Marissa Shipman, founder of San Francisco-based beauty brand theBalm Cosmetics, started mixing ingredients in her kitchen sink to create lip balm over 10 years ago. Now she’s opened a flagship boutique on 19th and Valencia in the Mission district, and her line has become a full-blown beauty corporation with cosmetics, hair products, skincare, and nail polish available in over 60 countries. The new space is filled with what Shipman calls retro-inspired images that have become synonymous with the line. Cult favorites include the TimeBalm concealer and the Nude ‘tude eye shadow palette. “The store juxtaposes vintage-inspired art, industrial design, and technology, much like the products themselves,” says Shipman.

The Valencia Street boutique includes an eye shadow bar where customers create personalized palettes that hold 9 to 16 shades. Looking ahead to spring, Shipman says she’ll still be reaching for metallic browns for her eyes. “I really love the copper-y brown and champagne shades I’ve been seeing lately,” she says. “It’s a classic look that’s very wearable and easy to recreate.” Shipman is also recording the makeup tutorials given in the boutique for theBalm’s new iPad app, Quiet on the Set. Soon to launch, the app plays personalized step-by-step videos recorded as each customer has her makeup applied in the shop. Customers can access the video by logging into theBalm before attempting to recreate the look at home. “Watching an artist apply makeup to your own face is extremely helpful when it comes to learning the techniques that were used,” says Shipman. For extra practice, artistry classes are held every Monday, and additional tricks of the trade are taught in each session.

The new shop should keep San Francisco sinks free of makeup ingredients and ready for valiant attempts at boeuf bourguignon.

By Jennifer McCullum

 

Pictured: Makeup chairs await guests at TheBalm’s new San Francisco boutique.
Photo by Susana Bates for Drew Altizer Photography

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