Category: Personal
Stop Holding Your Talent Hostage
Friday, July 8, 2011
“Well, well, well … fancy seeing you. I was beginning to think a creative professional no longer lived here.” This is what I imagined my blog would say if it could talk. Many moons ago, I asked you to join me on my creative journey. However, it’s difficult to be a passenger when I’m not walking, when access has been denied, or when I’m holding my talent hostage.
While in NYC a few weeks ago, enjoying fish, grits and my signature bacon, the topic of my blog came up. *bbm can’t watch face* As I devoured the last bit of @ellegee47′s grits and body rolled with @jovizi the conversation got real. *cues opening from MTV’s series, Diary* “You think you know … but you have no idea.”
My issue was two-fold. For months, I’d been working on some amazing projects with great teams. (Judging by the October date of my last post, you wouldn’t know.) I felt growth with every shoot and saw the depth and range of my portfolio increasing. As a fashion stylist, I was elated! Then I thought, “I’m going to wait until after this next shoot before I update my site and blog. No, no, wait … after I get THESE images back from THIS shoot, I’m going to post.” By the time I got a handle on everything, it was May. All I could do was shake my head. I had become paralyzed by perfection. #Shoutout to Tia Smith.
Secondly, the more I hustled to build a stronger portfolio, the more I compared my work to other fashion stylists who’d been in the industry for YEARS. I started to think my portfolio was not on par with those I admired. It had reached the point where I actually could not stand looking at my work. It was a vicious cycle.
After completely revamping my website (coming soon), I had to take step back and have a few conversations with my family from the Creative Hostel. They helped me put my artistry in perspective. You can never measure your success by that of others. Everyone has a different journey and ordered steps; you just have to be prepared to walk. Suddenly in the background, I heard a voice. Is that you Kirk Franklin?!?! Is the storm over now??? You sure, because I’m putting away my trench coat, umbrella and galoshes. I’m finally ready to release my talent from bondage.
In an earlier post, I discussed the goal of getting my work published and the pitfalls of chasing tear sheets. Well, a lot has happened since that post. My work has been featured in a several publications, with more on the way. *bbm party face* I want to share my very first tear sheet from the December issue of T&M Magazine. Shot by Joao Carlos in a penthouse on Miami’s South Beach, Perdida De Amor (Lost Love) delves into the soul of a woman whose husband has gone astray. I hope you enjoy viewing the images as much as I did styling them.
Special thanks to @lmoney21, @L10_MIA, @ellegee47, @HewbieMac, @carmtasticc, @Dino_Teme, @jovizi, @EUmphery & @ELLEvation.
***Photographer, Joao Carlos, Model, Marie Charlotte (Next Miami) Hair/MUA, Sindy Perez & Jenna Marie Streitenfeld
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Young, Struggling and Styling
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
As I cooked breakfast for myself this morning, I decided to check my bank account. *thinks* If I could just add one more zero behind that one, I’d have ten whole dollars. iKID, iKID. But in all honesty, since starting my journey as a full-time fashion stylist and creative director, I’ve had to make numerous sacrifices for my craft. It’s rare I’ll go into a store and shop for myself anymore. The days of purchasing a $250 pair of jeans are over.com/whatwereyouthinkinganyway, and I can no longer financially justify my love of Ferragamos. *deep sigh*
Instead, all my money goes to sustaining my business, which of course includes PORK Bacon and Red Velvet. #NOM! As a stylist, you always need working capital for shoots, especially when styling agency-signed models. It’s the never-ending, buy-and-return process. Purchase merchandise for the shoot, pray to Sweet Baby Jesus, who lies ever-so peacefully in his manger that the model does not damage anything, then steam, re-tag, fold and return the merchandise to the respective stores. *bbm whew face* Talk about risky business!
If you continue to buy and return in the same stores, your face becomes familiar to the staff. Some stores have the right to refuse returns, so you have to be strategic. I look at returns as if I’m going to war. My battleship WILL NOT be sunk. I often purchase at one store’s location and return to another. If that’s not an option, I change the shift of when I return the clothes. I know of some stylists that have been stuck with hundreds of dollars in merchandise because the store refused the return. What’s an up-and-coming stylist to do?!?!
Well, some stores will allow a stylist to pull (borrow) clothing and accessories and pay a 20-30% restocking fee of the total. *bbm talk to the hand face* Did I mention that I’m an up-and-coming stylist??? LOL I need ALL of my dollars returned to me. Another option is pulling from designers and showrooms. Depending on your relationship, the pull could be free, come with a rental fee, or result in signing your life away for $30,000 worth of merchandise on a loan agreement. Not to mention, if the designer is located in a different city or country, the shipping fees you will incur. Essentially, you have to spend money to make money. You don’t want all your looks to be off the rack as you progress in your career.
To sum it all up, being a fashion stylist is not always glamorous, but it’s rewarding if you’re willing to put the work into building your brand. One cannot have tunnel vision when pursuing their creative passion; you have to look at the bigger picture. Most importantly you have to do it because you’re passionate. Sometimes that’s all you have…
Check out my video interview with WA2 for his Young, Fly & Broke series. I go into a little more detail about my life as a stylist. If you would like the recipe for my brown sugar cured bacon, shoot me an email. Enjoy!
25 Comments
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Raw, Authentic and honest. I like…don’t ever wait this long again to post. Good job my broda!!
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I know I’ve been slacking the past month or so, but I’ve had some great projects in the works. Hold me accountable broda. I need it.
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[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by A. U. Kalu, A. U. Kalu, FAST by Ferracci, Elton [L10] Anderson, M.B.B. and others. M.B.B. said: RT @Apuje: NEW BLOG POST: Young, Struggling & Styling -> http://bit.ly/9IU2Wq I know its been a month, but check me out and comment tweeps! [...]
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Thank you for a new post (finally)! If you’re passionate and continue to work hard, you’ll definitely reap the benefits of your hard work. We all see nothing but success in your future!
I want to also share that b/c of you, I am now reading the Alchemist (I saw your recommendation to Bianca on twitter). I’m on that journey to find and truly understand my Personal Legend! There are some great lessons in that book.
If/When you have some free time, check out new posts on the blog
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The Alchemist is thebomb.com. Let me know your thoughts when you’re done.
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Arminta
You continue to inspire me and crack me up
I love what you’re doing! -
This hit close to home for me. I’m a young, developing photographer & money doesn’t grow on trees where I’m from either. I get paid for shoots, just to turn around & put that money into getting quality equipment. I also have to buy clothes for models from time to time. It’s a nasty game of give & take, but passion… that makes it aaaaaallll worth it.
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You can say that again…money does NOT grow on trees. It seems like you have the right idea Jai and you’re on the right path. Surround yourself with the right people and things will continue to progress!
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Chandia
Great post bro! I LOVE and respect your honesty. Its a reminder that the current sacrifice that I’m making for my dreams is the right thing to do. I wish you blessings and success. I’m cheering from the sidelines!
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Nice post…minus the bacon s/o.
D Anywho, you’re heading in the right direction. You had a passion, you went for it and I believe pretty soon, you’ll be rewarded back in dividends. Keep your head up. I think your broke days will soon be over.
Question: The shoot in Nigeria, was that your first time there? I haven’t been in 2…going on 3 years. *weeps* I’m feening for another visit.-
Gotta give Bacon a S/O! Speak it into existence…my broke days will be over! It was my 1st trip to Nigeria, but it won’t be last. Hopefully I’ll be able to get back next year. This Christmas would ideal.
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Mike
Great post. It was an interesting behind-the-behind of the scenes to styling. So do you stock up before shoots, or just get things as you see them, in hopes of using them later?
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I have a kit full of Men’s and Women’s accessories that I bring to every shoot. They always come handy. I stock up during clearance sales on re-usable pieces.
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Damon
great post! really shines a spotlight on your commitment to you craft. you can borrow a dollar or two anytime.
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Dr. Kathy Kane
Big Bro! I LOVE that you’ve decided to follow your passion, despite the hardships. This post should’ve come with a PayPal donation link…..and less pork bacon pics…. -_-
Anyways, you know that you have my support 100,000%! Wish I could match it with $…lol -
Kris Watson
Very enlightening and beneficial to someone whose been out of the circuit for a long time.
- Kris
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I am really proud of you. I’m happy to be your friend and in the company of someone so awesome. See you at the top my friend, even if we have to carry each other.
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Fish, Grits, Bacon & Dream Chasing
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Inspiration comes in the strangest forms. Mine often reveals itself over food The other day, while making fried whiting, cheddar cheese grits and applewood smoked bacon, it came to me… like an epiphany! *music break* “I think I’m just about over…” Shout out to my tweetheart, Chrisette Michelle. If you follow me on Twitter, then you know how much I love and respect her as an artist.
In the midst of preparing dinner for folks at the creative hostel came my realization: I’ve been so excited about the recent growth and development of my career, that I started to get hustle mixed up with stupidity. When you’re passionate about anything, it not only resonates with you, but your circle. Your family and friends will become your support system and personal PR team. I can’t begin to elaborate on the number of clients I’ve acquired and connections I’ve made because of my circle. They are apart of my success.
As a fashion stylist & creative director, one of my immediate goals is to have my work published in a magazine. Instead of letting it happen organically, I began to chase a tear sheet – an example of your work that can be torn from a publication – by any means necessary. *adjusts Malcolm X glasses*
I set up a meeting with a photographer who had strained relationships in many facets of the fashion industry. His reputation and ego proceeded himself – which sometimes is not a bad thing because you know what you’re getting before the train comes. His goal was to start a beach inspired fashion publication and I saw myself becoming an integral part of the staff in the magazine’s infancy stages. Half way through the meeting, my soul was unsettled. At that point I was aware this new relationship would be toxic. However, I wanted that tear sheets so I pressed forward and agreed to take on a number of tasks, despite photographer’s demeaning tone.
So as the grease began to pop, I realized I made it this far from sweat equity, intuition, keen business practices and great support system. My guerrilla approach could have affected my brand, integrity and progress to date. Instead I decided to do what Will Smith so eloquently stated in his video on my previous post, “You don’t try to build a wall. You don’t set out to build a wall. You don’t say, I’m going to build the biggest, baddest, greatest wall that’s ever been built. You don’t start there. You say, I’m going to lay this brick as perfectly as a brick can be laid. And you do that every single day and soon you have a wall.”
Life’s funny that way…wouldn’t you know it, less than a week later, the fashion gods shined their Ferragamos down on me. *bbm party face* I will be working with two publications in August who’s brands I respect and admire. I won’t say much…now. I’ll let the tear sheets speak for themselves. #POW
33 Comments
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Tia
Apuje that is so exciting! I cannot wait to see your tears and I am so glad to hear of this opportunity! It was only a matter of time because your talent is tremendous. Congrats for being someone who believed in your dream enough to persevere through the hard times. You inspire me.
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Snowman
Great job thus far Apuje! Stay hungry both literally and figuratively (maybe one day ill get to sample these dishes). Continue to go with your inner instincts and it will never steer you wrong.
-Snow
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Im not gonna lie.. I didn’t read the post just yet, but its lunch time and I’m on the grind in the dungeon. You gotta post recipes.. I’m hungry as (insert something) now..
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Congratulations!!!
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Cortni
My man 100 grand!! You are always an inspiration to my life bro.
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Vivi
That’s awesome! You were patient and believed in yourself that your hard work would soon pay off…and it did! Can’t wait to see the spread in the two publications.
Meanwhile, you’re making me hungry with that picture. -
I totally get the fish & grits, but bacon? why can’t you leave the other white meat alone??? ..Praying for your arteries and heart
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Keep on pushing Twin! You know I’ve got your back and support all that you do. Let’s make the magic happen!
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This is so great Apuje! You continue to inspire me!
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Apuje, I am SO proud of you and your continuing success!! As someone who is looking to do something different and follow a dream I use you as my inspiration! Keep on keeping on, and never sacrifice your integrity for a paycheck; the right opportunity will always be on the horizon!
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That’s such a blessing! It’s not just about the work that you do, but how you do the work. Perfect example of how keeping steafast, focused and grateful will guide you to your dreams
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This post spoke to me man! I’m in this place currently in my career, learning to take steps that are of the highest integrity, and that serve others as well as myself. Trying to discern next steps in this business is not always the most clear. I’m learning to trust the passion and the gift God has given me while also working hard and efficiently towards my goal…hustling! Keep it up Apuje, I love these posts
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Cassie (Twin)
That food looks so good! Twin, your epiphany seemed to be right on point. Always go with your instinct; like you said it has gotten you this far.
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I think we talked about this friday. I am very glad to see your dreams come to pass. In the short time that i’ve known you and elton you guys chase your dreams with all of your might and that within itself is powerful. I will glad to see the post this month.
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LaTonya
Wow..what a pic, what a dish, what a blog. The Will Smith quote is so on point. Patience, hard work, and dedication go along way. It’s good to see you/someone succeed in something they enjoy and worked so hard for. Our best quality shows when we Enjoy and Appreciate what we do.
Side note…..you should get some of your food pics published too….Yummy!-
Thanks LaTonya! I never thought about getting the food pics published. I guess I was trying to stay in my lane and focus on styling people and not food lol. Who knows what God has in store for me next.
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I find this post so ironic….I had a similar experience with which whom is mentioned here. Nonetheless congratulations on all your success! Obstacles plentiful meaning the victory will be grand. (I need to hire you before you get too famous….*seriously*)…I support you 100! *hugs*
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I was skeptical about posting this story, but I knew others could benefit from my experience. I look forward to working with you soon Allana. I love the new twitter avatar. Thanks for the continued support.
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LaTanya B
Perseverance pays of.. I’ve been following your journey for some time and I just want to say congratulations! you deserve the success.
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An Open Letter to Pork Bacon
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Dear PORK Bacon,
Ahhhh, the other white meat. Some may be troubled by our love affair, and you know what, I’m ok with that. Many of my family and friends have abandoned you over the years and I bid them adieu and say, “Good reddens.” Others have tried to replace you; turkey and beef substitutes just wont due. You’ve kept it fresh and new, constantly re-inventing yourself. Applewood Smoked, Hickory Smoked, Maple Brown Sugar Cured, I love them all.
I like to prepare you a bed, covered with aluminum foil. Placing you side by side as I drizzle my Aunt’s syrup (Aunt Jemima) all over your body. Then I crack black pepper over your skin just for a little character. Out of a 375 degree oven, you look delectable. All I can say is nom nom nom *Cookie Monster voice* My Boo, the syrup is glistening all over your body. I say, the syrup is just glistening all over your body. You’re caramelized, salty, a bit sweet, smoky, and both meaty and crisp. What else can a man ask for?
I look forward to the time when I can enjoy you everyday, but for now and doctor’s order, I will consume you in moderation…meaning every other day and twice on Saturday.
With Love,
Me
19 Comments
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LOLOLOLOLOL!!!!! Hi-lar-i-ous!
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Grinette
That was too funny
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Dorn
The commentary was awesome. I really wasn’t expecting the pictures when I scrolled but it made your feeling about bacon that much easier to understand…
TOO funny. -
Jessica Nabongo
Feel free to send me some. My mouth just watered.
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Jeremy
Never knew that one could find a relation between Fashion and Food but you have and it looks good, #sidenote hook a brotha up with some of that it looks delicious!
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ick! but so good lol
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You should be ashamed of yourself. LOL this almost sounded like Porn! (Good Porn might I add)
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Henry
Dude you are too many things!!!!!! One the one hand I am smiling and laughing because I also enjoy food with a passion that is emotional, physical, and cerebral all at the same time. I also reject this preposterous propaganda perpetuated by Dr. Ian Smith and new blacks about how bad pork is. But then when I scroll down and see the pictures with the Aunt Jemima in the back ground, I can’t help but shake my head squint my face, tilt my head and say…really Apuje, really?!?!? All while LMAO. You have now made me hungry for some kind of something with Bacon on it!
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Spec, I knew you would appreciate this post. Especially the way Aunt Irene and Pops be cooking.
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LoL…..So funny….So serious…So right
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HIGH-larious post! Your love affair with bacon is admirable.
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I am MAD that you have the gourmet drizzle of syrup.
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Josh
LMAO – I just fell out laughing…this is HILARIOUS bruh…absolutely HILARIOUS!
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Kali Shelton
You are FAT! But it looks so good.
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Darius Beckett
HAHAHA…. Did you eat all that meat (pause) Wheres the rest of the breakfast numba?? SMH… You a Fooooooooool!
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[...] sidebar: If you’re wondering why PORK bacon, read his Open Letter to Pork Bacon [...]
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Nwabueze
LOL. This is absolutely hilarious. I actually wrote a note to my lover, bacon, last night as well. Wow. Great minds think similarly.
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Elliott Kiadii
Your a mess for this one!
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Erin
I too share your love of Bacon, REAL bacon. (Turkey is a poor imitation) You have to try Black Pepper Crusted Bacon. It’s amazing and it will most certainly be your best friend. Bacon & Red Velvet? You might just be my soul mate!
xoxo
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Dreams From My Father
Friday, June 18, 2010
*bbm whew face* so I’ve finally finished reading Barack Obama’s, Dreams from My Father after about 2 years. Don’t judge me, lol. It was my travel book, so I only read it in the airport or the plane, when I wasn’t sleep. It surprised me, how much our experiences with our fathers paralleled. No my mother is not white and no my father does not have 4 wives (not that there’s anything wrong with that…iKID). I’m speaking more so from our interactions, their influence and our struggle to find acceptance and answers.
Visiting Nigeria for the first time was both humbling and amazing. It’s difficult to fully express what the experience meant to me and how it changed my outlook on family, tradition, and culture. I was able to spend a few days in the capital, Abuja and my remaining weeks in Port Harcourt mixed with a day trip to Aba.
Now, I speak very little of my native tongue, Igbo, but thanks to friends and family I managed not to get ripped off too bad or get kidnapped. That coupled with my $1 haircut, and brief bout with the runs *thanks Imodium A-D* I’d say it was a great trip. Unfortunately, I did NOT see my father (this makes year 22 
) but I know his lessons and principles help guide my path, and the culture of Nigeria heavily influences my perspective on fashion.
Nigerians might be some of the flyest people I know…and I can say that speaking from first hand experience. *pops dashiki* As a stylist I’m not afraid to mix different patterns, colors, and textures. In fact, I rather enjoy it. Spending over two weeks in Nigeria only confirmed where I draw this inspiration. It’s from the children walking to primary school in their uniforms, from the older lady at the market selling stock fish in her traditional, from the young boys playing football, from the bride preparing for her nuptials searching intensely for her husband amongst the crowd and from the father walking with his family to church.
Check out the images below to get a glimpse into my journey and to understand how Nigeria planted the seeds of style in me. Enjoy.
27 Comments
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Uchenna Okoji
Uj3, this is amazing! I love everything about the site and the blog–down to this font I’m using right now. It’s vibrant, it’s colorful, it’s inspiring! Dope! Bravo! Kudos! EveryThing! I look forward to seeing more..keep it up!
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Haha..not the bbm whew face. You are a comedian. Love the pics, my fave is the wedding photos with the Nigerian Issac Hayes and Black Thought in the background. Just a great shot.
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Just Amazing! This took me back home! I’m so happy that you were able to experience “home” to the fullest! Our people and culture are just so beautiful. Great job Apuje! I’m looking forward to more!
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Helen
Love it!! I’m so proud of you bro! You are on your true path and I know God has great things in store for you!
These pics makes me miss home! -
Isaiah
This is great! A colorful look into your inspirations and drive. I look forward to seeing more. Congrats!
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thanks for sharing, completely inspiring
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Nigeria looks so raw and beautiful. you should check out the documentary that the BBC produced called “Welcome To Lagos”.
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Inspiration at its best! You got me (mentally) planning my trip to Jamaican to see my family off this one bro.
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Uju
awww love it Apuje!!! thanks for shooting our wedding, and for allowing us to be a part of ur experience back home!! You rock!
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Sandra Nwankwo
Apuje,
The site is nice!!! I will definitely be following this more often. Glad you posted pics of my cousin’s wedding…..definite kudos for that!
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Drewche
I like that you brought AFRICA to us Americans…one day I will make it there also
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DiAndria
Apujeeeeee….I am diggin the blog brother…so awesome! I will definitely stay tuned…I am a sucker for blogs (especially good ones that inspire me).
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JG*
Apuje! This is BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!
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WOW!!!! The images are so vivid. I was enthralled by the point of view in your pictures. I know see where you get your fearless fashion sense!
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EMozie
Way to go Apuje. Congratulations on making your passion a reality. How interesting that on your first visit to Nigeria you recognize instantly that your perspective on fashion draws so much inspiration from your Nigerian heritage. I love the photographs, they definitely tell a story. Looking forward to seeing more.
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LOVE LOVE LOVE IT. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, trip and these beautiful pictures. The colorful pics from the wedding are gorgeous!!
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Tamara
Its official im marryin a african… These pics are to die for…
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What an awesome experience! It was very cool to follow along your journey via your twitpics. Nothing like a return HOME to remind you of your roots, heritage and culture.
And the photography is amazing! I love your blog! -
Meghan
I love your pics of Lagos. I had a layover there and was not able to see the city but longed to see any and take in everything. I visited Ghana and Burkina Faso and was amazed! It blew my mind and I want to return badly. Obama seemed to bring us ordinary Americans, 4th and 5th generation Americans, closer to Africa, gracefully and quietly, like no one else has ever done. It was a silent march of the masses. Passionate cheers, cries and prayers were heard all over the world upon his election and Marcus Garvey’s dreams seems to be fulfilled. Peace and Love Brother Apuje, Meg
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This post was very personal to me, but I felt I needed to share my experience. If you haven’t had a chance to visit the motherland, make it a priority.
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Pejj
Crisp and lovely photos!!! The bride is gorgeous!!!!!!!!!!!!!! =D
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I started to tear up as I looked at your pictures. I miss Nigeria so much and I wish that things could improve, so that we could leave this place and love at HOME. Real Talk. lol.
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Yo, pics are beautiful man…. You really just gave me a little more inspiration to explore my Liberian Heritage. We’ve had numerous talks about the father thing, and that has been one thing preventing me from even embracing my culture, but this post had made me look at things from a different light! Thanks bro.
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My broda….I know I am late but I thk you know how much you inspire me…and your thanked. Dope post!
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Jackie Jones
These are great photos! Thank you so much for sharing. I wish you would describe the food you show and I want to know how to make these marvalous head wraps, I do! They are really statement pieces.
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Thanks Jackie for visiting my blog. When I was in Nigeria, I was tweeting the about each of my meals. Shoot me an email off line and I can describe each dish to you.
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Omalicha
Omg…..is that abacha? Craving some right about now
27 Comments
“You can never measure your success by that of others. Everyone has a different journey and ordered steps; you just have to be prepared to walk.” AMEN!!! This is something I have to remind myself of daily.
Congratulations on having your work published! The photos from the T&M Magazine look great; definitely feeling the Lady Gaga inspiration. Glad to see you’re back on the site; can’t wait to view more!
Dopeness! Was Truly inspired by your blogpost! Congrats on your tearsheet!
GREAT imagery. Joao is an amazing photog and Gina is a kick ass retoucher.. Love those images!
Great Stuff Apuje! Way to Go For Your Dreams! Big Congrats
Doper than Dope!!
So proud of you and hoping we cross paths again soon!
Those are terrific shots! Keep up the good work Apuje!
Your work speaks for itself. You have a gift! I am inspired. Keep it up! Also, thanks for being transparent in your post. I think everyone can relate to the paralysis you spoke of. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for the constant support Yarb!
Insanity!!! Once again my broda has delivered. The shoot looks amazing. I can see the growth and I am so very proud of you. You are sure on your way there my friend. Please remember the journey once you reach the destination. It is pivotal you continue to share these types of stories….inspiration comes in all forms.
WOW Apuje! This shoot is amazing! I love every single thing about it. Just gorgeous!
Thanks so much for the shout out! I have been waiting on a new blog post. I am so glad you have allowed yourself to be released from your self imposed bondage. Accepting that we are constantly on a journey and never perfect can sometimes be a challenge. Your work however is amazing and always has been, I am glad that you are continuing to progress. Congrats on your tear sheet, I am sure many more will follow because your talent is unmatched.
I like Beyonce’s music but I am finally starting to respect her as an artist because NOW I am believing/ relating to what she has to say. I say that because I have heard her say several times now, that she doesn’t compare/compete w/other artists she competes against herself. she strives to elevate to a new level in all that she does. That’s how we have to be. Because people love different things. Have you ever noticed how many small businesses thrive because people have preferences. Think about all the Ereaders out there! Its a matter of personal preference. so from one creative person to another, I am glad you are tossing the shackles away and letting your creativity flourish.
I completely understand what you’re saying Kia. I gained more of an appreciation for Beyonce once I saw her special on VH1.
Welcome back bro. and the work looks AMAZING! I see Apuje in these shots but on a whole different level. The class and elegance in the accessories is SO you. but the visual Eclecticism…. brand new level of Gordon Gartrell outchea! Major Props bro.
Nice! Keep up the good work.
So happy to see that you are back! I missed seeing your posts! Awesome work as always!
Apuje great post man! Eyes have not seen… the things you will create for the world with your talents! I believe that. I’ve seen tremendous growth in your work and I know I haven’t seen half of what you’re capable of. And lets talk about these one-liners in this post… “I had become paralyzed by perfection.” “You can never measure your success by that of other” “Everyone has a different journey and ordered steps; you just have to be prepared to walk.” “I heard a voice. Is that you Kirk Franklin?!?! Is the storm over now???” — You gave me four great tweets just like that. Keep up the good work! Proud of you!
This was AMAZING!!! Definitely inspiring and beauty images!!! Love everything about this. Congrats
This is DOPE! Proud of you homie. Keep doing your thing. Soon the stylists that you look up to will be blogging about you.
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