A journey unveiled —
Fate had a different plan for me than I intended back in 2014, as life does with many of us. My life unintentionally steered me towards a blend of aesthetics and hospitality rather than solely graphic design. Now, in the summer of 2023, I stand at a new crossroads, embracing ‘Broos’ as a freelancer, where the fragile essence of hospitality, wine and beyond can meet through projects and collaborations.
While I didn't complete the Graphic Design course I started in Antwerp in 2014, it was during this time that I got taught the powerful connection between aesthetics and communication. This profound realisation left an indelible mark on my creative journey, influencing my approach to every aspect of life.
My story took an unexpected twist when the Sergio Herman Group welcomed me, inexperienced in their field, to their realm of hospitality in 2016. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside the industry's crème de la crème, not only perfecting the art of hospitality but also immersing myself in a world where aesthetics played a pivotal role. The Jane** in Antwerp, which was my very first job at the renowned group, provided the perfect backdrop for my exploration of all that is and includes hospitality – a place where every detail, from culinary creations to interior design, is a work of art. It was here that I learned to understand how closely intertwined the worlds of aesthetics and hospitality truly are.
At The Jane I caught the "wine bug" thanks to their former sommelier and my now cherished friend Gianluca di Taranto. My passion for beverages, particularly wine, blossomed and continued to flourish. To my delight, my enthusiasm was contagious, and even my parents too became wine aficionados. In fact, I dare to state that my mother has a more impressive wine cellar than me.
My work journey has been diverse and enriching, here's an overview of my long term experiences:
- The Jane **, Antwerp, BE 02.02.2016 - 23.09.2017
- dEssensi *, ‘s-Gravenwezel, BE 29.09.2017 - 29.03.2020
- Le Pristine *, Antwerp, BE 08.06.2020 - 18.06.2022
- Misera *, Antwerp, BE 01.07.2022 - 21.12.2022
- Blueness, Antwerp, BE 01.04.2023 - 31.07.2023
Now, in the summer of 2023, I’m grateful for the backpack full of experience and knowledge that the Sergio Herman Group & all other places have given me and I’m ready to embrace my future as a self-employed freelancer through ‘BROOS’. I’m actively seeking intriguing and intellectually stimulating opportunities to not only share my expertise but also to push the boundaries of my (creative) knowledge.
The blend of aesthetics, graphics, and hospitality has shaped my identity, and I'm eager to collaborate on projects that celebrate beauty, creativity and pursuit excellence.
As I embrace on this exciting new chapter, I raise my glass to the future and can’t wait to create exceptional experiences, where aesthetics reign supreme, and passion knows no bounds.
Here’s to the journey ahead — “Cheers!”