Hidden Gems: Meet Alexandra Bradberry of The Sparkle Bar

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexandra Bradberry.

Hi Alexandra , so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m Alex Bradberry, the founder of The Sparkle Bar. I launched it in 2015 with the vision of creating a space where people could feel seen, celebrated, and confident in their own skin.

At its core, The Sparkle Bar was built to honor individuality. I wanted to create an inclusive, elevated experience that reminded people how fun getting ready could be—and that beauty should always feel like a celebration, never a chore. From the moment someone books their appointment to the moment they leave the chair, our goal is to make them feel special, cared for, and reminded that they’re truly one of one.

We’ve had the joy of serving clients in so many ways—from one-on-one lessons to makeup for weddings, proms, birthdays, bachelorettes, or even just because. We’ve done glam for passport photos, media appearances, and unforgettable celebrations. No matter the occasion, our goal remains the same: to make people feel confident and seen.

We also love that, through the artistry of makeup, we get to remind people that what makes them beautiful is what makes them them—that they were created one of one.

Over the years, we’ve been fortunate to take The Sparkle Bar across the country, creating experiences through activations, brand partnerships, and editorial opportunities. We’ve partnered with WWD, celebrated with Veuve Clicquot, and been featured in Travel + Leisure. From intimate moments in the studio to large-scale events, it’s been such a fun ride.

Beyond the brand, I’m a proud mom of two incredible daughters who inspire me daily. I worked full-time during the first five years of building this business—so no, it hasn’t always been easy—but it’s been a deeply fulfilling adventure. I’m so grateful for the doors this journey has opened, and I’m incredibly excited to be celebrating our 10-year anniversary this year in September. The best is still to come.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has never been a smooth road—there have been so many obstacles and unexpected challenges along the way. But I think that’s just the reality of building a business. Some of those hurdles you can prepare for, and others completely catch you off guard.

For The Sparkle Bar, one of the most unique and defining moments in our journey was passing a legislative bill—something most businesses never have to navigate. That process, working to get SB1320 passed in Arizona to protect makeup artists and clarify licensing requirements, was both daunting and empowering. It reminded me that real change is possible, and that anyone—yes, anyone—can make a difference when they commit and follow through.

Going through that experience early on gave me so much confidence. It showed me that I could do hard things, follow a process, and bring something meaningful to life. That moment is one of the things I’m most proud of—and it’s a big part of what makes The Sparkle Bar so special. Yes, we’re a beauty studio that celebrates individuality and glam, but we’re also a symbol of what’s possible when you advocate for yourself and your industry.

Over the years, there have been many pivots and learning curves. We’ve built a lot of this business publicly, sharing the journey openly on social media. That includes the wins and the hard seasons—like when COVID hit five years in and we had to shut down for nearly six months. Nothing about that was easy, but it reinforced our resilience and adaptability.

If I had to name the biggest lesson I’ve learned, it’s the power of perspective. Being able to step back, reframe the challenge, and find the opportunity in it—that’s a skill I’m incredibly grateful for. Business will always have fires to put out, but I truly believe that your mindset is everything. How you choose to respond is what makes all the difference.

And at the end of the day, I’m so grateful for the fires i’ve had to put out—because they’ve led to some of the most meaningful growth and experiences I could have imagined

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The Sparkle Bar is a luxury makeup and beauty studio rooted in inclusivity, confidence, and celebration. We specialize in makeup application for all skin tones, all genders, and all occasions—everything from special events like weddings, proms, and bachelorettes, to professional headshots, brand photoshoots, or even “just because” glam. We also offer lessons for individuals who want to learn how to do their own makeup with confidence, and we create immersive beauty experiences through corporate activations, brand partnerships, and curated pop-ups.

What sets us apart is our commitment to creating a space where everyone feels welcome and celebrated. We pride ourselves on being the ultimate destination for getting your glam on—not just because of what we do, but how we do it. Every detail, from the booking experience to the final reveal, is designed to make our guests feel cared for, seen, and confident. We believe makeup should be fun, empowering, and personal—and that’s what we deliver.

We’re known for our artistry and elevated experience, but also for the joy and energy we bring into every space we enter. Whether in-studio or on-location, we’re bringing sparkle—and that doesn’t just mean glitter (though we love that too), it means feeling good in your skin.

Brand-wise, I’m most proud that The Sparkle Bar has stayed true to its mission. We’ve grown, evolved, and expanded over the last 10 years, but the heart of what we do remains unchanged: we celebrate what makes people special and remind them that they were created one of one.

We’ve had the honor of partnering with brands like WWD, MAGIC and Veuve Clicquot, being featured in Travel + Leisure, and activating across the country—but our roots are deep in the community we serve every day. Whether you’re walking in for your first glam or you’ve been with us since day one, our promise is always the same: You belong here. And we’re going to make sure you leave feeling like the most confident version of yourself.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
What matters most to me is creating spaces—at home, in business, and in the community—where people feel safe, seen, and celebrated. Whether I’m showing up as a mom, partner, friend, or founder, I lead with intention, kindness, and care.

At The Sparkle Bar, we’ve always believed this is about more than makeup. It’s about connection. It’s about joy. It’s about creating a moment where someone feels truly seen, valued, and even loved. I’m so proud that we get to play a part in people’s lives in that way—whether it’s for a big celebration or a quiet act of self-care.

And being able to witness moments like that—where someone walks out feeling confident, radiant, and fully themselves—is everything. That’s what it’s all about… because the sparkle in us recognizes the sparkle in you!

Pricing:

• Camera Ready w/ Lashes $150
• Eyes Lips Cheeks (express) Desk to Dinner $85
• Makeup Lesson $200
• Fresh Face $100
• Makeup Artistry Education – Sparkle Academy $1500

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thesparklebar.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesparklebar
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesparklebar
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesparklebar/
• Yelp: Yelp.com/thesparklebar

Image Credits
Fully Alive Photography WWD MISGIF MAGIC Eboni Key (Key Media) Blok Studio