Boon - the Chocolate Experience was founded in 2005 in Belgium by Patrick Mertens and Inge Lijnen. Maître-Chocolatier Patrick worked as a technical advisor for Barry Callebaut for 15 years in which capacity he travelled the world and taught at the Barry Callebaut College. He had been dreaming of opening his own shop for years where he could experiment with the inspiration and different flavours he encountered on his travels. He finally did in 2005 with his partner Inge. She worked as a copywriter in advertising and together they make a great team; Inge's creativity provides the ideas where Patrick's craftsmanship and technical knowledge make them reality. At Boon only chocolate of the highest quality is used. Patrick and his team use couvertures with a very high percentage of cocoa and cocoa butter. This is the base for a wonderful range of pralines and unique chocolate creations. Everything is handmade in their atelier. Even the molds he uses, Patrick makes himself. Every year, Inge and Patrick come up with a new Easter and Christmas collection; They start out with Inge's idea and rough sketch. She works out a design and Patrick makes the mold. Together they decide on the finishing touches. In the shop, established in beautiful 17th century premises where you can see the chocolatiers at work, you can find unique chocolate designs like flowers, shoes, purses and other fashion items throughout the year. They are specialized in custom made gifts for companies and events.