Today we’d like to introduce you to Ozell Butcher.
Hi Ozell, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey in the beauty industry started when I was just 13. My mom was a beautician, and I loved changing my hairstyles frequently. One day, she told me that if I wanted to switch it up as often as I did, I’d have to start doing it myself. So, I did! When she saw that I actually knew what I was doing, she put me in charge of doing my sisters’ hair—I have three of them, by the way!
Funny enough, I never saw hair as a passion. I didn’t love doing hair itself, but I loved making people feel good. That’s what kept me doing hair for family and friends, even though I didn’t see it as my career path. Instead, I wanted to be a teacher.
Fast forward 11 years, I became a teacher and also worked as a nanny. But as much as I loved working with kids, I realized I wanted something different. That’s when I decided to pursue makeup. In 2019, I became a freelance makeup artist, and I was excited about where that could take me. But of course, 2020 hit, and the pandemic put a pause on my career.
In 2021, I had the idea to open a beauty bar. But I didn’t want to just own it—I wanted to work in it. So, I enrolled in cosmetology school to get my license. At the time, I was still focused on makeup, but six months into school, I landed a job at a salon that specialized in textured hair. That was the moment everything changed for me. I didn’t even realize that salons catering specifically to textured hair existed, let alone that “curl specialist” was a career path.
From 2021 to early 2024, I worked in that salon, gaining experience and truly falling in love with the art of working with natural hair. I am forever grateful for my mentor, Jeanae, for giving me the opportunity that she did. Her guidance played a huge role in shaping the stylist I am today, and I wouldn’t be where I am without that experience.
Then, I decided to step out on my own. I opened The Curldom, my own salon suite, and it’s been an incredible journey. I did have a business partner initially, but we recently separated, and now I’m officially the sole owner.
The difference between doing hair when I was younger and what I do now is night and day. Now, I genuinely love it. Specializing in textured hair is deeply fulfilling because it allows me to help my clients embrace and enhance their natural beauty. Whether it’s a wash-and-go, a twist-out, or simply a consultation to help someone feel more confident in their natural state, I love that I get to be part of that journey.
Every client who sits in my chair is coming to embrace their hair. And for me, that’s powerful. I truly feel like this is what I was meant to do. As an introvert, being a hairstylist has also pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way. This career has given me so much more than I ever expected, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Oh, it has definitely not been a smooth ride! When I first started working with textured hair, I thought, “Oh yeah, my hair is textured, so I’ve got this!” But reality checked me real quick. I was using the same product on every client, thinking it would work across the board—completely ignoring the fact that even on the same head, you can have four or five different textures! That was a humbling lesson, and looking back at where I started versus where I am now, I can confidently say I’ve come a long way.
Of course, the journey hasn’t just been about perfecting techniques—it’s also about understanding people. As much as I pour into my clients, I’ve had to accept that not every client is for me, and I’m not for every client—and that’s okay! There will always be those who, no matter what you do, just aren’t satisfied. And in the beginning, that was tough because I genuinely want everyone who sits in my chair to feel beautiful, valued, and confident. But I’ve learned that the right clients will find me, and when they do, it makes all the ups and downs worth it.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a textured hair specialist based in Houston, Texas, and I’ve been specializing in curls for almost four years. I’m best known for my curly cuts—but let me tell you, my cuts are not one-size-fits-all. Every cut is tailored to the client, their vision for their curls, and what their hair can actually do. It’s all about enhancing their natural beauty in a way that works for them.
This might sound cliché, but what I’m most proud of is myself—both personally and professionally. Over the years, I’ve really grown into who I am, and my profession has played a huge role in that. Being a stylist has pushed me to be more comfortable showing up as my authentic self, and I truly don’t think I’d be the person I am today without this journey.
What sets me apart? I work with all hair textures—whether it’s coily, curly, or wavy. If there’s texture, I’m here for it! One of the most rewarding things is hearing from new clients that they love seeing themselves represented in my work. That means everything to me because I want everyone to feel welcome and confident that they can come to me for their hair needs.
And beyond just styling, I’m big on education. My goal isn’t just for you to love your hair when you leave my chair—I want you to have the knowledge and tools to care for it at home, too. Healthy hair is always my top priority, and I believe that when you understand your hair, you love your hair.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most about Houston is the diversity—there are so many different people, cultures, and activities to explore! No matter what you’re into, there’s a place for you. Whether it’s line dancing, visiting art museums, or discovering new food spots, there’s always something happening. You can truly find your people and spaces that cater to what you love.
What I like least? Definitely the traffic! Houston is huge, and somehow, you can drive for an hour and still be in Houston—it’s wild! But honestly, with everything the city has to offer, I’d say it’s worth it.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://thecurldom.glossgenius.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beautyby_zell/?ig_mid=262E9773-D9DD-45A8-B606-08A82954FDF1&utm_source=igweb
