Today we’d like to introduce you to Teni Oriola.
Hi Teni, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I founded Ivory and Pastels in February 2023 shortly after my wedding in December 2022, not knowing it would transform so quickly. What began as a small bridesmaids coordination service soon evolved into a full-fledged styling house, shaped by my desire to support people during life’s most memorable moments. My path here is rooted in an unusual mix – years spent in financial planning alongside a long-standing passion for fashion and beauty. That combination has given me a unique lens: I approach every project with structure and strategy, but also with artistic freedom and intuition.
Today, IP Styling, the bridal styling arm of Ivory and Pastels, has grown far beyond what I imagined when I started. I’ve had the joy of building a committed team and styling more than 50 clients across Africa, each project adding to the story of who we are becoming. Ivory and Pastels has turned into a brand that mirrors love, intention, and craftsmanship, and it continues to evolve with every bride and celebration we are privileged to be part of.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road. Building Ivory and Pastels meant stepping into a growing niche in the wedding industry, so a lot of the early challenges came from educating clients on what bridal styling truly involves and why it matters. There was also the balancing act of running a growing creative brand while still working within the structure and pace required to keep our clients satisfied with our service.
As the business is expanding, we are experiencing some growing pains – scaling a team, creating processes from scratch, managing multiple clients across different countries, and finding the right vendors that match the level of detail and craftsmanship we need. There are definitely moments of overwhelm, doubt, and plenty of lessons learned along the way. But each challenge continues to push me to refine the brand, strengthen our systems, and become a more intentional leader. Every struggle has shaped the version of Ivory and Pastels that exists today.
We’ve been impressed with Ivory and Pastels, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Ivory and Pastels is a styling house dedicated to elevating the bridal experience. Our core focus is IP Styling, the bridal styling arm of the brand, where we guide brides through the full styling journey – from concept development to color curation, fabric selection, accessories, vendor coordination, and the final dress-up experience on the wedding day. We support brides, bridal parties, grooms, and clients celebrating special milestones, ensuring their looks feel intentional, cohesive, and memorable.
What truly sets us apart is the way we blend creativity with structure. My background in financial planning means our processes are organized, thoughtful, and efficient, while our fashion and beauty expertise brings artistry and emotional depth to every project. We don’t just put looks together; we tell stories – through colors, textures, silhouettes, and culturally relevant details. Our clients often describe us as the calm in the midst of wedding planning chaos, guiding them with clarity, taste, and genuine care.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of is our growth in less than 2 years.and the trust we have built with over 50 clients across the continent. Brides allow us into one of the most meaningful seasons of their lives, and we honor that through personalized service, detailed moodboards, unique design concepts, and a collaborative approach with designers and vendors. Whether it’s curating a bride’s full wardrobe, coordinating a custom design, or sourcing accessories that complete the vision, we’re committed to making the styling journey seamless and enjoyable.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes me happy is anything that brings me a sense of calm, connection, and creativity. I’m happiest in moments that feel simple but meaningful, laughing with people I love, having slow mornings with good music, or discovering something new that inspires me. I also find a lot of joy in little pockets of beauty throughout the day: a well-set space, a peaceful walk, or even a quiet moment to think and reset. Those small, grounding experiences remind me of who I am outside of work and help me stay centered.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ivoryandpastels.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ip.styling
Image Credits
Debby Adetipe
Promzi media
Rare Magic
Kayode Ogungbade
