We recently had the chance to connect with Toju Sunmola and have shared our conversation below.
Toju, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
Fashion. I often say, “Fashion chose me, but Beauty saved me.” Toju. S
For a long time, I struggled with anxiety around fashion design — from measurements to pattern making to making sure every piece fit perfectly. I was so hard on myself that if I got one measurement wrong, I would beat myself up for days. Every mean comment cut deep, and I ignored the positive feedback that was right in front of me. To escape the stress, I ran from creating clothes altogether.
But the more I ran, the stronger the urge to sew became. Fashion wouldn’t let me go. Eventually, I realized that fear was only holding me back from the very thing I was called to do. So this time, instead of running, I’m choosing to answer fashion’s call with courage and grace.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Toju Sunmola, the creative force behind Tojus Beauty and Fashion Studio — a brand born from two passions I hold close.
I often say, “Fashion chose me, but Beauty saved me.” Fashion has always been my calling, but beauty gave me balance — grounding me and helping me rediscover the joy in my craft.
At the studio, we focus on two areas:
Fashion: custom clothing, alterations, and sewing classes for beginners and advanced learners.
Beauty: professional nail care, artistry, and advanced nail services in a chic, private setting.
What makes us unique is the heart behind our work — we’re not just creating clothes or nails; we’re building confidence, encouraging self-expression, and cultivating a community where creativity feels safe and celebrated.
Right now, we’re focused on expansion — growing our fashion apprenticeship program, enhancing our nail suite, and developing mobile services to reach seniors and others with limited access to care.
Our vision is to evolve into a full ecosystem that empowers clients and inspires the next generation of creatives.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed I was destined to be a doctor because every adult around me insisted it was the “best” path. I thought I had to follow that expectation to be successful or valued. Today, I no longer believe I need to fit into someone else’s idea of who I should be. I’ve learned to trust my own passions and instincts.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, there was a time I almost gave up.
Three years ago, in November 2022, I remember calling my husband from the car, crying, and telling him I didn’t think I could stay open — that I might have to close my studios because I couldn’t afford to keep them running.
It was a deeply overwhelming moment for me; all my hard work was going down the drain.
Today, I’m grateful to God that things are different and better.
Looking back, I’m so glad I didn’t give up.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends might say: God, myself, my family, my friends, and the people, places, and things that shape my life.
I value the connections and environments that nurture growth, joy, and purpose, and I try to surround myself with people and experiences that reflect those priorities.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people remember and respect the work I’ve done, and that I’ve been able to change or inspire at least one person.
I also hope they keep me in their prayers and, most of all, that my children carry on my work and continue the legacy I’m building.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/tojus
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/houseoftojus/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/tojus-nail-studio-houston?osq=toju
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/CustommadebyToju?dd_referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F
