**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**  

BIG DEAL Company Announces Promotion of Carrie Kaufman to Chief Communications Officer

Loveland, CO — November 20, 2024 —  BIG DEAL Company is pleased to announce the promotion of Carrie Kaufman to Chief Communications Officer (CCO), marking a significant milestone in her 10-year tenure with the company. Throughout her time at BIG DEAL, Carrie has been instrumental in driving growth, diversifying service offerings, and successfully launching BIG DEAL's rebranding initiative.
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With extensive experience in non-profit development, marketing, advertising, and events management, combined with her continued professional development and industry expertise, Carrie brings valuable leadership to this new role. Working alongside CEO Christine Forster, she will focus on key initiatives including process optimization, enhanced client engagement, team development, and strategic business growth.
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"We're thrilled to have Carrie step into this pivotal leadership role," said Christine Forster. "Her decade-long commitment to BIG DEAL, focus on community and relationships, and proven track record make her the ideal leader to help guide our company into its next chapter of success."

About BIG DEAL Company
Big Deal Company specializes in comprehensive event planning and marketing communications, offering services like website design, social media management, advertising, PR, logo design, and more. With over 20 years of experience, they focus on supporting small to mid-sized businesses, non-profits, and B2B clients. Their work has significantly impacted businesses, helping raise over $1 million for non-profits annually 2021-2024 and managing 100+ events a year, client websites, and full-circle marketing campaigns.

​The holiday season is here, and for our small business clients, it's a prime time to connect with customers, boost sales, and create memorable brand experiences. As we approach the end of 2024, new trends are shaping how businesses engage with consumers. Here's a look at five holiday marketing trends we’re leveraging to help our BIG DEAL Company small businesses stand out this year.
 
Hyper-Personalized Marketing
 
Consumers now expect more than just generic messages. Personalization is key to catching their attention. Leverage demographic data and customer interactions to send tailored holiday greetings, product or service recommendations, or special discounts based on purchase history.
 
Email campaigns allow you to address potential customers by name; carefully managed email lists mean you can send various emails targeting different customer groups to ensure you’re offering personalized solutions to meet your audience’s needs.

Community and Nonprofit Initiatives
 
Consumers appreciate brands with strong values that give back, and the giving spirit is never stronger than during the holiday season. Use social media to show your audience how you’re giving back this season, and invite them to participate.
 
Hosting a toy drive, supporting a local charity, or donating a portion of sales can deepen customer loyalty and spread goodwill. Consider offering a nonprofit donation at checkout, donating in-kind to nonprofit events, or sponsoring a holiday fundraiser and inviting your followers (customers) to join you.
 
Collaborate on Social Media
 
Collaborating with other small businesses or nonprofits in your area can amplify your reach. Joint promotions, pop-up markets, or cross-promotions on social media are great ways to build community spirit and drive traffic.
 
This collaboration goes hand-in-hand with your support of community initiatives; be sure to mention any sponsorship of local charities and partnerships on initiatives that give back, tagging other small businesses and nonprofits along the way for increased visibility.
 

Holiday-Themed Visuals and Messaging
 
Holiday-themed images and posts are powerful tools for boosting small business marketing during the festive season. These visuals instantly capture the joyful spirit of the holidays, creating an emotional connection with your audience.
 
By aligning your brand with the season’s mood, you can enhance engagement, increase visibility, and keep your business top-of-mind during the holidays. Adding festive imagery to your social media, email campaigns, and website creates a cohesive, celebratory experience that resonates with audiences.
 

Prepare for Increased Customer Care Needs
 
The holiday season often brings a surge in customer inquiries, purchases, and service needs. Think of this as an opportunity. Respond to comments on your social media pages and posts promptly, boosting your credibility and increasing the reach of your content (social platforms put popular posts in front of more people). Each time you respond to a private message on one of your pages, you’re demonstrating your commitment to excellent service; and, every face-to-face interaction can leave a lasting impression.
 
Timely online interactions can turn inquiries into sales opportunities, as many customers use social platforms to seek immediate answers before making purchasing decisions. In a fast-paced digital world, quick responses can set your business apart and help you foster trust and engagement with your audience.
 

The holiday season is a golden opportunity for small businesses to connect with customers in meaningful ways. By staying on top of these trends and tailoring your approach to your audience, you can create a memorable holiday marketing campaign that drives sales and builds loyalty.
Need help bringing your holiday marketing ideas to life? BIG DEAL Company specializes in crafting campaigns that deliver results. Let’s make this holiday season your most successful yet.
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For business marketing news and tips, choose BIG DEAL Company. Follow us on social media for event highlights, creative inspiration, and updates on our latest projects.
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End-of-Year Fundraising Tips for Nonprofits: Maximize Donor Engagement and Donations
When the calendar turns to November, many nonprofits enter one of the most crucial fundraising periods of the year. The holiday spirit, tax benefits, and seasonal giving days create a unique opportunity to drive donations that support mission-driven initiatives. Here are essential year-end fundraising tips to make the most of this giving season and set your nonprofit up for success.

1.    Segment Donor Lists for Targeted Messaging
An effective way to reach donors is by tailoring messages that resonate. Start by pulling your donor lists and segmenting them by factors like donation frequency, donation amount, or specific past campaign involvement. With segmented lists, you can craft personalized messages for each group to increase engagement and the likelihood of donations. For example, you could target major donors with messages about impact-driven milestones and smaller donors with updates about ongoing needs or progress.
 
Benefits of Donor Segmentation:

• Increases Engagement: Personalized messages foster a stronger connection with each group.
• Improves Donation Rates: Targeted appeals are more relevant and impactful.
• Enhances Donor Relationships: Regular, relevant updates make donors feel valued and informed.

 
2.    Review Last Year’s Fundraising Results for SMART Goal Setting
Take a data-driven approach by analyzing previous years’ fundraising performances. Identify which channels (email, social media, direct mail) contributed the most and how different donor segments responded to each campaign. This insight will help you create SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) goals and set predictable outcomes for this year.
 
SMART Goal-Setting Tips:

• Set Specific Revenue Targets: Define the exact amounts you aim to raise through each channel.
• Measure Campaign Success: Determine engagement rates, average donation amount, and donor retention metrics.
• Keep Goals Achievable: Consider resource availability and adjust goals accordingly.

 
3.    Create a Year-End Marketing and Communications Calendar
An organized marketing calendar is essential to manage the complex end-of-year giving season. Include special dates and events, distribution channels, target audience segments, and clear calls to action for each campaign. Assign team members responsible for each action and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate effectiveness.
 
Components to Include in Your Calendar:

• Channels and Distribution Dates: Determine when and where your campaign will be shared.
• Audience Segments: Tailor messaging based on donor demographics or donation history.
• Responsibilities: Assign team members to specific tasks.
• KPIs: Track metrics such as funds raised, email open rates, and social engagement.

 
4.    Send a “Loop-Back” Email to All Donors
A “loop-back” email is an effective way to re-engage previous donors. Send an email to donors who contributed in the past, reminding them of their impact and encouraging them to support your mission again this year. Highlight how last year’s donations were utilized and share stories of success.
 
Why Loop-Back Emails Work:

• Builds a Stronger Donor Connection: Donors appreciate hearing about the results of their contributions.
• Encourages Repeat Giving: Sharing impact stories increases the likelihood of renewed support.
• Easily Customizable: Adapt messages based on each donor segment’s past contributions.

 
5.    Gather Stories to Inspire and Share
Donors respond to real stories of lives changed or community improvement. Gather stories from your beneficiaries, staff, or volunteers that exemplify your organization’s impact. These narratives can be shared through emails, social media, or even a dedicated video campaign to bring your mission to life.
 
How to Use Stories Effectively:

• In Email Campaigns: Include a short story with a strong call to action.
• On Social Media: Share stories with engaging visuals or videos for maximum reach.
• During Events: Feature live or recorded testimonials at fundraising events or holiday galas.

 
6.    Send Thanksgiving Gratitude Messages
Thanksgiving offers a perfect time to express your appreciation to all of your generous donors. Utilize “You” language in messages to all of your donors, thanking them for their contributions throughout the year - “Because of You”, “Your Kindness….”, “Your support has made a difference”. This message doesn’t need to or shouldn’t ask for a donation. Expressing gratitude fosters goodwill and reinforces the donors’ sense of purpose and impact.
 
Ideas for a Gratitude Campaign:

• Personalized Emails: Address donors by their name and reference specific campaigns they supported throughout the year. (This is why segmenting your donors is so helpful!)
• Thank-You Videos or Voice Recordings: Share a video message from your organization’s leaders or those impacted by donations. You can also change up your donation thank you’s with a recorded greeting sent as an attachment - these can be highly personal with messages directly from the Executive or Development Director.
• Social Media Shoutouts: Publicly thank donors or recognize notable contributions on all of your social media channels.

​7.    Secure a Matching Gift Opportunity
Donor matches are a powerful way to maximize contributions, as many donors are motivated by the potential to double their impact. Work with major donors or corporate sponsors to set up a matching gift for year-end giving campaigns. Highlight this match in all promotional materials to encourage giving.
 
Matching Gift Tips:

• Highlight the Urgency: Communicate that contributions will be matched only for a limited time.
• Emphasize Impact: Explain how matched gifts significantly amplify impact.
• Share Progress: Update donors on the progress toward the match to encourage contributions.

 
8.    Set Up a Peer-to-Peer Holiday Giving Campaign
Peer-to-peer fundraising engages your supporters in promoting your cause within their personal networks, expanding your reach organically. Equip volunteers, board members, and loyal donors with the tools they need to run mini-campaigns on your behalf. Provide sample social posts and email templates to make it easy for them to ask friends and family for support.
 
Peer-to-Peer Campaign Tips:

• Create Fundraiser Kits: Provide social media assets and email or phone scripts for participants.
• Encourage Friendly Competition: Offer rewards or recognition for top fundraisers.
• Monitor Progress: Track the performance of each peer-to-peer campaign and recognize high achievers.

 
9.    Use Clear Calls-to-Action in All Communications
Every piece of communication should include a clear, compelling call to action (CTA). Whether it’s donating, volunteering, or sharing a story, a CTA should be specific and easy to follow. Phrases like “Donate Now to Double Your Impact” or “Yes - I want to provide affordable housing for families in my community!” are both actionable and inspiring.
 
10.    Focus on Growing Your Donor Base, Not Just the Funds Raised
When evaluating year-end fundraising success, nonprofits often focus on the total amount of funds raised. However, emphasizing the number of new donors can be equally valuable, if not more so.
Attracting new supporters expands your donor base, builds long-term relationships, and boosts future fundraising potential. By welcoming new donors, your organization creates a broader community of advocates and supporters who may contribute regularly, increasing your impact over tie.
Celebrating this growth in new supporters highlights the strength and reach of your mission beyond just dollar amounts - making it feel less transactional, and fostering a stronger, more diverse network of supporters for years to come.
 
 
With thoughtful planning and data-driven approaches, nonprofits can make the most of the end-of-year giving season. By segmenting donor lists, setting clear goals, sharing impactful stories, and expressing gratitude, you can build stronger connections with donors and inspire increased contributions. Utilize these strategies to create a memorable and successful year-end fundraising campaign that sustains your mission well into the coming year.
 
Big Deal Company is proud to support many nonprofits during the end-of-year giving season and beyond, helping organizations maximize their impact through strategic fundraising campaigns and successful event fundraisers. We offer a variety of downloadable resources, expert tips, and best practices, all designed to make your year-end giving campaign a success.

Follow us on social media for event highlights, creative inspiration, and updates on our latest projects.
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On Saturday, November 9, over 400 guests gathered at Ellis Ranch for the annual Loveland Habitat for Humanity Builder’s Ball, an evening dedicated to raising awareness and funds to support affordable housing in Northern Colorado. Planned and produced with the assistance of Big Deal Company, the event was hailed by attendees as the “Best Builder’s Ball yet!” 
Our team assisted with messaging, PR, social media, website, vendor management, staffing and event logistics.
Here is a recap of the evening’s success and highlights.

​The Family Center-La Familia’s Fiesta Party was a huge success, with a record-breaking crowd gathering to enjoy the vibrant and eclectic atmosphere at The Lyric. The evening kicked off with a lively salsa dancing lesson, followed by electrifying music from Salsa Forte, setting the perfect tone for a night of fun.

​This year’s Silent Auction featured a unique addition - the Piñata Experience, where La Familia supporters in-person and online bid on six themed piñatas filled with gift cards and candy. One special piñata included a highly coveted Casa Bonita package, adding extra excitement to the event!

At the heart of the celebration was The Family Center’s mission to support children and families, ensuring they all THRIVE! The Fiesta truly put the “fun” in fundraising, and we can’t wait for next year’s celebration of 30 years of impact in Northern Colorado!

​Top 8 Romantic Winter Escapes for Couples Near Colorado
The end of summer doesn’t have to mean the end of vacation. Whether it’s the stress of back-to-school or the frenzy of the holiday season, you deserve an escape. And while Colorado is a top cold weather destination (check out our list of the top 8 luxe, kid-free escapes worth booking now) our neighboring states also offer stunning escapes for couples seeking a romantic winter getaway. Here is our list of top 8 romantic winter escapes for couples near Colorado.

Amangiri | Canyon Point, Utah
 
For couples who crave ultimate seclusion and luxury, Amangiri in southern Utah offers a winter escape like no other. Set against the dramatic desert backdrop of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, this exclusive resort blends minimalistic architecture with natural beauty. Couples can relax in the spa, take a private hot-air balloon ride, or warm up by the outdoor fire pits while gazing at the stars. It’s an ideal spot for winter sun and quiet desert beauty.
 
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
 
Nestled at the base of the Teton Range, Jackson Hole offers both adventure and romance. Couples can hit the slopes at one of the most renowned ski resorts in the country, explore nearby Grand Teton National Park, or enjoy a romantic sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge. For those seeking luxury, the Four Seasons Resort or Amangani provide impeccable accommodations with stunning views of snow-capped peaks.

Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort | Santa Fe, New Mexico
 
Just a short drive from Colorado (6 hours from Denver), Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort offers a tranquil escape in New Mexico's high desert. Known for its healing thermal waters, couples can soak in outdoor hot springs amidst serene surroundings. The resort features luxurious accommodations, organic dining, and spa treatments inspired by local indigenous traditions. During winter, Santa Fe’s snow-dusted adobe buildings and cozy ambiance make it a charming place for a romantic getaway.
 
 
Zion National Park | Springdale, Utah
 
For a mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation, Zion National Park is an excellent choice for couples looking for a winter escape. With fewer crowds in the winter, the park offers serene beauty, with red rock formations dusted with snow. Stay at Cliffrose Lodge or Cable Mountain Lodge for luxury accommodations close to the park. After a day of exploring, unwind with your partner in front of a cozy fire or enjoy a romantic dinner at a local restaurant.

Taos Ski Valley | Taos, New Mexico
 
Taos Ski Valley combines the cultural richness of New Mexico with world-class skiing. Just south of the Colorado border, this charming mountain town offers skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing for active couples. After a day in the snow, explore Taos’s art galleries, relax at one of the area’s spas, or cozy up at the Blake Hotel, which offers mountain views, fine dining, and luxurious amenities.
 
Telluride, Colorado
 
Though still within Colorado, Telluride is a bit more off the beaten path than other popular destinations like Aspen and Vail, offering a secluded winter retreat. The charming town, surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, is home to one of the most beautiful ski resorts in the country. Couples can enjoy breathtaking views, luxurious accommodations at The Madeline Hotel, and romantic gondola rides. The cozy, small-town atmosphere of Telluride makes it a perfect spot for a peaceful winter escape.

​The Springs Resort & Spa | Pagosa Springs, CO
 
The Springs Resort is built around a mineral-rich, geothermal hot spring on the banks of the San Juan River. Comfortable rooms and suites are just steps from the hot springs and include unlimited access to over a dozen wellness activities designed to rejuvenate your mind and body. The Romance Package is ideal for couples.
 
 
Sedona, Arizona
 
For couples seeking a warmer winter escape with stunning natural beauty, Sedona, Arizona, is the perfect destination. The iconic red rock formations create a breathtaking backdrop, and in winter, they’re often lightly dusted with snow, adding to the magical atmosphere. Stay at the Enchantment Resort for a blend of luxury and nature, where you can enjoy private hikes, spa treatments, and stargazing in the clear desert skies.
 
Grab your partner, pack your bags, and prepare to make unforgettable memories in these stunning locations near Colorado!
 
For resort venue recommendations, event planning, retreat coordination, and more, reach out to our BIG DEAL team. Crafting memorable experiences is our specialty!
 
For event and retreat tips and ideas, follow BIG DEAL Company on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
 

The BIG DEAL Team was thrilled to plan BizWest's annual Women of Distinction event, honoring notable women in the Front Range.

These are women committed to our community and who exemplify the best of success. These Honorees live or work in Larimer and Weld counties, and were honored for their achievements within business, philanthropic and government organizations. 
Thank you to our Special Guest Emcee: Erin O’Toole- Host & Senior Producer, In the NoCo​, KUNC

BIG DEAL Company helps to plan all conference and award ceremonies for BizWest. We love partnering with an organization that not only provides authentic news to the state of Colorado, but also puts on educational events and awards ceremonies that celebrates notable businesses and individuals who are truly making a difference.

We hope you will join us next you in celebrating this important women, making waves in Northern Colorado!

Thank you to Canvas Rebel for featuring an interview with our CEO, Christine Forster.

​At Big Deal Company, we are dedicated to bringing “Joy to the Job”. We believe that enhancing employee engagement and cultivating a strong company culture through events and team-building activities are crucial for both inspiring joy and overall success. A thriving workplace should be built on a foundation of engaged employees who are passionate about their work and connected to their colleagues. 

We’ve pulled together a list of actionable strategies to help your business create a strong and thriving culture of success:
 
Foster Open Communication
Best practices include encouraging open communication channels within your entire organization. Make sure to regularly solicit feedback from your employees and create opportunities where they can share their thoughts freely.
ACTION ITEM: Implement regular “town hall” meetings, Q&A sessions, and anonymous suggestion boxes to ensure that every voice is being heard.
 
Recognize and Reward Achievements
​Recognition can be a powerful motivator. Celebrate both individual and team success to boost morale and encourage a culture of appreciation.
ACTION ITEM: Establish an employee recognition program with monthly awards, public acknowledgments, and tangible rewards like gift cards or extra days off.
At Big Deal Company, we’ve implemented our own system of recognition with monthly “Woot, Woots” for exemplary work, “BIG Brags” on social media, and our yearly “Biggie Awards” (think Dundee’s from The Office).

Promote a Healthy Work-Life Balance
A healthy work-life balance is crucial for employee well-being. Ensure your policies support employees in balancing their professional and personal lives.
ACTION ITEM: Offer flexible working hours, and remote work options, and promote the use of vacation days to help employees refresh and recharge.
 
Invest in Professional Development
Providing opportunities for growth shows employees that you value their long-term commitment and success.
ACTION ITEM: Create a professional development program that includes workshops, online courses, and mentoring opportunities.
 
Organize Engaging Events and Team-Building Activities
Fun and carefully thought out events and team-building activities are excellent ways to foster camaraderie and a sense of belonging.
At Big Deal Company, we gather together as a team, every quarter. We call it Big Deal Bites & Beverages. It’s a fun, and informal way to stay connected.
ACTION ITEM: Plan regular team outings, workshops, and socials! Consider activities like escape rooms, cooking classes, or volunteer days that require teamwork and collaboration.

Create and Build a Positive Work Environment
If your team works on-site, creating a positive work environment can greatly impact employee satisfaction and increase productivity.
ACTION ITEM: Enhance the physical workspace with comfortable furniture, calming lighting, plants, and art. Encourage a culture of kindness and support through team-building exercises and positive reinforcement.
 
Encourage Employee Involvement in Decision-Making
Involving your employees in both large and small decisions will increase their investment in the company’s success. People feel valued when they are heard.
ACTION ITEM: Form committees and focus groups where employees can contribute to company decisions. Actively include them in important strategic planning work.
 
Support Health and Wellness Programs              
Investing in health and wellness programs and gym discounts show your employees that you care about their overall well-being.
ACTION ITEM: Investigate discounted gym memberships for your team. Offer free
Mental health days, and workshops on stress management and healthy living.
 
Enhance Onboarding and Orientation Programs
Strong onboarding programs can set the ton for a new employee. They help them integrate smoothly into company culture and sets them up for success!
ACTION ITEM: Develop a comprehensive and thorough onboarding process that includes mentorships, detailed training, and a robust welcome from the entire team.
 
Technology is Engagement’s Friend!
There are so many tools, apps, and programs out there! Use technology to keep employees connected, especially in remote or hybrid work settings.
ACTION ITEM: Utilize tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Asana to facilitate consistent communication and keep up on project tasks.

Boosting employee engagement and building a strong company culture requires a plan and a multi-channel approach. By modeling and utilizing these action items for fostering open communication, recognizing achievements, professional development, organizing engaging events, and more, you can create a workplace where employees thrive and feel valued.
 
At Big Deal Company, we’re committed to helping organizations achieve these goals through expert-led events and team building activities. Let’s work together to create an environment where your employees can shine!
 
For more insights and tailored solutions, feel free to contact us at Big Deal Company. Let’s make every workday an engaging and fulfilling experience!

BIG DEAL Company is a proud participant in this program!