Maria Esmeralda shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Maria, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
Self sabotage.. I will forever say that we are our own worst critics. It’s strange how easily we extend grace to others but rarely to ourselves. We replay our mistakes, doubt our progress, and overlook how far we’ve come. Maybe growth isn’t about silencing the critic completely, but learning to answer it with kindness. We have to remind ourselves that we deserve patience too.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a licensed Hair artist, multi-passionate entrepreneur and future nurse with a deep love for growth, creativity, and helping others. I currently own and manage multiple businesses, including a successful hair-styling brand (Hues & Do’s Beauty & The Braiding Fairy HTX) that allows me to express artistry while empowering clients to feel confident and beautiful.
Alongside entrepreneurship, I’m pursuing my associate’s degree in nursing.My journey combines care, discipline, and creativity: from styling hair and running multiple businesses to preparing for a career dedicated to service and healing.
What makes my story unique is my drive to balance it all with wellness, business, education, and purpose while continuing to evolve personally and professionally. I believe in turning hard work into opportunity and challenges into growth, and I hope my journey inspires others to chase every passion without limits.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
My dad taught me everything I know about hard work. He’s one of the most dedicated people I’ve ever met. Growing up, I watched him put his heart into everything he did, no matter how tough it got. That work ethic shaped me it made me believe that dreams aren’t just meant to be imagined, they’re meant to be earned. My dad always wanted to be a doctor, and while I chose a different path in nursing, his determination inspired me to pursue my own calling in healthcare with that same passion and purpose.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, there were definitely moments I almost gave up, especially when I was trying to balance everything: running businesses, going to school, and staying focused on my long-term goal of becoming a nurse. There were times I felt overwhelmed and questioned if I could handle it all. Especially in today’s economy! But I reminded myself why I started to build a better future, to make my family proud, and to prove to myself that I could do hard things. Every challenge taught me something about strength and persistence. Those moments I almost quit ended up being the ones that shaped me the most.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
A cultural value I protect at all costs is hard work and perseverance. It’s something that runs deep in my family and my Mexican heritage. My dad showed me what true dedication looks like. No matter how tired he was, he never gave up, and he always took pride in doing things the right way. Watching him taught me that hard work isn’t just about earning a living, it’s about building character, honoring your roots, and turning sacrifice into strength. He taught me to take pride in effort, stay humble, and never back down from challenges.That mindset has carried me through every challenge, from running my businesses to chasing my dream of becoming a nurse.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I’m doing what I was born to do. For a long time, I thought success meant following a certain path, but over time I realized that what truly fulfills me is helping people, whether it’s through nursing, business, or simply making someone feel seen and cared for. I wasn’t told to do this; it’s something that comes from within. Nursing allows me to serve with compassion, and my businesses let me express creativity and empowerment. Both sides reflect who I am at my core, someone driven to make a difference through hard work, care, and purpose.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @huesndos @thebraidingfairyhtx
