Online desk |  1 year ago | Lifestyle

Fashion and bridal consultant Phildah Mabandla says the events sector is slowly picking up from the negative effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In an interview with Zimpapers radio news, Mabandla said the sector was hard-hit by the global pandemic which renders the events business non-essential.

“Covid-19 hit our business very hard when it started. We saw companies closing and only essential workers were allowed to travel. It was very unfortunate of us because the events industry was closed but we understand that it was for the best of our health. There were no weddings or any functions to offer any of our services so it not only affected us as business owners but as well as our employees who depend on these functions, for an income,” she said.

She added that, she had to be innovative in order to stay afloat.

“Financially we were hit hard but it showed us that we should think out of the box and come up with quick solutions and decided to move into the cooperate sector offering deco and catering services during their virtual conferences. It was hard but we survived.”

Mabandla said she started the business of fashion and events from inspiration she got from brides tying the knot in the church.

“Wedding Centre which is the name of my company came to be, because of an interest l have had for a long time with the events industry. I loved seeing happy brides during their weddings as an Elder at church. I saw myself admiring their gowns and everything associated with the ceremonies.

“It started as a very small shop with few gowns has grown to provide services to our clients in, Harare, Bulawayo, Kadoma, Gweru, Masvingo, Mutare and other places all over Zimbabwe,” she added.

Mabandla has worked with several brands including celebrities like the Charambas, Madam Boss, , Zolile Makeleni, the cast and crew of the hit ZBC TV drama Isithembu and many more.

Recently she dressed motivational speaker and life coach Sinikiwe Kademaunga on her wedding to Rueben Zhivha as well as musician Greatman and his wife Silibaziso who tied the knot in Harare recently.