Meet Marie Gérard
Founder of Arlet
From rooted beginnings to a global path, Marie Gérard developed a deep sensitivity to hospitality, aesthetics, and meaningful human connection.
Her journey led her into the world of luxury communication and hospitality, where she refined her attention to detail and passion for creating elevated, intentional experiences.
This path ultimately led to the creation of Arlet.
Rooted in Nature, Open to The World
Marie was born and raised in the Belgian Ardennes, in the small village of Bièvre. Surrounded by nature, craftsmanship, and strong family values, she grew up in an environment where authenticity, quality, and simplicity were central.
Her upbringing instilled in her a deep sense of responsibility, autonomy and discipline; values that continue to shape her approach today.
Driven by curiosity and discovery, her path quickly extended beyond her roots. From the Ardennes to international cities such as Seattle, New York, Dubai, Bali and Brussels, she explored different cultures and environments, always seeking meaningful human experiences and personal growth.
This dual identity, grounded yet open to the world, remains at the heart of Arlet.
From Luxury Hospitality to Meaningful Experiences
Graduated with a Master’s degree in Public Relations and Communication with a focus on the luxury sector, Marie began her career in the fashion and beauty industries, collaborating with international brands and publications such as ELLE Belgium, Marie-Claire and L’Oréal.
She later joined Karla Otto in Dubai, working within the luxury hospitality sector alongside prestigious clients including Atlantis The Royal and Taj Hotels.
Through these experiences, she developed a refined understanding of high-end hospitality, seamless execution and curated environments, but also a growing desire to create projects aligned with deeper meaning, where refinement meets intention.
A Turning Point
A major health operation marked a decisive turning point in Marie’s life. Forced to slow down, she was brought back to the essentials: the body, the breath, and the importance of taking time.
Through practices such as yoga, meditation, breathwork and conscious living, she discovered a new way of approaching both life and work : a way rooted in presence, clarity and alignment.
This experience profoundly reshaped her perspective. Well-being was no longer something optional; it became essential. She experienced firsthand the power of slowing down, reconnecting with the body, and creating space for clarity and balance.
The Realization
Yet, behind the polished world she had been part of, she also felt the pressure and constant acceleration of performance-driven environments.
Over time, a deeper need emerged: to create something more meaningful : experiences grounded in human connection and true wellbeing.
During a transformative stay in Bali, everything became clear. She discovered retreats centered on inner transformation rather than performance, and realized she had found a framework that brought together her values, her experience and her vision.
The Birth of Arlet
From this intersection between structure and intuition, between luxury hospitality and inner transformation, Arlet was born.
Arlet is conceived as a space for intentional pause : where refinement meets authenticity, and where every detail is designed to support reconnection, balance and renewal.
Through immersive experiences in exceptional locations, Marie brings together carefully curated environments, meaningful practices and a deeply human approach to wellbeing.
More than retreats, Arlet creates moments to step away, reconnect and return with clarity, energy and a renewed sense of direction.
Caroline
A pause that changed everything.
A special mention to Marie Gérard, without whom none of this would have been possible. Thank you for following your intuition, for creating this magical space, and above all… for bringing us together.
You offered us more than a retreat: you offered us a moment of connection that will remain engraved.
Caroline, 33
Entrepreneur,
Embodying resilience and presence
Every meaningful experience begins with a conversation. Whether you're looking to create a bespoke experience or explore how we can collaborate, feel free to reach out and benefit from our expertise.
Get in Touch