From Rebrand to Radiance: The Timeless Elegance of Moelle Essentials

Bellafricana published in Articles, Beauty, Health & Beauty October 15, 2019

6 Ways To Care For Your Natural Hair

Let’s talk natural hair and how to care for them. It’s no secret that when the hair is not well maintained or taken care of, it leads to breakage and with a natural hair, there is need to pay extra attention. To help make this easy for you, I have shared 6 tips below on how to care for your natural hair.

Keep reading to see some amazing natural hair tips;

1. Always Clarify Your Hair:

The first step to caring for natural hair is to keep it moisturized. This begins with your shampoo. Don’t make the mistake of only using “moisturizing shampoo” when you’re experiencing dryness. You need to clarify (or remove) all of the old products from your hair to allow any future products to effectively work. The Serwaa Clay shampoo from Organic Life Plus is perfect for clarifying your hair. Click here to buy!

2. Increase Your Water Intake:

Every day you should be drinking at least half your body weight in ounces of water per day, minimum. Your body needs that much water to properly lubricant your organs, muscles, and hair because you’re made of 60% water!

3. Wear a Scarf (preferably silk):

Did you know cotton pillowcases and sheets are one of the biggest culprits for dryness and lint? To avoid these issues, it is best to always wear a satin scarf and/or sleep on a satin pillowcase. Also, use a silk scarf or shawl to cover your hair in the day to protect it from damaging sunshine and dirty. Check out some shawls/scarves from Asologe and Adire Lounge. Click the links to buy now!

4. Take More Fruits:

It is proved that high intake of fruits containing vitamin C and other essential minerals help to increase hair growth and improve the look of the hair. In essences, you should include fruits to your daily diet. Dry fruits from SacFruits would make this easier for you to practice. Click here to buy now!

5. Use Hair Oils:

Two key things every natural hair relies on to stay shinning and healthy are water and oil. Using good oil for your hair is like giving your hair good food to eat, that is, oil nourishes your natural hair. Oils like coconut oil, olive oil, lavender oil and more. You should check Organic Life Plus for your hair oils. Click here to buy now!

6. Get Regular Salon Hydration Treatments.
Steaming is one of the best moisturizing treatments for your hair. You should visit your hair care professional at least once every 3 months for a Hydration Treatment. It works wonders. For more details about your hair, contact Organic Life Plus, here.

Don’t forget to thank me soon after doing all 6 steps and seeing great results.

Bellafricana published in Articles, Uncategorized October 9, 2019

6 Gift Ideas For Your Boss

Gift ideas for your boss can be tasking and sometimes very tiring. You don’t want to be too informal and get a gift that would be considered inappropriate. Neither will you want to get a gift that is considered too cheap and not fit for a boss.

That’s not even all, you still have to make sure whatever you choose or decide to gift your boss is within your budget because no one is trying to get broke all in the name of gifting a boss. Thankfully, that is why I am here today.

Having done some proper research, I have come up with 6 gift ideas for your boss, keep reading to see them.

1. CUSTOMIZED PILLOW;

First, when its customized, you know it is special and giving this to a boss, tell me how he/she would not appreciate it or smile everything they see the pillow from you.

2. CUSTOMIZED CARD;

Ever thought of giving your boss a card? No! It is not too small, especially when you have it customized and with a personalized message. I bet you, he would be so happy. You should contact us to hook you up.

3. Footwear;

I don’t for a moment think your boss would not be glad if you got them a unique footwear as a gift. The word is ‘unique’, you don’t want to get him or her something that doesn’t depict elegance. Don’t be scared, it doesn’t have to be expensive, you can contact us to get you started.

4. Scented Candles;

When thinking of gift ideas for your boss, you should also think about what they need. That helps you to make better gift choices. Now, have you thought of some scented candles? This would go well in their office space or at home. And every time the sweet smell from this candles are commented on, they remember you. Contact us now to get them.

5. Laptop Bag;

In a world where almost everyone has a laptop, your boss would be so happy to get a laptop bag as a gift from you. Hold on, not just any laptop bag but one with a difference, get him an Aso-oke lap top bag, keep scrolling to see a picture below.

6. T-Shirts;

Contrary to popular believe that clothes are too expensive for a gift, there are amazing and affordable outfits you can get for your boss and still not break a bank. Check out some ideas below;

What was your issue again? With items on this list, you can’t go wrong with gift ideas for your boss. To get any of these mentioned above, click here to contact us and place your order now.

Bellafricana published in Articles September 28, 2019

Michelle Obama’s 10 Rules For Success

[dropcap custom_class=”normal”] As you go through your journey to fulfilling greatness or shall I say success, it is very important to know and surround yourself with people that inspire you. One of the key people that inspire me are the Obamas, in this case they don’t surround me, however, I follow them very closely from a distance.
I was very glad to have stumbled on this top 10 Rules for success stated by Michelle Obama collated by Evan Carmichael. In the spirit of entrepreneurship, I thought to share these top 10 rules given by Michelle Obama. [/dropcap]
Continue reading

Bellafricana published in Fashion September 25, 2019

Introducing Ethnik’s The EYO Collective

Ethnik by Tunde Owolabi releases a new collection ‘The EYO collection’. This collection as the name implies is inspired by ‘EYO’, a traditional icon in Lagos, Nigeria.

The Eyo festival is a significant festival unique to the Yoruba people from Lagos, Nigeria. The festival is celebrated on LAGOS island the traditional home of Lagosians with impressive pageantry and some rituals.

The Eyo masquerades represent spirits of ancestors hence the reason the festival is held in honor of a chief, a dead Oba or an elder from a ruling family or during the coronation of a new Oba.

The masquerade is robed with white fabric from head to toe with a hat called “Akete” and carries a stick called the “Opambata”. The color if the hat signifies the clan the Eyo belongs to.

Ethniks new collection “EYO” represents an important aspect of the Yoruba culture.

Take a peep of this collection below;

The Amina Mini

The Ethnik Amina mini bag is available in different colors.

Wine Asooke and Brown Brogues

This is stylish and comfortable for men. Ladies, looking for what to gift him? Think Ethnik.

The Amina Tote

This gives you a relaxed elegance for your everyday use.

Ethnik Sneakers

Suitable for both men and women.

The Hadizah Bag

Add some colors to your bag collection with this bag from Ethnik.

The Adventurer Backpack

Now you carry your laptop, books, clothing and more without stress.

Amazing works from Ethnik.

To get any of these, contact on Whatsapp +2349090003789.

Bellafricana published in Articles, Exclusive Interviews, Furnitures, Home & Living, Meet The Founders, September 24, 2019

Meet The Founder Of Ile Ila #Exclusive Interview

Hey there!

It’s been a minute. I just checked the date of my last published article and I myself was wowed! But hey! Let’s leave the past in the past shall we?

I was opportune to have an exclusive interview with the founder of an amazingly awesome furniture design brand called Ilé Ilà. The fist time I came across the brand was during the Bellafricana ACE Awards 2018 in Lagos, Nigeria, and I can remember just standing and staring at these sets of beautiful furniture made with Aso Oke. They were so colorful, looked very comfortable and all I could say to myself was, ”Oh wow, this is art!”

This interview gave me more insight to what this brands stands for, why they do what they do, and some of the challenges they face as a business. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did. Ladies and Gentlemen, I introduce to you, Tosin Oshinowo, Founder and Creative Director of Ile Ila.

Please introduce yourself and your background

My name is Tosin Oshinowo. I am an Architect and run a design practice in Lagos, Nigeria called cmDesign Atelier. I am also a product designer and run a lifestyle furniture line called Ile Ila.

Tell us about your work. How did Ile Ila start?

Ile Ila, is a lifestyle furniture line designed and hand-made in Lagos, Nigeria. The brand design period-conscious furniture with a contemporary African content.

How did you come about the name and what does it mean?

Ilé-Ilà, means House of Lines in Yoruba,

What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?

Our business is focused on accent chairs and ottomans. we really focused on the celebration and capsulation of Culture.

Where do you get the inspiration for your products?

We get our inspiration from everything around us. In particular we have a thing for color and textures and there is so much variety with Aso Oke.

Can you remember one of the first products you made? What makes it memorable?

One of the first chairs I made is still in my home. It’s an assortment of purple and lilac Aso Oke. It is really is one of the reasons who I got into the idea of color combination.

What are some of the challenges you face in your business?

Biggest challenge has been scaling up of production due to capital costs of the carpentry machinery. Currently, production is slow due to the machinery available, if we can scale up we can reduce time and reduce production cost and pass this saving on the our customers.

Do you have any regrets venturing into this line of business?

Not at all. Because I have stayed in the realm of design and creativity both businesses feed off each other.

What is your most popular product?

It’s interesting but difficult to answer. different demographics like different things. All the chairs have done well but i can almost guess peoples preference if I know their background or gender. In terms of sales the Alaafia did exceptionally well.

To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian (African) heritage for your work?

We are all products of our experiences and exposures and it is this combination that is reflected in my work.

What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?

We really want to push international sales. right now it’s expensive to export and this pushes up the price. short term we want to add more furniture lines to the brand.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I don’t know how to tie gele….. and I hardly wear Aso Oke.

What profession would you be in if you weren’t in the Furniture Design industry?

I probably would have been a visual artist.

If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?

Make sure you get your business properly registered and engage the services of an accountant from the start and make sure you pay your tax.

And finally, Here are some more images of pieces by Ilé-Ilà

Connect with Tosin on Instagram @ile.ila or send an email to contact@ile-ile.com or you can call, 08023789728.

Follow us on Instagram @bell_africana for more amazing creative indigenous brands, and to fine out more about the beauty of Africa.

Bellafricana published in Arts & Crafts, Uncategorized September 23, 2019

These Home Decors Are A Must Have

Hello Bellafricana family, I trust you are doing great. So, I went visiting a friend at her house and the home decors she had made me wonder if my place is a house or a building. No jokes oh, I just couldn’t stop staring. It got me wondering where I had missed it while decorating my house.

Luckily for me, she is not one of those who won’t let out their good life secret. And as a sharp babe that I am, I asked her to give me names of where she got her home decor from. When I kept asking about almost everything in her house, she decided to give me a full list. LOL!!

Anyway, I figured I might not be the only one in need of some house decor, keep scrolling to see the list I got.

Home Decor You Should Have

Mirrors;

Think of it, having a mirror around the house gives it some kind magnificent feel and using these mirrors from Mitimeth would definitely give a good feel. Check this out;

Wall Mirror by Mitimeth

Flower Pots;

You can’t have a garden in your room but you can definitely have a flower pot as part of your home decor. Check this below

Leaning Pot by Mitimeth

Chairs;

What is a home decor if there are no chairs? I am guessing you already know that the decor isn’t complete. So check out the lovely chairs below.

HUTA Chair by ethnik

Okin Chair by Ile.Ila

Throw Pillows;

Is it just me or do they really give the house some warmth? You know, having something to hold onto while sitting. If you weren’t into them, I trust after seeing what I have below, you will be convinced. See below

Throw Pillow by Mitimeth

Throw Pillow by Adire Lounge

Table Mat;

Why leave your table without a cover when you can have a table mat? You didn’t know? Now you know, check below!

Table Mat by Mitimeth

Ok, that’s it from me to you, tell me if you make any changes to your home decor.

Bellafricana published in Fashion September 17, 2019

Aso-Oke Creative Gift Ideas

If you still think aso-oke is for the old and has no place in the modern space, you are missing. Worse, if you are thinking of creative gift ideas for loved ones and you didn’t think of Aso-oke inspired items, you ain’t in vogue.

I had a discussion with my friend some few days ago and she explained how Aso-oke was gradually taking over the fashion space.

As you would expect, I argued with her, because I didn’t have any aso-oke piece and I didn’t see the need to. Not until she mentioned some brands making waves with aso-oke.

As a ‘doubting Thomas’ that I am, I still didn’t believe her, so I went on to do some research myself.

And oh my, I admit to have been sleeping on this oh! Like how can I be a fashion enthusiast and still not have an Aso-oke piece? Unbelievable! In fact, since festivities are fast upon us all I want for this season are aso-oke inspired pieces.

Before you even ask what is special about Aso-oke, let’s go down to the history.

Aso-Oke is a short form of Aso Ilu Oke also known as Aso-Ofi meaning clothes from the up-country. It is the traditional wear of the Yoruba’s (the tribe of the southwest people in Nigeria, Africa). The Yoruba’s are the second largest tribe in Nigeria after the Northerners. Aso-Oke is a cloth that is worn on special occasions by the Yoruba’s usually for chieftancy, festivals, engagement, naming ceremony and other important events. To read more on its hisory, click here.

Do you see why Aso-oke is not just another fabric and having it in forms different from the normal is unique? And of course, would make a perfect gift item.

In other words, thinking of what to buy for friends, family etc, keep scrolling to see some aso-oke inspired items.

Ketekete Chair by Ile.Ila

Ever seen a chair this beautiful? Well, it is made with aso-oke and would make for a beautiful gift. What do you think? Want to get this? Click here.

Footstool;

Probably for a footstool for the house, how about spicing the house up with an Aso-oke inspired footstool or send as a gift to the family house. This I bet you would get your mum and dad grinning. Ready to get this? Click here.

The Adventurer Back Pack by Ethnik

In the world today, almost everyone has an extra luggage they would be glad to have a backpack from you. Make it even special by getting them a backpack made with Aso-oke. Not only is it exclusive, it is also beautiful. To get this, click here.

Hadizah Bag by Ethnik

I could not complete this without putting in something special for the ladies. And the perfect gift would be the Hadizah Bag made with aso-oke and leather. Have a special lady you would want to surprise? Then you should click here for more details.

Hold on guys, before you even say it, keep reading to see something for you.

Aso-Oke Shoe from Moroks Xpression

This is a premium bespoke shoe made from Aso-oke by Moroks Xpression. This would definitely make for a great gift for friends and family. For more details, click here. You can also check out some other creative gifts for him here.

Are you convinced? That aso-oke is needed to complete your gift items.

While I go source for more, do well to check out these creative gift ideas.

Did you like this? Click here to read some other posts on the blog.

You can also keep up with our activities on social media on;

Instagram @Bell_africana

Facebook @Bellafricana

Twitter @Bellafricana

Bellafricana published in Health & Beauty, Uncategorized September 16, 2019

Discover Some Healthy Snacks And Food For You

This blog post is dedicated to showing you healthy snacks and food for yourself, family, friends and loved ones. Simply because, your health and that of those around you is of concern to Bellafricana. You are probably thinking to yourself why is that a concern?

Well, if you are reading this, you are definitely a Bellafricana community member and we care.

Now let’s go back to the post, shall we? This blog post ‘healthy snacks and food was inspired by my conversation with my mum. So, my mum clocked 40 not too long ago and oh my, every time she is given a snack or food she considers ‘unhealthy’, she reminds me of her age.

God help me when she is 50 and above. This my dear reader has not been the easiest. Now, I am all about healthy snacks, food, and the likes. As you can relate, it is not the easiest, and your girl has been all up researching for healthy snacks to save the day.

If you are not 40 yet, lucky you but then, health is wealth. So, here I am with some well-researched snacks and food to save you the hustle.

Keep scrolling to see some;

Healthy snacks and food

Bounties Honey;

The next question in your mind is, ‘is honey a food?’ Well, according to nutritionists, Honey is a sweet, viscous food substance produced by bees and some related insects. Also, honey is used as a substitute of sugar to sweeten meals. That as well makes it a consumable and a very important one.

And like every other thing that goes into the body weather as food or drink, it should of good quality. This is why I trust Bounties Honey. Bounties honey is 100% organic honey for a healthy living. Click here for more details;

SACfruits;

A little different from the every day fruit but gives the same nutrient and easier for you to pack as lunch for school or work. Dried fruit is made by taking the water out of the fruit by sun drying or using a special machine called a dehydrator. Since the water is removed during drying, this also means that the natural sugars in the fruit are concentrated. For this, SacFruit is Bellafricana verified, check them out here.

Happy Coffee;

Before you go about how coffee is not a food or snacks, allow me explain that for most people, coffee makes up the first meal of the day . This is because it helps the brain and mind stay alert and ready for the day. So, it is important that our coffee is healthy, hence it is included in our healthy snacks and food for you. To stay healthy on this, I recommend Happy Coffee for your everyday coffee needs. To read up on its importance, click here.

Shaun’s Pops;

This is a personal favorite. You know when the need to satisfy your sweet tooth comes in. Well, you should try Shaun’s Pops. It is a handcrafted gourmet delicious ice pops using seasonal fresh fruits sourced locally. All Natural. No Sugar added, No water added, Just fruits and Vegetables, Suitable for kids and adults of all ages. For more on this, click here.

There you go, some healthy snacks to keep you and your loved ones fit always.

What really is this Bellafricana about? Bellafricana is the leading platform that empowers, supports and provides creative Indigenous Businesses with a platform to showcase their business and connect to their global consumers looking to patronise and trade with them.

Need quality creative products, think bellafricana!

What is your Mission: To Make Finding Quality Indigenous Businesses Easier.

But Why: We noticed a vast increase in the number of unique quality creative products made in Nigeria (Africa) but noticed a huge gap between local creative Indigenous Entrepreneurs and consumers.

Hence, we created this platform to bridge that gap. What better way than through online, which gives it a global opportunity.

Click here to Learn more about how to grow Your Unique Indigenous Business with Bellafricana

What if I just want to advertise on bellafricana website/newsletter? : That’s totally possible, just email community@bellafricana.com, cc info@bellafricana.com or call 08086363970

Bellafricana published in Exclusive Interviews, Meet The Founders September 15, 2019

Meet The Creative Director and Co-Founder Of D-Dee Bags (Exclusive Interview)

D-Dee Bags is the newest addition to the Bellafricana Verified Family, and I am very excited to be introducing this amazing brand to you. Keep reading to meet the Co-Founder and Creative Director, Denike Ogunsola, as she speaks with Beatrice Miangogo of Bellafricana.

Please introduce yourself and your background.

Hi, my name is Denike Ogunsola, I co-own and manage D-Dee Bags, I have a B.A in Accounting from Temple University and a Masters Degree in International Business, I worked in business consulting before joining the manufacturing business. I enjoy operations management and creating processes but running D-Dee has helped hone my creative side.

Tell us about your work. How did D-Dee Bags start?

D-Dee is a family owned manufacturing business, started in 2001. We run a Bag, Footwear and Accessories manufacturing facility that produces for several brands, one of which is D-Dee Bags. It was founded by my mother Ayo Damola, who is still very much involved with the business. She was a pioneer in using tote bags as souvenirs when she first started the business. Since then we have evolved into producing a wide range of products in large quantity as a B2B company, For Corporate Gifts, Souvenirs, Brand Merchandise and Private Labelling.

How did you come about the name and what does it mean?

D-Dee is a nick name that just stuck.

What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?

Our niche is in medium to large scale production of custom designed products, there was a market for a company that could bring custom designs to life and produce in large quantity, we are able to do this because of the expertise and set up we have.

Where do you get the inspiration for your products?

Sometimes inspiration comes from basic everyday living, but very often one person in our team gets an idea, and then we all come together to build on it until we come up with a great product. In the end, each product we come up with must be functional using quality materials.

Can you remember one of the first products you made? What makes it memorable?

Since I joined the business, I would say its been products other than bags, like our Boxes, because people expect us to always make bags, there’s always a pleasant reaction when we produce other unique items.

What are some of the challenges you face in your business?

We face the same issues majority of businesses in Nigeria face; high overhead costs, staffing issues and sourcing of adequate materials.

Do you have any regrets venturing into this line of business?

No, even with the challenging moments. It is a very rewarding experience when you are creating something, the process from design to final product makes it worthwhile.

What is your most popular product?

Our Tote Bags, in various iterations are our most popular item, but fast becoming popular are other novelty items made with Adire or Ankara.

To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian (African) heritage for your work?

We try to infuse our Nigerian heritage in the materials we use, and in certain design styles.

What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?

We have long term plans to extend our manufacturing services to other kinds of products, in addition we have two new in-house brands we are about to launch, the first one is LORE (@lore.designs)- a leather accessory line.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

Because I’m naturally an introvert, most people are always surprised to see me in work mode, let’s just say I run a tight ship, lol. I prefer certain standards and can be quite determined to get it .

What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this Industry?

Business Management Consulting

If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?

Build your business with people who have technical skills and share your vision

To find out more about D-Dee Bags, check out their listing page here. (Click Here)

Bellafricana published in Articles September 10, 2019

Creative Gifts For Him

Talking to a male friend of mine some days ago, and he just would not stop lamenting, for friendship sake, I asked him what the issue was. Apparently, he didn’t get a gift from anyone, including me. Oh well, the excuse of course was, I had no idea of gifts for him.

Now that I think of it though, are there really no gifts for him? Even though I gave him that reply, I sincerely didn’t believe it, in fact the reason I gave him that response was because it was the quickest response I could come up with. But now, I am looking to make amends.

From conversations with female friends, I know I am not alone. So, allow me to help you with some creative gifts for him. ‘Him’ here can be your friend, husband or father, so keep reading as I show you some creative gift ideas for him.

Foot wears;

Let’s start from the very obvious ones like shoes. What happened to having the good old quality foot wears as a gift? I can already think of your excuses, you are probably looking for something affordable and of good quality. Well, I gotcha you, check out these shoes from brands I love and I know you will too;

What were you saying again? Amazing foot wears for him.

There is more, keep reading!

Clothing Items;

You saw that right dear, you can get him clothes or little pieces he could use in dressing up. No! It doesn’t have to be expensive, and I have some ideas that could work. Check them out below;

What do you think? Those are just a few clothing items you can get and like I said, they don’t cost a fortune. I trust you like what you have seen so far but that is not all, stay with me for more.

Bags;

You are probably wondering if men carry bags right? Yes, they do! Let me show you a few samples;

Did you say men don’t use bags again? Lol!! Well, just in case you had a doubt, by now you should be convinced. That’s still not all, let’s continue.

Office Decor;

Yup, not all gifts are worn you know, so how about gifting him some decor items for his office? You still don’t get the gist? There are pictures below. scroll to see what I mean.

At this point, if you still say there are no gifts for him, I have no words oh! LOl!!

I believe with this few points of mine, I have been able to convince and not to confuse you that there are more than enough gifts for him.

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From Rebrand to Radiance: The Timeless Elegance of Moelle Essentials

How Doyinsola Ogbeifun is redefining occasion wear with a focus on fit, femininity, and confidence

A Pause, A Rebirth

Fashion That Fits Every Woman

The Moelle Woman

Redefining Occasionwear

The Future of Moelle

6 Ways To Care For Your Natural Hair

6 Gift Ideas For Your Boss

Michelle Obama’s 10 Rules For Success

Introducing Ethnik’s The EYO Collective

Meet The Founder Of Ile Ila #Exclusive Interview

These Home Decors Are A Must Have

Aso-Oke Creative Gift Ideas

Discover Some Healthy Snacks And Food For You

Meet The Creative Director and Co-Founder Of D-Dee Bags (Exclusive Interview)

Creative Gifts For Him

Explore

quick links

Contact

From Rebrand to Radiance: The Timeless Elegance of Moelle Essentials

How Doyinsola Ogbeifun is redefining occasion wear with a focus on fit, femininity, and confidence

A Pause, A Rebirth

Fashion That Fits Every Woman

The Moelle Woman

Redefining Occasionwear

The Future of Moelle

Explore

quick links

Contact

Massive Progress in your Business