Yolanda Aiyemo : Meet Our Sugar
Yolanda Lagos initially started as a premium fashion brand; when did you decide to expand into the luxury consultancy scene?
During the pandemic, I decided it was time to expand and rebrand Yolanda Lagos. The lock-down was getting to me, and I had the idea of turning what I loved into a business. Most Nigerians love new experiences and adventures, but due to busy schedules and lives, they tend to forget to take time out to have vital relaxations and luxury findings. I have always been a luxury enthusiast; it is a lifestyle I have come to love; Yolanda Lagos is an extension of myself, curating experiences that people deserve.
Your personal growth and branding has been evolving; what got you interested in the luxury lifestyle?
I have always loved fine dining, shopping, and luxurious experiences, I cannot date the encounter, but I know it has been a lifestyle for me. It is crucial that I evolve in every aspect as everyone should, so every time I educate myself and learn something missing, I include it, and this births growth.
As a Luxury lifestyle consultant, you have a fascinating clientele. Can you share some of your notable clients?
As privacy is one of our significant policies, unfortunately, I cannot disclose names.
Luxury lifestyle consulting is a niche that is still under the waves in Nigeria; what challenges have you experienced?
Every business in its different geographical areas comes with its share of challenges. One of them is having to partner with other companies that offer part services to Yolanda Lagos, like chauffeur or helicopter services. Sometimes working with their rates in consideration with my clients is usually stressful; it involves many negotiations to meet a midpoint, but I understand that this is what my job entails.
Some of the external service employees might not provide the standard I want for my clients. This means having to do more work and research to make sure my client is delighted; at the end of it all, how they perform directly affects my brand's perception.
Are there women in the Luxury scenery that you admire?
Yes! Melissa Holdbrook-Akposoe of Melissa's wardrobe, Abisola Kola-Daisi (abi_kd) of FHluxury, Jennifer Obayuwana (feeljeni) of Polo Avenue, to name a few.
What is lingerie to you? and what are your favorite lingerie brands?
Lingerie, to me, is that piece of clothing that expresses my sensuality, evolves my confidence, and accentuates my body's beauty.
I love Victoria's Secret, Ann Summers, and of course, Alainnluxury.
What is the one thing you know now that you wished you knew years ago?
Never settle for less, create a standard for yourself, and never fall short of it, set boundaries. Never be too naive, get more exposure, and be willing to digest new information to better yourself. Over the years, I have learned to become a high-value woman and never let anyone downplay my worth.
We feel it is important that every woman finds her beauty and holds her worth, What do you love about being a woman?
As a woman, I understand that I am exceptional; I think that bringing life into the world is impressive. We love to accomplish things, and we love to work together if it is what it takes to achieve a goal. It's remarkable that we can get things done using our looks and demeanor, the power of femininity.
Everything a woman possesses is unique; we have come so far in this world. We are strong enough to stand tall with the disproportions and inequity that we receive; there are vast multifarious reasons I love being a woman; the feminine energy is so powerful.
