Marissa Shipman is more than just the wife of Andre Hakkak, the CEO of White Oak Global Advisors; she is a formidable entrepreneur in her own right. Known for her dynamic presence in the beauty industry, Marissa’s journey from co-founding Julep Beauty Inc. to building the renowned brand, theBalm Cosmetics, reflects her tenacity, creativity, and vision. Over the past 15 years, she has successfully carved a niche for herself, developing a company that stands out not just for its products but also for its commitment to quality and sustainability. Here is a closer look at the inspiring story of Marissa Shipman, her professional achievements, and the unique partnership she shares with her husband, Andre Hakkak.
Summary:
- Name: Marissa Shipman
- Spouse: Andre Hakkak, CEO of White Oak Global Advisors
- Education: Studied at Tulane University
- Profession: Entrepreneur, Founder of theBalm Cosmetics
- Previous Venture: Co-founder of Julep Beauty Inc.
- Notable Achievements:
- Established theBalm Cosmetics as a leading cruelty-free beauty brand
- Expanded product line to over 100 items
- Grew the company to a revenue of $24.9 million in 2024
- Philanthropy: Board member of Project Glimmer
- Creative Pursuits: Passionate about painting and advocating for women’s empowerment
- Real Estate Moves: Sold Gables Estates mansion for $13.6 million in 2020; purchased Pinecrest Mansion for $14.3 million
- Core Values: Commitment to sustainability, ethical production, and empowering women
Marissa Shipman: The Beauty Visionary
Marissa Shipman entered the beauty industry in 2007 when she co-founded Julep Beauty Inc. alongside Jane Park. Despite the initial enthusiasm and innovation Julep brought to the market, the venture faced significant challenges, ultimately leading Marissa to step away and start her own company, theBalm Cosmetics. Established in San Francisco, theBalm became her platform to redefine beauty standards by introducing high-quality, cruelty-free products.
The brand began as a small-scale operation, focusing initially on homemade lip balms. However, under Marissa’s leadership, theBalm expanded its product line to over 100 items, including talc-free powders, lipsticks, eyeshadows, and skincare products. Each product is designed with a commitment to premium ingredients and sustainability, setting theBalm apart in a crowded marketplace. In 2024, theBalm achieved impressive revenue of $24.9 million, a testament to Marissa’s strategic acumen and understanding of consumer desires.
Beyond Cosmetics: Marissa’s Multi-Faceted Role
Marissa Shipman is not only an accomplished entrepreneur but also a dedicated philanthropist and advocate for women’s empowerment. Her involvement with Project Glimmer, a non-profit organization that provides gifts and support to young women and teenage girls across the U.S., demonstrates her commitment to giving back to the community. As a board member, Marissa has played an instrumental role in helping the organization reach more individuals, especially during significant life events like prom and graduation.
Her passion for art and painting also reflects her creative spirit, which is evident in the brand identity of theBalm. From product packaging to brand messaging, Marissa’s love for self-expression and creativity is intricately woven into every aspect of the company. She has successfully created a brand that encourages individuality and confidence among its customers.
The Professional Partnership: Marissa and Andre Hakkak
Marissa’s marriage to Andre Hakkak is much more than a union of two successful individuals; it is a dynamic partnership that thrives on mutual respect, understanding, and support. Both Andre and Marissa have built their own empires in separate industries—Andre in finance and Marissa in cosmetics—but they share a common vision of growth, sustainability, and excellence.
While Marissa focused on building theBalm’s reputation for quality and cruelty-free products, Andre provided unwavering support, often acting as a sounding board for her entrepreneurial ideas. Their shared commitment to their individual businesses never overshadowed their personal relationship. Instead, it strengthened their bond, allowing them to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship while supporting each other’s professional goals.
A Sustainable Approach to Beauty
Under Marissa’s leadership, theBalm Cosmetics has stayed true to its core values of sustainability and ethical production. Unlike many conventional beauty brands, theBalm has refused to compromise on its cruelty-free stance, choosing to focus on high-quality ingredients without animal testing. This dedication to ethical standards has resonated with a growing segment of conscious consumers, contributing to the brand’s steady growth.
Moreover, Marissa’s expertise in product planning, design, and quality assurance has allowed theBalm to stand out in the competitive beauty market. Her understanding of consumer needs and trends has helped the brand expand its reach to over 100 countries, even as it continues to grow domestically. Despite its success, Marissa remains committed to the company’s founding principles, ensuring that theBalm retains its unique identity in a rapidly changing industry.
A Controversial Move in Real Estate
In addition to their professional successes, Marissa and Andre have made headlines with their notable real estate transactions. In 2020, the couple sold their luxurious Gables Estates mansion for $13.6 million, raising eyebrows in the real estate community. The sale was followed by their purchase of the Pinecrest Mansion, valued at $14.3 million, marking one of the most significant residential sales in American history.
While the sale and purchase decisions sparked some controversy, they reflect the couple’s strategic investment choices. The move from one prestigious property to another highlights their knack for making bold decisions, whether in business or personal life.
Conclusion: Marissa and Andre as a Dynamic Duo
Marissa Shipman’s journey is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. With Andre Hakkak by her side, she has proven that success is not just about individual achievements but also about finding the right partner who complements and supports your ambitions. Together, they embody a perfect blend of finance and beauty, leveraging their diverse skills to create a powerful narrative of growth, innovation, and mutual respect.
Marissa’s story inspires not only those in the beauty industry but also couples who strive to balance personal happiness with professional excellence. Her success with theBalm, combined with her philanthropic efforts and creative pursuits, marks her as a true role model for aspiring entrepreneurs.