Today we’d like to introduce you to Queenie Barden
Hi Queenie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m originally from Washington, D.C., and raised in Prince George’s County, Maryland. I moved to Atlanta right at the start of COVID with no income but a head full of dreams. As an artist and singer, I knew that to make it, I had to hustle. So, I started looking for ways to get clients through third-party apps and began offering makeup services, which I’ve been doing since I was 18. There was definitely a lot of trial and error in the beginning, but I’m grateful for all the clients who trusted me early on and stuck with me.
Even though I couldn’t finish my studies at Aveda Arts & Sciences in D.C. due to COVID, I completed my training in Atlanta, and I’m proud to say I was top of my class. I even won the “Top Business Award” for my business, BarLuna, which was a huge honor. We had to write a business plan as part of the course, and I was able to craft one around the vision I had for my future.
I’ve always envisioned big things for myself, but I truly believe that my faith and God’s guidance have played a huge part in the doors that have opened for me. I never imagined I’d have the opportunities I’ve had—being featured on TV shows, working at fashion events, doing weddings, and even working with celebrity clients. It’s been nothing short of a blessing.
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’s definitely been a ride. But honestly, who hasn’t gone through trials and tribulations? I just try to always put my best foot forward, no matter what. Moving to a new state and not knowing a soul, leaving family behind to build something new—that was hard. I’ve had to face some pretty tough situations, like going through an eviction and a divorce. But through all of that, I had to grow—from a girl with dreams to an adult who had to buckle down and focus, especially to provide for my kids.
Starting over wasn’t easy. There were times when I wanted to pack up and go back home. But I stayed focused on my goals and kept pushing forward. Through all of it, I always felt like God had my back and made sure I was covered. Every challenge was a lesson, and in the end, it only made me stronger.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I really specialize in bridal work, and I can’t lie, I absolutely love it. There’s something so special about connecting with brides on one of the most important days of their lives. I get to be a part of their forever memories, and that means the world to me. I’ve had brides who’ve dreamed of this day for years, and to help bring that vision to life is a true privilege.
Of course, bridal work can get hectic—time is critical, and the day flies by so quickly. But honestly, I wouldn’t trade the sore back or aching feet for anything. The energy in the room, the joy, the excitement—it makes every challenge worth it.
I also really love the creative process, especially when it comes to designing those luxurious, intricate updos. It’s something I really enjoy doing, but I also believe in creating an entire experience for the bride and her party. From the glam to the luxury treatments I offer, I want my brides and their bridal parties to feel like royalty.
One thing that sets me apart is the way I connect with the mothers of the bride and groom. They’re my favorite clients! The conversations I have with them always fill the room with so much wisdom and love. It’s truly special to be a part of that bond and to help make them feel beautiful on such a special day.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was definitely a character! I’ve always been the kind of person who lived in the moment, full of energy and always trying something new. I was always singing, dancing, and experimenting with my hair and makeup—honestly, I think I was born to perform. My older cousin used to get so tired of me always in her stuff, but looking back, I can’t thank her enough because she really inspired me to be more girly when it came to beauty and style.
I used to record little music videos, pretending I was Beyoncé, and my god sister Lena and I would have so much fun dressing up and living out our own music video fantasies. Shout out to Lena for always playing along! And, of course, being a Sagittarius, I was fiery and passionate about everything I did, whether it was performing or trying something new.
I’d say I was the sweetest girl—always eager to learn, super creative, and just full of life. I’ve carried that energy with me into everything I do today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/barlunallc
- Instagram: _barluna
- Facebook: barlunanow
- Other: queenienow (tiktok)
