Meet Yulia Zheltkova | Event Braids Artist running my small business Event Braids Bar

We had the good fortune of connecting with Yulia Zheltkova and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yulia, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I first moved to America, I remember thinking — I wonder if I could ever open a real company here. I didn’t really have a big dream or deep meaning behind it; I just liked working and wanted to see if I could do it.

My first business was a cleaning company — I started it simply because I didn’t know what else I could do at that time. It worked out surprisingly well! The idea from the beginning was to build it and maybe sell it one day. When that moment came, it was a little sad to let it go, but also exciting. The company still exists today with a great new owner, and I still feel proud every time I see one of those vans with the logo I made myself right there in my driveway.

Then came flowers. I’ve always loved them. I started a small floral business with my best friend, and we worked on weddings for about two years. It was a beautiful experience — we even opened a small flower shop inside a coffee place in Pacific Beach. It didn’t last forever, but I learned so much and made more bouquets than I can count. I think I could make one with my eyes closed now.

And then I started Event Braids Bar. I’ve never been someone who can sit still — I always want to create and try new things. I used to braid girls’ hair for festivals like Burning Man, and one day I thought, “Why not make it a full experience — colorful, fun, something that makes people happy?”

I created the concept, started small, and moms began noticing. I’m forever thankful to those first clients who believed in me and told their friends. That’s how it all started growing.

What I love the most now is the feeling of joy — the happy energy at parties, the smiles, the glitter, the sparkle in the kids’ eyes when they see their hair. That’s what inspires me to keep going.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is about joy, inspiration, and the spirit of celebration.
The heart of my work isn’t just about braids or glitter — it’s about the happiness and confidence they bring. I love turning ordinary parties into magical moments where every child feels special and full of sparkle.

The journey hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve learned that kindness, passion, and perseverance always lead to results. Today, Event Braids Bar is more than just a service — it’s a bright, joyful experience filled with shimmer, warmth, and love.

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.
If my best friend came to visit me in San Diego, I’d show her all my favorite places.
Morning — coffee in Bird Rock by the ocean, then a walk along the coast.
Lunch — in Little Italy, always delicious and full of charm.
And the evening — sunset at Sunset Cliffs with tacos from Mike’s Taco Club.
A perfect day in San Diego.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’ll always be grateful to those amazing moms who believed in me.
Especially the first ones who trusted me with their kids’ parties — they had no idea how much their support meant. Their words and excitement gave me the confidence to keep going.

Also, to my friends who always cheer me on, share ideas, and help me stay inspired — and of course, my family, who supports me no matter what crazy project I decide to start next.

Website: https://www.eventbraidsbar.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/event.braidsbar?igsh=MXI4cHI2NmdxaGRhaA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Yelp: https://yelp.to/aBW7GvE-OD

Other: Email: eventbraidsbar@gmail.com
Address: San Diego California