Antwerp, Belgium – The wedding of Viktor Verhulst, son of Belgian media personality Gert Verhulst, and influencer Sarah Puttemans is rapidly approaching, and the preparations are already generating significant public interest. Puttemans recently revealed the lavish contents of “bridesmaid boxes” gifted to her chosen bridal party, sparking discussion about the cost and extravagance of modern wedding celebrations. Each box, presented to friends Louise Wouters, Claudia Bogaers, Virginie Vanhonsebrouck, Celeste Cockmartin, and fashion designer Cilem Tunc, contained gifts valued at over 1,000 euros, according to reports.
The gesture, documented on Puttemans’ Instagram account, included personalized items such as a silk sleep mask, a delicate necklace, and high-finish perfume, alongside a card posing the question, “Will you be my bridesmaid?” The display of generosity has drawn attention not only to the upcoming nuptials but also to the evolving traditions surrounding bridal parties and the associated expenses. This comes as the couple continues to balance wedding planning with other significant life events, including the construction of a new family home.
A Generous Gesture and a Growing Trend
The presentation of these elaborate bridesmaid gifts highlights a growing trend among high-profile couples to elevate the experience for their bridal parties. While traditionally, bridesmaids contribute financially and emotionally to the wedding process, the modern approach often involves significant gifting from the bride, and groom. The 1,000-euro value of each box underscores the scale of this trend, reflecting a desire to express gratitude and create a memorable experience for close friends.
The gesture also comes as the couple navigates a degree of privacy surrounding their wedding plans. Gert Verhulst recently revealed in an interview with HLN, as reported by Memesita, that he and his family were informed of the engagement via a simple phone call, indicating a preference for a more intimate and controlled announcement process. This approach reflects a broader shift among younger generations who prioritize autonomy and personal control over traditional family involvement in major life events.
Viktor and Sarah: A Modern Romance
Viktor Verhulst and Sarah Puttemans began dating in 2021, quickly becoming a prominent couple in the Belgian social scene. Their relationship has been characterized by a blend of public appearances and a deliberate effort to maintain a degree of privacy. Verhulst’s father, Gert Verhulst, a well-known figure in Belgian media, has publicly expressed his support for the couple, though he acknowledged the unconventional nature of the engagement announcement.
The couple’s decision to keep wedding details closely guarded is consistent with a trend observed among millennials and Gen Z, who often prioritize their own vision for their future and seek to control the narrative surrounding their personal milestones. This approach extends to guest lists, planning processes, and even the manner in which significant announcements are made. As Memesita reports, Gert Verhulst stated that the family was “wisely kept out” of the loop regarding the engagement, suggesting a conscious decision by the couple to maintain a level of independence.
The Engagement and Family Dynamics
Viktor Verhulst proposed to Sarah Puttemans in late 2025, a moment that brought joy to both families. Gert Verhulst publicly expressed his happiness, stating he could not imagine a better daughter-in-law, according to RTL Boulevard. However, the manner of the announcement – a casual phone call rather than a formal gathering – signaled a departure from traditional engagement protocols. This approach underscores the couple’s desire to prioritize their own preferences and maintain a sense of control over their personal lives.
The couple currently divides their time between Antwerp and Knokke, and are actively involved in the construction of their dream villa. Balancing wedding planning with this significant project adds another layer of complexity to their preparations. The choice to share glimpses of their lives on social media, while maintaining a degree of privacy, reflects a common strategy among modern couples seeking to connect with their audience while preserving their personal space.
Extravagance and Expectations
The cost of weddings has been a topic of increasing discussion in recent years, with many couples facing significant financial pressures to create a memorable event. The 1,000-euro bridesmaid boxes gifted by Sarah Puttemans represent a substantial investment and highlight the potential for extravagance in modern wedding celebrations. Dekrantenkoppen.be reports that the boxes contained items such as a sleep mask, a necklace, and perfume.
While such displays of generosity are not uncommon among affluent couples, they also raise questions about expectations and the potential for financial strain on guests. The trend towards elaborate bridesmaid gifts may contribute to a broader culture of escalating wedding costs, placing pressure on couples to meet increasingly high standards. However, it also reflects a desire to indicate appreciation for the support and friendship of those closest to the bride and groom.
Social Media and Public Perception
The public’s awareness of these details is largely driven by social media, where Puttemans actively shares glimpses of her life and wedding preparations. This strategy allows the couple to connect with their followers and build anticipation for the upcoming event. However, it also opens them up to scrutiny and commentary regarding their choices and spending habits. The response to the bridesmaid boxes has been largely positive, with many praising Puttemans’ generosity and thoughtfulness.
The couple’s use of social media also reflects a broader trend among celebrities and influencers who leverage these platforms to build their brand and engage with their audience. By sharing personal moments, they create a sense of connection and authenticity, fostering a loyal following. This strategy can be particularly effective in promoting products and services, as well as shaping public perception.
As the wedding date approaches, all eyes will be on Viktor Verhulst and Sarah Puttemans. The couple’s commitment to privacy, combined with their willingness to share select moments with the public, creates a unique dynamic that continues to captivate audiences. The next confirmed update is expected to be an announcement regarding the wedding date and location, which is anticipated in the coming weeks.
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