DÉSIRÉE HOHENLOHE, FOUNDER AND DESIGNER LES PETITES ABEILLES, IN BRUSSELS
There was nothing to suggest that Désirée Hohenlohe would become a successful children's clothing designer in Brussels. Originally from Germany and Lichtenstein, she was raised in France and Africa. Désirée moved to Brussels 12 years ago to pursue a Masters degree in European Studies, and she decided to stay. For 7 years, she worked for a big international organization but life had other plans in store for her. 3 years ago, she and her husband co-created Les Petites Abeilles (The Little Bees, the name chosen because of their shared passion for beekeeping), a timeless children's clothing label inspired by a vintage fashion brand. Success did not take long for her brand, even little Prince George succumbed to wearing it!
The mother (her daughter was born shortly after her brand), designer and CEO plays our insider in her adoptive home, Brussels.
IN BRUSSELS WITH DÉSIRÉE HOHENLOHE
Eating out with the kids. I like the Garage à Manger, the Fabbrica and the Balmoral -Milk Bar which all have a dedicated space for kids. We quite often visit les brasseries Georges (dished are served pretty quickly) and Gaudron for their brunch (expect to spend some time waiting).
Grabbing a snack. La Maison Renardy, for a hot chocolate with my daughter after swimming.
Shopping for the kids. My favorite children's concept store is Mama Corner in Ixelles. Each item is really cute and there's always new stuff.
Boucle d’Or and Pipelettes et Galopins feature lovely clothing selections and Les Casse Pieds is great for buying shoes.
Your favorite activities on a sunny day. The Parc Tenbosch is a little jewel in the heart of Brussels. When the weather is nice, we play in the sandbox as though we are on the beach. In the South of the city, the Bois de la Cambre is also one of our favorite parks. You can walk on the grass and around the lake or rent a boat and cross the lake to reach the Chalet Robinson. Pollution and noise seem very far away...
Your favorite activities on a rainy day. We love to go to the Musée des Enfants in Ixelles (lots of valuable workshops accessibles to all ages). There's also the Musée des Sciences Naturelles, located in the Parc Leopold, as well as the magnificient Musée de la BD (Don't miss the Gaston Lagaffe's monumental statue).
The atelier créatif Lollipop offers great hands-on and creative workshops. Adults and kids can also take art lessons at Art and Craft Academy .
I love to take my daughter to a puppet show at Théâtre du Ratinet or Théâtre Royal du Péruchet.
Sleeping with the kids. Made in Louise boutique-hotel is very friendly. For a more upmarket experience, Amigo is a 5* hotel in the heart of Bruxelles. They are fantastic with kids and even have a Tintin designed suite.
Good to know. A mother in the city and Alice à Bruxelles, are 2 great blogs with lots of family outing ideas and other useful information.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nostalgic for your baby' smocky dresses and delicate cotton rompers? Les Petites Abeilles makes them revive! To shop in privale sales or online.