moving to canada from ireland

Hi everyone,
My boyfriend and I are thinking about moving to Canada with our 2 cats in the next year or 2 depending how long it takes us to save money and sort out visas. We need to decide on a location so we can start checking out jobs, renting, etc. We both have degrees in art and design and he has a research MA. I am a working make up artist. We would like to live in the British Colombia area but its HUGE! I know Vancouver is ment to be a great city but would love any suggestions. Can anyone give advice on where would have a large artist community also the possibility of work in the make up industry. Also i do not have any pacific certificates in make up artistry would this be a problem? Would i need a portfolio of work.

Thanks,
Anna