Ghent (Brussels Morning) – Former VTM reporter Stefanie Verhelst embarks on a new journey opening a dream bridal shop in Ghent after 15 years in media. Inspired by her sister’s engagement she select a unique collection of designer wedding dresse, offering brides a personalized magical experience at Obèl.
Stefanie Verhelst surprised everyone with her career shift. After working in the media for fifteen years including as a reporter for VTM news her sister’s engagement sparked a change in her life. This unexpected news planted a seed of transformation in Stefanie’s journey.
Stefanie Verhelst: From Reporter to Bridal Entrepreneur
Stefanie Verhelst without a fashion background took a bold step to open her bridal shop in Ghent. Despite graduating as a Germanist and starting her career as a reporter at VTM news. Verhelst ventured into radio news the Q-music morning show and eventually into podcasting. The inspiration for her bridal shop came from her sister’s engagement a decade ago. when they went to Antwerp to pick a wedding dress. The joy of her own engagement reignited this dream. Stefanie tied the knot last year and then turned her thoughts towards her own bridal shop, Stefaan De.
Stefanie Verhelst’s journey to opening her bridal shop took an exciting turn when she visited Bridal Fashion Week in New York. This experience became the turning point for her. While searching for the perfect location she landed on Charles de Kerchovelaan. Stefanie named her shop Obel and curated a collection from three renowned designers. A La Robe from Paris, Lola Varma from Melbourne, and Halfpenny from London. This decision marked a significant step in bringing her dream to life.
 Verhelst Said:
“I am in love with every dress that hangs here”
Stefanie Verhelst’s Obèl: A Bridal Haven Where Dreams Meet Reality – What Sets This Experience Apart?
At Obèl, Stefanie Verhelst offers a unique collection of white dresses with a range of styles from classic to trendy. The shop also features accessories like loose sleeves gloves, big bows, and even swimsuits perfect for destination weddings. Stefanie envisions stunning photos with a train by the pool. To visit Obèl, appointments are necessary with each bride allocated an hour and a half. Stefanie values a relaxed atmosphere and attentive listening during these appointments. The store carries fitting sizes for trying on and once a choice is made each dress is tailored to perfection for the bride.
At Obèl, Stefanie Verhelst wants each bride to have a special experience so visits are by appointment only. She sets aside an hour and a half for each bride to ensure a relaxed atmosphere and attentive listening. The store carries fitting sizes for trying on, and once a dress is chosen it is custom-made to fit perfectly. This personalized approach adds a touch of magic to the bridal shopping experience at Obèl.
