Meet Nneka Ihim: The Lawyer-Turned-Winemaker Behind Bido Sparkling Wines

From Reality TV to Real Wine: An Inspiring Entrepreneurial Journey

When we first connected with Nneka Ihim, founder of Bido Sparkling Wines, we had no idea we were speaking with someone who had graced our TV screens on the Real Housewives of Potomac. But that's exactly the kind of understated elegance that defines both Nneka and her exceptional sparkling wine brand.

In a recent live interview, Nneka shared the fascinating story behind Bido—a premium French sparkling wine that's making waves far beyond its DMV home base, with orders coming in from Texas to California.

A Serial Entrepreneur with Deep Roots

Nneka is a lawyer by trade, licensed in three jurisdictions with 13 years of practice under her belt. But her entrepreneurial spirit extends far beyond the courtroom. As a first-generation Nigerian-American raised in the Midwest, she's channeled her cultural heritage into multiple ventures, including Hello Africa—a global dating app connecting Africans in the diaspora.

"I grew up very natively African," Nneka explains. "My parents were born Nigerian and raised us eating African food, speaking the language, all of it. But you look around and we don't really see our people. So I decided with my cousin, why don't we create a platform where Africans in diaspora can find each other?"

Why Loire Valley Over Champagne?

When it came to creating Bido, Nneka made a strategic decision that surprises many: she chose the Loire Valley over the more famous Champagne region of France.

"This project was very serious to me," she shares. "It wasn't just 'create whatever you want and let me put my name on it.' I don't really do things like that."

Nneka's journey took her across continents—from Argentina to various regions of France—before she found the perfect partnership in Loire Valley. She flew to France, met with winemakers, and actively participated in the blending process to ensure every detail met her exacting standards.

"I wanted people to be able to have a high-quality drink from France—from the people who know how to make it best—but not having to break the bank for it every time," Nneka explains. "People want good products, but they don't need to spend a lot of money every time."

Her Bido sparkling wine is crafted using the same méthode traditionnelle as Champagne, delivering that prestigious French elegance at an accessible price point. And there's another crucial factor: "I wanted people to wake up and still be ready to pop another bottle and not pop some Tylenol," she laughs.

The Meaning Behind Bido

The name "Bido" itself carries deep significance. In Igbo, Nneka's native Nigerian language, it means "to start" or "to begin."

"It was a big ode and secret message to myself, but also to people," Nneka reveals. "Usually when they're popping bottles, they're celebrating something—a new transition, a new job, a new beginning."

The bottle design reflects this beautiful fusion of French elegance and African heritage, featuring intentional design elements that honor both cultures. It's understated yet distinctive—much like Nneka herself.

What's Next for Bido

While Bido continues to grow (with some "really big announcements" coming soon), Nneka is already planning her next chapter: a true Champagne collection from the Champagne region of France.

"My next project will be out of Champagne, France, because I am going to do a champagne collection and add it to my Bido Wines," she shares. "But Bido is my baby, so I'm still nurturing it and getting it out here in the DMV area. We're taking baby steps, but we're doing really well."

Experience Bido for Yourself

Whether you're celebrating a milestone, enjoying a quiet evening, or simply treating yourself to something special, Bido Sparkling Wines embodies the spirit of new beginnings. It's a testament to what happens when cultural pride, entrepreneurial vision, and uncompromising quality come together in a bottle.

We're proud to carry Bido and share Nneka's inspiring story with our community. Here's to celebrating the diverse voices and exceptional craftsmanship that make the wine world so rich and vibrant.

Ready to experience Bido for yourself?

Shop BIDO Sparkling Brut - Crisp, elegant, and perfect for any celebration

Shop BIDO Sparkling Brut Rosé - Beautiful, refreshing, and ideal for special moments

Discover why customers from coast to coast are falling in love with this elegant French sparkler with a Nigerian heart. Free shipping on 6 bottles or more!