How a Mom of Two Built Two Unique Brands: Barnastics and Snuggle Sense

Photo credit: kvonfoto

Catarina Tucker is a serial entrepreneur and the founder of two distinct businesses—Barnastics, an experiential event agency, and Snuggle Sense, a sensory-focused sleep brand. Drawing from her extensive experience in hospitality and her personal journey as a sleep-deprived mom, Catarina has turned her passions into thriving ventures that focus on creating memorable brand experiences and promoting better sleep.

Can you tell our readers about your background?

I was born in the Pocono’s, raised in New Jersey. I have always been drawn to creative experiences and business ventures. My career began in the hospitality industry, which eventually evolved into event production and brand activations. As a mom of two beautiful girls, lets just say I’ve had my fair share of sleepless nights, which honestly inspired me to start Snuggle Sense. I love blending creativity, strategy, and wellness in everything I do.

What inspired you to start your business?

I worked a 6-2 job during the day while bartending nights and weekends—and that’s when I fell in love with the hustle. Barnastics started as a bartending service, and after working with a few brands, I realized I had a passion for experiential marketing. For Snuggle Sense, it was a personal mission. After struggling with sleep as a mom and experimenting with natural ways to improve my rest, I created a product that combines aromatherapy with deep-pressure stimulation—a solution I couldn’t find anywhere else.

Where is your business based?

Both Barnastics and Snuggle Sense are based in New Jersey, but our reach is national. Barnastics operates in major cities like New York, Miami, and LA, while Snuggle Sense is preparing for an international launch through Kickstarter.

How did you start your business? What were the first steps you took?

For Barnastics, it was about building relationships and showing up—literally. I networked like crazy and offered value wherever I could. Snuggle Sense is more research-focused. I’ve spent months researching sleep science, going back and forth with manufacturers, and developing a business model that made sense for a direct-to-consumer launch.

What has been the most effective way of raising awareness for your business?

For Barnastics, word of mouth, partnerships with PR firms, event planners, & marketing agencies have been huge. For Snuggle Sense, PR + collaborations have been essential. I’ve been focusing on media outreach and collaborations with sleep experts, doctors, and professors to create buzz and build trust.

What have been your biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?

Running two businesses without major funding has been super challenging. For Snuggle Sense, the manufacturing and supply chain process has been an eye-opener. I’ve learned to lean on partnerships and ask for help when needed.

How do you stay focused?

I use time blocking religiously. I also remind myself why I started these businesses in the first place—to bring value and create something meaningful along with financial freedom.

How do you differentiate your business from the competition?

Barnastics stands out because we collaborate with top-tier partners in every major city to deliver fully customized experiences. Snuggle Sense is unique because it’s the only weighted blanket that combines deep-pressure stimulation with swappable aromatherapy sachets—offering a multi-sensory sleep solution.

What has been your most effective marketing strategy to grow your business?

For Snuggle Sense, building a pre-launch email list and working with experts for credibility. For Barnastics, having a strong word-of-mouth network and collaborating with the right agencies.

What’s your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs?

Start before you’re ready and learn as you go. Don’t wait for the perfect time or product—it doesn’t exist.

What’s your favorite app, blog, and book? Why?

App: Youtube—endless audio books.
Blog: Don’t have one to be honest
Book: Feeling is the secret—It changed how I approach business, relationships, & life in general.

What’s your favorite business tool or resource? Why?

Canva. It’s been a lifesaver for creating marketing materials without needing a full design team.

Who is your business role model? Why?

Fawn Weaver. Her story is raw, real, and inspiring.

How do you balance work and life?

It’s a constant dance. I’ve learned to set boundaries and be present in the moment—whether I’m with my kids or working on a pitch.

What’s your favorite way to decompress?

I have a few; I love hot showers in the dark, and I also love listening to Master Key Society on YouTube.

What do you have planned for the next six months?

For Snuggle Sense, launching on Kickstarter and securing media coverage. For Barnastics, expanding into new markets and securing high-profile brand activations.

How can our readers connect with you?

Website: www.snugglesense.co and www.barnastics.com
Instagram: @snugglesense | @barnastics
Email: catarina.tucker@snugglesense.co or catarina.tucker@barnastics.com