The festive season is a time for family, unforgettable celebrations and joy—an emotion perfectly represented at the recent cover shoot featuring iconic fashion designer Deola Sagoe and her equally remarkable daughter, Teni Baks. The mother-daughter duo brought their generational style and elegance to the set, infusing it with heartwarming family traditions and cherished memories, all against the vibrant backdrop of Moët.
As the cameras rolled, laughter, stories, and toasts flowed, each moment brimming with joy and connection. Moët & Chandon’s timeless effervescence set the tone, turning the set into more than just a production session—it became a celebration of life, legacy, and the bond that ties generations together.
Family memories and festive traditions
“One of our earliest special moments together was in 2003 in Cape Town,” Deola reminisces. “The Mercedes Benz Fashion show coincided with my birthday, and my mother was there. It was bittersweet because, three months later, she passed away. But that day was magical. I remember her tying the corset of an Aso Oke dress backstage. ”
Their connection to family runs deep in their veins, as Teni adds, “Every holiday, I look forward to decorating the Christmas tree and setting the table.”
It’s an entire event for their family, from exchanging Secret Santa gifts to savouring selective festive dishes that range from lasagna to efo riro. These moments capture the intimacy and uniqueness that define their family traditions.
A toast to life, love, and new beginnings
Every celebration has its defining moment; one of those moments was a Christmas gift they will never forget. Opening a blue box to find a pregnancy test indicating positive, Teni recalls that the room was filled with overwhelming emotion. It was the most beautiful and priceless gift—a new life at Christmas, a time of hope and transformation.
Deola reflects, “That’s what the season is about—new beginnings, gratitude, and love. Whether it’s a toast at Teni’s wedding or the joy of watching my granddaughter speak her first words, life gives us endless reasons to celebrate.”
Celebrating life in style
Both Deola and Teni embody the art of living vibrantly. Teni describes her mother as “An icon of celebration, a woman of faith, and a constant source of inspiration.” Deola’s reply is equally heartfelt: “Teni is eclectic, creative, and gives people unforgettable experiences—a true enigma in her own right.”
At the shoot, Moët served as more than just a prop; it symbolised their bond. The playful clinking of glasses punctuated their stories, a fizzy reflection of their shared laughter and love. The effervescence of Moët mirrored their vibrant personalities, making it the perfect spirit for the festivities.
A legacy of joy
Deola and Teni’s story is a reminder that the best celebrations are those rooted in love, family, and tradition. Moët brings these moments to life, creating a backdrop for memories that linger long after the glasses are empty. From the smallest joys to the grandest milestones, it’s the spirit that turns occasions into unforgettable experiences.
So, as you plan your festive gatherings, raise a glass to family, joy, and the bonds that make life worth celebrating. As Deola and Teni prove, the real magic of the season lies in the connections we share and the memories we create.
To read the full cover story on Deola Sagoe and Teni Baks, their generational exchange of fashion, and the legacy they’re building, click here.
