We were lucky to catch up with Gbemisola Adebiyi recently and have shared our conversation below.

Gbemisola, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to go back in time and hear the story of how you came up with the name of your brand?

Initially, my business was called Ruby, a name I cherished for its elegance and timeless appeal. However, as my vision expanded, I realized I needed a name that was more unique, authentic, and aligned with my identity and origins. I wanted something that would not only honor my heritage but also connect with people worldwide.

TOLANI, meaning “deserving of wealth” in Yoruba, is not just a name; it’s a tribute to my roots, a manifestation of my belief in abundance, and a reflection of my ambitions.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My crochet journey began as a young girl waiting to start university, where I discovered a passion for working with yarn. What started as a hobby quickly became a creative outlet and a way to express myself. Today, I specialize in creating unique, handmade wearables; from cozy sweaters to stylish accessories, blending modern trends with timeless techniques.

What sets me apart is my focus on quality and attention to detail, ensuring each piece is both functional and fashionable. I use premium materials to create designs that are versatile for everyday wear but special enough to stand out. I’m most proud of how my craft has evolved over the years, from a young girl experimenting with yarn to running my own business.

Every piece I create reflects my passion for crochet and my commitment to quality, offering something unique for every customer.

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

My parents supported my business from the very beginning. The moment I expressed my desire to start, even before I knew where to buy yarn, my mum immediately got me my first yarn and hook. My business began to grow and I kept expanding

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

Referrals have been the most significant source of new clients for my business. Word-of-mouth recommendations from satisfied customers have helped build trust and credibility, attracting individuals who are already somewhat familiar with my products or services. Since potential clients often trust the opinions of people they know, these referrals tend to convert into loyal customers more easily

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.tolani?igsh=aXMwaDBoZWN4cnVx&utm_source=qr
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@gbemyyy_a?si=Vygpv1X3LGcxidv9

Image Credits

Photographer: Luqmaneleshin
Models : Bukola & Ben