Meet Soema Santa Cruz | Curly Hair Master and owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Soema Santa Cruz and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Soema, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind my success has been that I genuinely love what I do and truly understanding and respecting the uniqueness of curly hair_and more importantly, the people who wear it. So many clients come in feeling like their hair has been misunderstood, mistreated, or undervalued. I’ve built my business on education, empathy and empowerment. I make it a point to listen first, I treat every client and every curl like they’re one of a kind. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach; I personalize every cut to suit each type, texture, and personality. My goal is always to make people fell seen, celebrated and confident. I think that’s why my clients call me the “Miracurl Worker”-because I help them see then beauty in what they already have. And honestly I feel like a never work a day in my life, because I’m living my passion. when you love what you do it shows-and people feel it. That trust, and the results it brings, has been the foundation of everything.

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What should our readers know about your business?
Well…Curly Republic isn’t just a salon-it’s a movement, a tribe a safe space where every curl is seen, celebrate and understood. I created it to feel like a republic of its own-place where curls rule, and individuality is a law. Every client who walks through becomes part of a community that embraces texture, honors uniqueness, and rejects the idea that beauty needs to be tamed. Here we don’t ‘fix’ curls we set them free.

I believe we’re all gifted in different ways, and what makes me different is the way I connect with curls -and with people. I dont see hair I see an identity, history and confidence waiting to be uncovered. Curly Republic is more than a salon it’s a place where curls are truly express.

I’m especially excited about how the curly hair community is growing , and how we’re becoming a hub for education and self-love. Seeing a client light up after finally receiving a cut that honors their texture NEVER GETS OLD!!

Honestly, it all started with a leap of faith. I held onto that goal even when the path wasn’t clear. I didn’t have a full roadmap , but I knew that if I focused on my purpose and served my community with intention everything else would fall into place. Of course, there were challenges; limited resources, self-doubt, and moments where things didn’t go as planned. But I chose not to let those barriers define the journey. I stayed focused on the bigger picture, learned as I went, and leaned into growth. Every set back was a lesson and every small win was a reminder that I was on the right path. The mindset-vision over fear- has been the foundation of how I’ve built Curly Republic.

One of the biggest lesson is that authenticity builds trust. Clients can tell when you’re passionate and knowledgeable about curls-and when you are not. Seeing the joy on my clients face is so rewarding-if bills didnt exist, Id honestly do it for free.

Was it easy..? No, its easy to say but when I look back I don’t forget where I came from nor where I started from, I got to where I am today through a vision, grit, and staying truth to who I am. I am an immigrant – a proud Mexican woman who started where my mother humbly only knew what to do-the fields… yes, cutting lettuce hard labor so I did, my journey started with hard labor , long days, and big dreams I didn’t have a blueprint, but I had a vision I knew that wasn’t for me but I did what I had to do with what I had in that moment, what as I angry? yes!.. plenty of times only because I wished to be with my little girl at home. Did I complaint?.. to whom?! I thought I shouldn’t! this is life so play along but never the less.. greatful! Every step I’ve taken-no matter how hard has been fueled with gratitude and authenticyty, I turned struggles into a purpose.

Honored and grateful!
I am beyond proud to share that Curly Republic has been named Best Curly Hair Salon in Greenwood Village for 7 consecutive years earning a place in the Hall of Fame. Thank you to every client, family, friend and supporter who believe in me, trusted me with your curls, and helped bring the vision life. This is for all of us-a curly crown we wear together.

“Creativity comes to those already in motion”

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Whenever friends visit me in Denver, I love showing them places that really capture the city’s energy, beauty, and vibe. here are some of my favorites spots to take them; definitely Down Town Denver 16th street mall has a lot great restaurants love soeme good Mexican food Machetes, Real de Minas, El Tequileño and La Xhingada,fun bars, can’t missed the Union station in general a great nightlife vibe.

Red Rocks is a most! best amphitheater their lucky summer is the time to really enjoy!
Another spot I enjoy is the Museum of Nature & Science. The mountains for a nice ride or hike. Any of the Top Golf will do, Skate City Aurora yess!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without my mentor-the person who not only thought me the art and science of curly hair, but also helped me understand the beauty and responsibility behind it-its about honoring the story each curls tells. I am forever grateful for the guidance, patience and the way they sparked a deeper [assion in me to uplift and empower every curl-haired soul that sits in my chair. thank you infinitely Melissa Vas and team.

Website: https://www.curlyrepublic.com

Instagram: curly.republic

Facebook: Curly Republic

Yelp: Curly Republic

Other: soon to be in Tik Tok

Image Credits
Photos taken by

Isaac Castelan