Meet Yolanda Martin | Wine Consultant & Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Yolanda Martin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yolanda, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
Failures and setbacks are a part of life. The key to pushing through those difficult times is to stay motivated. Success is certain when you put forth your best effort and never give up. Nelson Mandela once said, “A winner is a dreamer who never gives up.”

What should our readers know about your business?

Wine with Yoli was created to change the exclusionary culture of the wine industry and make it more accessible to all. As a certified wine educator I enjoy passing on my knowledge and passion of wine to others. Wine with Yoli provides curated, virtual and in person wine tasting events for individuals and groups.

My business is much more than a venture to me it is a labor of love. I’m passionate about sharing my love for wine with those who are well versed in the wine industry, as well as newcomers who are interested in learning more about wine.

Determination, perseverance, resiliency, and faith created an avenue for me to fulfill my passion. It has not been an easy voyage due to the elements of life. Personal issues and the pandemic created an uncomfortable atmosphere. However, I decided to focus on the possibilities as opposed to the impossibilities of owning a business. My positive thought process has made all the difference.  Along the way I’ve learned that success in life is not always a linear process. There are turns, detours, and accidents throughout the journey. Then I reminded myself that failure is a fallacy that’s self-created, and writing our own narrative of success is much more important.  I want the world to know that my love for wine is good extended to my fellow human, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or culture. Before are labeled anything, we are human beings. I’ve made a decision to be a light to all my human counterparts and hopefully me sharing my love of wine can influence sustained connection with all involved.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my friend was visiting from out of town, we would have to visit a staple within our great city. Breakfast Klub would be out first stop. The food is delicious, the ambiance is soothing, and the staff is inviting. Next we would visit the Menil Art Collection near the Montrose area. We are blessed with great culture and the arts. Afterwards, we will take a stroll through Hermann Park. After strolling through Hermann Park, we’d venture to Day 6 Coffee. It’s a nice quaint minority owned coffee shop with great coffee and great people. For dinner, The Taste Bar, would make for a great stop. Chicken and Waffles, Shrimp and Grits, vegetarian options which I personally love, and great music. It’s definitely worth a visit and hard to beat. To end our night, we would take in a couple of laughs at the Laugh Stop Houston. They have great comedians at their venue.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

First and most importantly, I must give a shout out to my parents. They modeled love, guidance, and wisdom, and excellence! My parents grew up in an era where quitting wasn’t an option. Watching them live their lives gave me hope that I can overcome any difficulties that I encounter in life. I learned resiliency and respect, which taught me how to truly live.

I aspired to become an owner of a business because I wanted to fulfill my passion of having something I can call my own. I also wanted to serve as an inspiration to women business owners who have doubts about being an entrepreneur. We as women are still considered a minority, which can limit our resources. Therefore, my desire is to be a force and resource for up and coming women business owners. Ultimately, I want to prove to myself that I can live a life full of passion, while doing something I’m passionate about.

Instagram: @winewithyoli