Sheryl Berkoff: Career, Marriage, And Jewelry Design

While most public records focus exclusively on her marriage to actor Rob Lowe, Sheryl Berkoff built an extensive career long before and after tying the knot in 1991. From working behind the scenes as a Hollywood makeup artist on major feature films to launching a high-end luxury jewelry brand worn by prominent celebrities, her trajectory spans multiple creative industries. Understanding her life requires looking past standard celebrity-spouse labels to examine her professional roots, entrepreneurial ventures, and family life.

Born on June 20, 1961, in Los Angeles, California, Berkoff grew up immersed in Southern California culture. She attended the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, laying the groundwork for a creative profession that would bridge cosmetics, interior design, and fine jewelry. Rather than chasing front-and-center fame, she carved out a distinct path in the entertainment and design sectors through technical skill and sharp business instincts.

From Hollywood Makeup Artist to Designer

Before transitioning to entrepreneurship, Berkoff established herself as a sought-after professional makeup artist in the film and television industry. During the late 1980s and early 1990s, she worked on over thirty feature films and television productions, collaborating with major studio crews and actors. Her credits include notable projects like Bad Influence, Frankie and Johnny, Glengarry Glen Ross, and The Vanishing.

Her technical dexterity on set wasn't just a job; it was where she met her future husband. However, the physical demands of film sets eventually led her to pivot. As she started raising a family, she shifted her creative energy toward interior design. Her residential styling work gained enough traction to earn features in high-profile shelter publications, including Architectural Digest.

Following her success in interior spaces, Berkoff returned to her early love of accessories and gems. Inspired by extensive travels where she collected rare stones and vintage spiritual relics, she founded Sheryl Lowe Jewelry. Her fine jewelry collections emphasize expressive 1970s aesthetics, combining heavy metal chains with layered gemstones. Her contributions to American design earned her induction into the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), cementing her status as an independent creator rather than a passive celebrity partner. Her pieces are regularly worn by high-profile figures such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Oprah Winfrey, and Cameron Diaz.

Marriage and Family Life with Rob Lowe

The relationship between Berkoff and Rob Lowe is one of the more enduring partnerships in modern Hollywood, spanning over three decades of marriage. Their paths crossed multiple times before they officially connected. They first met briefly in the early 1980s through mutual circles, and later went on a blind date in 1983. At the time, life pulled them in separate directions.

They reunited professionally in 1990 on the set of the psychological thriller Bad Influence, where Berkoff was hired as the makeup artist for Lowe. Daily collaboration on set transformed their history into a lasting romance. They married on July 22, 1991.

The couple shares two sons, Matthew and John Owen. Both sons pursued higher education and creative fields, with John Owen following his father into writing and acting—collaborating closely with Rob on projects like the Netflix series Unstable. Berkoff and Lowe have frequently credited mutual respect, shared humor, and open communication as the bedrock that protected their family from intense media scrutiny.

Common Misconceptions and Public Myths

Because high-profile marriages naturally attract tabloid speculation, several myths persist regarding Berkoff's background.

• The Sibling Rumor: Internet forums frequently claim that Berkoff is the sister of Academy Award-winning actress Hilary Swank. Public records and genealogical breakdowns confirm this is false; the two share no familial relation.
• A Sudden Career Shift: Some summaries portray her jewelry line as a casual hobby born purely out of boredom. In reality, her career spans formal design training, decades of professional union makeup work, and formal recognition by national fashion councils.
• Total Seclusion: While she avoids the frantic pace of Hollywood red carpets compared to her husband, she remains an active business executive, managing retail partnerships and scaling her brand operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sheryl Berkoff's primary profession?

She is a fine jewelry designer and entrepreneur who leads Sheryl Lowe Jewelry. Before launching her brand, she spent years as a professional Hollywood makeup artist and interior designer.

How did Sheryl Berkoff and Rob Lowe meet?

They first crossed paths through mutual acquaintances in the early 1980s, but their relationship solidified years later in 1990 when Berkoff worked as the makeup artist on the set of Lowe's film Bad Influence.

Is Sheryl Berkoff's jewelry brand available in major stores?

Yes. Her collections are sold online and through select high-end domestic and international luxury retailers, including major department store placements.

Do Sheryl Berkoff and Rob Lowe have children?

They have two sons, Matthew and John Owen, both of whom graduated from university and work in professional fields, with John Owen active in television writing and acting.