(© Saskia Vanderstichele)
Named after the little fish in a nursery rhyme who could swim just as fine as the big fish, this toy shop in Sint-Gillis/Saint-Gilles is a true gem. From a pretty birthday card to a wooden cradle, Les Petits Poissons is a universe on its own. Owner Julie Gerbaud (yes, sister of chocolatier Laurent Gerbaud) is a trained furniture restorer. To make the most of her skills during these economical uncertain times, she decided to start her own business. At her shop in the cosy avenue Jean Volderslaan, she restores and sells wooden furniture and toys for children, has a little gallery with art for kids (cute drawings and more), and a series of wicked stuffed animals and decoration (lamps and mobiles).
To get started, Julie was advised by Village Partenaire (organisation to support local businesses) and with the help of Atrium (regional agency for commercial areas), she found the right space in Sint-Gillis/Saint-Gilles to settle down. A micro-loan later, she was ready for business. On flea markets and second hand fairs, she buys toys and furniture and brings them back to live in her workshop. The only criterion is that they have to be almost entirely made out of wood, how old they are is of no importance. Prices at the shop go from a couple of euros for a delicate birthday card to a couple of hundred euros for an adorable wooden kid-sized kitchen. Although most of the items are for children, we don’t see why grown-ups couldn’t have one of Lulu des bois’s lamps in their own room. They’re big, white, and always depict something dreamy. Or how about a mobile by Didier Le Bon, inspired by Jules Verne’s travels around the world? If you’re looking for more inspiration for birthdays or Saint-Nicolas, browse the crazy Doudous Mina. Julie recently bought an end-of-stock series of clothes by Lucky Wang as well. Great attire for little ones up to the age of four.
Les Petits Poissons •••
avenue Jean Volderslaan 18, Sint-Gillis/Saint-Gilles, www.lespetitspoissons.be
wo/me/We > za/sa/Sa 12 > 18.00
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