THE WOMEN WHO CARRY IT ALL
A mother, businesswoman and the founder of KAAI. A daughter on the verge of opening her very first place. Two dreamers who built something of their own and the honest morning they sat down to talk about the joys and obstacles of doing exactly that.
A STORY ABOUT ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Some mornings begin with the smell of butter and flour. With a daughter who arrived early, apron still dusted with powdered sugar, carrying a small bouquet of blooms and a tray of freshly baked cookies. Not for a special occasion but just love, expressed the way Kato knows best.
Ine has been building KAAI for years. Kato is about to open Colibri, a lunch bar in the heart of Antwerp, where every detail - the lighting, the menu, the coffee cups - carries her signature. Two entrepreneurs. One bloodline. An endless conversation about what it means to make something your own.
WE ASKED THEM
AS BOTH A MOM AND AN ENTREPRENEUR: WHAT VALUES DID YOU ABSOLUTELY WANT TO PASS ON?
Ine: I think it’s really important to stay true to yourself, in a personal way, and to take really good care of your team and your customers. Keep your focus on the idea you started with your creativity. It’ll be hard work, but you’ve already proven you can do it. Make sure to take breaks when you need them, and make time for your boyfriend, friends, family, and your mom, of course.
WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM YOUR MOM THAT REALLY SHAPES YOUR BUSINESS TODAY?
Kato: My mom often hosts dinner parties at our house. She sets a beautifully laid table, prepares delicious food, and pampers her guests to the max. I want to bring that same feeling and level of service to my lunch bar.
WHEN YOU SEE HER AT WORK TODAY… WHAT MAKES YOU MOST PROUD OF HER?
Ine: I’m so proud of her. We’ve had our share of tough times too, like during your teenage years when you weren’t quite sure what you wanted to do. You were creative, but you felt like you were competing with your sisters. It was a journey, but I’m glad you found your calling. When you told me you wanted to be a chef, I couldn’t believe it. You went for it, worked hard in restaurants, and really gave it your all. I’m incredibly proud of you.
WHAT MAKES HER NOT ONLY A GREAT MOM TO YOU, BUT ALSO AN INSPIRING ENTREPRENEUR?
Kato: If it weren’t for my mom, I would never have embarked on my entrepreneurial journey. She taught me to have the courage to choose my own path and go for it. As an entrepreneur herself, she showed me how important it is to put your heart and soul into everything you do.
That's what KAAI has always believed. That the things we carry say something about the life we're choosing to live. Ine started the brand because she wanted something that felt considered and honest. Made to last. Made for real days.
And now, watching Kato step into her own story, she sees it more clearly than ever: the bravest thing a woman can do is decide that what she makes matters.
This Mother's Day, we believe every woman carries a story worth telling. Some just need someone to remind them it's remarkable.
A little something she'll always carry
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, it's time to celebrate the most radiant figure in our lives – our mothers. This Mother's Day, we’re spreading sunny vibes!
For every purchase of $400 or over, we're gifting you a chic leather (sun)glasses case as a special extra gift. Order before April 30 for guaranteed Mother's Day delivery!
