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Event Trends: DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) While being equitable is the RIGHT THING, and really shouldn't be considered a trend --- it certainly is a hot topic and an area the BIG DEAL team wanted to highlight regarding considerations in event planning. We have a FREE printable available below. 4 pages of important takeaways. 
Events are aiming to be inclusive by considering local DEI initiatives, adjusting language to resonate with varied audiences, and choosing venues and suppliers that reflect attendee values. Several current factors are shaping DEI in event planning. Here’s a look at this movement and how event professionals can navigate it successfully:  Audience Expectations and Representation Attendees increasingly expect events to reflect diversity, both in speakers and in attendees. Having a mix of backgrounds, genders, and experiences represented in speakers and panels is now essential. Event planners who create inclusive environments are finding more engagement and satisfaction from audiences. Accessibility Offering accommodations for those with disabilities, from physical access to sensory-friendly options, as well as hybrid or virtual alternatives, is increasingly expected. Planners are prioritizing ADA-compliant spaces, live captioning, sign language interpretation, and digital access for remote attendees. Cultural, Gender, and Age Sensitivity and Inclusivity Ensuring respect and inclusivity throughout an event involves considering aspects like language, dress codes, food choices, and even event themes. Planners are emphasizing the importance of honoring cultural norms, celebrating diversity, and avoiding cultural stereotypes. Social and Economic Equity Rising costs of attending events, including travel, accommodation, and registration fees, can be barriers to diverse participation. Many organizations are creating scholarship funds, offering tiered pricing, and expanding remote participation options to make attendance feasible for a broader audience. Supplier Diversity There’s a strong movement toward supporting diverse suppliers, such as minority- and women-owned businesses for catering, venue management, and other event services. This not only supports DEI initiatives but also brings diverse perspectives and experiences into the event’s overall environment. Free download
 As a collective of experts, BIG DEAL Company specializes in creativity. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns!
BIG DEAL Company makes business personal by bringing JOY to the job in everything we do. As purveyors of fun with BIG DEAL, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Serving Colorado & Wyoming. We travel too! Contact BIG DEAL Company *** Bringing Joy to the Job *** Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us Disclosure: *All content produced by My Big Day; DBA Big Deal Company, including websites and content, are the property of My Big Day LLC and protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. You may not copy, reproduce, distribute, transmit, modify, create derivative works, or in any other way exploit any part of our materials without the prior written permission from My Big Day LLC
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 40 Under Forty presented by BizWest - 2024 Celebrating young professionals shaping the future of the Boulder Valley and Northern Colorado. Boulder Valley and Northern Colorado 40 Under Forty recognizes 40 emerging business leaders, under 40 years of age, who are making a mark on their communities through professional success and volunteer activities. BIG DEAL Company is the proud event planning company, supporting BizWest's feature events. Congratulations to all of the 2024 winners! LEARN MORE HERE *photos by Dick's Photography  As a collective of experts, BIG DEAL Company specializes in creativity. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns!
BIG DEAL Company makes business personal by bringing JOY to the job in everything we do. As purveyors of fun with BIG DEAL, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Serving Colorado & Wyoming. We travel too! Contact BIG DEAL Company *** Bringing Joy to the Job *** Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us Disclosure: *All content produced by My Big Day; DBA Big Deal Company, including websites and content, are the property of My Big Day LLC and protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. You may not copy, reproduce, distribute, transmit, modify, create derivative works, or in any other way exploit any part of our materials without the prior written permission from My Big Day LLC Top Must-Have Elements for a Memorable Corporate Meeting Free Printable below  When it comes to corporate meetings, it’s no longer enough to just get everyone in a room (or on Zoom) and run through a basic (and often boring) agenda. You want your meeting to be effective and engaging and leave people thinking about what they’ve heard. Whether you’re organizing a company-wide summit or a smaller departmental meeting, here are the top must-have elements to help you create a successful and enjoyable event: Clear Objectives – The foundation of any great meeting is having a clear sense of purpose. Set specific goals so everyone knows why they’re there and what outcomes you’re aiming for. Is it to brainstorm new ideas or solidify a business strategy? Just make sure your objectives are communicated upfront. Engaging Content – Keep the content fresh and relevant. Ditch long, monotonous presentations in favor of shorter, interactive segments. Use multimedia like videos, real-time demos, or dynamic visuals to keep everyone’s attention focused and the energy high. Remember, people remember stories and experiences more than bullet points. Inspiring Speakers – The right speaker can make or break a meeting. Bring in experts who can inspire, motivate, and challenge the team’s thinking. Whether it’s an internal leader with a strong message or an external guest with fresh insights, a great speaker will leave a lasting impression. Fun Team-Building Activities – Meetings don’t have to be all business. Incorporating team-building activities breaks up the monotony and helps build relationships. Icebreakers, problem-solving challenges, or quick group games create connections and get people thinking creatively. BIG DEAL Company has published several blogs with great tips for these activities! Tasty Treats – Never underestimate the power of good food! Snacks, coffee, and even a full meal can energize your team and keep everyone happy. Offer a variety of options to accommodate dietary preferences, and consider seasonal or topic themes to make it more memorable. Interactive Technology – Use technology to increase engagement, whether your meeting is in-person, virtual, or hybrid. We can’t stress the importance of this enough. Incorporate live polls, real-time Q&A sessions, or even gamified learning tools to make the experience interactive. These tools can also provide valuable feedback on the spot! The Right Atmosphere – The meeting environment matters more than you think. Choose a venue (or virtual setting) that reflects the tone of your meeting. A creative brainstorming session might thrive in a more casual, open environment, while a strategy session may benefit from a more formal, focused setting. Hey, who knows some of the best venues in Northern Colorado? Oh yeah, BIG DEAL Company! By combining these elements, your corporate meeting will be more than just a check-the-box gathering. Instead, it will leave people inspired, connected, and ready to take action. Looking for more ways to make your corporate meetings unforgettable? Visit BigDealCompany.com for expert tips and tricks! Free Printable
 As a collective of experts, BIG DEAL Company specializes in creativity. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns!
BIG DEAL Company makes business personal by bringing JOY to the job in everything we do. As purveyors of fun with BIG DEAL, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Serving Colorado & Wyoming. We travel too! Contact BIG DEAL Company *** Bringing Joy to the Job *** Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us Disclosure: *All content produced by My Big Day; DBA Big Deal Company, including websites and content, are the property of My Big Day LLC and protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. You may not copy, reproduce, distribute, transmit, modify, create derivative works, or in any other way exploit any part of our materials without the prior written permission from My Big Day LLC On October 17, 2024, Jobs of Hope hosted its annual “Hope Unlocked” gala, an inspiring evening that raised over $70,000 to support individuals on their transformation journey. With over 100 attendees, including staff, board members, sponsors, and esteemed guests, the event was a powerful celebration of resilience and hope. Throughout the evening, guests were moved by testimonials and stories from those whose lives have been changed through Jobs of Hope. The keynote speaker further energized the crowd, delivering uplifting words about empowerment and perseverance. The event featured a delicious dinner, drinks, a silent auction, and a fun game that brought everyone together. Sponsors and partners were honored throughout the night, in presentations and event signage, recognizing their critical role in making the night a success. The gala received widespread recognition and promotion with email outreach, media coverage, and social media promotion, amplifying the event’s impact across the Northern Colorado community. Jobs of Hope and their supporters, continue to make a lasting difference. This year’s gala was a testament to the Jobs of Hope mission. The Jobs of Hope “Hope Unlocked” fundraiser on Oct.17, 2024. Below is a summary of the 2024 event: EMAIL RECOGNITION:
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SUMMARY The Jobs of Hope “Hope Unlocked” gala included:
****photos by Dick's Photography  Big Deal Company was proud to serve as the planning partner for the “Hope Unlocked” gala, ensuring every detail contributed to the event’s success. From extensive media coverage and digital promotion to on-site recognition and seamless event execution, Big Deal worked hand-in-hand with Jobs of Hope to create a memorable evening that raised vital funds and deepened community connections. The collaboration brought to life an inspiring event that will continue to impact lives in the year ahead.
As a collective of experts, BIG DEAL Company specializes in creativity. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns!
BIG DEAL Company makes business personal by bringing JOY to the job in everything we do. As purveyors of fun with BIG DEAL, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Serving Colorado & Wyoming. We travel too! Contact BIG DEAL Company *** Bringing Joy to the Job *** Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us Disclosure: *All content produced by My Big Day; DBA Big Deal Company, including websites and content, are the property of My Big Day LLC and protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. You may not copy, reproduce, distribute, transmit, modify, create derivative works, or in any other way exploit any part of our materials without the prior written permission from My Big Day LLC BIG DEAL Company proudly supported The Poudre Pour, a community engagement event for Cache la Poudre River National Heritage Area. Our marketing team assisted with all marketing and advertising campaign elements to bring awareness and connection at this annual event.  Below is a summary of the 2024 event: EMAIL RECOGNITION:
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SUMMARY The Poudre Pour Art and Culture Fest, a family-friendly annual event celebrating the river corridor’s vibrant history and culture. This year, in partnership with Mexican American History Project: Greeley, Cache NHA celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring the integral role Hispanic culture has played in the history of the Cache la Poudre River National Heritage Area. As a collective of experts, BIG DEAL Company specializes in creativity. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns! BIG DEAL Company makes business personal by bringing JOY to the job in everything we do. As purveyors of fun with BIG DEAL, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Serving Colorado & Wyoming. We travel too! Contact BIG DEAL Company *** Bringing Joy to the Job *** Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us Disclosure: *All content produced by My Big Day; DBA Big Deal Company, including websites and content, are the property of My Big Day LLC and protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. You may not copy, reproduce, distribute, transmit, modify, create derivative works, or in any other way exploit any part of our materials without the prior written permission from My Big Day LLC  7 Effective (and Affordable) Marketing Tips for Nonprofits on a Budget Marketing your nonprofit’s mission can feel overwhelming at times, especially when you’re working within a tight, or sometimes, non-existent budget. However, with a strategic approach, even limited resources can provide great results. Big Deal Company has pulled together some practical tips and tricks to help your nonprofit effectively market your cause without breaking the bank. 1. Know Your Audience The foundation of successful marketing is knowing who you are speaking to. Are you targeting potential clients, donors, or businesses? Each audience has different motivations and needs, so it’s imperative that you tailor your messages accordingly.
2. Use Donor-Centric Language When marketing to donors, make THEM the hero of the story. Use “YOU” language to show how their contribution makes a difference. For example, instead of saying, “Our organization provides food to families in need,” say, “YOU can provide food to families in need by supporting this mission.” This makes the donor feel personally involved in creating change.  3. Leverage Social Media for Free Promotion Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn offer free tools that can help you reach a larger audience. Focus on:
4. Collaborate with Local Influencers, Organizations, and Volunteers Reach out to local influencers, groups, community leaders, or even businesses that align with your cause. They can amplify your message by sharing it with their networks. Similarly, dedicated volunteers can help spread the word and even assist with event organization or marketing efforts. Big Deal Company always creates an event or campaign Media Kit that can easily be distributed to Board Members or organizational ambassadors so they can help spread the word!  5. Create an Email Newsletter Email marketing remains one of the most cost-effective ways to communicate directly with your audience. Use newsletters to:
6. Utilize Free Tools and Resources There are a plethora of free or low-cost marketing tools that can help you get the job done efficiently:
7. Host Virtual or Low-Lift Events Events don’t have to be expensive to be impactful. Consider hosting a virtual event, such as a live stream or webinar, which can be more budget-friendly than an in-person gathering. Invite supporters to join for free and encourage donations or sponsorships during the event.  BONUS: 8. Enlist a contractor, such at BIG DEAL Company to take on these important pieces. Rather than hire a full-time staff member, our team of experts can support you in an variety of ways, and work with your budget! Big Deal Company Can Help At Big Deal Company, we understand the challenges nonprofits face when it comes to marketing on a budget. Our team is dedicated to helping you develop affordable marketing strategies, organize impactful events, and communicate your mission effectively. We’re here to ensure that your message reaches the right audience and generates meaningful support and funds for your cause. Ready to grow your nonprofit’s impact? Contact Big Deal Company today to explore how we can help with your marketing efforts.  As a collective of experts, BIG DEAL Company specializes in creativity. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns!
BIG DEAL Company makes business personal by bringing JOY to the job in everything we do. As purveyors of fun with BIG DEAL, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Serving Colorado & Wyoming. We travel too! Contact BIG DEAL Company *** Bringing Joy to the Job *** Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us Disclosure: *All content produced by My Big Day; DBA Big Deal Company, including websites and content, are the property of My Big Day LLC and protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. You may not copy, reproduce, distribute, transmit, modify, create derivative works, or in any other way exploit any part of our materials without the prior written permission from My Big Day LLC 80+ Small Private Event Spaces in Fort Collins BIG DEAL Company spent hours scouring northern Colorado for this comprehensive list of event spaces for small private events in Fort Collins. These venues are ideal for groups of 50 or less and include flexible event spaces, restaurants with private dining rooms, and activity centers. Flexible Event Spaces in Fort Collins  A Social Place Light and airy, well-appointed all-purpose community space
Armstrong Hotel The Library accommodates up to 70 guests; The Parlor is an intimate space for smaller groups; Ace Gillett’s Lounge accommodates 50-80 guests
Cambria Hotel & Suites Fort Collins Offers two event rooms that can be set up in meeting style, classroom style, theater style, or banquet layout
Canvas Stadium Home of the Colorado State University Rams, Canvas Stadium has rooms for companies, organizations, and community events of all sizes
CanyonSide Campground (Bellvue) Unique campground and event center 40 miles northwest of Fort Collins in the Roosevelt National Forest
City of Fort Collins Recreation Facilities A variety of City-owned facilities and activity centers for small and large events
Edwards House Longs Peak Room accommodates up to 14 guests; Montezuma Room accommodates up to 30; Pergola Garden also available for rent, weather permitting
Funkwerks Fun, funky craft brewery off the beaten path
Gardens on Spring Creek A botanical oasis in the heart of Fort Collins and one-of-a-kind venue with multiple, flexible indoor and outdoor event spaces
Gilded Goat Brewing Company (Midtown) Family-owned brewery and taproom with a warm, inviting space
The Golf Club at Fox Acres (Red Feather Lakes) Country club with flexible indoor and outdoor event spaces
Hello Brew Co. Small brewery with a cozy taproom in an old house in downtown Fort Collins
Hilton Fort Collins Close to downtown Fort Collins and Colorado State University; the only rooms in Fort Collins with mountain views
 Homewood Suites by Hilton Fort Collins Upscale event spaces with the comforts of home
Marriott Fort Collins Recently-renovated, flexible event spaces
Otto Pint Local brews and signature pizzas served in an unfussy atmosphere with lots of natural light
Poudre Landmarks Foundation – Carriage House Unique, historic backdrop with lush grounds for small events
Prost Brewing Co. & Biergarten German style beers in a charming, rustic brick building downtown
Ptarmigan Country Club Variety of flexible event spaces available
Rist Canyon Inn – Farmhouse (Laporte) 120-year-old farmhouse and accompanying buildings set among old growth trees, lush golden pastures, and a glistening creek
Wolverine Farm Event Hall accommodates up to 60 guests
Restaurants, Bars, and Breweries With Private Party Rooms in Fort Collins  Austin’s American Grill (Harmony Location)
Avogadro’s Number Music venue, bar, and vegetarian-vegan-friendly American restaurant
Beau Jo’s Colorado pizza chain with die-hard fans
Bistro Nautile Seafood restaurant with a focus on French-influenced food using farm-fresh ingredients
BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse Semi-private area accommodates 50-70 guests
Blind Pig Pub and grub with vegetarian options and live music
Blue Agave Grill Two semi-private party areas accommodate 20-25 guests each
Brothers Bar & Grill Laid-back bar and grill with private and semi-private event options
 Cafe Vino Restaurant with a focus on fresh, organic, locally-sourced ingredients, featuring local craft beers, over 200 wines, and decadent pastries
The Colorado Room Can accommodate 50-60 guests
Coopersmith’s Pub and Brewing Onsite brewery and English pub paired with an American dining experience
The Crown Pub Private basement accommodates 60-70 guests
Cups Community Coffee Locally owned and operated coffee shop serving delicious drinks and fresh food
The Emporium American Brasserie offering warm, approachable hospitality in an energetic space – emphasis on fresh, regional ingredients and an extensive wine list
Farmhouse at Jessup Farm The Farmhouse can host events for 10-100 guests
The Forge Publick House Craft beer bar with a warm atmosphere and a large, colorful patio
 Ginger & Baker The Teaching Kitchen seats up to 30 guests; The Wine Cellar seats up to 48; The Mill Top accommodates 50-90 guests
HuHot Mongolian Grill Two semi-private party rooms; each accommodates up to 10 guests
Illegal Pete’s Rooftop and indoor space available for private events
Jax Fish House Upscale chain serving gourmet seafood dishes and creative cocktails in a relaxed, stylish setting
Little On Mountain Fun neighborhood eatery for brunch and supper
 Magic Rat at The Elizabeth Hotel Offbeat and unique live music venue with food and drinks
Mas Fuegos Casual Mexican eatery known for happy hour bites and vegetarian options
Maxline Brewing Locally owned, family-run brewery and tasting room in midtown Fort Collins
Maya Cove Bar and grill with casual fare and die-hard fans
The Mayor of Old Town Nationally recognized full bar and restaurant that specializes in craft beer
The Melting Pot Private, intimate tables and rooms available
Moot House Modern English pub fare and local craft beers served in cozy quarters with fireplaces
New Belgium Brewing Classic Fort Collins brewery with lots of indoor and outdoor space
Nick’s Restaurant & Bar Semi-private function room and patio available for events
Odell Brewing and OBC Wine Project Well-known brewery with draft microbrews, beautiful patio and mountain views
Oregano’s Family-friendly neighborhood joint serving tasty Chicago pizzas and Italian dishes
 Pour Brothers Community Tavern Fun, relaxing environment with local beer, craft cocktails, and unforgettable bites
Purpose Brewing and Cellars Rustic brewery with a unique vibe and intimate space
Rally5 Local crafted eats including gourmet burgers, power bowls, mac and cheese, and salads
Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant Delicious TexMex and margaritas in downtown Fort Collins
Simmer Relaxed neighborhood eatery for hearty American classics, beer, wine, and cocktails
Smokin’ Fins Regional restaurant concept featuring a unique menu of seafood, sushi, and BBQ
Sonny Lubick Steakhouse Locally owned fine dining restaurant
Stodgy Brewing Company Friendly neighborhood brewery and taproom with a unique atmosphere
Sunset Lounge at The Elizabeth Hotel Intimate, elegant indoor rooftop lounge in downtown Fort Collins
Timnath Beerwerks (Timnath) Authentic, one-of-a-kind northern Colorado beer experience in the historic Timnath Feed & Grain Building.
Tony’s Bar and Rooftop TV, billiards, and other bar staples in an industrial space
 The Whisk(e)y Pub grub, hundreds of whiskeys, and live music in a warm atmosphere with leather booths
415 Updated American classic restaurant with multiple event spaces available
Activities for Private Events in Fort Collins  Ascent Studio Rock climbing and fitness facility
Board & Brush Creative Studio DIY project and painting studio with beer and wine offering wood sign painting parties
Chipper’s Lanes Horsetooth Activity center with bowling, laser tag, pool, volleyball, and a full restaurant and bar
Cinemark Movie theater with private watch parties and birthday parties
City of Fort Collins Pottery Studio Educational and recreational facility offering diverse classes, activities, and opportunities for all ages; participants learn a wide variety of basic clay techniques
Color Me Mine Paint-your-own ceramics studio
The Cooking Studio A place where amateur cooks, aspiring young chefs, teams, families, and friends come to learn, explore, and unleash their inner chef
The Dinner Detective Murder mystery dinner experience
Fly High Trampoline Park Amusement center with trampolines, indoor soft play, foam pit, indoor basketball court, and dodgeball court
Fort Collins Escape Room Premier escape room experiences - 3 experiences available
Fort Fun Massive family-friendly, lakeside recreation center with mini-golf, go-karts, batting cages, a skating rink, and much more
Looking Glass Escape Lounge Exciting escape rooms featuring a bar and lounge
Old Town Putt Indoor mini golf course and bar for 21+ parties
 Painting With a Twist Have a night out sipping, socializing, and creating
Pinot’s Palette Upscale painting and wine experience
Rollerland Skate Center Family-friendly activity center with roller rink, laser tag maze, indoor playground, and arcade
Somewhere Secret Escape Room Explore the room and complete puzzles to find the treasure chest at the highest-rated escape room in Colorado
Urban Air Adventure Park Indoor adventure park with playground, climbing hill, climbing walls, dodgeball, Go Karts, trampolines, rope course, virtual reality, warrior course, Slam Dunk Zone, and giant inflatable airbag
 X-Golf Premier indoor golf and entertainment venue
830 North – Chipper’s Lanes Activity center featuring bowling, laser tag, arcade, pool, volleyball, and a full restaurant and bar
For help planning your event and day-of coordination, book the northern Colorado experts at BIG DEAL Company. We take on the behind-the-scenes stress, so you can enjoy your event. For business and private event tips and ideas, follow BIG DEAL on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. As a collective of experts, BIG DEAL Company specializes in creativity. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns!
BIG DEAL Company makes business personal by bringing JOY to the job in everything we do. As purveyors of fun with BIG DEAL, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Serving Colorado & Wyoming. We travel too! Contact BIG DEAL Company *** Bringing Joy to the Job *** Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us Disclosure: *All content produced by My Big Day; DBA Big Deal Company, including websites and content, are the property of My Big Day LLC and protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. You may not copy, reproduce, distribute, transmit, modify, create derivative works, or in any other way exploit any part of our materials without the prior written permission from My Big Day LLC It is a time-honored tradition in Loveland, Colorado! The Valentine card, verse and cache contest! Get your submissions in for a chance to be forever memorialized in the nation's Sweetheart City! Details below sent on behalf of the Loveland Chamber of Commerce.  2025 VALENTINE CARD AND VERSE AND CACHET CONTEST SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS Deadline: 5 p.m., Fri. November 8, 2024 Card verse requirements: one 4-line verse or two 4-line verses (8 lines maximum); ‘City of Loveland’ or ‘Sweetheart City’ must be referenced in a line of the verse; romantic, sentimental or humorous content; typed or neatly printed. Card design requirements: finished folded size of 4 ⅝” x 6 ¼”; no color restrictions other than it must be able to be printed on a 4-color press; may be cut out, embossed, bordered, etc.; only original art will be accepted (copyrights will be checked prior); design theme carried throughout card; single- or multi-folded; can submit rough draft but camera-ready art required for printing at cost of entrant; all types of art accepted as long as quality can be maintained when printed through digital press. Cachet verse requirements: 4-line maximum; ‘City of Loveland’ or ‘Sweetheart City’ must be referenced in a line of the verse; typed or neatly printed; each verse must be submitted separately with name, daytime and evening phone numbers, complete address and email address. Cachet design requirements: dimensions of 3” x 1 ¼”; rough draft acceptable; camera-ready art for printing; only original non-copyright art accepted; year must be somewhere in design; Loveland, CO must also appear in design; all types of art accepted if quality can be maintained when printed through digital press. Each person can submit multiple entries for all contests, if each separate entry includes name, phone number, complete address and email address. The submission deadline for the card, cachet and cancellation contests is 5 p.m., Friday Nov. 8, 2024. To submit entries, drop off or mail them to 5400 Stone Creek Circle Suite 200, Loveland, CO 80538, or email them to [email protected]. Questions can be directed to (970) 744-4791. Chosen designs and verses will be incorporated into the card and cachet, which will be unveiled in January 2025. The valentine card is sold throughout northern Colorado through select retailers and will be available for sale immediately after it is unveiled. The chosen cachet design and verse will be used to produce the official cachet that is stamped on all outgoing valentines that come through the 79th Annual Valentine Re-mailing Program, which kicks off on January 7, 2025. The cachet verse appears inside the cachet design. The completed cachet is reproduced on rubber stamps and used to handstamp the envelope of each valentine card re-mailed from Loveland. It is also printed on the envelope of the 2025 official Loveland Valentine card. Winners of the card and cachet contests are awarded cash prizes and become part of Loveland’s history. In partnership with the Loveland Post Office, the Loveland Chamber stamps its special Sweetheart City cachet on approximately 100,000 valentine cards that arrive in Loveland each year. The cachet is hand stamped on each valentine and re-mail them to their final destinations that include more than 100 countries around the globe and all 50 states. Loveland Chamber of Commerce Contact: Deanna Sloat [email protected] 
Why Event Planning is One of the Most Stressful Jobs in the World The High-Stress World of Event Planning Event planning has consistently ranked as one of the most stressful jobs in the world. It frequently appears in lists highlighting the top five of high-stress careers, alongside professions involving life-or-death decisions such as firefighting and healthcare. While event planning may not deal with direct physical danger, the immense mental and emotional strain of the job can be quite overwhelming. Event planners are responsible for coordinating numerous moving parts, managing multiple stakeholders, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly. Even the smallest mistake can lead to major disruptions, creating intense pressure in a “one and done” situation. Whether it’s a corporate conference, wedding, or large-scale public event, the stakes are high, and the stress levels reflect that. Research consistently highlights the unique demands of the job, with many surveys recognizing event planning as one of the most anxiety-inducing careers worldwide.  The Unpredictable Nature of Event Planning A key factor contributing to the stress of event planning is its unpredictable nature. From weather disruptions to last-minute changes in client preferences, planners must remain flexible and quick on their feet. This unpredictability means that event planners can never truly relax until the event concludes successfully. Any unforeseen issue, such as a vendor failing to deliver on time or technical problems with audiovisual setups, can lead to elevated anxiety levels. Managing these unexpected challenges while still delivering a perfect event experience is difficult. Planners must often troubleshoot on the go, making quick decisions to prevent any negative impact on the event’s outcome.  Post-Covid Challenges in Event Planning The COVID-19 pandemic introduced new stressors to an already demanding industry. Following this worldwide disruption, event planners now face higher costs in several areas, including audiovisual equipment, beverage services, and most deeply felt, food. Some of these costs have risen by over 20% compared to pre-pandemic levels. This financial burden is particularly stressful for planners working on tight budgets - especially those who have been charged to plan large-scale fundraisers for nonprofits and service groups. With senior leadership and Board of Directors demanding profitable events, planners are left in a tough spot - they must meet expectations without compromising on quality or attendee experiences. Adding to this pressure is the challenge of reduced revenues and attendance. Many organizations report that their event income has fallen significantly since 2019, yet planners are still expected to deliver exceptional experiences despite fewer resources - “do more with less”. This has produced a perfect storm of rising costs and reduced incomes, creating an environment ripe for stress and anxiety.  Beyond the state of events in the aftermath of COVID-19, there are many other reasons why your favorite event planner is a ball of stress:
 A Rewarding Yet Stressful Career Path Event planning is undeniably one of the most stressful jobs in the world, but it can also be one of the most rewarding. The ability to turn a vision into reality, create memorable experiences, and contribute to an event’s success brings immense satisfaction. However, the journey to that successful moment can often be filled with challenges, stress, and BIG pressure. The key to surviving and thriving in this industry is to find ways to manage stress through proper planning, the use of technology, and seeking support from a reliable team of vendors. At Big Deal Company, we understand these challenges, which is why our team of professional event planners is equipped with diverse skills to ensure that every event runs smoothly. Our collaborative approach helps us support one another, share the workload, craft creative touches and solutions, and eliminate much of the stress that comes with high-stakes events. With our experienced team at the helm, our clients can rest assured that their event will be successful and stress-free.  Want to work with Big Deal to create memorable and stress-free events? We’re here to help you elevate your next event and leave a lasting impact on your audience. Contact us today for a consultation: 970-613-1455 Be sure to follow us on social media for the latest updates, event highlights, and inspiration: YouTube Let’s create something amazing together!  As a collective of experts, BIG DEAL Company specializes in creativity. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns!
BIG DEAL Company makes business personal by bringing JOY to the job in everything we do. As purveyors of fun with BIG DEAL, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Serving Colorado & Wyoming. We travel too! Contact BIG DEAL Company *** Bringing Joy to the Job *** Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us Disclosure: *All content produced by My Big Day; DBA Big Deal Company, including websites and content, are the property of My Big Day LLC and protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. You may not copy, reproduce, distribute, transmit, modify, create derivative works, or in any other way exploit any part of our materials without the prior written permission from My Big Day LLC |
About BIG DEALMaking Business Personal. We pride ourselves on giving you something to look forward to. We are a connected collective of creatives - owned and operated by outstanding women. Archives
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My Big Day dba Big Deal Company 2006-2025 www.BigDealCompany.com www.MyBigDayCompany.com
970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 EMAIL US
We serve the entire Front Range; Denver, Southern Wyoming, the CO Mountains, and Northern Colorado: Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor, Berthoud, Estes Park, Lyons, Longmont, Boulder, Wellington, Johnstown, Evans, Severance, Timnath, Mead, Frederick, Firestone, Milliken
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