DTNOW OCT1

Lanre Da Silva-Ajayi: From Investment Banking Dreams to a Two-Decade Fashion Brand

Lanre Da Silva-Ajayi:

Content EDITOR'S LETTER

LANRE DA SILVA-AJAYI: From Investment Banking Dreams to a Two-Decade Fashion Brand

Lanre Da Silva-Ajayi (LDA) has cemented her name in the Nigerian Fashion Industry. Her eponymous brand LDA has become a force in the industry and rightfully so.

She started off with her bold take on Victorian styled looks creating colourful and intricately delicate pieces that have graced international and domestic runways, dressing fashion enthusiasts and collectors in different parts of the world.

Olamide Olarewaju EDITOR

Hi there, and welcome!

Lanre Da Silva (LDA) covers this edition. If you’re a lover of Nigerian fashion I bet she needs no introduction.

The Blessings of Oily Skin

Having makeup on your face can become quite bothersome and uncomfortable when oil starts to seep through. It's even worse when your skincare product is the only thing on your face and yet oil still manages to make its way through.

How Wearing the Right Shoes Can Improve Your Style

RESTAURANT REVIEW- Lagos Continental Restaurant

EDITOR

Olamide Olarewaju

WRITER

Danielle Anene

PAGE PLANNER / GRAPHIC DESIGNER King Remus

SOCIAL MEDIA

Faith Okenwa

CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Ikunna Onwuanibe

Dr. Blossom Maduafokwa

Dr. Uzoamaka Iloabachie

WakaWaka Dr.

"Dtnow first published in 2017 is the lifestyle anchor for the Dailytimes Nigeria, Nigeria's oldest surviving newsmedia platform. Published since 1926, we stepped back ideated and have developed a companion that will serve your lifestyle needs like no other...thats a promise."

Her fresh take on the Victorian era, her use of intricately delicate lace, colours and unique designs made her brand stand apart and two decades later, LDA has made an impressive name for herself, is still here and going strong. Get to know our cover star in this issue.

We covered aunty Mo Abudu’s birthday soirée and directional debut in this edition. Check out what your favorite got up to at the party.

We also have a fitness themed birthday feature in this issue. Dr Blossom added a year and she threw a fab fitness party, a party inspiration, maybe? Check out all the details.

With fashion, shoes are highlighted in this edition and Danielle made some really good points why you should pick your shoe styles to reflect your personality. I enjoyed it, I think you’ll enjoy it too.

There’s a food review and we’ll leave you to read and try out. Interior is presenting a way to refresh your bathroom on a budget and I took notes, we think you should too.

Dr Blossom touched on a very important mental health condition in this edition as well. We need more awareness about mental illnesses and this came at a good time.

You get a bit of everything in this edition.

Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel (DTNowdigital) to watch all the live actions behind our shoots and our interviews with our cover stars as well.

As usual, we’ve curated this with you in mind. Read, enjoy and share.

See you in the next one!

Media Mogul Mo Abudu

Takes Her Directorial Debut by Storm with Dual Short Films, Leading to a Star-Studded Private Screening and Upcoming Theatrical Release

Lagos, Nigeria, 25 September 2023 – Mo Abudu, the revered Media Mogul and CEO of EbonyLife Group, has realized a cherished aspiration, stepping into the director's chair to craft two captivating short films. In a remarkable departure from her role as an executive producer and visionary, Mo Abudu is taking on the dual roles of writer and director for her latest creations, "Her Perfect Life" and "Iyawo Mi (My Wife)," the latter predominantly in the Yoruba language.

Mo Abudu, widely acclaimed for her trailblazing contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry, had been instrumental in shepherding numerous storytelling endeavors as an executive producer. However, her latest endeavor marks a profound personal and professional milestone. In a recent statement, she shared her motivations, stating, "I am stepping out of my comfort zone to write and direct two short films. Although these stories are fictional, they shed light on the often-unspoken mental health challenges prevalent in Nigerian society, issues that resonate across the globe. Mental health concerns transcend age, race, income, and social class, and regrettably, they are on the rise."

Mo Abudu's leadership as CEO of EbonyLife TV has overseen the annual production of more than 1,000 hours of compelling content. As an executive producer, she has steered the creation of some of Nigeria's most iconic cinematic blockbusters, including "The Wedding Party," "Chief Daddy," "Your Excellency," and "The Royal Hibiscus Hotel." Her collaboration with Netflix has yielded remarkable successes such as "Castle & Castle," "Oloture," and "Blood Sisters."

"Her Perfect Life" introduces Pearl Thusi and Joseph Benjamin as its lead actors, with notable support from Omawunmi Dada, Uzo Osimpka, Christian Paul, and Mary Lazarus. Meanwhile, "Iyawo Mi (My Wife)" features an outstanding cast including Adedimeji Lateef, Bolaji Ogunmola, Segun Arinze, and Jude Chukwuka. Both films boast a distinguished production team, with Mo Abudu, Bola Atta, Wale Tinubu, and Shola Akinlade serving as executive producers. Heidi Uys, Inem King, Joshua Olaoluwa, and Sonia Nwosu take on production roles, with Temidayo Makanjuola contributing to the production design. The director of photography, Kabelo Thathe, is renowned for his work on Disney's "Rise," while wardrobe styling is entrusted to Yolanda Okereke, a longstanding collaborator with EbonyLife, working alongside esteemed designers LDA, Banke Kuku, and David Wej.

These two extraordinary films have already graced prestigious Oscar-qualifying film festivals this summer, including the Martha's Vineyard African American Film Festival, the Rhode Island Film Festival, and the HollyShorts Film Festival.

Returning to their roots in Lagos, Nigeria, a grand Private Screening was hosted at EbonyLife Place this past weekend, attended by luminaries from the diplomatic, corporate, and entertainment spheres. Beginning on the 6th of October, these cinematic gems will enthrall audiences during their scheduled theatrical release at EbonyLife Place.

These groundbreaking projects have received invaluable support from the British High Commission and the French Embassy in Lagos, Nigeria. The generous sponsors behind these endeavors include the UBA Foundation, Wale Tinubu, Artsplit Limited, and Sporting Lagos.

Mo Abudu's directorial debut marks a momentous chapter in her illustrious career, and the world eagerly awaits the profound impact of "Her Perfect Life" and "Iyawo Mi (My Wife)" on the global cinematic stage.

Blossoms Fitness Party

BY DANIELLE ANENE

Dr. Blossom Maduafokwa, a Public Health Physician, Zumba instructor, and founder of the Blossoms Fitness Hub, celebrated her birthday in a unique and lively fashion.

On September 23rd, she hosted a fitness birthday party at the Federal Palace Hotel by the Waterfront. The party exuded a vibrant Barbie pink theme, with tasteful decorations adorning every corner. Dr. Blossom, being a devoted fitness enthusiast, believed it was fitting to celebrate her special day with a fitness class. However, instead of a regular session, she decided to elevate the experience into a full-blown party.

Guests began arriving at 8am, and the class promptly commenced. The birthday celebrant who doubled as the instructor for the event, pulsating with energy, led the guests through various dance routines, taking intermittent breaks. As the party unfolded, refreshments were prepared in the background for those who were starting to show signs of fatigue from the dance session.

After the class, the guests were encouraged to mingle while enjoying light dance entertainment. Notable figures like actress Kate Henshaw and Peggy Ovire added glamour to the occasion.

The festivities lasted three hours, and as visitors were leaving, they were given gift boxes to take home.

CREATING HOPE THROUGH ACTION: World Suicide Prevention Day 2023

BY DR. BLOSSOM MADUAFOKWA

Suicide claims the lives of approximately 700,000 people annually, equating to one person every 40 seconds, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

It is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 15 to 29 years old worldwide. For every completed suicide, there are approximately 20 attempts. Suicide rates vary across countries, with higher rates observed in low- and middleincome nations.

Mental health conditions, such as depression, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse, are frequently associated with suicide ([1] World Health Organization (WHO). (2021). Suicide. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/factsheets/detail/suicide)

World Suicide Prevention Day is commemorated each year on the 10th of September. It is a significant event that aims to raise awareness about suicide prevention, mental health promotion and action that can save lives.

This year, the theme, "Creating Hope Through Action," serves as a powerful call to unite and make a difference. It reminds us that our actions, no matter how big or small, can inspire hope, strengthen prevention, and ultimately save lives.

Suicide prevention is a public health priority, and urgent action is needed to reduce suicide mortality rates. In addition, it is crucial to understand that suicide is preventable, and by working together, we can create a world where everyone knows there is hope and help available.

We can unite to make a difference by connecting with others, reaching out to friends, family, and colleagues, and showing them that we care. By fostering connections and building relationships, we can offer comfort, understanding, and a sense of belonging to those who may be struggling.

What else can we do? Break the Silence and Encourage Conversations:

Breaking the silence around mental health is an essential step in suicide prevention. Let us encourage open conversations and share our feelings while actively listening to others. By creating a safe space for discussions, we can reduce the stigma associated with mental health challenges and provide support to those who need it most.

Education as a Powerful Tool: Knowledge is a powerful tool in saving lives. Educate yourself about the signs of suicide and how to help. By understanding the warning signs, risk factors, and available resources, you can be better equipped to support someone who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts. Share your knowledge with others, spread awareness and empower communities to take action.

Support and Encourage Professional Help: Support is crucial for those struggling with mental health issues. Be there for them, offer a listening ear, empathy, and understanding.

Encourage those in need to seek professional help when necessary. Mental health services play a vital role in providing the necessary support and treatment for individuals who are struggling.

Advocate for Change:

Prevention is not only about individual actions but also about advocating for mental health services and suicide prevention programs in your community. By raising awareness and supporting initiatives that prioritize mental health, we can create a society where mental well-being is valued and supported.

World Suicide Prevention Day 2023 is an opportunity for us to come together, create hope, and take action. By connecting, talking, educating, supporting, and advocating, we can make a difference and save lives. Let us create a world where everyone knows there's hope and help available.

Together, we can build a future where suicide prevention is a priority, and everyone receives the support they need.

The Blessings of Oily Skin

BY DANIELLE ANENE

Here are some tips on how to care for your skin and maintain that radiance

1. Avoid Overdrying:

When cleansing your face, steer clear of sulfatebased cleansers. These can strip away essential oils and leave your skin dry. Instead, opt for a gentle cleanser and cleanse your face twice a day to prevent excessive oil buildup and impurities.

2. Balance pH with Toner: Consider using a non-alcoholic toner to balance your skin's pH levels and minimize the appearance of pores. This extra step in your skincare routine can help to refine your complexion.

3. Choose a Lightweight Moisturizer: Even if you have oily skin, don't skip moisturizer. Look for an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer that will hydrate your skin without clogging pores. This step is important for

maintaining healthy, balanced skin.

4. Regular Exfoliation: Incorporate exfoliation into your skincare routine to remove dead skin cells and keep pores clear. Use a gentle exfoliant one to two times weekly to maintain smooth and glowing skin.

5. Be Selective: When it comes to makeup and skincare products, choose wisely. Opt for oilfree and mattifying formulas that can help control shine throughout the day, while still allowing your natural glow to shine through.

Having makeup on your face can become quite bothersome and uncomfortable when oil starts to seep through. It's even worse when your skincare product is the only thing on your face and yet oil still manages to make its way through.

This issue is a cause of concern for many people, leading them to search for alternatives to control oiliness. If you can relate to this problem, then this edition is specifically for you.

We will discuss how to identify your skin type to determine if you have oily skin, the challenges you might face or need to be aware of, the benefits you may not be conscious of, and most importantly, how to properly care for your skin.

An easy way to determine if you have oily skin is by observing a few key indicators. If your face tends to glisten in the T-zone area (forehead, nose, both sides of cheeks, and chin), if you have enlarged pores, and experience occasional breakouts, then it is highly likely that you have oily skin.

One of the challenges that come with oily skin is the presence of excess shine. The overproduction of oil causes our faces to appear as though we have applied oil to them.

Living in a humid country exacerbates this issue, leaving us no choice but to carry around a blotter or tissue to keep our faces matte. Additionally, having large pores makes the skin more prone to frequent clogging. This can lead to the formation of blackheads and acne.

One of the challenges of oily skin is that makeup tends to break down faster due to the presence of oils. This can result in a makeup meltdown, where foundations and powders do not stay in place for long. Another concern is that the excess oil on the skin can create a favorable environment for acne-causing bacteria, potentially leading to breakouts.

However, there are also some perks to having oily skin. One advantage is that oily skin tends to be naturally well-hydrated, so you don't need heavy moisturizers. While it is still important to moisturize your skin, you can opt for lighter products.

Additionally, oily skin can contribute to a more youthful appearance. The constant production of oil helps maintain the skin's elasticity and can slow down the development of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. Thanks to your skin's dewy appearance, you tend to look younger than your age and have a fresh complexion.

6. Use Sunscreen: Protect your skin from UV damage by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Choose a lightweight and non-greasy formula for added comfort.

To control excess oil throughout the day, keep blotting papers handy. Remember to embrace the uniqueness and beauty of oily skin, and nurture it with tailored care. By taking proper care and using suitable products, you can maintain a natural glow while keeping oiliness in check. By following these skincare tips and incorporating them into your daily routine, you can keep your skin looking youthful, fresh, and naturally radiant, and remember that having an oily skin though slightly uncomfortable has its blessing in the long run, so enjoy your skin!

7. Blotting Paper:

LANRE DA SILVA-AJAYI:

From Investment Banking Dreams to

a Two-Decade Fashion Brand

BY OLAMIDE OLAREWAJU

Cover Credits

Photographer: Humphrey Ominisan

Assistants: Ifeoluwani Oladimeji, Daniel Ekeng

Videographer: Chinoso Chukwuma

Assistant: Dixon Felix

Creative Director: Rita Dominic

Shoot Runner: Kate Okpo

Hair Stylist: Henry Ozoigbo, Johnson

Hawa Maevas Luxuryhair, Lasso

Motunayo

Makeup Artist /Zaron Cosmetics:

Amaka Mordi

Outfits: Custom Lanre Da Silva Ajayi

Jewelry: Lush Jewels

Lanre Da Silva-Ajayi (LDA) has cemented her name in the Nigerian Fashion Industry. Her eponymous brand LDA has become a force in the industry and rightfully so.

She started off with her bold take on Victorian styled looks creating colourful and intricately delicate pieces that have graced international and domestic runways, dressing fashion enthusiasts and collectors in different parts of the world.

LDA moved back with an MSC in finance hoping to delve in investment banking or work at the Stock Exhange but her creative side took over when she started designing while waiting for the “ideal job”.

Unofficially the brand is 20 years in (between the time it took registering the business and everything in between) and she’s been on quite the journey.

Meeting LDA will reveal a warm, bubbly and almost unassuming personality who very well knows what she wants down to all the fine details. She’s a creative delight.

In this edition, we spoke to LDA about her journey in fashion and everything in between…

Let’s talk about the brand LDA…it’s about 18 years strong! Describe this “ fashion design journey”.

I give God the Glory for all my success and achievement thus far, it’s being 18 years in the fashion industry, and it certainly has not being a walk in the park, or bed of roses for me either. Through the years, I have mastered my craft, and become more experienced which is incomparable to when I started.

I remember vividly when I started, my passion for the fashion industry was my key driving force that stirred me up to be Creative, Innovative, Different, and unique with my designs.

Back in 2005, when I began, I was into the Victorian era and style of dressing which was not popular at the time in Lagos. My love for the Vintage era took off, whilst I was studying in the UK.

I would often visit shopping spots like Portobello market, London Vintage fashion Textile and Accessories fair at Hammersmith Town hall. I arrived back in Lagos and incorporated my sense of style, it was perceived as different, strange, and new at first to people, but gradually people did not mind being different, and they embraced the boldness of my designs.

I have learnt from my journey thus far to be patient, dedicated, reliable and hardworking and have self belief in order to achieve one’s desired goal. The LDA brand till date continues to stay relevant and be a force to reckon with in the fashion industry year in year out, by been innovative, dynamic. unique, timeless, and classy.

After studying business and finance abroad… why did you choose fashion design?

Upon the completion of my studies in the UK, I moved back to Nigeria to kick- start my career. With a background in business administration and a MSC in Finance,

the ideal job, I was looking for at the time was in investment banking or the Nigerian stock exchange. I applied to various banks, institutions in Nigeria at the time. During the waiting period, I decided to keep busy by designing clothes for myself, family, and friends. I did some short fashion courses during the summertime in the UK, and put my skills to use in Nigeria.

I was so thrilled and happy with the positive feedback I was getting from friends, family, of my creative designs, that they were unique, different, timeless, and beautiful. Eventually, I got job offers from banks and other institutions in Nigeria, but the timing was far from perfect as I was pregnant and traveling and I had to defer the job position.

Meanwhile, the positive feedback I was receiving could not be overlooked, it propelled me to start-up a career fully as a Fashion Designer, and let go of my banking aspirations. You work with a lot of rich colourful fabrics, you infuse laces (chantilly lace etc), you do a lot of Victorian themed styles…you have a signature. What inspired this? What inspires your creativity? How do you get back to back inspiration to create your collections. I have always been drawn to bold fashion, striking colorways, masterpiece structures, and how women can be empowered by the clothes they choose to wear. I pick my fabrics based on the designs I want to execute at any given time. However, I love Chantilly Lace, Colourful bold prints, that are exquisite and Beautiful. Couture, colour, boldness with an edgy twist are the signature of my pieces.

You present quite the show. You started a “dance trend” when closing your fashion shows when presenting your collections that has become a signature, why?

Music & dancing is soothing to me, calms my nerves and relaxes me. When I come out to take my bow, listening to good music makes dancing come naturally to me. I am in my element, as I walk down the runway, seeing familiar faces from the crowd gets me excited and happy… it’s a lovely feeling.

What goes on behind the scenes at LDA?

What’s a typical busy day at the atelier like All hands on deck always, at the LDA studios. Every staff member has their assigned tasks that they are supervising, managing, and executing. We all come together to brainstorm, analyze, critique, and produce timeless masterpieces.

Plans for LDA, what’s in the offing? What should we look forward to for fashion week?

The LDA brand is looking forward to having more stockists in Africa and beyond. Some interesting collaborations are in the works… you will have to wait to see!

Nigerian designers are talented, but they are not where they should be globally. What do you think can help Nigerian designers gain global reputation comparable to that of other foreign designers?

Fashion in Nigeria is booming. We are a society that embrace fashion, as we love to look good and dress up for every occasion. In Nigeria today, there are many new designers to attest to the growth of the fashion industry, which makes the industry lucrative and competitive. We can’t be ignored any longer as we have Nigerian designers making waves internationally and locally. I believe we are in the right direction and power is in our hands, we can achieve great things in the world of fashion, nothing is stopping us.

MAGAZINES...

Inspiration comes to me naturally when I am in my creative zone, I get inspired by virtually everything around me, from watching fashion shows, looking through magazines, people around me, trends in the world of fashion give me the urge to create something new and different.

INSPIRATION COMES TO ME NATURALLY WHEN I AM IN MY CREATIVE ZONE, I GET INSPIRED BY VIRTUALLY EVERYTHING AROUND ME, FROM WATCHING FASHION SHOWS, LOOKING THROUGH

D&G carried your pieces in Italy/Paris at some point. Do you still have this collaboration? Tell us more about about it

One of my Iconic pieces over the years, will have to be the laser cut butterfly fabric Autumn/Winter collection 2012 which I showcased at the Pitti Imagine in Italy. The collection made a retail debut at the Dolce & Gabbana Spiga Concept store in Milan Italy for 4 consecutive seasons. I remember the D&G representative describing the fabric and my designs as some of the most intricate he has ever come across. This was mind-blowing for me.

Your mum was a tailor? How did this influence your career?

My mum was not a tailor, but an extremely skilled machinist. She had a huge influence on me. I had the basic knowledge of sewing through my mum who insisted on me knowing how to make the very simple item of clothing for example an apron.

IN NIGERIA TODAY, THERE ARE MANY NEW DESIGNERS TO ATTEST TO THE GROWTH OF THE FASHION INDUSTRY, WHICH MAKES THE INDUSTRY LUCRATIVE AND COMPETITIVE.

BY DANIELLE ANENE

They say ‘good shoes take you to good places’ and that is right, but we should add that having the right shoes for any occasion is the real deal. Shoes are not just functional accessories, they speak on your personal style, personality and if we might add your story. So this means that we have to pay great detail to picking our shoes for any occasion, also when picking we need to keep in mind the type of shoes and where they are to be worn to.

Whether you're stepping out for work, a casual brunch, or attending a glamorous soirée, we have a curated list of different types of shoes and the occasions to wear them in this article, ensuring you always put your best foot forward.

Classic Leather Loafers

How Wearing the Right Shoes CAN IMPROVE YOUR STYLE 1 2

Loafers, while not strictly formal, bridge the gap between casual and dressy. Depending on the material, they can lean towards either category. If you're looking for a more polished look, leather loafers are the way to go. Timeless and sophisticated, they elevate any outfit and are a reliable choice for a professional appearance. Pair them with tailored trousers or a chic pencil skirt to exude confidence and sophistication in the workplace.

Sneakers

Achieve the perfect balance of comfort and style with sneakers. Whether you're exploring the city or enjoying a leisurely Sunday brunch, these shoes offer a relaxed yet trendy ensemble. Stick with classic white for a timeless look or vibrant hues to stand out.

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Stiletto Heels

These shoes are a timeless choice for weddings, work functions, and special occasions. Their delicate appearance and graceful silhouette perfectly complement your favorite formal attire, whether it be a sheer dress or a flowing jumpsuit. When you want to make a glamorous entrance, reach for a pair of stiletto heels. These elegant, sky-high shoes not only elongate your legs but also ensure that you dazzle at high-profile events and formal evenings.

4 6

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Ankle Boots

These are commonly worn for formal events and pair well with suits, jumpsuits, and skinny jeans. When selecting fancy booties, opt for neutral colours like black or brown to ensure they coordinate seamlessly with any clothing style. Ankle boots strike the ideal balance between casual and chic. Pair them with skinny jeans, a flowing dress, or a tailored blazer for a romantic dinner date or a night out with your friends.

Espadrilles

There's no denying that espadrilles bring to mind sunny days, the beach, and summer vacations. While we think summer is the best time to wear espadrilles, you can start wearing them as soon as the weather begins to clear up and continue throughout the fall. Espadrilles are your go-to for a relaxed, summery vibe. Their woven soles and lightweight design make them perfect for beach getaways, picnics in the park, or any adventure on a sunny day.

Ballet flats

They are perfect for any season, and there's something so dainty and soft about pairing them with a slip-skirt. It's the ideal outfit for a breezy day—and you can even wear it to work. Ballet flats offer both comfort and style for casual outings during the day. Slip into them when you're running errands, meeting friends for coffee, or exploring a museum or art gallery in style.

Mules

Mules are the perfect embodiment of relaxed elegance. Whether you're heading to a Sunday brunch or a garden party, these stylish shoes effortlessly elevate your ensemble while ensuring all-day comfort. They are well-suited for a variety of occasions including weddings, cocktail parties, and casual business events. Additionally, mules complement a range of outfit choices such as jeans, shorts, chinos, and even ethnic clothing.

How To Get a LUXURIOUS BATHROOM Without Breaking The Bank

BY DANIELLE ANENE

Designing a bathroom is often overlooked, but it's just as important as your living room. After all, the bathroom is a place where you can find solitude and take care of yourself. It's a space that should make you feel good, so it's worth making it look good too. Whether you're a lady spending time getting ready or a man grooming yourself, the bathroom should be a comfortable and enjoyable place.

Contrary to popular belief, creating a luxurious bathroom experience doesn't have to be expensive. With some smart choices and creative thinking, you can transform your bathroom into a high-end oasis without breaking the bank. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to achieve a stylish and luxurious bathroom without draining your savings.

stunning backsplash or an accent wall can make a huge impact. Select a timeless and sophisticated tile design to infuse a sense of luxury into the space.

6. Upgrade your basic bathroom mirror with a framed one. Framed mirrors add a touch of sophistication and can be obtained at affordable prices. You can even create a DIY frame that complements the aesthetic of your bathroom. Enhance the atmosphere of your bathroom by upgrading your bath linens.

7. Get yourself plush, high-quality towels and a soft, luxurious bath mat. These small touches can make a significant difference in how your bathroom feels, enhancing its overall comfort and elegance.

8. In the realm of bathroom decor, less is often more. Avoid cluttering your space with unnecessary items and instead opt for a few carefully chosen decorative pieces like scented candles, decorative trays, or artwork. This approach will help you maintain an elegant and uncluttered appearance.

1. To begin your budget-friendly bathroom transformation, start by creating a detailed plan. Establish your budget and prioritize the most important upgrades. Focus on areas that will have the greatest impact, such as fixtures, lighting, and surface materials.

2. Lighting plays a key role in luxury bathrooms. Replace ordinary fixtures with elegant, eyecatching options. Consider pendant lights, wall sconces, or even a stylish chandelier to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

3. Revamping your vanity is a guaranteed way to add a touch of luxury. You don't have to replace the entire vanity; instead, consider refinishing or painting it for a fresh new look. Upgrading the hardware will add an extra touch of sophistication.

4. Invest in high-quality materials and fixtures where it matters most, prioritizing quality over quantity. Consider opting for luxurious countertop materials such as granite or quartz, and choose elegant faucets and showerheads. These quality materials can transform a small space into an opulent oasis.

5. Tilework plays a crucial role in the overall appearance of your bathroom. You don't have to tile the entire area; a visually

9. Never underestimate the power of a fresh coat of paint. It can truly work wonders, even in a bathroom. Choose a sophisticated colour palette that complements your new fixtures and materials, adding a touch of refinement to the space.

10. Embrace your inner DIY enthusiast and let your creativity shine. You can create custom shelving, storage solutions, or even a spainspired bathtub caddy without breaking the bank. These projects can not only save you money but also add a personalized touch to your bathroom.

11. Shopping at thrift stores or online marketplaces can yield unique and budgetfriendly bathroom decor and accessories. And don't forget about upcycling! Breathing new life into old furniture pieces can give your bathroom a one-of-a-kind charm.

12. Incorporating greenery and natural elements into your bathroom can bring a sense of tranquility and luxury. Consider adding houseplants or fresh flowers to create an ambiance that connects you to nature while enhancing the overall aesthetic of the space.

YOURSELF READY FOR A NEW RELATIONSHIP

BY DANIELLE ANENE

Getting into a new relationship can be anxiety-inducing, especially when you have strong feelings for the person. However, it can also be thrilling in this world of singlehood, where finding love feels like a competitive sport. Discovering someone you genuinely like and who reciprocates those feelings is a significant victory. So, congratulations to you! Even when both parties are on the same emotional wavelength, it is crucial to maintain decorum. Despite the intense connection you might share, there are certain right and wrong ways to start a new relationship that can potentially jeopardize the entire connection. In this edition, we will focus on shedding some habits or being aware of certain factors when embarking on a new relationship.

MAKE SURE YOU BOTH WANT SIMILAR THINGS

There's nothing more disheartening than discovering midway through a relationship that you and your partner have divergent expectations. To prevent this, it's crucial to pose targeted questions early on. For instance, are we committed exclusively to each other? Do you envision a long-term future together?

If your intention is to find a life partner, inquire if they share the same goal. Similarly, if you're seeking a casual fling, it's important to address that as well. Ultimately, it's essential to communicate openly and ask the necessary questions to ensure that you and your partner are in sync.

COMPARING YOUR OLD TO YOUR NEW

As you get to know someone, it can be tempting or even inevitable to notice their shortcomings. However, it is important to resist the urge to compare them to your previous relationships, especially in the early stages. Expressing these comparisons to your new partner could negatively impact your relationship and give the impression that you are still not over your past. Instead, focus on setting healthy boundaries and communicating your concerns without making comparisons.

TAKE INITIATIVES

If you have feelings for someone, it's important to take action instead of waiting for them to make the first move. Initiating dates, calls, and texts shows that you are genuinely interested in the relationship. It has been found that some relationships fail in the early stages because one partner feels like they are doing all the work and not being desired in return. Remember, showing your interest by actively engaging with the other person and taking initiative is a significant factor for many people.

REMEMBER TO ENJOY THE OTHER ASPECTS OF YOUR LIFE

This is the fastest way to strain your relationship. If you make your entire life revolve around your new partner, you are placing too much pressure on the relationship to be your

sole source of happiness and fulfillment. While it's important to spend quality time with your new partner, it's crucial that you don't neglect other aspects of your life. Make sure to nurture and develop these other areas along with your new relationship. Taking care of yourself and maintaining a well-rounded life not only benefits you but also contributes to a healthier and stronger relationship. Remember, your new relationship can only improve if you're fulfilled and balanced.

RESTAURANT REVIEW

LagosRestaurantContinental

BY DANIELLE ANENE

We recently booked for a private lunch at Lagos Continental and were pleasantly surprised to discover that the hotel actually had more than just one restaurant. Although we had original booked to eat at Ekabo, intrigued and filled with anticipation we chose to try Soho Restaurant first for appetizers and drinks.

As we ascended to the restaurant, we couldn't help but be impressed by its exterior, which exuded an ambiance reminiscent of China. The restaurant offers both a secluded private dining area and an open dining area that overlooks a beautiful water fountain staircase. The private dining area exudes coziness with its dimly lit ambiance and features a full-length mirror, perfect for capturing memorable pictures. However, since we were interested in taking photos and the lighting was subdued, we decided to choose the open dining area instead. Although not as private, it provided more light and allowed us to fully appreciate the stunning view from our table.

you're unfamiliar with the options, but we received assistance in selecting our items. Since we were more interested in the excitement than filling our stomachs, we decided to stick to appetizers and mocktails.

Chef Chua recommended the prawn crackers with sweet chili, soy sauce, and chili Nigeria pepper sauce. We also enjoyed the delicious poached chicken dumplings, which we couldn't get enough of until we tried the Radish Cake, which was the highlight of our meal. The delightful combination of a crispy exterior sprinkled with pepper and a tender interior evoked a small squeal of pleasure from us.

To accompany our meal, we enjoyed the Lavender Mocktail and Virgin Colada as our beverages. The Lavender Mocktail is exceptionally sweet, so we suggest avoiding it if you don't have a preference for sweet flavours. On the other hand, the Virgin Colada offers a perfect blending of flavours and has earned our enthusiastic endorsement.

After enjoying appetizers at Soho, we made our way downstairs to Ekaabo. Located on the ground floor, the restaurant was already setting up for their dinner buffet. To be honest, we almost considered cancelling our private reservation after seeing the set up. However, our uncertainty quickly faded when the Chef (Chef Samson) came over to give us a brief overview of what we would be experiencing. His description left us eager and excited for the culinary delights that awaited us. To start, we were served a delightful basket of bread, including Sesame bread, Malt cereal, Brown rolls, and Focaccia bread. Accompanied by flavored butters such as Strawberry, Garlic, and Peanut, we particularly enjoyed the combination of the focaccia bread with the peanut-flavored butter. However, we found the sesame and brown rolls to be a bit tough to chew. Following this appetizing start, we were treated to an array of soups. The menu featured both Chicken Dumpling Peppersoup and Double Way Bell Peppersoup accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream. Additionally, we were served a snack bowl filled with chicken spring rolls, samosas, and meatballs.

Afterwards, they served chicken caesar salad and quinoa salad with French vinaigrette. The caesar salad was a delightful burst of flavor, but we were not as impressed with the quinoa salad. Although it was beautifully presented, it failed to satisfy our palates. Quinoa lovers might appreciate it, but we were more than happy to leave it behind. Next, we were treated to saffron mashed potatoes with sweetcorn sauce, jerk spiced chicken, pea puree, and onion marmalade. The standout elements of this dish were the sweetcorn sauce and onion marmalade. The chefs truly showcased their skills in creating these delectable accompaniments, especially the flavorful onion marmalade. Despite our full bellies, we couldn't resist indulging in the meal a little longer.

Finally, as we pleaded with the chef to cease bringing us more food, the desserts arrived. And truly, there is always a place for desserts. We were delighted to be served lemon curd cheesecake and a layered cake consisting of vanilla and chocolate, crowned with a strawberry tart.

When reflecting on our dining experiences, we would rate Soho a 7 out of 10 and Ekaabo an 8 out of 10. Without hesitation, we wholeheartedly recommend these establishments to those seeking an unforgettable dining experience.