25 YEARS.. PASSION FOR THE CRAFT
“Ever since I was young, people have regularly told me how much I look like my father. And the older I get, the stronger the resemblance becomes. He passed away in February 2013, but even today, at least twice a month, someone will come up to me and say, ‘You must be Frans' son!’ And they're right. I see it too.”
Stubborn and Handy
“According to my mother, I haven't just inherited my father's looks, but also his stubborn streak. And that's not all. My father was incredibly handy, and fortunately, I've inherited that talent too. There's nothing I enjoy more than spending the entire day in my work clothes, building and tinkering with my new mobile kitchen.
My parents met through the professional association for hospitality professionals. At the time, my mother worked at Kasteel Wittem, while my father worked at In De Gekroonde Haan in Heerlen. He was a true romantic. For her fiftieth birthday, he prepared an extraordinary dinner featuring 50 courses for her and their friends. They spent two entire days around the table celebrating her life. My girlfriend often tells me how happy she is that I've inherited that romantic side of my father too.”
Building on Their Legacy
“Although my father was a natural host through and through, I've definitely inherited my drive and entrepreneurial spirit from my mother. I admire her enormously, especially the dedication and passion she has brought to her profession for more than 45 years.
I also think it's remarkable how much freedom she now gives me to follow my own path with Mes Amis. I'm incredibly grateful to be able to build on everything my mother and father created together.”
