Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Pacheco.
Hi Ashley, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I started as a downtown bartender with a thirst for variety and a genuine love for people, cocktails, and connection. That passion for creativity and customer service is what inspired The Bar Project—a bar experience built on quality, personality, and impeccable service.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I launched The Bar Project just before the pandemic hit, and almost every booking I had lined up was suddenly canceled or pushed out months—sometimes even years. It was a tough and uncertain time, especially as a brand-new business. But instead of giving up, I used that downtime to refine our services, strengthen relationships with venues, and create a brand that would come back stronger. When events finally returned, The Bar Project wasn’t just ready—we were better than ever.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
The Bar Project is Salt Lake City’s premier private bar service, proudly serving weddings, corporate events, nonprofits, and life’s biggest celebrations across Utah. With over 20 years of bartending experience and since opening in 2019, we’ve become the go-to choice for couples and venues who want a bar that’s both professional and unforgettable.
We specialize in timeless, classic cocktails with a luxury touch, and we’re one of the few bar services in Utah offering everything from simple bar setups to full-service experiences. Our team doesn’t just pour drinks—we guide you through cocktail selections, help you navigate Utah’s tricky liquor laws, and make sure your reception feels effortless.
As a women-owned brand, we believe no event is too big or too small—and whether your guests are drinkers, sober, or anywhere in between, we’ll make sure everyone feels included and celebrated.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I’ve been lucky to have some incredible people along the way. My early mentors and coworkers from my college bar days gave me the grit, hustle, and thick skin it takes to thrive in this industry. The owner I worked for before launching The Bar Project taught me how to navigate the wedding world with confidence and care—I her them so much for that foundation.
My family is my biggest motivation and my “why.” They’re the reason I work hard, keep growing, and strive to get home at a decent hour instead of 4 a.m. every night. And of course, my clients—especially the couples I fall in love with year after year. I’ve probably cried at a hundred weddings, and I’m not even exaggerating. Finally, my incredible venue partners deserve so much credit for believing in me, trusting me with their clients, and helping The Bar Project become what it is today. I truly couldn’t do it without them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thebarprojectslc.com/shop/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebarprojectslc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554247792649
