The recent dispute between renowned fashion designer Deola Sagoe and fashion blogger Hafsah Mohammed over a wedding dress design has brought attention to some critical lessons for entrepreneurs. Hafsah accused Deola of recreating her custom wedding dress for Tayo, the wife of nightlife celebrity Yhemo Lee, even though she had paid for an exclusive design. Deola defended her actions, arguing that no client owns the rights to her designs. This situation highlights several business and intellectual property issues that entrepreneurs should pay attention to.
Here are three key takeaways from the controversy:
1. Document Your Contracts Clearly
One of the main points of contention in this saga is the absence of a clear agreement on exclusivity. Hafsah expected her dress to be a one-of-a-kind creation, but there was likely no contract to explicitly outline the terms of use or ownership. This underscores a crucial lesson for entrepreneurs—always ensure that contracts are well-documented and clear on the terms, especially when working with service providers like designers or developers.
Whether you’re hiring someone to create a website, a logo, or a custom product, make sure your contract spells out all key terms. This includes ownership rights, exclusivity, and whether the provider can replicate the design for other clients. Relying on verbal agreements or assumptions can lead to misunderstandings and even disputes, as seen in this case.
2. Secure Your Creative Ideas Through IP Protection
Hafsah’s frustration might have been avoided if her dress design had been legally protected as intellectual property. Many entrepreneurs spend time and resources developing unique products, services, or designs, but without the proper legal safeguards, these ideas can be easily copied by others.
To protect your work, make use of the intellectual property tools available, such as trademarks, patents, or copyrights, depending on your business. For instance, if you’ve created a unique product design or a specific brand logo, registering it under IP law ensures that others can’t replicate or profit from it without your permission. Entrepreneurs must take steps to protect their creativity and hard work.
3. Intellectual Property is a Business Asset
Intellectual property is more than just a legal protection—it’s a business asset that can create long-term value for your company. In Hafsah’s case, if her dress design had been protected, she could have licensed it to other clients or designers, creating additional revenue streams. Entrepreneurs often overlook the fact that their designs, logos, or even processes can be monetized beyond the immediate sale or service.
By treating your intellectual property as a business asset, you can open up new opportunities for growth. Whether through licensing, franchising, or selling rights, protecting your IP allows you to expand your business while ensuring your original creations remain your own.
Final Thoughts
The Deola Sagoe and Hafsah controversy is a reminder for entrepreneurs to prioritize protecting their business ideas and ensuring their agreements are clear and formalized. From securing intellectual property to having well-documented contracts, these steps are not just legal formalities but essential tools for safeguarding your business and ensuring long-term success.
Take action now to protect your ideas and avoid costly misunderstandings down the line.
