Meet Yolanda Okonji | Hairstylist & Brow Artist

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

Hi Yolanda, what role has risk played in your life or career?
For me, risk is closely tied to faith and vision. I’ve learned that if you want something different—something greater—you have to be willing to step into the unknown. Starting Capelli Restores wasn’t just a business move; it was a leap of faith. I left behind a more secure path to build something from the ground up, guided only by my belief in my purpose and the people I’m meant to serve.

Risk has shown up in so many ways: investing in my skills, opening a location, adding new services, and even trusting my instincts when they went against the grain. Each time I took a risk, I grew—not just as an entrepreneur, but as a woman, a leader, and a creative.

I don’t believe in reckless decisions, but I do believe in listening when something bigger is calling you—and being brave enough to follow, even if it’s scary. That’s how Capelli Restores was born, and it’s how I continue to build a business that’s both impactful and deeply personal.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My work is more than just hair — it’s about restoration, confidence, and creating a space where people feel seen and celebrated. What sets Capelli Restores apart is the heart behind the service. We specialize in hair extensions, hair color, hair restoration, and brow services but what we truly offer is transformation — not just of appearance, but of how our clients feel when they walk out the door.

I’m most proud of the way we’ve built a brand around healing and beauty. We’ve had clients cry tears of joy in the chair because they finally feel like themselves again. That’s the kind of impact that keeps me going.

Getting here wasn’t easy. There were seasons of uncertainty, financial stress, and moments where I questioned whether I was doing the right thing. But I refused to quit. I stayed grounded in prayer, focused on my purpose, and took things one step at a time. I also surrounded myself with people who believed in the vision, even when it was just a seed.

Some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned: Stay consistent. Stay kind. Protect your peace. And never dim your light to make others comfortable. You have to be bold about the gift God gave you.

I want people to know that at Capelli Restores we’re creating space for people to feel empowered, nurtured, and celebrated. Every strand we touch, every client we serve, is part of a bigger story about confidence, faith, and wholeness.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
For sure a self-care day! I’d bring them to Capelli Restores for a transformation, of course. Afterward, maybe a massage at Milk + Honey Spa in Houston. Dinner at State of Grace in River Oaks — elevated Southern food at its finest, We’d explore Houston’s culture — murals in EaDo, vintage finds in Montrose, then hit Post Houston for food hall eats and rooftop city views. Nighttime? A show at The Hobby Center or live music at House of Blues.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I dedicate my shout out to my family and husband they have honestly been my rock

Website: https://capellirestores.com

Instagram: capellirestores

Facebook: capellirestores