Arely Fonseca shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Arely, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A normal day for me starts with riding to school with my 15-year-old. I cherish those quiet moments in the car. Whether we’re sharing a song, a laugh, or a quick conversation before I drop him off at high school. After that, I usually head to the gym or straight to work. I see a few clients, then it’s back to pick him up so we can head home and settle into the evening.
I love cooking, and around this time I usually get to have dinner with my daughter so we can catch up and unwind together. Then it’s all about resetting and getting ready to do it all again the next day — grateful for the little routines that make life feel full.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, my name is Arely Fonseca. I am a Houston hairstylist and colorist with over 20 years of experience in the industry. For the last eight years, I’ve proudly worked independently, building a loyal following that trusts me—whether it’s for color, hair extensions, or their wedding day.
I offer personalized, one-on-one service, and I truly love being part of your hair journey. It’s a privilege to help each person look and feel their very best.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
Luis Miranda saw something in me long before I ever saw it in myself. He pushed me, guided me, and loved me through every stage of my growth. He believed in my craft wholeheartedly. I always admired his talent, yet he was the one who reacted with awe at my work, making me feel special and seen. I could hardly believe how proud he always was of me.
The way he reacted, the pride in his voice… it made me feel special in a way I can’t explain. Every photo shoot, every booking, every exciting milestone — he was the first person I called to scream, celebrate, and share the news. And without hesitation, he’d respond, “What do you need to make it happen?” He was always ready to show up.
It’s rare in this industry — or in life — to meet someone so genuine, so unthreatened, so full of love. Someone who believed that each of us has our own unique talent and never once let jealousy touch our friendship. The stylist I am today… the confidence I carry… the passion I have… it all traces back to him.
His support wasn’t just encouragement, it was a gift, one I’ll spend the rest of my career honoring.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
When Luis passed, I lost my best friend — the person I spent most of my days with, at work and in life. He wasn’t just a friend; he was a father figure, my safe place, my biggest supporter. When he left, my entire support system shattered. I lost someone so special to me that I truly didn’t know how I would ever recover.
Grieving him has taught me that some pains don’t disappear — you learn to live with them. I honor him every day by trying to live with the same grace, kindness, and bold love he showed me. He taught me to love more intensely, to be unapologetically myself, to face my fears, and to take chances even when I’m scared.
Life is too short not to take risks, pursue happiness, make mistakes, and enjoy the small things we often overlook. Losing him reminded me that the moments we think are ordinary are the ones we end up missing the most. And because of him, I try to live a life worthy of the love and pride he always had for me.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely. The version of me that people see—whether behind the chair, on social media, or in my everyday life—is genuinely who I am. I don’t separate “work Arely” from “real Arely.” I show up with the same heart, the same passion, the same energy, and the same intention to make people feel beautiful and cared for.
My work is personal to me. I connect deeply with my clients, I share pieces of my life, and I let my personality shine through—my humor, my warmth, my honesty. What you see publicly is simply the parts of me I’m proud to share: my work, my growth, my journey, and my love for what I do.
If anything, the real me is just a little softer, a little more emotional, and a little more vulnerable—but still very much the same person you see every day.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I’ve learned that the real reward isn’t in the praise, it’s in the purpose. My craft has always been my passion, my therapy, my way of giving love to others. Even if no one applauded, even if no one posted, liked, or noticed… I would still pour my whole heart into what I do.
For over 20 years, I’ve dedicated myself to helping people feel beautiful and confident. And through loss, growth, and life’s hardest moments, I’ve learned that showing up with intention matters more than external validation. The best work is done quietly, consistently, and with love.
Praise is nice. But passion is what keeps you going. I choose passion, every single time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.arelyfonseca.com
- Instagram: Arelyfonsecahtx
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arelyfonsecahtx?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1JqZBAEK7S/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Other: TikTok Arelyfonsecahtx
