Tinuola Oluleye, the talented entrepreneur behind the infamous brand, JamesLULLY talks to Poize Magazine as part of our new series, “Chronicle of an Entrepreneur”
Why start JamesLULLY?
I started JamesLULLY in 2009 while doing a masters in Business Administration in Marietta, Georgia. I am in love with handbags, I admire the structures, materials used etc so verging into handbags came very easily. I believe I understand the relationship women have with handbags, that’s why we can have over 50 handbags in different shapes, sizes, colours and styles. When I started JamesLULLY the aim was to create very simple, elegant and chic handbags and that’s what I believe I have achieved and hope to improve on in the future.
What has been your biggest hurdle to date?
My biggest challenge to date is running a business in Nigeria. There are so many hurdles that sometimes I wonder how I break even! You basically are your own government with electricity! Then rent is totally absurd! I bless God because I have managed to be on top of my game regardless.
What is your favourite thing about being an entrepreneur?
Experimenting!!! I get to experiment a whole lot, try out new things. Some experiments become a success and some don’t even make it out of the sketch book. Regardless, I believe as an entrepreneur, experimenting allows you understand what your strengths and weaknesses are in the niche one has created for themselves; it’s a learning circle.
Describe your vision for your brand.
My vision is to see JamesLULLY as a renowned solid brand whereby people can shop and be satisfied with both our services and quality! JamesLULLY is not just about handbags, we have a luxury boutique that stocks clothing and accessories from all over the world. JamesLULLY is a brand with various branches and I pray and hope to see JamesLULLY grow on people!
What impact do women entrepreneurs have on the Nigerian economy?
I think women entrepreneurs bring a positive light to the economy, women touch lives and we are very passionate about our surroundings and its impact on others, therefore when we are able to contribute to the economy, we do it to the best of our ability to see that our impact is absolutely and forcefully positive.
What do you do when you’re not working on Jameslully?
I love to travel with my family and close friends. I love relaxing. I enjoy taking very good care of my self.
What are your top tips for aspiring entrepreneurs?
My main tip would be God first then passion and patience. My personal belief is that God is the giver of talents and you must worship and abide by his rules to be a total success package.
Chronicle of an Entrepreneur is a series of interviews examining the ‘how’s and whys’ behind some of the most talented and successful female entrepreneurs of the decade.
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