Exquisite Magazine got captivated by the timeless designs of Babalola Mariam Omotola, the CEO of Mariebabs.
So we decided to have an interview and get a sneak peek of her success story and see more of her designs.
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF
My name is Babalola Mariam Omotola, a graduate of philosophy from the University of Lagos. I’ve always been ambitious and passionate about whatever I do.
I hold the belief that what is worth doing is worth doing well, that way I give my 100 to whatever it is I decide to do. The ideology from Plato ‘Man know thyself’ has also played a huge role in my life, the knowledge of oneself is the beginning of wisdom.
HOW AND WHEN DID YOUR JOURNEY BEGIN?
My mother is a seamstress, so I grew up in the business. However, I never for once thought fashion designing will be my profession.
One of our holidays in 2011, I got home and was bored and decided to play with some fabrics, I made quite a few outfits for myself which I started wearing once we resumed, everyone loved it and wanted one for themselves.
I still didn’t think I’ll be a fashion designer, I just went with the flow. I grew to love the business and I had some of my clients help coin the name MABSTITCHES.
However, the name MARIEBABS was coined from my name Mariam Babalola in 2015 when we wanted to register the business and focus mainly on bespoke. ALLUREBYMARIEBABS which is our sister brand was birthed in 2018 and is a ready-to-wear brand.
WHAT’S YOUR SIGNATURE STYLE?
Mariebabs style is simple but detailed, asymmetric, timeless and versatile affordable luxury outfits. While Allurebymariebabs offers quality fabrics in vibrant colours, unique and well-detailed, versatile and timeless pieces.
WHO ARE YOUR IDEAL TARGET AUDIENCE?
Our ideal audience are stylish and trendy middle age group and young adults who want affordable luxury.
WHAT’S BEEN YOUR BEST MOMENTS AS A DESIGNER?
Having satisfied clients with positive reviews.
WHAT’S BEEN YOUR WORST MOMENTS AS A DESIGNER?
That would be when I had an accident and broke my right leg when going to meet with a client at the mall.
ON A SCALE OF 1-10, WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR RESPONSE TO CUSTOMER SATISFACTION?
I would say 8.5.
WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND DIFFERENT FROM OTHERS?
We give excellent customer experience and value for money paid.
KINDLY SHARE TIPS FOR STAYING SUCCESSFUL IN THIS BUSINESS
1. Listen to God, Almighty Allah has been my guide.
2. Understand your clients and staff
3. Know your craft
4. Know what works for you and stick to it
5. Also, knowing what Is worth doing is worth doing well
WHAT ADVICE WILL YOU GIVE TO START-UPS THAT HAVE A SIMILAR VISION AS YOU DO?
God is very important in all you do, listen to your instinct whether or not to take a job.
Be prepared for the unknown.
Recognize and embrace opportunities.
Do not give up.
Don’t stop learning and lastly,
Make sure you have knowledge of everything you do.
SHARE 5 FUN FACTS ABOUT YOU
1. I’m very goofy.
2. I can’t sing to save my life but I love to.
3. I love dancing.
4. I’m a gym rat.
5. I love good food.
PLEASE SHARE CONTACT DETAILS
Instagram: Mariebabs
Bespoke/bridal: Allurebymariebabs
Contact: 08128727209
