The creative agency, specialized in brand experiences, is firmly committed to connection. This is made very clear in its new identity: from October 15, the agency will continue under the name OVAL.

A few days after our local polls and three weeks before the American elections, it is the perfect moment to send a signal: we are leaving The Oval Office! Away from a world of hard lines and sharp angles, the office is transforming with full conviction into OVAL.

“We are skipping ‘The Office’ from today,” laughs Jeroen Rigole, Managing Director in Belgium. “With OVAL, we are making our existing promise and vision even clearer: we are a creative agency, driven by empathy. We are looking for positive impact by creating meaningful experiences for employees, consumers, citizens and companies. So our mission will not change and our talented team will continue to produce the same creative, impactful work for which we are known. I look forward to continuing to build our beautiful story together with them and our customers under the new flag.”

Almost 13 years ago, The Oval Office was founded by Wouter Boits. Today, not only the times, but the whole world and therefore also The Oval Office have changed profoundly. The 'live communication agency' evolved into a 'creative agency', which is known today for its strategically substantiated, impactful campaign concepts that are experienced both live and digital. Its loyal customers appreciate the still independent agency mainly because of its human, warm and personal approach.

A new name that better suits who we are

“At the start, I chose a slightly challenging, funny and therefore remarkable name for The Oval Office. It was 2 years after the election of the first black American president and no one took offense. On the contrary, it turned out to be an excellent conversation starter,” explains Wouter Boits, Founder & CEO.

“However, with increasing amazement, we have witnessed over the years an increasingly aggressive tone in political communication, also from and to the White House. Unfortunately, America does not have a monopoly on this unprecedented coarsening; meanwhile, politicians in almost the entire world (including Belgium) use this tried and tested tactic. With far-reaching consequences on the ground… In this polarized world, we realize more than ever that we as an agency, together with our clients, have an important social role to play. In essence: it is our joint responsibility to put the power of empathy at the center of every form of communication. Without empathy, no communication, without communication, no society, without a society, no communication. It's that simple.”

Born in Europe

The agency has not only grown in Belgium in the past decade, but also beyond the national borders in the Netherlands (Amsterdam), France (Paris) and Germany (Düsseldorf). Together they form OVAL, as of today, as one agency, 'born in Europe'. With identical values, the team of 120+ experts is ready to support its clients beyond the national borders. OVAL is therefore fully committed to the European map and can count on tons of local expertise in four countries to create the most impressive brand experiences.

The best event companies of 2024 have been crowned with the eventplanner.net Awards! 👏 Want to see who made the list? Click now and congratulate the winners! 👉🎉✨

https://www.eventplanner.net/news/10910_winners-eventplannernet-awards-these-are-the-best-event-companies-of-2024.html

Congratulations: Kinepolis Antwerpen, Evi Ramaekers Photography, The Box Company, Magnus Partyverhuur, Sylvester, PassePartoe, VideoCrew bv, DJ Patrice, The Charming Thief & Hypnotist, Goochelaar Koenraad magic, BluePoint Antwerpen, To The Point Events, Kinepolis Brussel, Kinepolis Braine, Kinepolis Luik, De goochelende karikaturist, Geoteam, Beat the Barn, The Frontline Company, Miraeus Cocktails, Eventroom, Kloster Heidberg, BluePoint Liège, Rent-A-Willys, BIZZevents bv, De Montil, Armand Magic, Lust4Live - Eventbureau, Eventix, Tentenverhuur Sleidinge, Avenature, Flextickets, John K. Magic, 4 ALL Party Rent, Daft Boutique & Music Hotel, Rosanne de With Entertainment, Gekke Jorre, InZert 3D, Decoratiehuren, Time 2 Jump Springkastelen, Destination Wallonia DMC, Saxit, De Toverpenseel, M&L CUBE, Moodmaker Events, GO-tickets, DJ Eddy

Here's why LGBTQ+ Travel and Destination Weddings Need a Tailored Approach in Thailand.

LGBTQ+ travel is growing rapidly, and it's distinct from standard group travel for a number of important reasons. It’s not just about offering a holiday; it's about creating safe, inclusive, and meaningful experiences. For Thai companies, particularly in the tourism and events sectors, recognising and catering to the needs of LGBTQ+ travellers is crucial—especially now that Thailand is on the cusp of legalising same-sex marriage.

#LGBTQ+ Travel: What Sets It Apart

LGBTQ+ travellers face unique challenges that traditional group travel doesn’t always address. Safety is a prime concern, as some destinations are not legally or socially accepting of LGBTQ+ identities. Travellers are often looking for countries and experiences where they feel safe and welcome.

Thailand, with its open-minded attitude and beautiful destinations, is well-positioned to cater to this demographic. However, Thai companies must actively ensure their services are inclusive, from hotels to tours. This means more than just being “gay-friendly”—it’s about offering experiences that celebrate diversity, whether that’s recommending inclusive accommodation, guiding travellers to LGBTQ+-friendly venues, or crafting tailored experiences that reflect the community’s needs.

LGBTQ+ travel often emphasises community, connection, and shared experiences, which typical group travel doesn’t always prioritise. There’s a growing demand for trips that offer LGBTQ+ history tours, cultural immersion, and safe spaces where travellers can relax without fear of judgment. Thai companies need to tap into this demand by offering packages that include these elements and ensuring staff are trained to be sensitive and welcoming to all guests.

There's a Growing Need for LGBTQ+ Destination Weddings!

As Thailand prepares to legalise same-sex marriage, it will inevitably see a rise in LGBTQ+ destination weddings. However, simply offering the same wedding services to LGBTQ+ couples as to heterosexual ones won’t be enough. The needs of LGBTQ+ couples are different, and Thai businesses must develop services specifically for this growing market.

Firstly, legal recognition is a key consideration. LGBTQ+ couples need clarity on the legal process in Thailand, including what documentation is required and how their marriage will be recognised internationally. Clear, honest communication will help couples plan their weddings without unnecessary stress.

Secondly, inclusivity in every aspect of the wedding is crucial. Couples want to know that their vendors, from the venue to the florist, are genuinely welcoming and understand their needs. Traditional wedding packages often include heteronormative customs, but LGBTQ+ couples may prefer ceremonies that use gender-neutral language or avoid certain traditions. Thai companies should offer tailored packages, ensuring couples can personalise their day to reflect their identities.

It's Time International and Thai Companies Embrace the LGBTQ+ Wedding Market.

The legalisation of same-sex marriage in Thailand opens a significant opportunity for the country’s hospitality and events industries. Offering inclusive services isn’t just a marketing strategy; it’s a necessity for keeping up with global trends in travel and tourism. The LGBTQ+ travel market is one of the fastest-growing, and destination weddings are a major part of that.

For companies, this means building a reputation as an LGBTQ+-friendly business. Training staff to be inclusive, ensuring venues are welcoming, and avoiding heteronormative assumptions are essential steps. Additionally, businesses can create meaningful, inclusive experiences, such as multi-day retreats or post-wedding travel packages tailored to LGBTQ+ couples.

LGBTQ+ travel and destination weddings offer immense potential for Thailand, but success will only come with genuine effort. Companies must understand the unique needs of LGBTQ+ travellers and couples and adapt their services accordingly. As Thailand prepares to legalise same-sex marriage, now is the time for the tourism and events industry to embrace this change and lead the way in inclusive, diverse experiences.

By embracing inclusivity and sustainability, businesses can stay ahead of trends in LGBTQ+ travel, providing meaningful, eco-conscious experiences that celebrate diversity and gender equality while supporting local communities.

Want to know more or develop your company's abilities?

Get in touch events@teamspiritthailand.com

Team Spirit Thailand offers Curated Team Building Programs and works with psychologists and specialists to provide Inclusivity Training and Development.

These programs equip HR and management teams with the skills to create inclusive experiences that cater to the LGBTQ+ community, ensuring that all guests feel respected and valued.

#LGBTQTravel #MarriageEqualityThailand #PinkEconomy #SustainableTourism #InclusiveTravel #LGBTQAdventure #RayongAdventures #ChonburiTravel #HuaHinLuxury #EcoFriendlyTourism #LGBTQWeddings #GroupTravel #ThailandRetreats #TeamSpiritThailand #DiversityTraining

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Unique in our offer are the E-mountain bike tours that also offer an ideal alternative to skiing in the winter. Let your team enjoy the challenging and widely acclaimed Limburg MTB single tracks and routes through beautiful landscapes. The e-motor offers the mountain biker the comfort that the ski lift offers to the skier and ensures that everyone can follow! After a day full of action, we conclude with an atmospheric 'Après-MTB'.

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We have some fantastic news to share! ⁠

After an extensive jury, UNIZO announced the finalists for SME of the Year 2024 on October 8, 2024. And we are extremely proud to announce that Very Food Catering is one of the three finalists for SME of the Year 2024!

An expert jury assessed all candidates on important entrepreneurial themes such as financial policy, marketing & communication, innovation, (ambition for) international entrepreneurship, digitalisation, personnel policy, energy & environment and entrepreneurship.

What is SME of the year?

“SME of the Year” is the SME award in Flanders and Brussels, and has national appeal. UNIZO and its partners do not organize the competition to put just a few entrepreneurs in the spotlight, the award wants to give all SMEs the necessary recognition as the engine of our economy.” - Unizo

Very Food Catering

With our passion for high-end catering and a strong focus on sustainability and circularity, we always dot the i's and cross the t's at the most beautiful events and locations.

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Thanks to UNIZO for the recognition and to our fantastic team, partners & customers!