This month, we spotlight a mum whose world is built on aesthetics and intention. An award-winning makeup artist, photographer, and creative entrepreneur, she opens up about building a business from scratch, raising children who feel safe enough to ask her anything, and why she believes there’s more than one “right” way to become a mother.
Please tell us about yourself. Can you share more about all the hats you wear?
I’m Banke Meshida Lawal. A Mother of 2, Wife, CEO of BMpromakeup, photographer, clothing line owner, interior designer; basically an Aesthetic Designer and Lifestyle Curator.
How did you meet your husband, and how long have you been married?
I met him in the car park in college, and we’ve been together since 1997.
Share one unexpected thing about you.
I play the Piano.
Can you tell us one of the funniest things your child(ren) has done?
One of my child once forgot her pencil case at home and called from school to have someone bring it. In my anger, I said, “You forgot your work tools. Did you forget to eat your breakfast too? She said, “No, I ate my food. 😑
How important is a support system for a mum?
A support system is very important. Every mother needs support from various people, including domestic help, parents, spouse, and friends.
What are some ways that children and parenting are different from when you were growing up and now?
My children can voice their thoughts and ask me the deepest questions, which sometimes make me quiver and wish I was able to be vocal with my parents the way they are with me.
This relationship is built on trust and letting your children see that you are not judgmental. You must realise that they do not know, and who better to guide them than you? No matter what the conversations are, you must have a listening ear and be prepared to be shocked at all times.
How are you raising your child (ren) to be ready for an ever-changing world?
I always let them know that things are never how they wish it to be. There are so many different opinions and ideas out there. You don’t necessarily have to align with them all. It is important to know who you are and not get swept up in what the world thinks. Chart your own course and the world will align.
How do you and your husband work together to raise your children?
My husband and I were very intentional about the way the children will be raised. We communicate about everything and understand the importance of speaking with one voice, especially when it comes to instilling values. Unity is very important. As parents, we also shield our children from disagreements between us, which is very important.
What has motherhood taught you about yourself?
That you must never judge people’s children; you truly don’t know what people are going through, and you must always be kind.
What advice would you give to other mums?
We don’t have all the answers. In parenting, some days will be rough. Some will be sweet. No matter what happens, there is always light at the end of the tunnel. A sad day will end, and joy will come, so you have to be ready for it.
Bust one motherhood myth!
That you must give birth the natural way to really connect with your child? No! C-sections, Surrogacy, IVF, etc are all amazing ways Medicine and Science have blessed us with. So we should embrace it all.
Use one word to describe one thing that should not be missing from every home.
Music.
How do you balance work and parenting?
I shut down when I get home and focus on spending time with my children. Holidays, Family time, art and Craft, Music, and Cooking are all a very integral part of my home life.
What do you love the most about your work as a Professional Make-up artist and all the many expressions of your purpose and passion?
The fact that I get to design looks for people, and that they trust me. I create the look and present it beautifully through my photography. It is a true experience I can never get tired of curating.
What are some challenges of running a business, and how have you overcome them?
Drafting the right people into my team has taken me a long time, but we are slowly getting there. Putting together our unique structure and strategy has taken time too. This has stemmed from years of working in the Nigerian Market, which is very unique.
What inspires you to stay positive?
The fact that I have come this far in my business without financial assistance from any institution- just grit, the right clientele and a dream that keeps on growing and giving.
Can you share your self-care tips?
I learnt when to shut down and take time off early on in my business,expand my mind all the time. I also do things that impact positively on my team. Watching them blossom gives me great joy.
What do you love about LagosMums?
I read about parenting, navigating life with the children in these times: Things have evolved since we were children- times are definitely different. Knowing how and what to do in certain situations is very important. You find real people with real experiences on lagosmums platforms.
Trivia
○ N1 Million or more sleep? More Sleep!!
○ Would you prefer to go on a shopping spree or an all-expense-paid trip to your dream destination? All-expense-paid trip to my dream destination please!
○ Homeschooling or traditional school. Traditional school- the mind needs to be broadened.
○ Is AI more good or bad? AI is good. Learn how to use it positively.
Read more from our other beautiful Mums of the Month here
