Collaboration: Fast Forward – Event Expert Mathias Kerckhof
When this client issued a call for proposals for its staff party, one thing was immediately clear: this was not going to be a typical corporate event. 2,600 employees. Antwerp Expo. And a clear message for the future!
Fast Forward Events took on the challenge and won the pitch in collaboration with D-Dream. Because this story didn’t just start with a strong concept. It also started with a technical partner who contributed ideas from the very beginning.
Mathias Kerckhof, co-founder and event expert at Fast Forward, explains how that collaboration unfolded, and why “what you see is what you get” wasn’t just an empty promise.
🎯 A successful pitch, a clear direction
Fast Forward had already clearly defined the creative concept. The central theme? Dare to! Dare to look ahead, dare to move, dare to choose. That vision translated into a scenography featuring shipping containers, various interactive zones, and a clear flow throughout the space.
“We knew exactly what we wanted to deliver. The question was: could we technically pull this off exactly as planned? And we worked that out with D-Dream even before the pitch.“
– Mathias Kerckhof, Event Expert at Fast Forward Events
Even before the concept was presented, D-Dream was already at the table as a technical partner. They turned the idea into concrete plans for lighting, sound, video, and staging—complete with technical drawings, budget reviews, and smart solutions. “We went into that pitch together,” says Mathias. “And that immediately inspired confidence.”
🚢 What you see is what you get
The event took place at Antwerp Expo: plenty of space, but also technical challenges. Visitors entered through an illuminated shipping container: an instant statement. Inside, a path led them through various zones, all centered around container structures, featuring integrated video screens, projections of the “Dare to” slogan, subtle lighting, and consistent sound throughout the spaces.
D-Dream worked with technical drawings beforehand to bring the concept to life. Fast Forward used these technical drawings to create 1:1 renders. What you saw in the renders actually happened during the event.
“When you compare the renders to the photos, they’re almost identical. That’s only possible if your (technical) partners truly understand your vision.“
– Mathias Kerckhof, Event Expert at Fast Forward Events
⚙️ A tight schedule ensures a smooth flow on stage
Behind the scenes, preparation also played a key role. “I don’t like chaotic productions,” says Mathias. “Together with D-Dream, we created a tight schedule. Everything was thought through and coordinated in advance.” The setup proceeded in a structured manner, with ample time for fine-tuning and rehearsals. That calm carried over to the day of the event.
Afterward, the evaluation was clear. “Everything that was agreed upon – lighting, sound, video – was delivered as planned,” confirms Mathias. “What you see is what you get. And in events, that’s essential.” The overall feeling was one of confidence and peace of mind.
🤝 A collaboration that leaves us wanting more
For Fast Forward, this was the first collaboration with D-Dream, but certainly not the last. “We’d love to partner up again for the next edition,” smiles Mathias.
His most important advice to other event managers? “Planning is key. Make sure you have a solid plan and strategy, and work with partners who understand your concept… and can execute it technically.” And that’s exactly what made this event what it was: a clear vision, technically well-executed, supported by collaboration from the very start. 🔐
✨ Do you, like Fast Forward, want to count on a strong partnership?
Then D-Dream is your partner for a complete audiovisual experience.
From concept to execution, worry-free.
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