I strongly believed in my passion and vision for Le Magnifique Cakes and I never let it die. I have been privileged to be surrounded by an amazing support system of family and friends. I am confident that this has come about due to God’s love for me. At the risk of going preacher girl on you, God promised that he would not leave me or forsake me. He has not. And for that, God is my very present help.
CEO and part-time Claims Handler Adeola Ajadi also known as ‘Dee’ amongst friends, talks to us regarding Entrepreneurship, challenges, the #bringbackourgirls movement and most importantly, her growing cakes boutique ‘Le magnifique Cakes.’
So Deola, tell us about ‘Le Magnifique cakes?’ why the name?
D: Le Magnifique Cakes started 5 years ago, in 2009. My vision was to create bespoke cakes that are captivating and stunning to behold. The name itself is coined from the French Language, which implies grandeur and elegance. That is the very essence of Le Magnifique Cakes.
Wow. Normally we see huge influxes of budding fashionistas, designers, make-up artists and financial businesses from our fellow Nigerians. My question is, when, why, and what prompted that ‘light-bulb’ moment that led you to start baking cakes?
D: As an individual, I have always loved to eat Cakes. I was intrigued by how they were treated at occasions.
– When you say ‘intrigued by how they were treated,’ what do you mean?’
D: It seemed to me like Cakes had life of their own and were treated very special (sort of like a baby). Additionally, the ‘ritual’ of Cake sharing between the bride and groom was something so beautiful, and I thought of it as the peak of the occasion. This spurred me to start my research into Cake baking and Decorating. I have not looked back since.
Who are your clients? have you aimed for a particular niche?
D: My clients includes everyone who wants their occasion to be special, be it weddings, anniversaries, birthdays……. Life itself should be a celebration amongst everybody.
We imagine that overseeing ‘Le Magnifique’ cannot be easy, especially whilst working part-time. We wonder, what has been your greatest challenge so far?
D: *Laughs* You are right in that it has not been easy, but I knew to see success, I would need to apply myself diligently! My greatest challenge has been getting people to see my vision. I got there in the end, but it took a lot of practice, sweat and dedication. I tell myself that the road to perfection never did run smooth, however, it can be achieved.
You sound like you have big plans for ‘Le magnifique.’ What do you envision for ‘Le magnifique Cakes?’ And where would you like to see the business in the future?
D: I dream big for Le Magnifique Cakes. I am aiming for international recognition and looking into launch stores soon in Nigeria. As I am currently based in the United Kingdom, I am hoping to make Le Magnifique Cakes more accessible to potential clients all across the UK. So please watch this space! Le Magnifique Cakes has a facebook page and our website is soon to be launched.
Wow! that is a big vision! but tell us, did you have any critics when you first started the business?
D: Yes, I did. However, I chose to focus on my supporters and my dream. I strongly believed in my passion and vision for Le Magnifique, and I never let it die. Now that the business has reached this stage, I am truly grateful to those that supported me, generated ideas and contributed in one way or the other to the growth of Le Magnifique Cakes (Shout out to Sa’adiya!)
This is strong advice coming from you Deola, what advice would you give to other young budding entrepreneurs such as yourself?
D: I would say stick to your dream, grasp opportunities and chin up! After-all, regardless of what the circumstances are, tomorrow is another opportunity to better yourself.
How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
D: Haha! I am smiling right now. There are lots of words! but I would say ambitious, creative and tenacious.
Oya – Let’s talk about an extremely topical matter at present. Deola, we are sure that you must be aware of the state of affairs in Nigeria, particularly with the the Nigerian government, Boko-Haram, and the #bringbackourgirls movement. What are your views on this? Do you think there can ever be unity in our country?
D: I’ll start with the #bringbackourgirls movement. I think it is great that the movement is going strong. It only shows that there are people who are sympathetic to the plight of these young ladies and are willing to take concrete steps to ensure that the girls’ return home safe where they belong. I pray that these young ladies are found soon.
Nigeria means so much to me. I strongly believe that there is no place like home. However, unity can only be achieved when the Nigerian people are more accepting of one another and can say no to corruption.
What, or whom would you say has been your greatest help?
D: I have been privileged to be surrounded by an amazing support system of family and friends. I am confident that this has come about due to God’s love for me. At the risk of going preacher girl on you, God promised that he would not leave me or forsake me. He has not. And for that, God is my very present help.
Where can our readers reach you? (contact details: Facebook/website)
D: ‘Le Magnifique Cakes’ can be accessed at: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Le-Magnifique-Cakes
For our readers, be sure to check our Gallery for Le Magnifique’s stunning cakes! Please also look out for the webpage soon!!
Le Magnifique Cakes
Integr8.Africa 