The big global trend right now for incorporating the beautiful, bold and luxurious textiles created in Africa into home and office decor, is growing rapidly. Harnessing the power of that trend is South African decor entrepreneur, Cecilia Kapasula, founder of Home Of Sweet Savannah, a growing decor brand that is proving a hit with interior designers and home owners alike.
LoA chatted to Cecilia Kapasula earlier this month as she was a guest speaker at the Lioness Lean In event in Centurion, South Africa.
What does your company do?
My company is all about adding colour in one's life through an array of vibrant, bold & bright products. We specialize in decorative items for the home and office which are highlighted with various modern and ethnic African/Ankara fabrics from all over Africa.
“My inspiration and idea came about through my travels into West Africa. I discovered and was inspired to start creating beautiful, luxurious pieces with the aim of introducing our African prints to the luxury market.”
What inspired you to start your company?
My inspiration and idea came about through my travels into West Africa. I discovered and was inspired to start creating beautiful, luxurious pieces with the aim of introducing our African prints to the luxury market.
Why should anyone use your service or product?
We offer custom-made services. Our products are exclusive, affordable, modern and diverse.
Tell us a little about your team
At the moment, I am the only employee and I work with other suppliers.
“We embrace various well-known African fabrics and materials and utilize them in a unique, modern way to fit into your space and state in your life.”
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And, do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
I have definitely followed my late father's footsteps who owned a travel agency. I previously owned a catering business which left me defeated as it didn’t succeed, it was a rude awakening into the entrepreneurial world. Although I have always been attracted to the entrepreneurial freedom, the routes taken were not always clear.
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
1. To become a well-known brand locally and internationally
2. To be visible in hotels, office spaces, airport lounges, luxury apartments etc
3. To grow our visibility by offering a physical and online store
4. To be well-known in the corporate gifting space
5. To grow my team with up and coming interior designers, graphic designers and seamstresses
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
The appreciation of my products from my clients. A smile on a client's face motivates me and gives me the drive to continue the path I have chosen and it warms my soul.
“My aspirations for the business are to increase our brand exposure, both locally and internationally; to penetrate new markets and be visible in public spaces such as hotel lobbies, airport lounges, etc; to collaborate with interior designers on various projects; and to extend our brand reach via our online store.”
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
Personal advice:
Be realistic
Be passionate
Believe in yourself/abilities
Business advice:
Have a support structure e.g. family
Surround yourself with like-minded people
Hard work & perseverance is the key to success
Contact or follow Home Of Sweet Savannah
WEBSITE | EMAIL cecilia@homess.co.za
Why LoA loves it….
Whether decorating a new home or a commercial office space, bringing a touch of personality and bold colour is all important for creating a look that is both unique and pleasing to the eye. For Cecilia Kapasula, that uniqueness comes from her beautiful and proudly African textiles that grace her interior decor pieces and make them stand out from the interior design crowd. This is definitely one brand to watch in South Africa’s interior design and decor scene. --- Melanie Hawken, founder and editor-in-chief of Lionesses of Africa