Meet An Merlier!

Coordinator of Concert Hall Events at Concertgebouw Brugge.

"I have always had the ambition to achieve success while also pleasing others. Twenty years ago, I started as an enthusiastic event manager in the financial sector. I always went the extra mile for a big smile! However, my passion for events led me towards Concertgebouw Brugge about six years ago. Here, together with my team, we strive daily to create memorable experiences for our clients. I share this same passion with my partner in wine at our own wine shop, Olivino, in Zedelgem. With exclusive wines that tell a unique story, we convey our passion to other wine enthusiasts", says An.

Experience

"As events coordinator, I fully embrace the concept of experience. Whether it's our partners, clients, suppliers, visitors, or one of the many artists and speakers: their visit to Concertgebouw Brugge must be memorable. Thanks to the art, architecture, music, and dance in our building, an event naturally takes on a different meaning. We strive to create a wow-feeling for every visitor that resonates and leaves them wanting more," says An proudly.

"Gastronomy has been a constant theme in my life. Since I was young, I always looked forward to 'aperotime' with my family. Back then, it wasn't just about the food and drinks but mainly about the social aspect of it. Being together, sharing experiences, and making memories, it's blissful! Over time, together with my husband, I developed a passion for food and wine. It's a passion we also pass on to our children. During our travels, we always seek out culinary experiences. I find the purity of gastronomy, its expressiveness, and above all, how it brings people together, incredibly inspiring. La vie est nulle sans bulles (Life is dull without bubbles)", An shares enthusiastically.

"I am very pragmatic and perfectionistic. Therefore, I mainly approach entrepreneurship with my head. However, I certainly don't disregard my gut feeling. It provides me insights into people and situations. My gut feeling actually allows me to make more conscious choices", she explains.

The most beautiful and challenging aspects of entrepreneurship

"The most beautiful aspect of entrepreneurship, in my opinion, is that you can, and especially should, dream. By dreaming, we gain new insights and ideas. Every entrepreneurial woman benefits from this," says An.

"When I have an idea, I can't wait to get started right away. The most difficult part for me is realising that entrepreneurship requires the entire picture to be in place. Taking a step back is often the message," she says, "Reculer pour mieux sauter (Step back to leap forward)."

Better Together

"The Generation WOW community inspires and teaches entrepreneurial women that we all face the same challenges. Sharing these experiences makes us stronger and ready for the next challenges. Let's continue to connect and learn from each other!

Collaboration is also extremely important in my team. I always look for the unique selling points of each team member. I am convinced that precisely because we are so different, we fit together perfectly. We complement each other and learn from each other," says An.