Media personality Tolulope Oniru, widely known as Toolz, recently took a nostalgic trip down memory lane, sharing the story behind one of her most cherished magazine covers. The former On-Air Personality (OAP) and mother of two reminisced about her 2015 bridal photoshoot for Genevieve Magazine’s Bridal Issue, a project that remains close to her heart despite the challenges she faced during the shoot.
Toolz, who has become a household name in Nigeria’s entertainment and media industry, shared a series of stunning photos from the shoot on her Instagram page. The images, captured at the iconic Christ Church Cathedral in Marina, Lagos, showcased her elegance and poise, but the behind-the-scenes story revealed a less glamorous reality.
In her caption, Toolz opened up about the difficulties of shooting outdoors, especially under the scorching Lagos sun. She recalled how the heat made the experience far from easy, with her makeup constantly sliding off her face due to excessive sweating. Despite these challenges, the shoot turned out to be a success, thanks to the dedication of the team and her determination to push through.
“This is one of my favorite magazine covers. The Genevieve Magazine Bridal Issue in 2015. Outdoor shoots aren’t for the faint-hearted! We shot this at the Christ Church Cathedral in Marina, and I can still remember how hot it was. We would take a few shots, then have to go inside because I was sweating badly, and my makeup was sliding off my face. Nonetheless, it came out beautifully, and it was amazing working with @hyperfashun and Aunty @bettyirabor @genevievemag,” Toolz wrote.
The shoot, which was styled by Hyperfashun and overseen by Betty Irabor, the founder of Genevieve Magazine, was a testament to Toolz’s professionalism and resilience. Her ability to deliver stunning results despite the uncomfortable conditions highlights the often-overlooked challenges that come with creating magazine-worthy content.
Toolz’s reflection on the shoot resonated with many of her followers, who praised her for her honesty and dedication. The post also sparked conversations about the realities of working in the media and entertainment industry, where glamorous outcomes often come at the cost of hard work and perseverance.
This isn’t the first time Toolz has shared personal stories about her career and life. Earlier this year, she celebrated her 9th tradiversary with her husband, Tunde Demuren, by sharing throwback photos from their traditional wedding. She expressed gratitude to the over 3,000 guests who attended the ceremony, describing it as a day filled with love and joy.
In 2023, while marking their 8th wedding anniversary, Toolz recounted a humorous yet nerve-wracking incident from their wedding preparations. She revealed that she had overslept and nearly missed her flight to Dubai, where the wedding was scheduled to take place. The story, which she shared with her characteristic wit, gave fans a glimpse into the lighter side of her life and the unpredictability of wedding planning.
Toolz and Tunde Demuren tied the knot in June 2016, and their love story has continued to inspire many. The couple welcomed their first child, a baby boy, in December 2018, and their second son in 2020. Toolz often shares glimpses of her family life on social media, balancing her roles as a media personality, wife, and mother with grace and humor.
Her journey in the media industry has been nothing short of remarkable. From her early days as a radio presenter on Beat FM to becoming one of Nigeria’s most recognizable voices, Toolz has carved out a niche for herself as a versatile and talented professional. Her ability to connect with audiences, whether through her radio shows, television appearances, or social media platforms, has made her a beloved figure in the industry.
The Genevieve Magazine Bridal Issue cover remains a significant milestone in Toolz’s career, symbolizing not only her personal journey but also her professional achievements. The magazine, founded by Betty Irabor, has long been a platform for celebrating African women and their stories, and Toolz’s feature was a fitting tribute to her influence and impact.
As Toolz continues to reflect on her career and life, her stories serve as a source of inspiration for many. Her candidness about the challenges she has faced, coupled with her unwavering determination, reminds us that success often comes with its share of obstacles. Whether she’s reminiscing about a magazine shoot, celebrating her marriage, or sharing parenting anecdotes, Toolz’s authenticity and relatability have endeared her to fans across the globe.
In a world where social media often portrays only the highlights of life, Toolz’s willingness to share both the highs and lows sets her apart. Her story behind the Genevieve Magazine cover is a reminder that even the most glamorous moments are often the result of hard work, resilience, and a touch of humor.
As fans continue to follow her journey, one thing is clear: Toolz Oniru is not just a media personality; she is a storyteller, a role model, and a testament to the power of perseverance. And while the heat of that Lagos afternoon may have been overwhelming, the beauty of the final product stands as a lasting tribute to her dedication and the collaborative spirit of the team behind the lens.
