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Toluwalope Ogoji is the Chief Executive Officer of Stitchesbylope Lifestyle Brand. She tells OGHENOVO EGODO-MICHAEL about her brand
Tell us about your educational background.
I had my elementary education at Philadephia International School, Gbagada, Lagos. For my secondary education, I attended National College, also in Gbagada. I went on to study Mathematics and Statistics at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Oyo State. I also attended an Italian fashion school in Ibadan named Dots Fashion Design and Institute.
Do you have any corporate work experience?
Yes, I do. I had my industrial training as an office administrator. I have also worked in the dispatch section of a distribution company in Ibadan.
What services does your business offer?
Stitchesbylope, cued from my name, Toluwalope, is a premium afrocentric lifestyle brand dedicated to elevating African timeless pieces, which range from timeless afrocentric designs to handmade bags, fashion accessories, handmade decor pieces and homeware.
When did you venture into your business?
I like to say that I was born into this line because my mum was a fashion designer and I stayed in her fashion store from way back and made whatever I wanted. Whether it comes out nice or not, I would comfortably wear them. This was about I2 to I5 years ago. That was where the passion came from. I practically grew up with it. As a brand, Stitchesbylope started off as a side hustle when I was working my 9-5 job. I would make clothes for my colleagues and friends at work and at home. In 2019, after being laid off at my old job, I officially started my business.
How did you source for your start-up capital for the business?
There was no start-up capital for my business. I got a sewing machine as a birthday gift the year before I started sewing. My mum got me some supplies and materials while my dad provided the packaging materials. I just started making use of what I had.
When you started the business, how did you get friends and family to support you?
I really did not have to ask friends and family for support; it came naturally. I would make dresses, post them on social media and sell to students. Then, most of my customers came from the University of Ibadan, and Lagos. I used the money I made to buy more fabric and supplies. After a while, I started getting referrals.
What is your creative process like?
My creative process depends on what I want to make and why the customer needs it. This includes sourcing to prototype, samples, product testing, among others.
On average, how long does it take you to make an order?
It takes about six to 48 hours, depending on what I am making, though much time is spent packaging the products after production. I will launch my website soon, and we can have more time.
How many employees do you have?
Presently, I work with about seven artisans. I look forward to providing more employment. The business is growing every day.
How do you measure your income?
I measure my income by recording all purchases. All orders and projects are also recorded for future statistical and accountability purposes
What are some of the challenges you have faced so far?
I have faced many challenges but they are mostly peculiar to Nigeria. We really need Nigeria to be better, so that people’s lives will also be better.
Did you at any point think of quitting the business?
Yes, it is not easy. However, I always try to stay strong, as I know where I am going to.
How do you deal with difficult customers?
Patience is the only way I deal with difficult customers. Though it can be very hard, I just hear them out. I do exactly what customers want, to avoid any issue. Customer service and satisfaction is something I do not joke with.
What is the most influential factor in the success of your business?
The most influential factors in the success of my business are passion and consistency.
Where do you see your business in the nearest future?
I see it going all over the world.
Are there other businesses you will like to try?
I see how everything I do is related but I do not know what the future will bring. I just expect much.
What advice do you have for young people looking to go into this kind of business?
The advice I have for them is to just start. It is okay to start with what you have now. That is how you will know what you need next.
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