in making someone feel seen and appreciated.
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Image Credits
Some group photos were taken by: Zavierdeangelo
