in , ,

Evans Akere celebrates 10 years of marital bliss

– outlines what has sustained the union

In an industry which experiences marriage upheavals and upturns, a few stand out and make their marriage work; one of such is Evans Akere, the creative director of foremost menswear brand, Vanskere.

The celebrated fashion designer is marking 10 years of marital bliss. He spoke excitedly to ENCOMIUM Weekly about marriage among other things…

 

Congratulations. How does it feel?

Thank you. It feels good, I can still clearly remember my wedding day. It seems like yesterday. How time flies.

What would you say has sustained your marriage?

It has been by the grace of God. Getting married is easy, but staying married is a huge responsibility. I guess our ability to manage our individual differences has been key to our marriage success.

What are some of the challenges you have had to overcome over the years?

I don’t think I have had any major challenge in my marriage. God has been extremely good to us. But I can remember that during our early days in marriage, we used to have money issues. I guess it was because I got
married quite early. I wasn’t financially stable at that time, my business was still at the formative stage. I’m not saying we are completely free from money issues right now, but I mean, its a lot better, we thank God.

Are there memories you both cherish in your marriage?

Yes, lots of them. One of the most cherished moments was when we had our first child. It was an amazing experience. I can remember when I saw him and held him in my arms for the first time, the feeling was indescribable. Everything changed the moment he arrived, it was a bit strange adjusting to a new life with a child, but later it became very interesting.

Has there ever been a time you felt like backing out of the union?

No, Never. I met my wife in school. We were friends for six years before we got married. So, I’ve known her for 16 years. We have been through a lot together, so you can understand why I settled down quite early.

My wife is my best friend. I knew she was the one for me, I didn’t need anybody to tell me. I have never felt like backing out, backing out to where and to who? I have told her, by the grace of God when our marriage clocks 20, we’ll re-dedicate our vows in the same church, with a gathering of family and friends, that’s how much I appreciate her.

As a busy man, how do you make out time for your family?

I don’t spend as much time with my family as I would like to. My business takes a lot of my time. I work late, the earliest time I get home is 10pm each day, that includes Saturdays. I occasionally go to the office on
Sundays as well. I thank God that my wife understands and she has been very supportive. I don’t expect my working schedule to be like this forever. I believe a time will come when I’ll be able to spend more time with them.

What do you have for the spring season from Vanskere?

We are presently working on our 2015 Collection. we hope to unveil them soon, hopefully you’ll know as soon as its out.

Sometime last year, you completed a course abroad, how have you incorporated the experience into your
designs?

I had an awesome experience at the prestigious London College of Fashion. The school is among the world top fashion schools, so it was good to have studied there. My tutor, Dr. Pascal Portanier has 20 years experience working as a creative director for luxury brands such as Karl Lagerfeld, Christian Dior, L’Oreal, etc. I learnt
a whole lot from him, some of which I have already incorporated into my brand.

How much difference would you say the course has had on you as a designer?

I’m sure you have noticed the difference since I got back. A lot has changed in my brand since then, from the designs to the branding and marketing, its quite obvious.

How have you stayed strong in business despite stiff competition?

It is not of he that willeth nor he that runeth, but the Lord that showeth mercy. It has been by the grace of God. I pray He continues to shower His grace upon me, so I can continue to remain relevant.

How has the Island store been faring since you opened it last year?

It has been good, infact, I didn’t expect this amount of patronage for the first year.

– MICHAEL NWOKIKE

Encomium

Written by Encomium

A media, tech and events company.

What do you think?

Leave a Reply

Avatar

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Today’s major headlines (Sunday, May 10, 2015)

Screen diva, Iretiola Doyle speaks on career, motherhood and stardom