We’re looking forward to introducing you to Shatoyia Vanderhorst. Check out our conversation below.
Shatoyia, 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: When was the last time you felt true joy?
The last time I felt true joy was at my son’s high school graduation. Watching him walk across that stage wasn’t just a proud mom moment, it was a full circle reminder of why I work so hard. All the long nights, sacrifices, and lessons I’ve tried to teach him felt worth it in that single moment. It was joy mixed with gratitude, pride, and excitement for the future, his and mine.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Shatoyia Vanderhorst (Better known as VandyV) a wife, mother, and entrepreneur who has been braiding hair for over 25 years. What began as my “fun thing” and creative outlet has grown into my livelihood and legacy. I found success on YouTube teaching braiding techniques through the series Braid School, and since 2021, I’ve owned VLS Hair Braided Beauty Studio in Pflugerville, Texas.
Today, I’m proud to lead a talented team of braiders, extension specialists, and natural hair specialists who share my passion for creating, healthy protective styles that make clients feel their best. While hair will always be my foundation, content creation has become another creative lane I truly enjoy, a way to share, teach, and inspire beyond the salon.
What makes my work unique is the way I merge artistry with education, whether I’m training new braiders, launching my upcoming product line, or creating content that inspires women to embrace reinvention at any stage of life. Right now, I’m focused on expanding my salon team, developing a braid school, and building a curriculum to help the next generation of Professional Braiders turn their craft into a career
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that most shaped how I see myself is the one I have with my children. Motherhood has been my greatest mirror, reflecting my strengths, exposing my blind spots, and constantly reminding me of the example I’m setting. It’s made me more intentional about how I show up in every part of my life, from business to personal growth. Knowing they’re watching has pushed me to be resilient, take risks, and build a life that shows them what’s possible when you believe in yourself and do the work.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
One of the defining wounds of my life has been feeling like I had to figure everything out on my own. Growing up, I didn’t always feel protected or supported, so I learned early to rely on myself. That self-reliance became a strength in business, but it also meant I struggled to ask for help or trust others. Healing came in layers, through motherhood, marriage, friendships and entrepreneurship, learning that allowing people in doesn’t make me weak, it makes me stronger. Building my salon team and community has shown me that collaboration and trust can open doors I could never have unlocked alone. I am truly thankful for the tribe that surrounds me today.
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 truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
One truth that runs through everything I do is my deep pride in being a Black woman. I have never wanted to be anything else. I know the world often underestimates and even despises us, yet we continue to rise, becoming some of the most educated, successful, and driven people while still being nurturing spirits and making it all look effortless. Others see it as struggle, we see it simply as life.
When my daughter was born, I cried because I understood the world she was entering. I made it my mission to pour into her every chance I got, so she’d know her worth before anyone tried to diminish it. With my son, I taught him to always understand where he stands in every situation, because his safety and future could depend on it.
My husband and I share a closeness rooted in understanding each other’s lived experiences. That same care extends to my clients, who I strive to make feel at home in my chair, and to my community, where I support nonprofits serving people of color, attend civil rights protests when I can, and champion organizations grounded in providing value to our community as a whole. At my core, I value community over everything, it’s where my strength comes from and where I do my best to give back.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
For a long time, I was doing what I was told to do. I went to school for accounting, earned two degrees, and built a career in corporate finance because I was told that doing hair wasn’t a “real job.” It was considered a hobby, not a career path. But over time, I realized that the work I was doing didn’t feed my spirit.
It wasn’t until I stepped away from corporate life and fully committed to what truly moved me, creating beauty, building community, and mentoring others, that my life became fulfilling and peaceful. I now know that I was born to do this work, and I’m grateful I had the courage to choose it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ww.vlshair.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vandyvanity/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBSsPD4V71KM4FvmDxVk9ww
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTYaBdUFp/
Image Credits
https://www.instagram.com/rt.visuals512/
https://www.instagram.com/flemingsphotography/
