When I first heard about Ade + Ayo, I was instantly intrigued. A children’s apparel brand inspired by African culture? It sounded like a breath of fresh air in an industry that often lacks diversity. And once I dived into their story, I was completely hooked. Ade + Ayo isn’t just about clothes; it’s about celebrating culture, embracing heritage, and giving children—and their families—a way to connect with something deeper. So, let’s explore their fascinating journey, from their roots to their remarkable appearance on Shark Tank and beyond.
The Birth of Ade + Ayo: Meet the Founders
Behind every great brand is a story, and Ade + Ayo’s begins with Temidayo and Abisola Adedokun. This dynamic husband-and-wife duo from Oakland, California, set out to create something truly unique. As parents, they realized how hard it was to find children’s clothing that reflected African culture while still being functional and affordable. With that challenge in mind, they decided to take matters into their own hands.
The name Ade + Ayo is as meaningful as the brand itself. “Ade” means crown, and “Ayo” means joy in Yoruba, a language spoken in West Africa. These values—pride, joy, and cultural richness—are woven into every piece they create. From soft, machine-washable fabrics to stunning African prints, Ade + Ayo quickly established itself as a brand that families could cherish.
The Shark Tank Pitch: Making Waves on National Television
When Ade + Ayo appeared on Shark Tank in Season 13, Episode 15, it was clear that the Adedokuns weren’t just pitching a product—they were sharing a vision. Their goal? To secure $175,000 in exchange for 10% equity in their company. But what really stood out was how they told their story.
Temidayo and Abisola presented a vibrant lineup of clothing and accessories, highlighting the rich cultural significance behind their designs. Their pitch wasn’t just about numbers; it was a heartfelt explanation of why representation matters, especially for children. And the sharks took notice. One memorable moment came when the founders revealed they had already achieved $160,000 in sales in just 11 months. It was a clear sign that their concept resonated with parents looking for something different.
Barbara Corcoran’s face lit up as she listened. She could see the potential and the heart behind the brand. “This is something every parent can connect with,” she said. And as the pitch unfolded, the tension in the room grew. Would the sharks bite?
The Deal: Barbara Corcoran Steps In
After some deliberation, Barbara made her move. She offered $200,000 for 33.3% equity and added a $500,000 line of credit to help the Adedokuns scale their business. It was a bold offer, and it showed just how much faith Barbara had in the brand. After a bit of back-and-forth, the founders accepted her deal, marking a turning point for Ade + Ayo.
This partnership wasn’t just about money. Barbara’s business expertise and network would provide invaluable resources for scaling Ade + Ayo. It was a classic Shark Tank moment—an entrepreneur’s dream coming to life.
The Numbers: A Data-Rich Snapshot
Here’s a quick overview of everything you need to know about Ade + Ayo’s journey:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Ade + Ayo |
| Founders | Temidayo and Abisola Adedokun |
| Season & Episode | Season 13, Episode 15 |
| Ask (Investment & Equity) | $175,000 for 10% equity |
| Final Deal | $200,000 for 33.3% equity + $500,000 line of credit |
| Shark(s) Involved | Barbara Corcoran |
| Memorable Episode Moments | Showcase of vibrant, soft, and culturally significant children’s apparel |
| Current Net Worth | Estimated at $2.8 million as of 2024 |
| Current Business Status | Active |
| Revenue Since Shark Tank | Significant growth; exact figures undisclosed |
| Social Media Presence | Over 23,000 followers on Instagram |
| Key Achievements | Expanded product lines, increased market reach, and ongoing charitable contributions to education in sub-Saharan Africa |
Life After Shark Tank: The Growth of Ade + Ayo
Appearing on Shark Tank was a game-changer for Ade + Ayo. Overnight, their brand gained national attention. Sales skyrocketed, and their online store saw a massive surge in traffic. But the Adedokuns didn’t rest on their laurels. Instead, they used this momentum to grow their business in meaningful ways.
One of their first moves post-Shark Tank was to expand their product line. They added nursery items, accessories, and even family matching sets, all featuring the same authentic African prints that made them stand out. This diversification helped them reach new audiences and solidify their place in the children’s apparel market.
Another key milestone was their commitment to giving back. Ade + Ayo began donating a portion of their proceeds to support education in sub-Saharan Africa, aligning their business success with their mission to celebrate and uplift African culture. It’s initiatives like these that set them apart, not just as a business but as a force for good.
Where Are They Now? Ade + Ayo’s Current Status
As of January 2025, Ade + Ayo is thriving. The company is valued at an estimated $2.8 million, a testament to its rapid growth and strong market presence. With over 23,000 followers on Instagram, the brand has built a loyal community of customers who appreciate its quality and cultural authenticity.
The business continues to operate actively, and the Adedokuns are always looking for new ways to innovate. Whether it’s through partnerships, expanded product offerings, or creative marketing strategies, Ade + Ayo is showing no signs of slowing down.
Lessons from Ade + Ayo: What Entrepreneurs Can Learn
There’s so much to admire about Ade + Ayo’s journey, but a few key lessons stand out:
- Stay True to Your Mission: The Adedokuns never wavered from their goal of creating culturally authentic children’s apparel. This clarity of purpose resonated with their customers and set them apart from competitors.
- Be Ready to Pivot: Expanding into nursery items and accessories was a smart move that allowed Ade + Ayo to cater to a broader audience. Flexibility is crucial in any business.
- Leverage Strategic Partnerships: Barbara Corcoran’s involvement brought more than just money; her expertise and connections helped Ade + Ayo scale efficiently.
- Give Back: By donating a portion of their proceeds to education in sub-Saharan Africa, Ade + Ayo has shown that businesses can make a difference while still being profitable.
The Future of Ade + Ayo
Looking ahead, the future seems bright for Ade + Ayo. With a strong foundation, a growing customer base, and a commitment to their mission, the Adedokuns are poised for even greater success. I can’t wait to see what they’ll do next, and I’m sure I’m not alone.
For anyone considering starting a business, Ade + Ayo’s story is a powerful reminder that staying true to your vision and connecting with your audience can lead to incredible things. And for the rest of us? It’s a chance to celebrate a brand that’s making the world a little brighter—and a lot more joyful.