Sandra, most people know you from your "Never Diet Again" cookbooks or "Open Kitchen" on TV. But how would you describe your job?
Especially very varied and super cool! (laughs). Actually, my cookbooks are the foundation of everything, but of course, there's a lot more to it. Think signings, lectures, etc. I've also established a network of coaches, I develop deliciously healthy and balanced recipes for the Belgian cookbox supplier Foodbag, and I regularly make cooking videos for online...
One thing's for sure: you're a busy bee. Is there something you enjoy doing most?
Inspiring and motivating people truly warms my heart. So if I had to choose just one thing, I'd go all out for meeting people! But you know, what it all comes down to is my family. They always come first!
Do you spend a lot of time together as a family?
Yes, that's been ingrained in everyone at our house from a young age. And the funny thing is, the dining table is truly central to our family. We try to have breakfast and dinner together as often as possible. Of course, my kids don't all live at home anymore, and the life of a 20-year-old is much more interesting than just being with the family (laughs). But I still notice that our children value it too, which makes me so happy.
How important is your look for your daily activities?
My look really does play a major role. Not necessarily because I have to, but mainly because I enjoy it so much. Did you know, by the way, that I do the styling for all my books myself? For the whole family! I love doing that. I'm a true perfectionist, so I'm always very focused on all the details. For my latest book (which is now available, by the way), I did outsource the styling. I met Jan Dendievel during a shoot and thought he did a great job. I immediately asked him if he was available. It's always nice to be pampered. :D
If you hadn't ended up in the culinary world, what would you be doing now? Did you have a childhood dream?
As a child, I changed my mind quite often . I played a lot of sports, and that's how my love of nutrition started. At 18, I rediscovered my love for the fashion world and enjoyed walking in catwalks and doing photoshoots. But if I had to choose again in my life, I would do exactly the same thing I do now! That's pretty cool, isn't it? ( looks at me with a very satisfied expression )
You always look radiant, but are the outfits you wear on TV also the outfits you wear every day? Or is there a difference?
I love dressing up a bit. It doesn't have to be much, just a lick of mascara or some eyeliner, but if I don't put anything on, I feel so naked. Of course, I love comfy pajamas, but you won't see me walking around in them until the afternoon. (laughs)
Do you like shopping?
Absolutely! And preferably with my daughters. We'll make it a real mother-daughter day then: a nice lunch, a stroll, a coffee, and shopping for new outfits!
Do you consciously choose Belgian fashion?
I'd be lying if I said I only wear Belgian fashion, but I do. It's the same with food, by the way. I pay a lot of attention to everything local, but that doesn't mean I never eat a banana. (laughs)
Do you have a large wardrobe and are there things you never get rid of? I have a pretty big wardrobe, but that's because I can't get rid of anything! (haha). Over the years, I've collected so many beautiful clothes, and every time I want to get rid of something, I think, "Maybe I'll wear this later, or maybe one of my daughters will want it."
We know that! Do your daughters regularly browse your closet?
Yes, we do! We actually have the same style. It's cool, isn't it, having three wardrobes. But luckily, if I really have to get rid of something because I'm out of space, it usually goes to one of my girls!
How would you describe Marie Méro in 3 words?
*Belgian
*Beautiful family story
*Accessible to all generations. I see my daughters wearing items, and my mom also loves this collection.
What's your favorite Marie Méro item and why?
You've probably heard this before, but it's so hard to choose! (laughs) I immediately fell for the beautiful sweaters. I love cozy pieces, like that dusky pink teddy coat. How lovely!
But the leather dress I'm wearing now is also a masterpiece.
We can only agree. Sandra looks radiant in that leather dress! We thank her for the wonderful conversation and wave her goodbye as she strolls through our showroom, searching for her favorite Marie Méro outfits. Afterwards, she's expected by the photographer, who is ready to capture Sandra's favorite items. A busy but inspiring day!
Curious about her picks? Come discover them in the windows of our Marie Méro concept stores from October 20th to November 5th, 2021, or shop them online.
