Meet Isabelle De Pauw!

Founder of Paveau, glassware that combines sustainability and aesthetics.

"I am an entrepreneurial woman with a passion for sustainability. Paveau developed very naturally for me. I always drink tap water and wondered why I couldn't find a beautiful and practical water bottle," says Isabelle. Eventually, she quietly started designing her own sustainable water bottles and launched them in the summer of 2021. "I started with twenty stores in my region, and then the ball started rolling quickly, partly thanks to social media. Today, Paveau is sold in many beautiful interior shops and concept stores - this year, we are even in Au Bon Marché in Paris! - and we are proud of that," says Isabelle proudly.

Every drop counts

"Entrepreneurship runs in my DNA. My dad is also an entrepreneur, and it was almost a given for him too. When I started two years ago, I didn't expect to be where I am now so soon," Isabelle shares. Her mission with Paveau was clear: to create a strong product that was simple in design. "I wanted a bottle that looks great on both an eclectic and minimalist table. Additionally, the design had to be practical. With a Paveau bottle, my six-year-old daughter can easily pour water for everyone," she says.

'Every drop counts' is a philosophy Isabelle picked up during her stay in Australia at the age of 18 and one that she has carried with her throughout her life. "Today, with Paveau, we promote reducing plastic waste and also tell a local and sustainable story," Isabelle says.

"I really enjoy collabs and partnerships. It's a great way to tell my story, but also, importantly, the stories of others. Last year, I collaborated with Eneco Beach Clean Up, and this year, I'm dreaming of innovative collaborations. For example, with the government to highlight awareness around drinkable water. As long as it's meaningful, that's what matters most," she explains.

The best and most challenging aspects of entrepreneurship

"The most beautiful aspect of entrepreneurship for me is being able to tell a story through my product. I truly believe that the value of water today is not reflected in its price," Isabelle explains. She highlights this awareness through her product. "The connections you make with people are also so rewarding. I learn a lot, so it's an enriching process for myself," she adds enthusiastically.

"The uncertainty and having to manage everything are the hardest parts of entrepreneurship for me. I have to juggle all the balls and somehow combine everything together. And of course, building for the future. That is challenging," says Isabelle.

Better Together

"I actually apply 'Better Together' to so many different aspects of my business. Teamwork within Paveau is a crucial part of that," she says. Partnerships with her suppliers and customers are also essential. "Last but not least, I find it incredibly important to seek assistance in areas where I have less expertise," Isabelle explains. Her motto is clear: you can go fast alone, but together you can go further.

Paveau op de Generation WOW Conference

Ontdek de mooie flessen van Isabelle De Pauw op maandag 10 juni in Concertgebouw Brugge.