We were lucky to catch up with Crystal Barragan recently and have shared our conversation below.

Crystal, appreciate you joining us today. Folks often look at a successful business and imagine it was an overnight success, but from what we’ve seen this is often far from the truth. We’d love to hear your scaling up story – walk us through how you grew over time – what were some of the big things you had to do to grow and what was that scaling up journey like?

BlueBridge Improvements wasn’t always the established remodel and renovation company it is today. In fact, it started humbly as a painting company during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. My husband and I had always dreamed of starting a business together. With his knack for building companies from scratch and my background in social sciences, coaching, the arts, body language, and micro-expressions, we knew we had the tools to create something unique. But figuring out what to create was the tricky part.

In 2020, after having our house’s exterior painted, we talked with the painters about the industry. Their experiences highlighted gaps that needed filling—better communication with clients, more professionalism, and fostering a work environment that made our team feel valued. Around the same time, we’d heard from others about negative stereotypes surrounding construction companies. It hit us: we could create a company that redefined the experience on both sides—clients would feel confident hiring us, and our team would feel proud to work for us.

So, in April 2021, BlueBridge Improvements was born. Even the name reflects our vision: blue for our family’s favorite color and a bridge to symbolize trust, kindness, and respect for both clients and employees. Launching a business during a pandemic was no walk in the park. Marketing ourselves was an uphill battle. Projects came in fits and starts, and the inconsistency in income made us question our approach more than once. But giving up wasn’t on the table. We doubled down on relationship-building—connecting with skilled professionals who aligned with our mission. Slowly but surely, our team grew stronger, and the size and scope of our projects began to expand.

As the months rolled on, we embraced the challenges of larger jobs and were inspired by the stories of the clients we worked with. By staying adaptable and sticking to our core values, we found ways to grow even when the world seemed unpredictable.

Now, in 2025, we’re nearing our fourth anniversary. BlueBridge has grown far beyond its painting roots. We’ve expanded into both residential and commercial sectors, serving everyone from local homeowners to executives, athletes, actors, singers, and producers. Each year, we’ve more than doubled our revenue, and our team continues to evolve in skill and size.
Our journey has been anything but linear—there were twists, doubts, and mistakes. But every obstacle taught us something valuable. Today, we’re grateful for the trust our community has placed in us and for the amazing people we’ve met along the way. Scaling a business isn’t easy, but with the right foundation and a commitment to your vision, it’s worth every moment.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

For those who don’t know me yet, let me introduce myself; my name is Crystal Barragan. I’m a hands-on adventurer at heart. Growing up in Michigan, with a splash of southern zest from summers spent in Arkansas and Missouri, I had an incredible childhood filled with dirt bikes, ATVs, snowmobiles, and camping. My family instilled a strong work ethic in me from an early age. My dad, a Vietnam Veteran and Purple Heart recipient, retired from Ford Motor Company in the late 1990s. My family built homes and barns and tackled countless DIY projects alongside him. Those moments, hammer in hand and surrounded by the people I love, planted the seeds for what would become my business venture.

As life unfolded, I took many paths that would ultimately shape who I am today. I studied psychology, became a certified John Wooden leadership coach, and spent years in customer service—an experience that taught me how to connect with people on a deeper level. I also had a stint in the film industry, chasing my passion for acting and cinematography. These experiences, though varied, all came together to lead me to where I am now: the proud co-founder of BlueBridge Improvements.

BlueBridge began from a friendship. My husband and I built a close bond with the team painting our house, and something clicked. We realized we shared a passion for building, creating, and working with people. It felt like a calling, and we answered it by launching BlueBridge, a fully licensed remodel and renovation company based in Tennessee.
At BlueBridge, we specialize in both residential and commercial projects. Our services are as diverse as our clients’ needs. We handle everything from interior and exterior painting to full-scale residential or commercial remodels. Whether it’s a small bathroom update, a brand-new deck, flooring repairs, drywall installation, or even catastrophe renovations, we’ve got it covered.

What sets us apart? It’s not just our expertise or the wide range of services we offer—it’s the relationships we build. For my husband and me, this business isn’t just about construction; it’s about connection. We approach every project with empathy and dedication, making sure our clients feel heard, understood, and valued.
I’m most proud of the trust we’ve earned from our clients. Knowing that people entrust us with their homes, their businesses, and their dreams is incredibly humbling. Seeing the joy on their faces when a project is complete—that’s what drives us.

For potential clients and followers, I want you to know that BlueBridge is built on the foundation of integrity, hard work, and genuine care. We’re not just here to renovate spaces but to transform lives. Our work is about creating environments where people can thrive, whether it’s a cozy home for a growing family or a sleek office space for a budding entrepreneur.
At the end of the day, BlueBridge is more than a business—it’s a reflection of the values I grew up with and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. From my adventurous childhood to my journey through social sciences, leadership, and the arts, everything I’ve done has led me to this moment. I’m excited to continue building not just homes and businesses, but relationships and dreams.

If you’re looking for a team that truly cares, we’re here.

How’d you meet your business partner?

My cofounder is also my husband, Cruz, so our story goes back many years. We first met in 2005 while working together at a restaurant in Michigan called Max & Erma’s. He was a line cook, and I was a new server. At first, we didn’t talk much at work, but one night, I joined some coworkers at a local club for Latin night to learn salsa dancing. It turned out we both shared a passion for dancing, and I loved learning this new style. Fast forward 20 years, and we’re still dancing and working together—now as cofounders and business partners. With our complementary skills, we’ve built a strong personal and professional partnership.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

For BlueBridge, the most effective strategy for growing our clientele has been consistent networking, attending multiple events, and actively engaging with the community. For a local business like ours, no quick marketing tactic can compare to the value of face-to-face interaction. Every month, I make it a priority to attend events, connect with people, and truly get to know them.

I firmly believe that people should always be at the heart of a business like ours. Years ago, I worked for someone who once said they no longer saw people, only dollar signs. That moment profoundly impacted me, and I vowed never to feel that way. Instead, I’ve committed to appreciating others, enjoying meeting new people, and building genuine relationships. True and honest connections will never fail you. While it’s essential to pivot when necessary—not everyone will connect with you—it’s okay as long as you stay true to yourself and focus on forming authentic bonds with those who are open to it.

I find joy in helping and being surrounded by great people doing great things. I serve on the Women in Business Steering Committee for my local chamber of commerce and proudly sit on the board of a local domestic violence shelter. For any business owner looking to thrive locally, my advice is to get involved in your community and take the time to build meaningful relationships.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bbimproves.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluebridge_improvements/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystal-barragan-96b092268/