We learn so much from our clients – An interview with Nathalie Kockaerts: Docks Dome and Wild Gallery

BSV: You talk a lot about the truly unique events held in your venues. From our perspective, we see Docks Dome and Wild Gallery as being the go-to places for brand events. Tell us more.

Nathalie: Ah yes. Directly or indirectly through agencies, companies choose our venues for exceptional events in terms of décor, animation and set-up. Recently, Docks Dome welcomed SBS presentation of the year (600 people) and the Priority Banking Roadshow of BNP Paribas Fortis (Profirst, 600-800 people). And Wild Gallery hosted a super private event from Magriet Feesten with the Japanese theme (250 people) and the EPIC Night (organised by Profirst, 390 people). With hundreds events organised in our venues each year, we are very proud that these clients chose us!  And showcasing these events around the world on social media or in newsletters has definitely inspired other organisers!

BSV: What is the key factor that convinces these companies to choose either Wild Gallery or Docks Dome?

Nathalie: Firstly – lucky us – the versatile and flexible layout  of our venues is the decisive factor for occasions such as seminars, fashion shows, receptions, galas, sit-down dinners, concerts, dance evenings, and exhibitions. Wild Gallery and Docks Dome have spaces of 2200 m2 and 3000 m2 respectively that can accommodate over 1,000 people, which is quite rare. Wild Gallery can be divided into 5 modular units and Docks Dome into 3 modular units; so it’s possible to create really different atmospheres for different functions. Multiple settings are possible for all kinds of occasions – large and small – allowing participants to escape from the traditional event atmosphere. But these are not the only spaces. We can offer all the amenities an event may require from spacious parking to offices, storage space and kitchens.

BSV: You just said “Firstly”. What are the other factors? Tell us the real secret behind your on-going success!

Nathalie: Where to start! We help organisers to produce experiences for their clients that are truly unique. We are never complacent, but learn continually from the needs of our clients. We keep up with event trends, and within our team, we challenge each other to think up unique servicing solutions. We provide our clients personalised contact and strong team presence. We make our meeting rooms available to customers during the preparation stages so that they can meet with suppliers, for example, or visualise the setting and to take advantage of our latest technologies. We can also showcase a portfolio of previous settings created by top agencies, as well as offering an extensive list of suitable partners.

We study the brands and the messages they wish to convey. So our venues must constantly reinvent themselves to attract them.

Our creative energy is expended on our venues, and our clients!