Today we’d like to introduce you to Lan Akinade.
Hi Lan, thanks for joining us today. Can you tell us about how you began your fashion journey?
I had always known I wanted to be an entrepreneur since childhood. I sold pieces of jewelry from pocket monies that my mom gave me when I was in 8th grade. I had and still have incredible skills in bargaining and convincing people to buy. One time I went shopping with my mom as a teenager, and I saw beautiful earrings, so I convinced the seller to sell them to me for half the price, and I got some money from my mom to buy 5 earrings. I sold them to my friends, family, and neighbors for three times the prices I got. I was only an 8th grader; that was my first shot at the business. Even though I have a bachelor’s degree in Animal Nutrition and a Professional Certification in Management, I did not practice what I studied in school for one day. Throughout my schooling, I did fashion design and worked part-time jobs in different fashion houses. I officially registered TOL Bespoke in 2012 and incorporated TOL Bespoke International LLC in 2019. My work has been published in several magazines, and I have created a runway collection and featured in fashion shows. I am creative; I love working with my hands; It gives me immense joy. I am a big dreamer. I believe everything is achievable. This helps me when I get to very hard junctions in my business.
Most importantly, God has been my help. I am a Christian who believes in prayers and that God answers because I have experienced them. I commit every little business detail to God, and He has never failed me.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been smooth?
No. The road hasn’t been smooth, but it has been a creative journey filled with interesting experiences. The thing about fashion is that when I started, it was hard. But now that I have been doing it for 18 years, it has gotten easier. First of all, fashion is a highly competitive and easily evolving industry. It will take a few years before one’s brand becomes accepted, just as it is for every fashion designer. One major struggle for me along the way was finding the right workforce, assistant designers who understand the vision and the job, and who could sustain my brand’s level of expertise and integrity. Another struggle, as it applies to every solopreneur, was access to funding. But, as I said, it has gotten easier along the way.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re most proud of?
I am a luxury dressmaker and garment constructor. I specialize in making Bridal dresses, Red Carpet dresses, Prom dresses, and special occasion attires. I am known for my phenomenal creativity and versatility, as I can work with any fabric or material to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. My creativity pattern is intriguing. I don’t stay in the box; you can never guess what is coming next. These rare qualities have made my clients and audience stick with me over the years. I am also a fashion storyteller, I use my designs to tell inspiring stories, and I always say that my brand is more than just a garment; it is an experience that leaves anyone that comes across us with value. An example is our “Me series Collection.” Our FALL 2022 collection is tagged “In FALL, We Rise.” Honestly, I am proud of many things and how far I have come. But I think what tops the list is that I do this full time with no funds or support from anywhere, and I have never borrowed a dime for the business. The business doesn’t even have a credit card and spends its own money. I am very proud of that. What sets me apart is the originality of my work. I handle every garment as a project, with an intricate commitment to excellence to create a timeless piece. I don’t jump on trends, trends inspire me, but I weave that inspiration into a heartfelt design that will speak to the wearer.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My Mom: Rachel Torimiro, 3 years before I was born, my mom purchased a sewing machine, and it was this machine that I started sewing in my mom’s room in 2004. She has been a strong pillar of support for my dream.
My husband: Paul Akinade, has worked in every capacity with me and for the brand. From photography to administration, management to logistics, production, and accounting. I wouldn’t have come this far without his steady backend support.
My clients: past, present, and future. I have clients who have been with me for 11 years and counting. The belief that they have in my brand is one I am very grateful for.
God has been my Rock. He makes everything I touch to turn to gold. He guides my steps, which is why I have no regrets in my journey in life and business.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.tolbespoke.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/tolbespoke
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/tolbespoke
Image Credits
Photographers: @deonstringz @afatherslens Models: @sharygift2 @t_diji @ladylizwin @ashleysummerstopmodel @lois_mensah7 @tolbespokewoman @the.sydneygabrielle Make-up and Hair Styling @reigningartistry
