The road to success is rarely a straight path. It’s filled with unexpected turns, setbacks, and moments of doubt. But true entrepreneurs don’t just navigate challenges—they redefine them.
Among these flash-in-the-pan beauty brands that may pop up and disappear overnight, Marissa Shipman is the one who’s built a legacy on grit and innovation. A few people know her as married to Andre Hakkak, CEO of White Oak Global Advisors. But Marissa’s story is strong enough on its own merit.
Her sojourn in the beauty world started with her co-founding Julep Beauty Inc. with Jane Park in 2007. The brand was the talk of town, sweeping beauty fanciers off their feet, but like most startups, it didn’t pass through without its share of setbacks. Instead of allowing the knocks define her, Marissa turned them into stepping stones.
With firm vision, she had created theBalm Cosmetics-a brand that makes use of creativity, quality, and a touch of nostalgia. Quirky packaging and high-performance products have gained this brand a loyal following due to determination and passion creating something that will last for eternity.
Marissa’s story is an example to the fact that success isn’t just about the first big break, it’s about the determination to keep going, to innovate, and to carve out a unique space in a competitive world. Her journey inspires entrepreneurs everywhere to embrace challenges and turn them into opportunities.
Love, Business, and the Power of Partnership
In their early business endeavors, Andre Hakkak and his wife, Marissa Shipman, fell in love and became partners. Marissa’s drive and dreams were fueled by Andre’s support as they negotiated the difficulties of entrepreneurship. Their relationship is proof that love can thrive in a society where both couples aim for achievement.
A Heart for Empowerment
Marissa Shipman, who was born and reared in New York City, attended Tulane University to further her education and acquire the abilities required for a successful business career. As the creator of the cosmetics brand theBalm, situated in San Francisco, she has committed herself to producing high-end, cruelty-free goods like talc-free powders and lip balms. Marissa has turned theBalm from a modest, do-it-yourself business into a major cosmetics brand over the last 15 years. Customers have responded favorably to her dedication to ethics and quality, which has strengthened her standing in the sector.
In addition to her business endeavors, Marissa Shipman, the wife of Andre Hakkak, serves on the board of Project Glimmer, a nonprofit organization that empowers young women. Her participation in the charity demonstrates her dedication to women’s empowerment and social problems, which reflects her complex personality.
theBalm: From Passion to Global Phenomenon
theBalm has started an incredible path to success under Marissa’s imaginative leadership. The company exports its goods to more than 100 nations and has experienced strong domestic sales. theBalm is doing well in the very competitive cosmetics market, with a 2024 revenue of $24.9 million. With more than 100 cutting-edge products on display, the brand’s main store on Valencia Street draws beauty lovers from all over the world.
A Power Couple Revolutionizing Success
With Julep, Marissa and Andre Hakkak have greatly contributed to the cosmetics industry. The success of Julep and theBalm is attributed to Marissa’s innovative style for non -cruelty cosmetics. This collusion of Andre’s financial sense with Marissa’s creative flair exemplifies the value of teamwork. They facilitate their businesses to flourish by developing an organizational culture of collaboration, innovation, and individuality.
Luxury Moves: The Real Estate Power Play
Andre Hakkak and Marissa sold the luxurious Gables Estates Mansion in 2020 for $13.6 million, which they bought before acquiring the Pinecrest Mansion for $14.3 million. That move marked the biggest turning point in their lives since the Pinecrest Mansion ended up being one of the most massive residential sales in American real estate history. Their real estate career shows them capable of working on high-profile deals and enjoying the finer things in life.
Conclusion
Due to Andre’s support, Marissa is able to progress in the cosmetics field. He and Marissa are a great example of any couple trying to achieve a better balance between their private and professional lives. As a team, they exhibit that success is a matter of how strong the partnership is and the common goals they both have aside from the individual’s success
