Matthew Payton-Downey

In all honesty, I think I knew I wanted to pursue a career in the beauty industry back in the early 90's. I accompanied my aunt to her salon, and it was a fascinating, magical place. I excitedly told my older brother that I wanted to be a hair stylist, and he responded in shock "you can't do that, only gay people do that!" Well, PLOT TWIST! And three decades later, here we are.

I forgot that initial dream for a long time, and Pursued theatre from a young age into my mid-thirties. After earning my Bachelors in Theatre and my M.F.A. in Playwriting, I worked in film, theatre, and arts education. And while it was wonderful, the work (and pay) was far too inconsistent. It took a global pandemic and being locked in a house for me to begin considering a different path. Having begun to delve into the art of drag and learning how to style wigs, that old initial dream began its comeback. And that same older brother dared me to go for it.

I began my journey in the summer of 2022, and have without doubt found my lane. I love the energy and charisma that is so often found in salons. And for the first time in my life, I am in a field where I don't have to limit, minimize, or hide myself. I have fallen in love with the transformative power of colors and perms, and am excited to extend my technical skills and grow into this field.

I live in Port Orchard, Kitsap County, but am open to opportunities up and down the Kitsap Peninsula, and even Tacoma. I am looking for an apprenticeship to further my abilities and hone my skills, and look forward to a long and fulfilling career.

I firmly believe that everyone has deep beauty, inherent inalienable and unconqerable. The Latin word for "unconquerable" is "invictus" and that is the brand I plan to build. To tailor my services to each clients unique needs, build their confidence, and make the world a more beautiful place. One guest at a time.