Taiwo Fashipe, a Nigerian multiple-venture founder, brand strategist, and lifestyle curator, is redefining luxury and intentional living. As the Founder and CEO of Alexandrite Luxury Retail and Isibhahome, she focuses on creating memories and a sense of belonging through thoughtful gifting and sensory storytelling. In this interview, she discusses her journey, challenges, and insights on gifting culture in Nigeria.
How Did You Begin Your Journey?
Fashipe explains that she did not have everything planned out from the start. She began with a simple idea of creating thoughtful gift boxes from her small apartment. Over time, this evolved into a luxury gift company, and eventually, she opened her first store. Now, she is moving into an even larger space, reflecting the growth of her vision.
How Has Your Brand Evolved?
Alexandrite shifted from selling products to creating experiences. With Isibhahome, Fashipe tells stories through scents, evoking emotions and memories. Her journey has moved from transactions to meaningful connections and feelings.
What Is the Key to Your Success?
Fashipe credits consistency over perfection. She emphasizes showing up even when things are imperfect and starting before feeling fully ready. Despite failures and setbacks, she kept refining and evolving, which built her brand into what it is today.
Who Gives Gifts More: Nigerian Men or Women?
According to Fashipe, women are naturally more intentional about emotional expression, making gifting more personal and thoughtful. Men also give gifts, usually for important occasions or with prompting, but women do so more often with greater attention to detail.
What Barriers Have You Faced as a Female Leader?
One significant challenge is constantly proving she deserves to be in certain rooms. Fashipe learned to let consistency and results speak for themselves when people do not take her seriously immediately.
How Does Your Company Empower Women?
Fashipe’s company collaborates with many women artisans, creatives, and vendors. They intentionally create spaces where women can contribute, grow, and be seen, fostering collaboration and opportunity.
What Inspired Your Venture?
While working with High-Net-Worth Individuals, Fashipe noticed a gap in meaningful, premium gifts. She wanted to say thank you in a memorable way, leading her to create Alexandrite. Her philosophy, “Your gift will make room for you,” drove her to offer thoughtful, modern gifting options.
How Do You Balance Work and Family?
Fashipe believes balance is not always perfect. Some seasons demand more from work, others from family. Being present where you are and creating support systems helps manage both.
Do You Have Female Mentors?
Yes, both personally and from a distance. Fashipe is inspired by women who grow with intention, stay grounded, and build without losing themselves, reminding her of what is possible.
What Advice Do You Have for Ambitious Women?
She advises starting with what you have, without needing everything figured out. Start small, stay committed, and allow yourself to grow as you go.
What Is the Secret of Your Success?
Fashipe says there is no secret—just discipline, intentionality, and the willingness to keep showing up, even in uncertain times.
Are Nigerian Women Collaborating Enough?
She sees room for more growth. While collaboration is increasing, there is power in women choosing partnership over comparison for real impact.
How Have You Influenced the Gifting Sector?
Fashipe has shifted gifting from last-minute obligations to thoughtful, personal processes. Understanding the recipient’s personality and preferences creates special, meaningful experiences that show care and attention.
Key Insights on Nigerian Gifting Culture
Nigerians give gifts to make a statement—expressing love, appreciation, status, or identity. People think about how the gesture reflects them, wanting it to be impressive and memorable. This understanding changed how Fashipe approaches every detail.
Advice for Next-Generation Female Leaders
Start before feeling fully ready, learn by doing, and stay consistent. Small efforts over time create real results.
