Social media isn’t one-size-fits-all. Selecting the right platform starts with knowing your audience, defining your goals, and understanding what each channel offers.
BIG DEAL Company has compiled a guide that can help you navigate social media platform basics.

Download the free guide below.

Let’s face it, conferences aren’t just about name tags and breakout sessions anymore. Today’s destination conferences are all about blending purpose with experience, turning what used to be a work trip into something people genuinely look forward to.
The good news? That shift brings fresh energy to corporate events.

Download our free printable below.

​At Big Deal Company, we’re proud to support several incredible nonprofit partners with everything from development strategy and campaign planning to event production, as well as internal and external communications. And if there’s one question we hear across the board, it’s this: “Are our fundraising events still worth it?”
 
It’s a great question - and an important one. As fundraising trends continue to shift in a post-pandemic world, many organizations are taking a closer look at how events fit into their overall development plan. Are they bringing revenue? Are they building relationships? Or are they draining resources without delivering meaningful returns?
 
Recently, our team member, Carrie, had the opportunity to dive deep into this topic for her capstone project that was part of her time at the Institute for Leaders in Development. She explored the transition many nonprofits are making - from transactional, event-heavy fundraising models to more transformational, relationship-forward strategies.

​Why the Shift?
Events have long been a go-to fundraising strategy. They create visibility, bring people together, and can be an exciting entry point for new supporters. But they also come with real challenges:

• Rising costs - for venues, food, staffing, and entertainment
• Unpredictable attendance
• Limited long-term donor engagement
• Significant staff time and energy

 
A recent White Paper by Big Deal Company on event trends in Colorado found that over 70% of event hosts reported increased expenses, and nearly 63% saw declining attendance. When the return on investment (ROI) shrinks and burnout increases, it’s time to reconsider how events fit into your fundraising mix.
 
So….Should We Kill the Gala?
Not necessarily. However, we recommend evaluating every event through a strategic lens.

​During an ILD interview with Lizz Helmsen, a consultant with Carter Global - a philanthropic forward nonprofit consulting company- shared her perspective as an “event killer,” but not because she’s anti-event. Rather, she encourages nonprofits to be selective and intentional. Her framework for event evaluation includes three key criteria:

1. Mission Alignment - Does the event clearly connect back to your cause?
2. Engagement & Enjoyment - Is it meaningful and enjoyable for your audience? Are you still “drawing” a crowd?
3. Financial Performance - Does the event net a minimum of $100,000 or deliver significant relationship-building value?

 
Tools for Quantifying Your Events
A simple Event Evaluation Rubric can be used to review past and upcoming events. Ask yourself:

• How much did we raise net of expenses?
• What new or deeper relationships did we form?
• Did this event bring repeatable value - new monthly donors, long-term sponsors, or advocacy?
• Did it feel like it fit our mission and brand?

 
Sometimes, it’s not always about the dollars raised at the event - it’s also about the long-term return. For example, an intimate donor dinner that sparks a $25,000 multi-year gift a few months later could have a bigger impact than a large gala that breaks even.
 
What’s Next? Make the Shift with a Plan
If you’re considering shifting from large-scale events to more relationship-based fundraising, have a roadmap.
 
Here’s what we recommend:

• Audit your current events: Which ones are working? Which ones are draining resources?
• Develop relationship touchpoints: Ensure you connect with donors at all levels - not just major gift prospects.
• Introduce awareness events: Small, invite-only gatherings that connect people to your mission without an immediate ask.
• Train your board and staff: Invest in building a culture of relational giving and long-term stewardship.
• Focus on follow-up: A successful event is only as strong as its follow-through. Personalized thank-you notes, check-ins, and invitations to stay involved matter more than swag bags.

Don’t Forget Your Small Donors
In relationship-focused fundraising, every donor matters. Small, recurring donors are often the backbone of a sustainable giving program. With the right communication and engagement strategies, they can grow into long-term supporters, advocates, and even major donors over time.
 
Let’s Build A Smarter Strategy Together
Fundraising isn’t one-size-fits-all. During her ILD journey, Carrie heard from nonprofit leaders using all kinds of models - some event-heavy, some event-free - and each one had valid reasons for their approach. The key is to be intentional, data-informed, and mission-aligned.
 
At Big Deal Company, we’re here to help you do just that. Whether you’re planning your next signature event or rethinking your entire development calendar, we’re ready to help you ask the right questions and build a plan that works - for your mission, your team, and the community you serve.

​You've planned for months. You've double-checked the seating chart. You've taste-tested twelve mini desserts (for research, obviously). But now, it's go time. The doors are opening. The guests are arriving. And suddenly, panic sets in. Don't worry. BIG DEAL Company has got your back with a 1-minute sanity-saving checklist to run through right before your event begins.

*Download our FREE printable checklist below.
 
✅ 1. Mic Check (literally)
Grab that mic and say a few words. "Testing, testing!" Ensure all AV equipment is working, and have a contact name on hand in case of any issues.  Have a contact name within reach just in case.
 
✅ 2. The Emergency Kit
Band-aids, a stain-removal pen, phone chargers, breath mints, safety pins, tape, and aspirin.
 
✅ 3. The Who-Do-I-Call List
Have a printed or digital list of key contacts, including the venue manager, caterer, DJ, florist, and magician—whoever is part of your dream team. It's a bonus if you list who's in charge of what.
 
✅ 4. Food Flow Check
Buffet tables stocked? Appetizers ready? Water stations full? Hungry guests are guests who complain. Avoid a snackcident.
 
✅ 5. Bathroom Blitz
It isn’t always top of mind, but check that the bathrooms are clean and stocked. The little things can make or break a guest's experience.
 
✅ 6. The Vibe Check
Step into the space like a guest. Is the lighting set? Is music playing? Is the signage clear? If something feels off to you, it will to your guests, too.
 
✅ 7. Delegate and Breathe
You can't be everywhere at once. Hand off the final tweaks to your trusted team or coordinator. This can be the hardest thing on your list.  Take a breath and enjoy the moment.
 
Event panic is real, but the panic doesn’t have to win. Print the below detailed list, keep it handy, and your event will run smoother than a signature cocktail being poured at an open bar.  You’ve got this.
 
🎤 AUDIO / TECH CHECK

• Microphone(s) tested
• Music playing or queued
• Projector/screens working
• Back-up cords, batteries, or adapters on-site
• Someone knows how to fix tech issues quickl

 
🧰 EMERGENCY KIT

• Band-aids
• Stain remover pen
• Pain relievers (ibuprofen, etc.)
• Breath mints or gum
• Safety pins
• Tape (gaffer, duct, and/or clear)
• Phone chargers / power bank
• Hand sanitizer

 
📞 KEY CONTACTS

• Printed or digital list of vendor contact info
• Assign point person(s) for major categories (catering, AV, venue, etc.)
• Group text or walkie-talkies ready for on-site team

 
🍽 FOOD & DRINK

• Food is on schedule / ready to serve
• Water stations filled and easily accessible
• Trash and recycling bins in place
• Dietary restrictions accounted for

 
🚻 RESTROOMS

• Restrooms checked and clean
• Fully stocked with TP, soap, and paper towels
• Clear signage if restrooms are hard to find

 
✨ ATMOSPHERE CHECK

• Lights set to desired mood
• Music on and at the right volume
• Signage is clear and properly placed
• Guest flow feels intuitive (no bottlenecks!)
• Entrance is welcoming and staff/volunteers are ready

 
🧘‍♀️ FINAL MOMENT

• Delegate last-minute tasks
• Take 3 deep breaths
• Smile—you’ve got this!

 
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 event from good to unforgettable. Let's make your next event a BIG DEAL!

*****FREE Printable*****

​In our marketing climate where social media algorithms change overnight and trends come and go in minutes, one digital marketing tool has steadily yielded growth for both for-profit businesses and nonprofit organizations: email marketing.
 
At BIG DEAL Company, we know firsthand how a well-crafted email strategy can drive sales, deepen customer relationships, and keep donors engaged – even during tough times. Whether you are selling a product or service or promoting a mission, email marketing is not just an option – it’s essential.

Why email marketing still works
 
With all the talk about social media, it’s easy to forget about the original online marketing: email. The amazing thing about email is it is one of the few marketing channels you own. Unlike social media, where your content can be buried by algorithm changes, emails land directly in your audience’s inbox. That means your message reaches real people in real time.
 
The numbers back it up, too. Email marketing still consistently delivers one of the highest ROIs (Return On Investment) of any digital marketing channel, averaging $36 for every $1 spent, according to a Litmus study.
 
For businesses: Stay front-of-mind, sell smarter
 
In a competitive marketplace, visibility is everything. When customers are watching every dollar (like in our current economic climate), they’re more likely to buy from brands they trust and remember.
Email marketing keeps your business top-of-mind with regular, valuable communication. Promotions, product launches, behind-the-scenes updates — they all build loyalty and drive conversions over time.
Even in a slow economy, your audience still spends money — just more thoughtfully.
For nonprofits: Build trust, retain donors
 
For nonprofits, email is a lifeline. It’s your direct connection to the people who care about your cause. When budgets are tight and giving slows, staying in touch is more important than ever. Regular email updates keep donors informed, inspired, and invested.
 
Plus, email campaigns are cost-effective. You don’t need a big budget to run a smart, strategic email program. You just need a plan, and we’re here to help.

​Especially in uncertain times
When the economy wobbles, many organizations instinctively cut their marketing budgets. But history shows that businesses and nonprofits who maintain or increase visibility during downturns are better positioned for growth once the dust settles.
Email marketing offers a low-cost, high-impact way to do just that.
Instead of going dark, use email to:

• Share how you're adapting.
• Showcase value or impact.
• Offer reassurance and stay connected.

​Even if people aren’t ready to buy or donate today, consistent communication ensures they’ll think of you when they are.
It’s worth the investment
 
No matter your size or sector, email marketing is one of the smartest investments you can make. It doesn’t just sell – it nurtures. It builds relationships, reinforces your brand, and keeps your audience engaged long after the first click.
 
At BIG DEAL Company, we help businesses and nonprofits create email strategies that cut through the noise, because your message deserves to be heard.
 
Ready to launch or level up your email marketing game? Let’s make it a BIG DEAL. Contact us now.
 
For marketing and event news and tips, follow BIG DEAL Company on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

AI is Changing How People Search:

• 20% of users switched their primary search platform in the last year.
• 78% have tried Generative AI search tools.

What This Means for Your Brand:

• AI chatbots & search summaries (think Google’s AI overviews) are becoming the first stop for answers.
• SEO must evolve to ensure your brand stays discoverable