About

Jennifer Lees and Fiona Lees - Founders

Canadian identical twin sisters Jennifer (on the right) and Fiona Lees are the creators behind the new and exciting lip-gloss line Balmshell. With no experience in the cosmetic industry and only the love of lip-gloss on their side, the sisters decided to take on the industry and with determination, hard work and a lot of style they turned their dream into a reality.

These self-described “cosmetic junkies”, followed their passion and entrepreneurial instinct and developed what they considered to be the perfect lip-gloss. After years of working with a cosmetic manufacturer they developed a formula using only the finest ingredients to produce a high-shine, moisturizing lip-gloss. It looks and feels fabulous.

Their inspiration for the look and unique packaging of Balmshell came from a float art pen they purchased in a kitschy shop in Yorkville. Expressed through the colourful illustrations and amusing storylines, Balmshell aims to celebrate the inner goddess that exists in all women.

Jennifer and Fiona were born and raised in Toronto, Ontario. Between them they have worked in the advertising, film, television and media industries, but their true passion has always been cosmetics.


Mar Murube – Illustrator

Mar Murube was born in Seville, Spain. She was brought up in a cosmopolitan environment, getting to know several European cities. She began drawing from her very early days, astonishing everyone with her creativity. By the time she was four, her drawings already looked like a high school girl's, and as she grew up she started trying new techniques and fully developing her skills.

In those first years, her family and teachers were always aware that she had a special gift, but somehow she did not realize it until she grew up. She started working as a graphic designer for several advertising agencies, until 2004, when she decided to concentrate on what she really enjoyed and became a full-time illustrator.

Within a few months of entering the field, she was requested by Vogue Italia to illustrate a six-page story, which opened the door to similar jobs in Europe and North America. Today her name has become well known in the fashion industry and her work can be seen in magazines from all over the world like Tatler, Elle, Brides, Marie Claire and In Style. Her illustrations also appear in book covers, products, posters and advertising campaigns, such as the latest packaging of Zara’s Textures and the new cosmetic brand Balmshell.