Meet Isabelle Neyt

The successful ceramic artist and textile designer, and co-manager of family restaurant and event venue De Lozen Boer in Lochristi, tells WOW about her entrepreneurial story.

“Together with my twin sister, brother and parents, I have been working in our family business De Lozen Boer in Lochristi since childhood. Despite my love for that place, I have a creative side that I had to express. After my full-time job, I was always taking courses in ceramics, photography and textile design. My insatiable curiosity about aesthetics and beauty caused me to start creating and designing myself. I did my first exhibitions at my parents' home, in an old brewery,” Isabelle explains.

“Today, I express my love for creativity in my ceramics and linen collection. My work is a reflection of my taste and an expression of my personality. My collections are therefore more than just functional objects. They reflect emotion, imagination and connection to everyday life. In this way, I want to start a dialogue between form and function, aesthetics and ease of use.”

Beautiful things

Since childhood, Isabelle has had a love for beauty: “For color, texture, beautiful paintings and captivating interiors. It's like a gift that has always accompanied me. With each creative experiment, with each new work I create today, I want to push my limits and celebrate my passion for beauty,” Isabelle explains. “In this way, I also want to invite others to see the world through a lens of beauty and to cherish everyday moments.”

Dinner is served!

“With my tableware, I design colorful pieces that add an extra touch to any table. From cutlery holders to bowls for petit fours, each and every element adds joy. In turn, my placemats are a nod to my ceramics. A fun conversation starter for any dinner party.”

A step-by-step approach

“As an entrepreneur I try to figure out what feels good, makes me succeeds and whether it makes me happy or not. That's why being an entrepreneur goes step by step for me. I also always keep looking for new things that inspire me and listen a lot to the wisdom of others. It is important not to forget to keep listening to myself as well. As a creative business owner, that's essential,” Isabelle continues.

"Seek advice from others, but let passion and drive come from yourself."

"Teamwork is key for me. Where you find your own limits, you have to dare to ask someone else to take over. It's essential as an entrepreneur to surround yourself with great people that can help you succeed. Today I work with an entrepreneur who helps creative startups take their first steps. Getting to work with her has helped me grow really fast. That mutual respect is so beautiful."

Female friendships

Receiving feedback as a creative entrepreneur is not always obvious. “I am very sensitive to criticism and afraid of hurting people,” Isabelle explains. “Throughout my process as an entrepreneur, I have learned the importance of persevering, even when things are tough. Even when criticism comes. My friends are then the strength I sometimes need to persevere. Sharing their story with me often gives me another push in the right direction.”

"Als je wil dat er iets veranderd, moet je tegenwind verdragen."

Dreamworld

How does Isabelle create an ideal environment full of beauty? “I'm not a tech fanatic, but the only app that can really make me happy is Pinterest. Those algorithms put you in an aesthetic dream world that belongs to you alone. Your taste, your color, your sense of beauty. Highly recommended!”