You've booked the venue, lined up the speakers, and polished your PowerPoint transitions like they're Oscar-worthy. But here's the million-dollar question: Will anyone actually show up? If your RSVP list is looking more like a sad grocery receipt than a blockbuster guest list, don't panic. Let's crank up your event attendance with these 10 clever marketing tricks.

1. Create a Sense of Urgency
Let's face it—humans are deadline junkies. If you say "register anytime," people will forget to register at all.  Add a countdown, slap on an "Early Bird Ends Soon!" tag, or whisper "limited seats."  Watch that FOMO do its magic.
 
2. Highlight Transformational Outcomes
Nobody wakes up thinking, "Wow, I hope today's event helps me slightly improve at spreadsheets." Paint the big picture. What will attendees become after your event? The smarter, savvier version of themselves? Spell it out like it's a movie trailer for their future.
 
3. Leverage Social Proof
You could shout from the rooftops about how great your event is—or just let someone else do it for you. Flash those glowing testimonials, past event pics, or a humble brag like "500+ marketers can't be wrong." Because in 2025, reviews are the new resume.
 
4. Target Audience Pain Points
Spoiler: People attend events to solve problems, make connections, and show support. If your audience is drowning in the analytics, doesn't understand, or is struggling to convert leads, call it out—then throw them a lifeline. Make them feel seen, and then show how your event is the hero they didn't know they needed.
 
5. Use Engaging Storytelling
Humans love stories. Charts? Not so much. Share a tale of someone who went from a confused newbie to an empowered expert, thanks to your event or organization. Bonus points for drama, humor, and a satisfying arc. This isn't just content—it's content with a vavoom.

​6. Offer Exclusive Incentives
People love to feel special. Create a VIP tier, sneak in a "by-invitation-only" networking lounge, or include a gift bag that doesn't suck. People line up for the handshake when you make attendance feel like joining a secret club.
 
7. Utilize Multi-Platform Campaigns
You wouldn't propose on the first date, so don't expect one Instagram post to seal the deal. Email it. Boost it. Tweet it. LinkedIn the heck out of it. Be politely persistent until your audience dreams about your event in their sleep.
 
8. Incorporate Visual Contrast
Gray text on a beige background? Groundbreaking. (Not.) Use bold colors, sharp images, and headlines that punch through the scroll. You want your ad to look like the Beyoncé of the feed—unignorable.
 
9. Clarify Benefits with a Clear CTA
If your call-to-action sounds like a TED Talk, rewrite it. "Click here to register" isn't Shakespeare, but it works. Lay out what attendees get and make that "Register Now" button shine.
 
10. Tap Into Emotions and Logic
Lead with the feels—"Grow your confidence. Network with people who get it."—then back it up with facts like, "98% of attendees say they'd come back." You're appealing to both the heart and the spreadsheet.
 
So, if you're ready to transform your event from a "maybe" to a "must-attend," it's time to call in the pros. Enter BIG DEAL Company—a powerhouse of creativity and precision. With a knack for turning visions into unforgettable experiences, we specialize in making your event the talk of the town. Visit bigdealcompany.com and let the magic begin.

This year’s Easter Keg Hunts were nothing short of legendary. From bunny ears to tricky clues, local brews to photo-worthy moments, Northern Colorado once again showed up and showed out for a beloved spring-time tradition!

​A Tradition that Hops OnWhat began as a birthday celebration for Big Deal CEO, Christine, 17 years ago has since evolved into a can’t-miss annual event across Fort Collins and Loveland. Fittingly, this year’s Fort Collins hunt actually landed on Christine’s actual birthday - a full-circle moment that made the day even more special. The Easter Keg Hunt blends a fun downtown scavenger hunt with an elevated bar crawl, creating a unique way to connect with local businesses and the community. It’s free for the businesses to participate (not a bad way to have increased foot traffic for a day!). This year, both cities brought the energy, creativity, and spirit that make this event so fun!
 
Fort Collins Hunt Highlights - April 12
The Fort Collins leg kicked off on our favorite downtown patio at Avogadro’s Number. Teams received their first clue here and quickly darted off to their first stop. They worked to unravel creative and tricky clues throughout the afternoon. One multi-step puzzle led teams to a notorious local statue before directing them to Hydrate IV Bar - a clever twist that kept egg seekers on their toes!
 
14 enthusiastic teams zigzagged through 13 fantastic local spots, including Brother’s Bar, Burn Candle Bar, The Emporium at The Elizabeth Hotel, and more. Stops like Sugar Salt Sand and Salt Road Brewery brought vibrant energy, while The Hot Sauce Realm brought the heat - literally! Teams ran through downtown in colorful costumes, themed outfits, and full-on fun!

After hours of clue solving, photo snapping, and bar hopping, the final destination was revealed: Pour Brothers. The cheers, clinks, and storytelling that followed cemented this year’s Fort Collins hunt as one for the books!

FORT COLLINS STATS:
Photos by Dick Knapp Photography
Kick-Off Location: Avogadro’s Number
Stops:
Brother’s Bar
The Hot Sauce Realm
Burn Candle Bar
The Emporium at The Elizabeth Hotel
Paul Wood Florist
Vella Terra (in Old Town Square)
Trailhead Tavern
Hydrate IV Bar
Salt Road Brewing
Sugar Salt Sand
The Corner Slice
Ending Location: Pour Bros
Winning Team: Yellow Team

​Loveland Hunt Highlights - April 19
Loveland’s weather threw in a surprise twist with a blanket of snow the day before kick-off. But by Saturday, the clouds parted and the sun shone bright - just in time for nine excited teams to take it to the streets!
 
Starting at Backyard Tap, this year’s route wound through 14 downtown businesses, including B Sweet Cupcakes, SliceNRoll Pizza, The Flipside, and Wicked Tequila Room. From bar lounges to floral shops and interactive games at the Vella Terra stop, every location added its own flavor to the experience

The hunt wrapped up at 477 Distillery, where teams cheered each other and the craft cocktails flowed! Loveland delivered a perfectly blended mix of community and high-spirited fun, outshining the snowy start!
 
LOVELAND STATS:
Photos by Jen West Photography
Starting Location: The Backyard Tap
Stops:
Loveland Aleworks
B Sweet Cupcakes
Jack Jacks
Scripted
The Flipside
SliceNRoll
Wicked Tequila Room
Mead Kreiger
120 Bar
Vella Terra (near the Loveland Museum)
Tee Shots
Wild Posies
Ending Spot: 477 Distillery
Winning Team: Yellow

​17 Years of Hoppy Memories
The Easter Keg Hunt has officially become a Big Deal in Northern Colorado. What started as a playful birthday idea has grown into a beloved tradition that connects people, celebrates local businesses, and encourages a little friendly competition (and a lot of laughs!). With new clues, new businesses, and new memories each year, this event continues to be a favorite! (Flashback photo below from 2016)

​Thank You & See You Next Year!A huge shoutout to every team that participated, every business that hosted, and every individual who helped make this year’s Easter Keg Hunt unforgettable! Whether it was your first time or your fifteenth, we’re already counting down the days to next year’s event.
 
FAQs
WHAT IS THE EASTER KEG HUNT?
A clue-based scavenger hunt through local businesses, combining puzzles, bar hopping, and fun!
 
HOW CAN I PARTICIPATE NEXT YEAR?
Follow the Easter Keg Hunt on social media and sign up for the Big Deal Newsletter for announcements and event dates.
 
ARE COSTUMES ENCOURAGED?
Absolutely! The more festive, the better! Bunny ears, team themes, and wild outfits are all part of the fun.
 
HOW CAN BUSINESSES GET INVOLVED?
Local businesses interested in participating can reach out to get on the route. We typically send out “feelers” in January via email, direct mail, and phone calls - ANSWER THE CALL to be on next year’s route! We guarantee increased foot traffic to your location during this event, and many players come back after the event.

Real Talk on AI in Event Planning
As an event planning and marketing business committed to staying at the forefront of industry trends, Big Deal Company has spent a lot of time analyzing the use of AI in all of our work. New tools? New trends? We are all about it! But sometimes, it is helpful to hit the pause button, particularly when it comes to AI.
 
Don’t get us wrong - AI has some amazing uses. It can streamline a schedule, crunch data like a champ, and it is a helpful tool in brainstorming creative ideas and jumping off points. But when it comes to planning real-life events with real-life logistics (and budgets!).... Let’s just say there are some major reality checks happening.
​
When AI Inspo Gets Out of Hand
Let’s start with what’s driving planners and creatives a little nuts these days. Clients are coming in with AI-generated “inspo” pics that oftentimes look like they were ripped straight from a sci-fi fantasy - literally impossible to pull off.
 
We’re talking about extravagant chandeliers hanging from glass ceilings, flower walls defying gravity, hair that could only exist in a wind-free world. Wedding planners, stylists, and even plastic surgeons are all saying the same thing: AI is warping expectations, and it’s putting professionals in a tough spot.
 
One wedding consultant told The Washington Post she lost a five-figure gig just for saying, “Hey, maybe the Met Gala look isn’t in your $10K budget.” Ouch.

​AI Can Be Smart - But It’s Not Creative Like a Human
AI is a powerful tool for streamlining schedules and analyzing data - but it doesn’t get the vibe or vision of an event the way humans do. An AI tool might say, “Great, let’s do a Gatsby-themed party,” without realizing that you’ve already had three Gatsby parties in your circle this year - and everyone’s over it.
 
Events aren’t just schedules and color palettes - they’re emotions, energy, and connection. And you need humans to truly get that. AI-generated ideas often result in uninspiring and generic event themes, missing the emotional resonance that human planners provide.
 
Misinformation is a Real Risk
Another AI issue? AI sometimes just makes stuff up. These are often called “hallucinations,” and they’re a big deal in event planning. Imagine putting the wrong location on invites or promising a feature that doesn’t even exist - just because AI spit it out. One wrong detail and you’re dealing with big chaos on the big day.
 
For example, we ran event information for one of our clients through a design app’s AI feature to create an event poster, and this is what it spit out:

The AI-description it provided for the poster read: “A vibrant poster announcing a book release party for 'Brewed at Altitude' hosted by Mulberry Max on May 3rd. The design features a stylized illustration of a mountain range with a steaming mug of beer superimposed, set against a backdrop of sunset hues. The text ‘Brewed at Altitude Book Release Party’ is prominently displayed in a bold, elegant serif font, with supporting text detailing the event: a lecture by Colorado historians and authors and local brewery tastings. The overall style is clean, modern, and visually appealing, incorporating elements of vintage poster design.”
 
A steaming mug of beer? Misspelling? Yikes! However, on a serious note, AI missed the boat on date, time, and location. Some of that is in the design, but it is not very clear and certainly not on brand.
 
Let’s Talk About Data Privacy (Because It’s a Big Deal at Big Events)
Like we’ve already said - AI can help support large projects, whipping up personalized itineraries, automating customer service, and even generating slick marketing designs with a few pitfalls (reread that last section). However, we can’t ignore the elephant in the ballroom: data privacy.
 
When you’re planning large-scale conferences or corporate events, you’re collecting a lot of attendee data - everything from dietary restrictions to session behavior to professional affiliations. That’s a goldmine of information - and a massive responsibility to safeguard.
 
Real talk: The moment you feed that data into an AI tool, you’ve got to ask some serious questions. Who else can access it? Where is it stored? How is it used? And are you absolutely sure it’s secure?
 
Real tip: Don’t input sensitive information into just any AI app - especially not public ones. And when using tools like ChatGPT for creative stuff, keep your prompts super generic. That marketing headline? Go ahead. Internal attendee data or budget details? Steer clear.
 
If you’re managing a big event, think of AI as a helpful assistant. Great at sorting information and handling tasks - but not someone you hand the keys to the vault. Protect your attendees. Protect your organization. And be smart about how you use the technology.
 
It’s Not Cheap Either
AI is not always the budget-friendly solution it’s hyped up to be. There are a lot of free or low-cost AI tools floating around, but when you’re looking at scalable, secure, and truly effective AI for event planning - especially for corporate meetings and conferences - you’re entering serious investment territory.
 
For example, custom AI-powered event apps. Between development, software licenses, integrations, testing, and ongoing maintenance, you could easily be looking at a $25,000 - $50,000 price tag. That’s before you even account for team training, cybersecurity compliance, or system upgrades. Ouch!
 
The big takeaway? AI can definitely be powerful, but it’s not plug-and-play on a shoestring budget. You need a solid strategy and wallet to make it work without compromising on security, creativity, or control.

Take it from our 3-handed AI generated team member below.

​The Bottom Line: Keep It Real
At Big Deal Company, we love innovation. But we also love reality. While AI can be super helpful behind the scenes, it’s not ready to take over event planning yet. Your dream day, launch party, or corporate bash deserves ideas that are doable, creative, and crafted by professionals who get it.
 
So - bring the AI inspo if you want - we’ll help you filter it through what is actually possible. Because when it comes to planning an unforgettable event, the human touch still wins every time.
 
Want to see some fantastic human-created events in action? Visit our website and see how Big Deal Company can make your event dreams come true. You can stay on top of all of the latest event trends and local event calendars by signing up for our monthly newsletter. You can also find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

​Spring is in the air along Colorado’s Front Range, with longer days, warm weather, and spring events in full swing! This season, event décor is bursting with bold personality, sustainable flair, and immersive design. Whether you’re styling a wedding, corporate event, or nonprofit fundraiser, the vibe is intentional, joyful, and maximalist.
 
Here are 10 spring 2025 event décor trends and themes our team at BIG DEAL Company predicts will take center stage this season:

Sustainable luxe
 
Sustainability is no longer a trend – it’s an expectation. Spring 2025 events are embracing “green glam,” with upcycled décor, biodegradable confetti, and menus and tablescapes sourced from local farms – presented with high-end flair. Reclaimed wood signage, dried floral backdrops, and reusable fabric signage also give a luxe look with less waste.
 
Maximalist florals
 
In case you hadn’t guessed it from the “joyful and maximalist vibe,” minimalist greens are making way for big, bright florals. Wild color palettes, dyed pampas grass, and large-scale designs are all trending. Whether your budget allows for some bright accent blooms placed strategically throughout your space, or floor-to-ceiling installations, you can create an inviting and memorable experience for guests with bold, bright choices.
 
Textured minimalism
 
If minimalism is more suited to the tone of your event, tactile upgrades elevate the guest experience without the noise of in-your-face décor. Linen-wrapped chairs, raw-edge napkins, candle holders in natural materials, and ceramic serveware lend a variety of textures and blend well with eco-friendly luxe.
 
Oversized everything
 
This spring, you’re free to go big or go home when it comes to décor. From 8-foot floral sculptures to mega balloon arches, we’ve already seen some over-the-top examples of maximalist statements this spring. Large-scale installations double as photo backdrops and conversation starters at personal and business events alike.

Bold color
 
Why pick one pop of color when you can go all in? Color drenching – using a single bold hue in various tones and textures across décor – is stealing the spotlight. Think canary yellow lounges, marigold florals, amber lighting, and citrus-tinted cocktails to match.
 
Immersive stories
 
If your budget allows for it, guests are craving more than a party – they want to step into another world at your event. From Bridgerton-inspired garden soirees to sci-fi speakeasies, immersive themed experiences will dominate, with lighting, scent, and sound creating 360-degree atmospheres. This all-encompassing décor pairs well with the continuing micro-event trend, where hosts spend more per guest with a small guest count.
 
Seasonal, local tablescapes
 
In line with the spring season and with sustainability, seasonal, local menus and tabletop décor are on trend. Guests want an event that reflects what’s happening locally outdoors. Serve crisp, refreshing fare, and create a live tablescape with wildflowers or locally-grown blooms. Moss runners and fresh herb centerpieces create a fresh look that engages the senses without breaking the budget.
 
Glass gardens
 
The “glass gardens” theme embraces eco-luxe, bold florals, and the transparent trend all in one. Glass décor is blooming across table settings, installations, and even floral displays. Picture glass orbs filled with moss, hanging terrariums, and mirrored tabletops that reflect candlelight at golden hour.

Micro zones
 
Continuing a trend from previous years, events are being broken into small environments, called micro-zones, with their own mood lighting and themes. One area may glow with warm Edison bulbs for cocktails, another with pastel projection mapping for dining. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure experience with enhanced intimacy for your guests.
 
Hybrid and micro-events
 
With all of these décor trends and themes, hybrid and micro-events continue. Smaller guest counts allow for higher personalization. Multiple mini-events in one are on trend: a tasting garden, silent disco lounge, interactive branding booth, and live-streamed Q&A – all tailored for both in-person and virtual guests. These events involve a high spend per guest and aim to create a highly memorable, personalized experience for key players; think VIP customers or dream donors.
 
Let’s bring your vision to life. At BIG DEAL Company, we specialize in creative events with trend-driven design, rooted in strategy, catered to your budget. Whether you’re hosting 50 or 5,000, we have the experience to curate events that feel effortless, engaging, and meaningful.
 
For marketing and event news and tips, subscribe to the BIG DEAL newsletter! (see bottom of home page)

17th Annual Easter Keg Hunt (2025)
Special thanks Dick Knapp Photography!
1st Place: Yellow Team
2nd Place: Pastel Purple Team
​3rd Place: White Team

Thank you to our participating 2025 businesses:  Avogadros, Brothers Bar, The Hot Sauce Realm, Burn Candle Bar, The Emporium, Paul Wood Florist,VellaTerra, Trailhead Tavern, Hydrate IV Bar, Salt Road Brewing, Sugar Salt Sand,
​The Corner Slice, Pour Brothers

​Fort Collins, CO  April 12, 2025

Thank you to our friends at KDVR for celebrating the JOY the Easter Keg Hunt brings to adults, our community and small businesses in Colorado!
*supporting Animal Friends Alliance

​At Big Deal Company, we believe business should be personal - and joyful! We’re a collective of creatives, marketers, and event professionals who thrive on collaboration, original ideas, and bringing a touch of magic to every event or campaign we take on. Beyond our collective brainstorming sessions and big-scale productions, there is one thing that grounds everything we do: COMMUNITY.
 
That’s why our almost decade-long partnership with Animal Friends Alliance is more than just a sponsorship - it’s a shared mission.

​For nearly ten years, Big Deal Company has proudly supported Animal Friends Alliance through our annual Easter Keg Hunt, where a portion of the proceeds is donated to help provide care, shelter, and forever homes for animals in need. What began as a fun community event has quickly become a meaningful tradition for our team. It’s one way we blend our love for creative and joyful experiences with our passion for giving back and supporting our communities.

​And it’s not just our company that’s pet-obsessed - our team members are too! (Scroll down to see a few of our four-legged coworkers in action.) Whether we’re organizing large-scale events or refining marketing strategies, many of our brightest ideas have come with a purring cat in our lap or a pup curled under the desk!
 
As a BizPaw sponsor, we’re honored to support an organization that embodies the values we hold close: compassion, connection, and care. Animal Friends Alliance does incredible work to ensure animals in our community are safe, healthy, and loved - and we’re grateful to play a small part in that mission.
 

​Our team at Big Deal Company specializes in:

• Strategic Communications
• Immersive Experiences
• Community-driven Campaigns

We’re more than just an events and marketing company - we’re purveyors of fun, creative problem-solvers, and we count ourselves lucky to be a part of Northern Colorado’s vibrant community. Whether it’s crafting a high-impact marketing plan or designing a one-of-a-kind celebration, we bring the same energy, enthusiasm, and precision to every project.
 
To learn more about how we can help your business or next BIG idea come to life, visit us at www.BigDealCompany.com.
 
Together with Animal Friends Alliance and partners across our communities, we’re building something bigger than business - we’re building joy, one connection at a time.

During times of economic uncertainty, our first instinct is to look for ways to cut costs to keep our businesses afloat. While this might seem like a logical step to conserve resources, reducing marketing efforts during a downturn can actually do more harm than good.
 
In reality, continuing to invest in marketing during tough times can provide businesses with a competitive advantage, build brand loyalty, and position them for long-term success – just ask Procter & Gamble, who notoriously doubled down on marketing efforts when the COVID-19 pandemic hit and saw revenues surge compared with their competitors.’
 
Here’s why investing in marketing during times of uncertainty is more important than ever:

​Maintain visibility while competitors disappear
When businesses cut back on marketing, they also reduce their visibility to potential customers. If your competitors scale back their marketing efforts but you remain active, your brand becomes more prominent. Procter & Gamble benefitted precisely because other Fortune 500 companies went dark when the pandemic caused massive market uncertainty.
Customers who continue to search for products and services will see your company first, helping you gain market share that might have otherwise gone to your competition.

Build brand trust and loyalty
During economic downturns, consumers are more selective about where they spend their money. Businesses that continue to communicate with their audience, provide value, and demonstrate stability will build trust.
When people see that your company is still present and engaging with customers despite economic hardships, they are more likely to view you as a reliable and trustworthy choice – worthy of spending their hard-earned dollars.

Take advantage of lower advertising costs
Marketing channels, including digital advertising, social media promotions, and traditional media, often see lower costs during economic downturns. With fewer companies competing for ad space, businesses that continue advertising can benefit from reduced costs per click, impression, or placement. This means you can achieve better reach and engagement while spending less than you would in a strong economy.

Position your business for recovery
Economic downturns don’t last forever. When the economy rebounds, businesses that maintained their marketing efforts will be in a much stronger position than those that went dark. An unnamed client recently saw calls from new customers decline by 82% within 5 months of cutting marketing services due to uncertainty.

Keeping your brand at the forefront of consumers’ minds ensures that when they are ready to spend again, they will think of you first.

Strengthen customer relationships
Marketing isn’t just about selling – it’s about building relationships. During uncertain times, customers appreciate brands that provide valuable information, offer solutions, and show empathy. Content marketing, email campaigns, and social media engagement allow businesses to stay connected with their audience in a meaningful way, fostering long-term loyalty.
​

Adapt and innovate for changing consumer needs
Economic shifts often bring changes in consumer behavior. Companies that continue investing in marketing can track trends, gather data, and adjust their strategies accordingly. Whether it’s shifting to more digital channels, offering promotions, or refining messaging, staying active allows businesses to adapt to customer needs in real time.
 
During recessions, successful marketing can lead to increased market share, as seen with Starbucks, McDonald's, and Hyundai, who adapted their strategies to capitalize on consumer behavior shifts and maintain or grow their market position. 
Here's a breakdown of how these brands, successfully navigated recessions through smart marketing:

1. Starbucks:

• Context:

During the 2008 financial crisis, Starbucks faced a 28% drop in profits, but they pivoted to focus on building personalized customer relationships and embracing newer technologies like mobile apps. 

• Strategy:

They continued to open new locations, especially abroad (like in China), at a rapid pace, demonstrating a commitment to growth even during tough times. 

• Outcome:

Starbucks became the largest coffee retailer with a 40% market share by 2019. 

2. McDonald's:

• Context:

During the 2008 recession, McDonald's not only managed to stay afloat but also grabbed significant market share from competitors like Burger King and Yum Brands. 

• Strategy:

They implemented a value-focused menu (like the Dollar Menu) and a shrewd marketing strategy that involved taking advantage of cheaper TV ad rates. 

• Outcome:

McDonald's grew in 2008, with sales exceeding both 2006 and 2007, before the financial impact was felt worldwide. 

3. Hyundai:

• Context:

In 2009, the auto industry was struggling, and Hyundai USA strengthened its marketing efforts.

• Strategy:

They invested in Super Bowl and Academy Awards commercial slots and a customer-focused ad campaign.

• Outcome:

Hyundai's market share increased from 3.1% to 4.3%, while competitors experienced a 22% sales drop, and Hyundai increased vehicle sales by 5%. 

While cutting marketing costs may seem like a quick fix to protect your bottom line, it can have long-term consequences. Investing in marketing during economic uncertainty not only helps sustain your business in the present but also prepares you for future growth. The businesses that remain visible, build trust, and adapt to changing circumstances are the ones that emerge stronger when the economy bounces back.

At BIG DEAL Company, we specialize in creating impactful marketing strategies that help businesses thrive – even in challenging times. If you’re looking to maintain momentum and stay ahead of the competition, contact us today to learn how we can support your brand’s growth.

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!