"The magic of Christmas is not just magic for our 60 employees, but a reliable reality"

From National Geographic Expeditions to luxury expedition cruises with Ponant, Avila's global voyages take you to breathtaking destinations. However, from December 7 to 11, the travel agent chooses a five-day destination MASTERS EXPO – The Magical Edition. In an interview, co-founder Tim van der Wel provides a glimpse of the magical veil.

Avontuur-BlachereNL has been creating sustainable and creative designs for entrepreneurs to make the most of the Christmas period for over 35 years. Whether it concerns hospitality, interactivity or another spectacular appearance, Avontuur-BlachereNL has the right idea for every wish. From the big players to the café on the corner, the ultimate experience is created for everyone. Curious about all the company's projects or looking for inspiration? View the website here. 

When did the entrepreneurial magic start for you?

"The magic started when it became clear that I did not fit into the existing systems - such as school, military service and employment - and I knew that I would find my own way with my creative 'talents'."

What is the most magical moment of your career?

“It couldn't be more magical… I was in Disneyland Paris with my family during Christmas in 2008. The world was in dire straits; Due to the crisis, major financial institutions had collapsed and one party after another was cancelled. And, in addition to Christmas, I did decors and decorations for events and festivals all year round. I was sitting on a bench with my wife and daughters watching The Santa Claus Parade and it started to snow. Everyone went was overjoyed. There was no crisis there – at that moment – ​​because it was Christmas. And then, on that bench, I decided to stop all other activities and focus entirely on Christmas. From that moment on, our company has grown into a leader in the market for professional winter mood lighting and Christmas decorations. The specific moment in Disneyland has led to the common thread in all our presentations and stories, because no one cancels Christmas. The more crisis, the more Christmas. For our 60 permanent employees, the magic of Christmas is not just magic, but above all a reliable reality.”

“Avontuur-Blachere is actually a magical novelty in itself.”

What is your motto?

"You don't get it for free." 

If you could make a magic potion, what entrepreneurial talents would it contain?

“My ideal mix would consist of: perseverance, creativity, humanity and good accounting…”

What magical novelty will you present at MASTERS EXPO in December?

“Avontuur-Blachere is actually a magical novelty in itself.”

What are the trends in travel in the coming year?

''We don't see ourselves as a lighting company. We tell stories with lights and decoration; We show our DNA and the message of our customers through our creations. That in itself has become a trend that we have set. This may sound anything but modest, but that is what we get back from the market."

MASTERS EXPO

MASTERS EXPO is the only premium business fair in Europe, where more than 40.000 visitors experience the most special offers in the field of modern luxury and future-proof business. From 7 to 11 December, more than 350 national and international parties – trend-setting and unifying leaders – will participate in MASTERS EXPO in the RAI in Amsterdam. To attend? Order your tickets here.