July portrait – Marie-Antoinette Christ

2. 2. A daring reconversion, from office to shells

Nothing destined Marie-Antoinette Christ to become a heliculturist. A former executive assistant in a large group, she decided ten years ago to leave everything behind to find a new meaning in her daily life. The sudden death of her father, who owned a farm in Ettendorf, was the catalyst: ” I wanted to do something with my hands, to stay close to the land, but without the constraints of traditional farming “, she explains.

It was by chance that she discovered snail farming. A week’s training was enough to convince her, and she threw herself into the adventure, gaining a diploma and creating 1001 Coquilles, a farm where she controls the entire chain, from breeding to processing and direct sales.

2. 2. 1001 coquilles: a job of passion and versatility

On her farm, Marie-Antoinette raises thousands of snails every season , prized for their tender meat. “I do everything: breeding, rearing, processing and marketing. Each season has its own rhythm. In summer, I’m in the park with my watering cans. In winter, I’m in the lab processing the snails into jars, shells and cheese …”

With no water or electricity in the field, the work is physical and demanding: ” I carry between 4,000 and 5,000 litres of water a day “. But she relishes the freedom and diversity of her job: ” I never do the same thing, that’s what I like “.

2. 2. Schnacke owe: summer evenings around snails

For the past two years, Marie-Antoinette has been organising ‘Schnacke Owe’ evenings, literally ‘snail evenings’. These convivial events take place in the heart of the park at 7pm, just when the snails are finally showing their faces. ” During the day, they sleep. In the evening, you can really observe them and see how many there are, how big they are and how soft and transparent their shells still are

Visitors can discover the fascinating world of snail farming, sample specialities (with or without snails) and enjoy a simple, friendly atmosphere in the heart of nature. The evenings are open to all: families, the curious, food lovers and evening strollers. For Marie-Antoinette, it’s also a time for sharing: “ People love these rural moments, just like they used to have in the old days

2. 2. Plans for the future

Always on the move, the company director is already imagining new formats: a summer guinguette, even more festive or educational events. ” When you’re your own boss, you can give free rein to your ideas. You just have to find the time to make them happen!

Three words sum up his adventure: local, terroir, gourmet. With a bonus anecdote: ” One day, at a market, a lady discreetly tasted a fromentine… cold. I think she was surprised!

➤ Book your Schnacke Owe evening

The Schnacke Owe are part of the Les Estivales du Beau Jardin programme.
To book your table and discover 1001 Coquilles, visit the Estivales website.