From my first-ever packaging gig to a cult classic icon ✨

Fresh out of college, I landed a graphic designer role in the beauty industry and was entrusted with designing the Mary-Lou Manizer packaging for theBalm… the now world-famous champagne-hued highlighter in its retro pin-up compact. Seeing my creative vision launch one of their top selling SKUs was a dream come true.

Today, Mary-Lou is more than just a product. It’s a beauty phenomenon:

• Over 4.5 stars with 4,900+ reviews on Amazon

• More than 9,000 units sold by one eBay seller alone

• Regularly featured in Sephora and Kohl’s as a cult favorite

The success didn’t stop there. To capitalize on the success, we created key extensions such as:

• Mary Dew Manizer, a sleek liquid highlighter

• The Lou Manizer’s Quad, a palette that blends highlighter and blush

Each design carried forward that playful yet elegant pin-up aesthetic and helped cement theBalm's visual identity in the minds of beauty lovers everywhere.

And the response? Here's what people are saying:

“Let’s be honest - I bought it for the packaging. It’s just so fun and vintage and cheeky.”
“One of the few makeup products I keep on display. The design is chef’s kiss.”
“Still my favorite compact of all time. It always makes me smile when I pull it out.”

Now, with almost two decades of experience, are there things I would have done differently? Of course. But I didn’t become the designer I am without being the designer I was. I’ve learned so much since then. And at the end of the day, the client was happy, the product was a success, and I have zero regrets. #NoRagrets

What I learned:

• Thoughtful branding turns products into experiences

• Cohesive design across SKUs builds credibility and fan love

• Packaging is more than looks. It’s emotion, storytelling, and influence

Mary Lou Manizer was the beginning of my career in cosmetics packaging, and I still feel incredibly proud every time I see it glowing on someone’s shelf.