Life is like a box of pralines. It’s a gift and you don't immediately know what's in it exactly. Olivier Willems knew early on that he wanted to work in the food industry. First as a baker and pastry chef. Soon as a chocolatier.

He got a taste for it during his studies at Ter Groene Poorte. The creative possibilities particularly appealed to him. 25 years later, he is a recognized and renowned chocolatier.

It turned out the box of pralines contained a lot of talent and a great career

Original creations. Pralines reminiscent of the sea. Because of their wavy shape. Or because of their vibrant colour palette . Just like the sea always looks different, so do Olivier Willems' pralines. New herbs, new spices, new combinations.

The impact of Ostend, the city by the sea, is significant.

Not only is Olivier inspired by the environment in which he works. Top chefs who think outside the box also motivate him. Daring to play with flavours and combinations. It energizes Olivier Willems to work as hard as he can, every day.

Turbulent waves lead to new creations, the calmness of the sea completes the praline.

Curious about what else is in that box of pralines? Evolution and growth. First in Ostend, then across the borders. Olivier feels like working together with artists and tourist actors both at home and abroad.

Together with his wife Inge, he looks forward in hope to the future. Behind every chocolate man is a strong chocolate woman!