Member Spotlight: Bronze Buddha Glow

Integral to The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale’s mission is telling the stories behind the small businesses Scouted in each Volume. The story begins in print and continues online, after all. As you peruse Volume 2, we are thrilled to continue our story-telling mission with Member Spotlights.

Organic, paraben-free, never tested on animals, and always gorgeous, Bronze Buddha Glow is our go-to airbrush tanning experience. Owned by Phoenix-bred Sonya MacDonald, Bronze Buddha Glow is an ultra-local, ultra-healthy resource for achieving the vibrance (and confidence) of a tan, sans harmful, damaging rays.

Recently, Sonya celebrated five years of ownership, a testament to Sonya’s acumen as an entrepreneur and Bronze Buddha Glow’s stunning glow. In celebration — and anticipation of warmer days ahead — we chatted with Sonya about entrepreneurship and, well, a bronze glow.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Before diving into specifics of one of the Valley’s favorite spray tans, tell us: what were you doing pre-Bronze Buddha Glow?
Sonya MacDonald: Before taking the entrepreneurial leap, I worked in the optical industry for 25 years. First within a private practice, then as sales/business development consultant and implementation coach with a business management consulting firm. When I left the industry, I became a Yoga teacher, then had the opportunity to purchase Bronze Buddha Glow from my friend.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What inspired you to take the entrepreneurial leap?
Sonya MacDonald: After teaching yoga, I had the opportunity to purchase Bronze Buddha Glow from a longtime friend who had founded the business. She was considering a different career path, and it was perfect timing for me. Everything happens for a reason!

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: More specifically, what inspired you to take the entrepreneurial leap with Bronze Buddha Glow?
Sonya MacDonald: I’m passionate about living a holistic lifestyle and a spray tan is the safest and healthiest option for achieving a tan. I love empowering my clients to feel healthier and happier!

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What’s the best part of your work?
Sonya MacDonald: Not only do I get to help people make healthier choices through sunless tanning. Even better, it’s basically my job to make them feel happy and good all day, every day!

 
 

“IT’S BASICALLY MY JOB TO MAKE PEOPLE FEEL GOOD ALL DAY, EVERYDAY!”

 
 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Let’s talk about the glow… Can you walk us through a spray tan appointment, including what clients can expect?
Sonya MacDonald: Absolutely! When a client arrives, our first order of business is discussing what brings them in: do they have an event? A vacation? This helps us hone in on the perfect shade for their occasion and skin tone. Once we’ve determined the shade, we start applying. The application process takes about 10 to 15 minutes, so it’s very easy and very quick.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What kind of glow can clients expect?
Sonya MacDonald: All Bronze Buddha Glow Specialists are hand-picked and certified in airbrush tanning and custom color-blending by LA’s very own “Tanning Guru” and Sunset Tan’s reality star, Heather Shaw. She trained us on a specific technique that’s sought after by Hollywood Stars for a natural, red-carpet-ready, sexy-bronzed glow.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: How do you achieve such a uniquely stunning bronze?
Sonya MacDonald: At Bronze Buddha Glow, we use a customized application technique for that follows the body’s curves. Our technique also includes contouring and highlighting of the body’s best assets. Our attention to the details is something I’m passionate about and proud of. 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What tips do you have for extending a tan?
Sonya MacDonald: At Bronze Buddha Glow, we always review aftercare with our clients, so they understand how to care for their tan, preserve the glow, and achieve even, smooth fading. The most important thing, however, is to keep skin moisturized!

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What do you recommend clients wear to a spray tan appointment?
Sonya MacDonald: Our After Glow Dress, of course! It’s functional, fashionable, and will take you from a glow to errands, dinner, or drinks. It also protects your spray tan — and your car!

 
 

“OUR ATTENTION TO THE DETAILS IS SOMETHING I’M PASSIONATE ABOUT AND PROUD OF.”

 
 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Let’s switch gears and talk Phoenix… What’s the best thing about being an entrepreneur in the Valley?
Sonya MacDonald: I’m a proud Phoenician, born and raised in Phoenix. I’m a firm believer in supporting local! We have amazing restaurants and small businesses and you can’t beat our beautiful weather for most of the year.  

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Can you share your local favorites?
Sonya MacDonald: Absolutely! My go-to restaurants are Richardson’s (order the Prickly Pear Margarita!) and Buck & Rider (order a dirty martini!). For shopping, Mae & Marie, Muse Apparel, Vida Moulin, Alixandra Collections, Leela Market, and The Lifestyled Co always top my list. For gifting, I always tap fellow Volume 2 Member, urbAna. As for activities, I love a day trip to Sedona, practicing yoga, or playing with my pups. And, come Scottsdale Culinary Festival or Tempe Festival of the Arts, you can find me there! I also never turn down a ticket to any live sports game!

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: In talking about our community, we’d be remiss not to mention your charitable giving. We understand that you donate 5% of your monthly profits to local charities. What local non-profits are near and dear to your heart?
Sonya MacDonald: Charities and organizations that cater to children, like Phoenix Children’s Hospital and Child Crisis Nursery, have always been close to my heart. Since purchasing Bronze Buddha Glow, my incredibly charitable clients have introduced me to Homeward Bound and PANDA, which are also deeply important to our community.

Bronze Buddha Glow offers one of the best glows in the Valley. Supernatural, super safe, it’s a fabulous alternative to tanning your dermatologist will approve. To schedule an appointment, head to www.bronzebuddhaglow.com. Additional questions? Feel free to text Sonya at her business number (602)456-1637.

Don’t forget to tell them Scout sent you and ask about the Scouted promotional offers.

Bronze Buddha Glow Locations:

CAMELBACK

3240 E. Camelback Rd. Suite 10 Phoenix, AZ 85018


CACTUS

12450 N. 32nd St. Suite 3 Phoenix, AZ 85032

Member Spotlight: Morph Aesthetics

Integral to The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale’s mission is telling the stories behind the small businesses Scouted in each Volume. The story begins in print and continues online, after all. As you peruse Volume 2, we are thrilled to continue our story-telling mission with Member Spotlights…

Meet Morph Aesthetics, the full-service aesthetics cosmetics firm headquartered in Scottsdale. Led by founder Brandie Henderson, Morph is one of the Valley’s most-beloved cosmetic aesthetic companies, with over 600+ clients boasting - often quite literally - glowing reviews.

Morph is also one of Scottsdale’s few aesthetic firms led by a former medical professional with over a decade of experience. The Morph team includes other skincare experts, like Danny Farquhar founder of Solo Skin Co. as a complement to Brandie’s services. To welcome Morph to Volume 2, we chatted with Brandie about her background, mission, and thriving new business.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Before diving into the entrepreneurial leap you took in starting Morph Aesthetics, can you share a little bit about your background that is, undoubtedly, the foundation of your business?
Brandie Henderson: My professional life began in nursing, specifically pediatric nursing, fostering the health and wellness of children in acute and private sectors. In 2017, I transitioned into Aesthetic Nursing, training as an apprentice under Jennifer Prince, RN, BSN.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Your decision to take the entrepreneurial leap was born from a difficult season. Can you share how this influenced the name of your business and ultimately inspired your Volume 2 spread?
Brandie Henderson: In 2020, my path changed unexpectedly due to a life event. I took that time to look at the blessings from a tragedy and recreate my destiny. It was like the metamorphosis of a butterfly, which is the perfect symbol of how beauty can emerge from darkness. I was also inspired by the quote “Alis Volat Propriis,” which means “she flies with her own wings.” Hence the name, Morph Aesthetics.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: What else informs you as a business owner?
Brandie Henderson: I firmly believe that beauty starts within and should be reflected on the outside. My mission is to enhance natural beauty.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: What aspect of your work have you found to be the most fulfilling?
Brandie Henderson: The bond I create with my clients. Many have been with me on my journey, and I feel blessed to be a part of theirs. My clients are like a family to me. I view the client-provider relationship as more than transactional, and believe that every client is meant to be in my chair. They are the reason I do what I do.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: In addition to a deeper relationship, what can clients expect at Morph Aesthetics?
Brandie Henderson: We strive to offer a breadth of aesthetic services, including injectables (Botox, Dysport, Jeuveau), fillers (Restylane, Juvederm, RHA Collection, micro-needling, PRP Hair & Injections, Kybella, Sculptra, Hydrafacials, peels. Basically, all things skincare.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: As an expert, what do you hope clients know about skincare?
Brandie Henderson: The skin is your largest organ and should be treated properly. We can inject clients with HA fillers all day, but if you’re not taking care of yourself out of the chair - through diet, exercise, and skincare - you won’t achieve optimal results. In short, invest in and take care of yourself. We only get one body and it’s our vessel, so treat it with grace.”

 

“Invest in and take care of yourself. We only get one body and it’s our vessel, so treat it with grace.”

Brandie Henderson, Founder of Morph Aesthtics

 

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: How do you stay on the cutting edge of skincare?
Brandie Henderson: When I’m not working with clients, I provide work with aspiring aestheticians, providing training and apprenticeship. I train nationally for Galderma and provide New Injector Immersion Trainings and an Apprenticeship Program. Continuing to learn is so important - both personally and professionally.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Your work training other aestheticians and Morph apprenticeships seem like an extension of your mantra, “Alis Volat Propriis.” Or, in other words, an invitation for others to learn how to fly by their own wings. Can you share more about your apprenticeship and training programs?
Brandie Henderson: Absolutely. Morph Aesthetics offers a comprehensive 2-day course under myself and Catherine Marine, RN. It includes didactic and hands-on training for those interested in entering the aesthetics field. I also offer an apprenticeship program - G.A.A.P. - inviting trainees to shadow me for 10 days. It’s a wonderful opportunity for hands-on experience. And I’ve loved working with each and every one of my 21 apprentices!

 

“We are all continuously learning. You cannot take away education, nor can you grow if you’re not learning.”

Brandie Henderson, Founder of Morph Aesthetics

 

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: What a wonderful way to give back to your industry. Outside of aesthetics, is there a charity or organization that’s close to your heart?
Brandie Henderson: With a background in nursing - I was actually a Pediatric Nurse at Phoenix Children’s Hospital - I’m passionate about supporting Mom’s Pantry and PANDA.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Both are fabulous charities doing important work locally. Let’s chat more about local. Can you walk us through a perfect day in the Valley?
Brandie Henderson: Wake up to an amazing cup of coffee, followed by a hike, pilates, or time at the gym. A visit to the Farmer’s Market, then brunch at LON’S at The Hermosa Inn with the people I love. In the afternoon, I’d head to The Phoenician for an amazing spa treatment followed by lunch at the rooftop pool or lounging at the Montelucia. Finally, dinner reservations at Sanctuary!

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Sounds fabulous! Any other local favorites we need to know?
Brandie Henderson: There are so many! The Valley is a fantastic place to eat, drink, shop, and explore. My current favorites for the above include… Vecina, Chelsea Kitchen, SEL, Pomo, Clever Koi, and Marigold Maison for dining. Thirsty Camel, and MercBar for drinks. Wunderkind, Vida Moulin, and Busted 2 Bangin for shopping. Form Floral, Luckystar Jewels, and urbAna for gifting. And Sedona, RoRo Street Art Tour, Desert Botanical Gardens, and Heard Museum for exploring!

Brandie and Morph Aesthetics are invaluable local resources for skincare. In addition to offering a full-range of skincare services, they offer vetted products (Face Reality, IS Clinical, Latisse, Upneeq), and unparalleled expertise. Recently, Morph Aesthetics introduced a loyalty program to offer 10% off all services, a free monthly B12 shot, and access to their amazing promotions, giveaways, and social events. To learn more or schedule your service, head over to morphaesthetics.com. And don’t forget to tell them Scout sent you!

Member Spotlight: Beauty & Propaganda

Integral to The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale’s mission is telling the stories behind the small businesses Scouted in each Volume. The story begins in print and continues online, after all. And so, as we prepare to launch Volume 2, we are thrilled to kick off our story-telling mission with Member Spotlights…

Photo by Michael Franco

Meet Beauty & Propaganda, the Volume 2 Member and lifestyle salon offering a whole new approach to beauty. To simplify self-care, sister duo Karla Zaragoza and Zuleika Zaragoza established Beauty & Propaganda with a specific mission: to bring all forms of beauty services under one roof and, most importantly, celebrate all forms of beauty - no matter its shape, size, or color. Read on for our Q+A to get to know the sisters, their business, and their Scottsdale…

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Karla, Zuleika, we are so thrilled to welcome you to Volume 2 of The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale! Let’s start by sharing a little more about what inspired you two to create Beauty & Propaganda.
Beauty & Propaganda: Thank you! Beauty & Propaganda was inspired by the frustration we experienced as we jumped trying to get from appointment to appointment for beauty services. We wanted to solve that pain-point and time-suck of driving all over town. We also loved the idea of incorporating Latin American flair by bringing different beauty services together under one roof for the ultimate pampering experience! And, finally, we wanted to celebrate all forms of beauty.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Can you tell us more about bringing different beauty services under one roof?
Beauty & Propaganda: At Beauty & Propaganda, we pride ourselves on our New Way to Beauty. By this, we mean that our services are all done simultaneously. Get a mani and a blowout, a dry style, and glam sesh - all at the same time. We strive to bring impeccable services without ever compromising convenience or quality. It sets us apart in the industry. We love the experience - and our clients love it, too!

Photo by Michael Franco

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Let's backtrack to part of your origin story. More specifically, your beliefs about beauty. Can you share more about this?
Beauty & Propaganda: We believe beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. And Beauty & Propaganda is our way of celebrating that and sharing it with other women. We want our clients to come as they are and to feel beautiful and connected. Whether it’s through a fun, chic environment or stylists versed in all types of hair, it’s our mission to create a welcoming experience.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: We’re truly so lucky you two started Beauty & Propaganda in our community. Can you tell us what you love about living and working in the Valley?
Beauty & Propaganda: Scottsdale is such a wonderful town. It’s gorgeous, has great restaurants, events, and - certainly not least - the best winters. We love that, as a tourist destination, we get to meet people from all over, but also develop connections with our locals.

 

“We believe beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. And Beauty & Propaganda is our way of celebrating that and sharing it with other women.”

 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: While we’re on the subject of the Valley, will you share your local favorites?
Beauty & Propaganda: Absolutely! For eats, Fàme Caffe, Francine, Zinc Bistro, Café Monarch, and AZ88 are can’t-miss spots for us both. As for lifestyle, Amy Atelier and Camelback Flowershop are favorites. And when it comes to giving back to our wonderful community, Phoenix Children’s Hospital and Hope Women’s Center are dear to our hearts.

Photo by Michael Franco

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Some of our favorites too… Speaking of favorites, what’s your favorite part of your work?
Beauty & Propaganda: Helping women feel beautiful. It is so rewarding to connect with clients and witness their reactions to hair and makeup. Of course, we have to mention the joy of helping tweens get ready for their first school dance. So fun!

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: As industry experts, can you leave our beauty-loving readers with one insider tip?
Beauty & Propaganda: Of course! Don't be afraid to try new things. And don’t be intimidated! The beauty industry is here to guide you to feeling your best. That said, we don’t recommend trying something brand new on the day of a big event. Instead, use dinner with girlfriends as an excuse to try out a new style!

To learn more about Beauty & Propaganda - from their services to their next available appointment - head over to beautyandpropaganda.com - and don’t forget to tell them Scout sent you!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: OLGA BROW STUDIO

OLGA BROW STUDIO

For over 10 years, Olga Brow Studio has been giving clients an eyebrow-changing experience. Olga, and the trained artists in her studio, are true experts in brow shaping. They offer a range of services to help enhance the brow shape, resulting in a timeless classic look.

Photo: Schultz Digital

Photo: Schultz Digital

Q&A

Olga Zelek, Owner

Q. What inspired you to begin your business?

A. It was almost 10 years ago when I realized there was a gap in the market. There weren't any places where clients could find highly trained brow artists. Most places focused on a quick turnover or body waxing and the brow shaping was treated like a quick add-on. Knowing how important brows are for our balanced look, I wanted to fill in that gap and create a place where clients are not rushed and where the artists are true brow experts, who know how to advise and give direction regarding your brow shape.

Q. There are many ways to enhance the best of your brow shape and still maintain a natural look. Beyond brow waxing and tinting, can you tell us a bit more about other popular services your offer to clients?

A. Another popular service that enhances your shape and keeps your brows looking natural is a brow lift also known as brow lamination. This service is like a Brazilian blowout for your brows, it resets your brow hairs into the desired position like an upward brushed looking brow or up and out brushed look. It is great for straightening unruly, wavy hair, or hair that grows in an unusual direction. It is also perfect for achieving that beachy brow or fluffy model-looking brow.

Q. Having brow work done at your studio is more of an experience than an appointment. From the beautifully appointed decor to the warm and gracious demeanor of your team, it's clear you wanted to provide clients something special when they visit. What other aspects have been important to you as you've built the studio that people across the Valley look to for an elevated way to tend to this area of self-care?

A. I think attention to detail and precision of the process sets us apart and draws clients from all over the Valley and even visitors from out of state. Our artists are very well trained and therefore, they know how to pay attention to every aspect of your brows like bone structure, eye size, etc. We spend ample time on mapping and communication with clients to make sure our vision works with theirs. We also dedicate more time than typical to make sure the outcome meets our guest’s expectations and the results are always consistent

IMG_2114.jpeg

Q. Can you share with us a few of your local favorites spots?

A. My favorite local restaurants are Virtu Honest Craft, POMO. I love to get massages at Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia. 

Q. Do you have a particular local organization or charity that's close to your heart?

A. St. Mary's Food Bank and Maggie’s Place that provide housing and support for pregnant women are very close to my heart.

Q. What do you love about living and working here in the Valley?

A. I love Arizona for its natural beauty, amazing hikes, variety of climate, and amazing sunsets. For a friendly approach to small business in 2020.

OLGA BROW STUDIO

7411 E 6th Ave Suite 101 | Scottsdale, AZ 85251

480.725.5056

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: THE SPARKLE BAR

THE SPARKLE BAR

The Sparkle Bar makes getting ready the ultimate experience by enhancing your natural beauty with makeup and celebrating the unique features that make you, you.

Whether it’s business or pleasure, a birthday or job interview, or just because, they are there for all your sparkle-worthy moments. In their Scottsdale studio, or on location - yes, they travel to you - The Sparkle Bar is the place to turn when you want to look and feel your best.

Photo: Schultz Digital

Photo: Schultz Digital

Q & A

Alex Bradberry, Owner

Q. What inspired you to begin your business?

A. The Sparkle Bar was created and born out of necessity. It was an opportunity to dream up a space that served women through a luxury experience and celebrated diversity in beauty and uniqueness.

 Q. We recently had some fun getting "camera-ready” with our own glam session in your beautiful studio. The studio vibe is definitely a special part of the experience, can you share a bit about what you hope clients experience from when they walk through the door until that magical “Sparkle fan” is waved at the conclusion of their session?

A. Swoon… my heart, I love that you remembered the fan, the Beyonce moment – yes! We are so lucky to get to do what we do which is literally taking the women that walk through our doors through the experience of falling in love with their faces, but it’s also so much more than makeup. We get to infuse sparkle and be there for the moments that make the memories (whether it’s a job interview, graduation photos, wedding) we get to be part of what’s important to you and in that moment, remind you of how naturally beautiful you are. It really is the opportunity to use artfully placed lipstick and blush to remind women (and men, all the people) to unleash their inner sparkle babe because what we do is enhance your already gorgeous features with makeup.

We hope that from the moment you step in, to the second you leave, that your experience with us makes your day better and gets you even more excited about what you’re about to go to, whether that’s walking down the aisle or to nail your dream job.

Q. You offer clients a range of services both in the studio and on location to best meet their needs.  Can you tell us about some fun experiences you and your team of talented artists have been a part of recently?

 A. What I love most about what we get to do and emphasize the word “get” because after the last year, every single opportunity to bring sparkle to the world is such a gift and the fact that we get to do it together is a blessing.

 When it comes to cool things… every day we get to create a vibe and send people off exponentially better than they came in; that is amazing and really makes life fun when we’re playing part in special occasions and being the ultimate hype squad in the process.

From live local news segments to hosting events for an international audience this past year has been filled with everything; we’ve been part of private parties and bachelorette parties to corporate video shoots and events with brands like Yelp and Suja most recently. One of the coolest events we’ve done - ever - was in partnership with Banner Philanthropy and Dunkin’ Donuts for their Teen Prom Event. We were there to bring the sparkle with Coachella-inspired glam stations and were able to spend the afternoon with a few deserving teens who needed a day of fun. We get to create bespoke experiences that become memories and that, on every level is awesome.

Q. Can you share with us a few of your local favorites?

 A. Ohhh okay so… as spontaneous as I can be, I am definitely a creature of habit; however, as we’ve started to reemerge I have made it a point to get out there and continue to try new spots. Recently, I visited Valentine and had the most amazing churro waffle and coffee… I’m a coffee and pastry for breakfast kind of girl so of course, I had to take one for the road, and OMG, it was divine–all of it. So good! I highly recommend and will absolutely be back to experience more.

I’m also a huge fan of Nonna in Downtown Scottsdale with its incredible food and ambiance. Curated by an amazing husband and wife team, Valentina Huerta and Gian Franco Brugaletta, who pour their heart into the food and the experience they create.

Q. Do you have a particular local organization or charity that's close to your heart?

A. As a previous member of SunsCharities 88 it was really the catalyst to introduce me to many of the organizations in the Valley and the people doing incredible work to serve. Organization like SC88 gave me the opportunity to learn and engage through community impact days and just opening my eyes to ways to participate and lend talents.

Recently, I had the opportunity to learn more about A New Leaf which provides assistance to those in the community with needs and helps families, children, and adults overcome challenges.  One of the many lessons we’ve learned over the past year is how quickly something can change – how unexpected that can be – and how those challenges, whether it’s a job loss, medical crisis, domestic violence, can impact those in our community.

 As I dream big it also includes ways to serve through sparkle because sometimes just feeling like yourself (not looking tired, a little lipstick… some TLC) can change your perspective and outlook and be the game changer and ripple of positivity you need to keep it going and leave a little sparkle wherever you go.

Photo: Schultz Digital

Photo: Schultz Digital

Q. Tell us about a milestone you've celebrated or will be celebrating?

 A. We are about to celebrate 6 years of sparkle. I can’t believe it, what a milestone. With every anniversary comes something special but to find out what you’ll have to stay tuned…

Q. What do you love about living and working here in the Valley?

A. I love the way we’ve been received and embraced. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to connect with so many driven people who aim to offer support. To be in a space that feels like it's moving in a positive direction – collaborative, diverse, with an abundance of opportunity.

THE SPARKLE BAR

4200 N Marshall Way #7 | Scottsdale, AZ 85251

480.941.3438