Wetteren flower seller retires after 40 years on the market

Wetteren's Sunday market will soon bid farewell to one of its most recognizable figures. Erik Van Caelenberg, a beloved flower seller, is retiring at the age of 63 after more than four decades of service. He and his wife, Hilde, will sell their last bouquets at the end of June.

Van Caelenberg has been a fixture at the Wetteren market since 1983, initially selling animals and plants before transitioning to the Sunday flower stall. Over the years, he cultivated a close relationship with his customers, often sharing personal chats and anticipating their preferences.

"We have a chat with them, and sometimes we even know what they want in advance," Erik shared. Despite the demanding schedule that left little time for family, retirement will allow him more moments with his grandchildren. He won't disappear entirely, as he plans to help behind the scenes and continue visiting the market for the social interaction.

The familiar flower stall will continue to operate, with Erik's son, Tommy, taking over the business. Tommy, who already has 12 years of experience at the Sunday market, will become the third generation of market vendors in the family, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather.

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We slaan een babbeltje met hen en soms weten we zelfs al op voorhand wat ze willen