Let’s all meet the CEO of Amanda Otiz, Ogbeide Ejodamena, the fashion designer who loves God and brings originality to her designs. EM requested an interview with her and she granted it!
Let’s read up.
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF
Hello, My name is Ogbeide Ejodamen, CEO Amanda Otiz aka AOz. A classy lady who loves fashion.
HOW AND WHEN DID YOUR JOURNEY BEGIN
It started from the need to wear maxi dresses, because I’m quite tall and you don’t get dresses my length and Fashion has always been a passion, I would hand embroid my Jean just to be different and stylish.
It was until I had enough at the firm I was working and I honestly asked God what will bring me to my happy place and he reminded me about my passion for fashion. Yes sometimes we forget but it’s okay, Just ask God
That’s how I started, made one outfit for my sister and friend and that was how my referrals started and it’s been good all the way.
WHAT’S YOUR SIGNATURE STYLE?
Maxi dresses, I love how one piece can get you dressed up.
WHO ARE YOU IDEAL TARGET AUDIENCE
That fashionable woman, who sees the need to express herself through her clothes and has a flair for well-made tailored outfit.
WHAT’S BEEN YOUR BEST MOMENTS AS A DESIGNER?
When I made my first bridal dress. It came from a recommendation from a client who I’ve been clothing for year’s, with that level of trust. it was really an unforgettable moment and I truly enjoyed the process from fabric sourcing to the actual finish of the veil.
WHAT’S BEEN YOUR WORST MOMENTS AS A DESIGNER
There are some, don’t think you can be in this business and not have a bag full of that lol. Because we relate with humans be it staff to vendors to Clients to even police, gosh I’m just realizing that we go through a lot.
Well one I can remember was when I listened to a client who said she was on a diet and was fully convinced that she had lost weight, so we slimmed the dress by 2inches as requested and on getting there to zip, the dress didn’t come together and her event was the next day. well it taught me never to take out my initial stitch and always ask for measurements! she did wear the outfit but the running around wasn’t nice.
ON A SCALE OF 1-10, WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR RESPONSE FROM CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
I would say honestly 8.5.
Because u can’t satisfy any human 100% I leave that to God. with clothing I give my very best, and when they smile and bless me. I know I’ve done well and I strive to do even more. A kings reward is the goal.
WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND DIFFERENT FROM OTHERS
The God Factor. I’m aware of that over the years and it’s been so evident in my business running, for that alone I’m very grateful.
KINDLY SHARE TIPS TO STAYING SUCCESSFUL IN THIS BUSINESS.
I’m sure people know these. it’s to apply that is key. Staying consistent and staying relevant.
Don’t get comfortable it’ll kills your zeal.
Improve your skill not only going to school, learn more about your business.
if there’s a way, there’s always a better way…(preaching to myself here too)
WHAT ADVICE WILL YOU GIVE TO START-UPS WHO HAVE SIMILAR VISION AS YOU DO?
Just Start. Get help where and when needed. But just start, it doesn’t matter where or how, Just start. I started by using a tailors space for 2years before I got my space with all my machines. so just start and back everything up with prayers, ask God for all the help and advice you need and he’ll always come through.
SHARE 5 FUN FACTS ABOUT YOU.
I love good food, buffet setting makes me tingle with joy
I love gospel music when there’s some rap in there
I’m not so savvy with social media so I just watch lots of YouTube instead
I enjoy Spa time, those massages are heaven
I love dark chocolate those bitter ones lol…n sesame snacks and think I have a knack for weird tastes
Don’t forget to follow her on Instagram @ amandaotiz
