The Art of Joy: Lessons from French “Joie de Vivre”

American culture values productivity above pleasure. But moving to France taught lifestyle expert and business owner Ajiri Aki that joy is something to be savored daily, not a “reward” for good work. Through her childhood experiences in Texas’s Nigerian-American community, workaholic past life in New York City’s fashion world, and story of Parisian re-birth, Ajiri shares how we can change our mindset and start prioritizing joy in our lives.

Ajiri’s speech pulls from the many lessons in her book, "Joie: A Parisian's Guide to Celebrating the Good Life," and is a delightful journey through the essence of the Parisian lifestyle. Full of humor and storytelling, this session shares why embracing joy every day is important, and how the audience can start living a more joyful life today.

Attendee Results:

• Learn how to create joy in everyday moments.

• Understand why the French treat joy as a priority.

• Experience Ajiri’s journey from workaholic to joy evangelist.

• Develop a joy mindset that will change your outlook on life.

From Passion to Profit: Building a Successful Creative Brand

Ajiri Aki, founder of the celebrated lifestyle brand Madame de la Maison, shares her entrepreneurial story, woven through with invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of founding a creative brand. Attendees learn how Ajiri built her brand from scratch, in a foreign country no less, by blending creativity, authenticity, and business strategy. This session is perfect for creatives, entrepreneurs, and dreamers who aspire to turn their passion into a purposeful and profitable venture.

Attendee Results:

• Hear Ajiri’s journey of turning a passion for culture, beauty, and traditions into a thriving business.

• Discover the importance of storytelling and crafting a narrative that connects with audiences and reflects your values.

• Tips on how to balance creative vision with business success.

• Practical strategies for identifying and refining your creative niche.

• Valuable lessons on navigating setbacks, imposter syndrome, and self-doubt as a creative entrepreneur.

• Learn how to build a brand that resonates with a global audience.

Homemaking Matters: Celebrating the Overlooked Art That Shapes Our Lives

This session is a rallying cry for the underappreciated art of homemaking and its role in creating peace, beauty, and belonging in our homes. Ajiri Aki has made arts of the home her passion and business. Whether through cooking, decorating, or gathering loved ones, her home is a source of joy and inspiration.

Ajiri’s talk dives into why the homemaking arts have been historically underestimated despite their profound impact on family, culture, and mental health. Attendees will leave inspired and with practical tips to weave creativity and joy into their daily lives, while gaining a deeper understanding of how the art of homemaking enriches both the heart and soul of a home.

Attendee Results:

-Understand how homemaking is an art that shapes culture, tradition, and personal identity.

-Learn how homemaking fosters connection and health.

-Discover the historical undervaluation of homemaking arts and why reclaiming them is empowering.

-Envision homemaking as a form of self-expression and creativity.

-Practical advice for homemaking, decor and hosting gatherings that feel warm and personal.

Reclaiming Joy: Work, Life, and the Art of Balance

Entrepreneur and joy expert Ajiri Aki offers audiences a refreshing perspective on balancing career ambition with personal fulfillment. Drawing from her global upbringing in a Nigerian-American household, her intense years in New York City’s fashion industry, and her transformative move to Paris, Ajiri shares how we can redefine success and hustle culture to value joy, curiosity, and pleasure.

Full of personal stories and practical tips from her book "Joie: A Parisian's Guide to Celebrating the Good Life," this session helps audiences rethink their relationship with work and life. Her message and lessons will stick with audiences long after the event is over.

Attendee Results:

-Learn practical strategies for achieving work-life balance without sacrificing success.

-Discover how joy can enhance productivity and creativity.

-Dive into the mindset shifts that prioritize well-being.

-Leave with actionable tools to start living a more joyful and balanced life.

Fellowship: The Power of Gathering and Joyful Hosting

Ajiri Aki shines a spotlight on the importance of gathering in this session that draws on her personal journey and cultural heritage. As more communication than ever happens on screens, Ajiri celebrates the beauty and impact of bringing people together – around the table, in shared traditions, or through meaningful conversations. This speech explores how gathering fosters community, strengthens relationships, and creates lasting memories.

Blending storytelling with practical advice, Ajiri offers insights into the art of hosting, building true connections, and living well. This talk will inspire attendees to gather more intentionally and embrace the joy and healing power of coming together.

Attendee Results:

-Discover how fellowship nurtures connection, joy, and belonging.

-Learn practical tips for hosting gatherings that feel warm and meaningful.

-Become inspired to prioritize gathering as a foundation of living well.

-Leave with a renewed appreciation for the power of connection.