Email and SMS marketing aren’t going anywhere—in fact, they’re
getting smarter and more personalized, thanks to AI and automation.
Businesses that tap into hyper-personalization are seeing more opens,
stronger customer connections, and better results.
See BIG DEAL's free printable for more information!

****  For Immediate Release  ****
Northern Colorado Nonprofit Highlights Dangers of Teen Impaired Driving During Prom Season

Northern Colorado - As prom season arrives in April and May, No DUI NoCo, a Northern Colorado organization dedicated to preventing impaired driving among young people in Larimer and Weld Counties, is raising awareness about the heightened risks associated with teen impaired driving during this celebratory period. While prom is a time for celebration and creating lasting memories, it is also a time when many young people engage in risky behaviors, particularly driving under the influence.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), prom night sees a significant increase in alcohol-related accidents involving teenagers. Roughly one-third of alcohol-related teen traffic fatalities occur during prom season, between April and June. The combination of excitement, peer pressure, and the desire to celebrate often leads to poor decision-making, putting not only the lives of the young drivers at risk but also those of their passengers and other road users.
In addition to alcohol, impaired driving can also result from other substances, including marijuana and prescription drugs. It is crucial for parents and educators to address all forms of impairment and emphasize the importance of making safe choices.
Pop culture romanticizes drinking or getting high with friends post-prom as part of the complete prom experience. And while we know 41% of teens aged 16 to 19 indicated it was likely they or their friends will drink or use drugs on prom night (AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety), the goal of No DUI NoCo is to keep anyone who is impaired off the road.


Prom Season Teen Impaired Driving Statistics

• Statistics show that roughly one-third of alcohol-related teen traffic fatalities occur between April and June — the peak of prom and graduation season (NHTSA).
• 54% of students who drink on prom night have four or more alcoholic beverages (AAA).
• 90% of teens believe their peers will likely drink and drive on prom night (AAA).
• Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) reports that motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among teens in the state.
• In 2023 alone, 119 roadway fatalities involved drivers aged 20 or younger, marking a 59% increase over the past five years (CDOT).
• Between 2010 and 2021, documented marijuana-related crashes rose 475% and car crashes due to drunk driving grew 9.4%.
• More than 85% of teens say they or their peers are likely to drive impaired instead of calling their parents for help because they are afraid of getting in trouble. Just 21% of teens have called their parents to pick them up because they or their driver was impaired.

How Parents Can Keep Teens Safe on Prom Night
Hire a ride – A limo ride is a special addition to prom night and ensures teens, who are already excited and distracted, won’t drive impaired.


Talk about rules – Talk to your teen before prom night about expectations and road safety, and come up with a plan in case they find themselves in a tricky situation. Start with the CDC’s Teen Driving Contract for a list of talking points.


Keep your home open – Let your teen know your house is home base for them and their friends on prom night; bonus if you have snacks, beverages, movies, and/or games.


Set an example – Always drive responsibly; your teen is watching you.


About No DUI NoCo
No DUI NoCo is working to get the word out about the dangers and consequences of teen impaired driving and offering solutions and tips on how to avoid or curb the effects on the greater community. No DUI NoCo, a coalition and campaign born out of the need to address the problem of impaired driving in Larimer and Weld Counties, is working to prevent driving under the influence of alcohol or other substances. This project is a joint effort between law enforcement, government agencies, alcohol and cannabis retailers, local nonprofits, and community members, working together to encourage the general public to “Make the Call” to end impaired driving.


No DUI NoCo is focusing on prevention efforts - education, tools, and messaging for groups and individuals who tend to risk driving regularly with elevated BACs, and who are involved in a higher number of alcohol-related crashes. Studies have shown that young people, ages 16-24, tend to have the highest number of drivers involved in DUI/DWI crashes with a BAC at or above legal intoxication levels and are the most likely group to drive within 2 hours of consuming cannabis (Colorado Department of Transportation). The goal of the next arm of the No DUI campaign is to reduce the number of DUI/DWI related crashes with this age group at the wheel.


No DUI encourages all citizens to remain vigilant and to plan ahead when consuming alcohol. If you are the designated driver, make a commitment to 100% sobriety to keep you, your friends, and your family safe.


If you see an impaired driver on the road, please “Make the Call” and contact local law enforcement (911) immediately.
Remember: If you feel different, you drive different.
 NO DUI NoCo Mission:
The No DUI NoCo coalition and campaign was born out of the need to address the problem of impaired driving in our community. The goal is to prevent driving under the influence of alcohol or other substances by increasing community responsibility for safe and responsible driving.
Our campaign is encouraging the public to “Make the Call” to end impaired driving in our community. Make the Call to get a safe ride home. Make the Call about whether you should get behind the wheel, and Make the Call to report suspected impaired drivers. Driving under the influence IS an emergency - please call 911 if you see someone you suspect is driving impaired.
Partners, who absorbed this project from the former nonprofit, Team Wellness & Prevention, is the lead agency on this five-year project. Partners has engaged a steering committee and named the project NO DUI NOCO (formerly No DUI Larimer).
Contact: Heather Vesgaard, Executive Director - Partners    [email protected]

Special thanks to our spectacular venue host: Candlelight Dinner Theater and to our photographer, Dick's Photography

​Building strong client relationships doesn't have to feel like a corporate handshake marathon. The best connections happen when people are engaged, having fun, and feeling genuinely appreciated. VIP experiences, hands-on workshops, or themed parties, the key is creating moments that build trust and lasting partnerships—without the boring small talk.

​1. Exclusive Client Appreciation Dinner
Nothing says "we appreciate you" like an unforgettable meal. Host a private dinner at a top-notch restaurant, a chef's table experience, or even a rooftop soirée with a killer view. Whether it's a wine pairing, a tasting menu, or a laid-back family-style feast, the goal is to make clients feel special in a relaxed, intimate setting.
 
2. Interactive Workshops
Why tell clients about what you do when you can show them? Hands-on workshops are a great way to share knowledge while keeping things fun and engaging. Whether it's a live demo, a skill-building session, or an insider look at your process, adding interactive elements like Q&As or group activities makes it more memorable.
 
3. Networking Mixers
Ditch the stiff business gatherings and make networking actually enjoyable. Host a mixer in a fabulous setting like an art gallery, brewery, or rooftop lounge. Add icebreakers or fun activities to keep the energy up. Think live music, themed cocktails, or even a game night twist to help spark meaningful connections.
 
4. Community Service Events
Doing good together is a great way to build stronger relationships. Get clients involved in a cause that matters—volunteer at a local nonprofit, organize a charity run, or even host an eco-friendly initiative like a tree-planting event. It's a win-win: you strengthen bonds while making a positive impact.
 
5. Virtual Webinars
When in-person isn't an option, virtual events are the next best thing. Host an engaging webinar on a hot industry topic, invite a guest speaker, or run an interactive Q&A session. Keep it lively with polls, live chat, and real-time discussions. Bonus: record it so clients can refer back anytime.
 
 
6. VIP Experiences
Give your clients an experience they won't forget. Think behind-the-scenes access, sneak peeks at upcoming products, or something extra special like a VIP box at a concert or sporting event. Whether it's an exclusive preview or a once-in-a-lifetime outing, the goal is to make them feel like true insiders.
 
7. Roundtable Discussions
Sometimes, the best ideas come from an open, honest conversation. Host a roundtable discussion with a select group of clients to chat about industry trends, challenges, and opportunities. Keep it informal, encourage participation, and let everyone share insights—it's a great way to build trust and show clients you value their expertise.
 
8. Customer Appreciation Days
A full day dedicated to celebrating your clients? Yes, please. Host an in-person or online event with special discounts, giveaways, or exclusive perks. Add fun elements like a pop-up party, live music, or surprise treats to make them feel genuinely appreciated.
 
9. Annual Conferences
A yearly event that brings clients together to learn, network, and get inspired? Sounds like a must. Offer compelling speakers, engaging breakout sessions, and interactive panels. Don't forget the fun stuff—think cocktail hours, entertainment, or even a surprise guest appearance to keep things lively.
 
10. Themed Parties
Because business events don't have to be boring. Throw a themed party that allows clients to unwind and have fun. Whether it's a Gatsby-style soiree, a tropical luau, or a winter wonderland bash, adding themed décor, food, and entertainment makes for a memorable night they won't stop talking about.
 
At BIG DEAL Company, we know that a great event isn't just about logistics—it's about creating an experience your clients will rave about. From concept to execution, our full-service marketing and event planning team can take your client appreciation event from good to unforgettable. Whether you're looking to host an intimate dinner, a high-energy mixer, or a full-scale conference, we'll handle the details so you can focus on building those all-important relationships. Let's make your next event a BIG DEAL!
 

​Choosing between in-house and outsourced marketing is a crucial decision that impacts your brand’s growth, efficiency, and ROI (return on investment). Each approach offers unique benefits, and the right choice depends on various factors, such as budget, scalability, and creative needs.
 
At Big Deal Company, we understand that marketing is more than just strategy - it’s about creativity, connection, and delivering results. As a leading marketing collective, we specialize in high-impact campaigns, event planning, and brand growth strategies. Whether you’re looking to build an internal team or leverage expert outsourced marketing services, we help businesses navigate the best approach to achieve their marketing goals. Let’s dive into the benefits of both in-house and outsourced marketing to help you and your business make an informed decision.

In-House Marketing
Pros:

• Deep Brand Understanding - Your team lives and breathes your brand, ensuring messaging aligns with our company’s voice and values.
• Direct Communication - Immediate feedback and collaboration lead to quick decision-making and adaptability.
• Complete Control - You oversee all strategies and executions, providing alignment with your exact standards and objectives.

Cons:

• Higher Costs - Salaries, benefits, training, and tools add up, making it a significant investment.
• Limited Skill Sets - Your team might lack specialized expertise, requiring additional training or hires.
• Scalability Challenges - Expanding or reducing the team based on project needs can be slow and costly.

Outsourced Marketing
​Pros:

• Access to Experts - Agencies offer specialized skills across various marketing disciplines, ensuring high-quality execution.
• Cost-Effective - You pay for services as needed, avoiding the overhead associated with full-time employees.
• Scalability and Flexibility - Easily adjust the level of services based on your current needs without long-term commitments.

Cons:

• Less Brand Familiarity - External teams may require time to fully grasp your brand’s nuances and values.
• Communication Delays - Working with external partners can sometimes lead to slower decisions and implementation (due to delays on both sides!).
• Potential Misalignment - There’s a risk that the agency’s vision doesn’t perfectly align with your brand’s goals.

Financial Considerations
Hiring an in-house marketing team involves significant costs, including salaries and benefits. For example, hiring a marketing manager, content creator, SEO specialist, and designer can collectively cost over $150,000 (conservatively) annually.
 
Engaging an agency like Big Deal Company can be more economical. Monthly retainer rates for comprehensive services like SEO, PPC, and content marketing can total around $7500 or less, offering a broad range of expertise without the long-term financial commitment.
 
Creation and Ideation
In-house teams will have an intimate understanding of your brand. They will have an easy time fostering ideas that align well with company culture and objectives.
 
Outsourced agencies can bring fresh perspectives to your vision and goals. Contracted agencies typically have teams that can draw on diverse experiences across industries, which can lead to innovative and creatively unique campaigns.

​Which One Is Right for You?
The best choice depends on your business’s size, budget, and marketing goals. If you need a hands-on team that fully embodies your brand or you deal with sensitive information that needs to reach niche audiences, an in-house team might be the way to go. If you want access to top-tier expertise that is always on top of the latest trends and that can provide flexibility and cost savings, outsourcing could be the smarter move.
 
At BIG DEAL Company, we specialize in bringing creativity to life - whether through unique marketing strategies, innovative campaigns, or unforgettable events. We’re purveyors of fun, passionate about growth, and dedicated to making every client a priority. If you’re looking for a marketing partner that delivers results with energy and originality, let’s make something amazing together!
 

BIG DEAL Company was happy to offer support for this large conference offered to all Northern Colorado Realtors by BizWest. Below are the deliverables as a result of months of planning!

Thank you to all of the sponsors, speakers and vendors who made this event possible!

A time honored tradition --- a scavenger hunt that cannot be replicated --- making memories and bringing adults JOY! The NoCo Easter Keg Hunt.

Q: I see starting points, but where do we end?
A: The end will be within walking distance to the starting point. Park anywhere you want in the downtown area.

Q: Is this event for adults only?
A: Yes. Some of the stops will be at bars and restaurants. The clues are written for adults. Should you need to participate with a baby carrier/stroller, that is fine by us. Our attendee ages are typically 20s - 60s!

Q: What makes this event unique?
A: This event is created from scratch every year, by a large team of event experts. This is not some lame app with canned, recycled questions. All of the questions are unique and most require some sort of physical application to solve. The event encorporates participation from local businesses that welcome the foot traffic and fun!

Q: Is this really just a bar crawl?
A: Absolutely NOT. While guests can drink, and there is movement all around a downtown area, there is far more importance placed on teamwork, problem solving, laughter, competition, community awareness and FUN!

Q: Is the event ADA accessible?
A: Yes. All businesses are ADA accessible. All abilities can participate. Should you need any special accommodations, please email BIG DEAL.

Q: What if the weather doesn't look great?
A: This event takes place rain/snow/shine. You will be indoors and outside in between stops. You can decide how long you stay inside of each business.

​Q: How long is the event?
A: Kick off is at 1pm. We average about 13 stops per event. We have had teams complete in about 2 hours - but these teams run. If you are casually solving clues and walking, you can plan for about 3 hours. If you guess the wrong stops - this can throw you off. If you don't complete all clues, that's ok --- you can still join us at the end! The event is over by 5pm.