BIG DEAL Company has had the pleasure of working with Blue Federal Credit Union for years. One of our favorite events is Discovery Day, which is a full day of learning and engagement across the entire company (about 400 employees)!
This year focused on putting the magic in moments. We tied the theme together with well suited speakers, emcee, entertainment and swag!

Free Downloadable checklist:

At BIG DEAL Company, we’ve planned hundreds of unforgettable events for nonprofits and for-profit businesses, and one of the things we’ve learned – great swag leaves a lasting impression (and the rest often goes in the trash). Whether you are hosting a booth at a larger event, a corporate retreat, a fundraiser, or a large-scale conference, giveaways are a powerful way to build brand affinity and drive engagement.
 
Gone are the days of cheap pens and stress balls. In 2025 and looking ahead to 2026, attendees want thoughtful, sustainable, and tech-forward swag that adds value beyond the event. Here are our top picks for swag that’s wowed at events, to make your brand shine.

Swedish dishcloths - The eco-warrior's secret weapon! These miracle cloths absorb 15x their weight, replace paper towels for months, and make guests feel like sustainability superheroes in their kitchen

Cork coasters - Nature's perfect drink protectors that transform any surface into an elegant entertaining space while saving the planet one sip at a time

Car shades - Mobile billboards that work overtime! These ingenious spring-loaded shields protect vehicles from scorching heat while broadcasting your brand to every passerby – it's advertising that pays for itself in comfort

Collapsible fans - Pocket-sized climate control that unfolds into instant relief! When the heat hits, your guests will remember you as their cooling savior, and these compact lifesavers fit anywhere

Magnet flashlights - Double-duty heroes that stick to any metal surface and illuminate the darkest moments – from power outages to midnight car repairs, your brand becomes the beacon of reliability

Bike lights - Safety that shines bright in Colorado's cycling paradise! These aren't just lights – they're guardian angels for cyclists, making your brand synonymous with protection and adventure

Sewing kits - Wardrobe emergency first aid that turns fashion disasters into quick fixes! Compact, essential, and surprisingly powerful – the Swiss Army knife of garment care

Erasable pens - Magic writing tools that let mistakes disappear without a trace! The Pilot Frixion transforms errors into opportunities, making your brand the hero of every "oops" moment

Playing cards - Entertainment gold that shuffles your brand into countless game nights, family gatherings, and friend hangouts – 52 opportunities for brand visibility in every deck

Capes (yes, capes!) - Instant superhero transformation devices that unleash everyone's inner champion! Kids become heroes, adults rediscover their playful side, and your brand becomes legendary

Tide pens - Stain-busting magic wands that rescue professional appearances in seconds! These corporate lifesavers turn wardrobe catastrophes into minor inconveniences

Solar lights - Sun-powered illumination that brings eco-friendly ambiance anywhere! These portable lanterns charge by day and create magical moments by night – your brand literally lights up lives

Eyeglass cleaner - Crystal-clear vision on demand! These tiny miracle workers eliminate smudges and restore perfect sight, making your brand the difference between blur and brilliance

Band-Aid dispensers - Miniature healing stations that fit everywhere and fix everything! From paper cuts to life's little scrapes, your brand becomes the go-to solution for instant relief
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Cell phone fans - Pocket-sized personal cooling systems that plug directly into phones for instant comfort! When temperatures soar, your brand becomes the refreshing breeze everyone craves

Want your event giveaways to be unforgettable? At BIG DEAL Company, we specialize in events that wow – and swag that sticks. From sourcing to branding to delivery, we handle every detail – so you can focus on making connections.
 
Let’s plan something amazing together. Contact us today!
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In any business, communication is key. Often we find that many businesses focus on communicating with clients, but can neglect the importance of internal communications with their team. Download our quick guide with easy tips on ways to improve your internal messaging.

What Makes a Corporate Retreat High-Impact?
A high-impact corporate retreat goes beyond a few team meetings in a pretty setting. It creates real connection, clarity, and progress for your team. According to Corporate Hospitality Services, successful retreats align with business goals while fostering trust, deeper connections, and morale. Key ingredients include:

• Clear purpose and outcomes
• Engaging activities that match team dynamics
• A comfortable, inspiring environment
• Seamless logistics for a stress-free corporate retreat planning experience

​Corporate Retreat Planning Guide:
Stress-Free Steps to Success
Planning a corporate retreat can feel overwhelming. This simple guide keeps it stress-free.
 
Define Your Goals and Objectives
Start by asking: What does success look like? Are you aiming to solve a business challenge, onboard new leaders, or simply reward your team? Clear goals should drive every decision.
 
Choose the Right Location
The right setting sets the tone. Colorado offers diverse options - mountain resorts, rustic lodges, and even creative spots like tiny house villages. (We’ll share some of our top picks below!)
 
Plan a Balanced Itinerary
Avoid burnout by mixing structured sessions with downtime and team-building events that Colorado groups love - hiking, rafting, brewery tours, and golfing. (See our sample itinerary below!)
 
Work with Trusted Vendors
Catering, AV, transportation, and facilitators - having a reliable vendor network is essential. Big Deal Company works with some of the best in Colorado.

Ideal Locations for Corporate Retreats in Colorado
Spotlight: WeeCasa Tiny House Resort
Located in Lyons, WeeCasa is a truly unique venue featuring a charming village of tiny houses right on the St. Vrain River. Perfect for intimate teams who want privacy with a quirky and memorable twist. The property offers:

• Private meeting spaces
• Outdoor areas for team-building
• Proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park

Other Noteworthy Venues

1. Devil’s Thumb Ranch - Tabernash, CO: Luxury rustic charm, spa, and mountain adventure
2. Vista Verde Ranch - Steamboat Springs, CO: All-inclusive, team activities, scenic
3. The Broadmoor - Colorado Springs, CO: Historic luxury, golf, and meeting facilities

Sample Corporate Retreat Itinerary Ideas
Here’s a sample corporate retreat itinerary idea for a 3-day event:
 
Day 1  Morning: Arrival & welcome brunch
Afternoon: Team strategy session
Evening: Dinner & fireside chat (WeeCasa has S’mores by the campfire!)
Day 2  Morning: Guided hike or yoga
Afternoon: Leadership workshop
Evening: Immersive Dining Experience
Day 3  Morning: Team building activities - knowledge share
Afternoon: Free time
Evening: Wrap Up & Awards Dinner
 
This balance encourages productivity, connection, and restoration - hallmarks of stress-reducing team retreats.
 
Must-Have Vendors to Make Your Retreat Seamless
Here are some trusted categories of vendors and items you shouldn’t overlook:

• Catering: Look for local providers and unique dining experiences
• AV & Production: Keep it professional for your working sessions
• Transportation: This is often one of the biggest hurdles for group travel.
• Facilitators: Bring in a wringer who has expertise related to your goal focus. Look locally and then cast a wider net.

Big Deal Company maintains close partnerships with Colorado’s most reliable vendors to ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
 
Colorado Retreat Planning Tips for Stress-Reducing Team Retreats
Even the best-planned retreats can become stressful without careful attention to these Colorado-specific retreat planning tips:

• Build in buffer time between sessions - Colorado has wonderful scenery to take in - make sure your team has time to get out and take in some fresh air!
• Choose a venue with on-site lodging to minimize transportation needs
• Offer multiple activity options to cater to diverse preferences. White Water Rafting is a quintessential Colorado experience, but it can be too extreme for everyone’s taste. Why not provide excursion experiences, for example:
  • Excursion A - White Water Rafting down the Eagle River or the Cache la Poudre
  • Excursion B - Jeep Tour through Rocky Mountain National Park
  • Excursion C - Brewery or Distillery Tour
• Hire an experienced planner (like Big Deal Company!)

These tips can help transform your retreat into a rejuvenating experience for everyone involved.

Why Partner with Big Deal Company for Your Next Retreat
At Big Deal Company, we specialize in stress-free corporate retreat planning with a personal touch. We have deep connections in Colorado and Wyoming, and an ability to execute nationally. We take care of the details so you can focus on your team.
 
We’ll craft your agenda, book the right location, and handle all of the on-site logistics, serving as your partner in creating a high-impact corporate retreat that will inspire, engage, and ultimately deliver results!
 
Ready to plan a high-impact, stress-free retreat?
Colorado offers everything you need to create an unforgettable retreat experience - and Big Deal Company is here to help. Reach out today to start planning your next team-building event in Colorado or beyond!
 
Contact us now and let’s make your retreat a Big Deal!

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

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

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

 
🧰 EMERGENCY KIT

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

 
📞 KEY CONTACTS

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

 
🍽 FOOD & DRINK

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

 
🚻 RESTROOMS

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

 
✨ ATMOSPHERE CHECK

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

 
🧘‍♀️ FINAL MOMENT

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

 
At BIG DEAL Company, we know that a great event isn't just about logistics—it's about creating an experience your clients will rave about. From concept to execution, our full-service marketing and event planning team can take your event from good to unforgettable. Let's make your next event a BIG DEAL!

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

BIG DEAL Company was extatic to be selected as the retreat planning partner for Edgewise Therapeutics and their all company retreat, held in Fort Lauderdale, FL - January 2025.
After months and months of careful planning, our client enjoyed multiple onsite training and break out sessions, countless activities and memorable experiences. Our guests stayed at the beautiful Lago Mar Beach Resort and Club.

175 guests explored the expansive property and took part in pickleball, yoga, a painting class. go kart races, a heated pool, welcome party on the beach, shopping, nightlife and a privately catered cruise on a private yacht!

BIG DEAL worked with the hotel, offsite vendors, rentals, lighting, A/V, catering, and all activity providers to give the Edgewise team an enjoyable time together in Fort Lauderdale!

Congratulations to the BizWest team for a successful 2025 Economic Forecast event! A tremendous amount of information, and outlooks for the upcoming year.
Renowned economist Dr. Rich Wobbekind provided insights into where the economy has been and where it’s going at this highly popular luncheon, attended by over 500 people.

BIG DEAL Company is the proud planning company of BizWest.

In today’s fast-paced world, getting customers to walk through your doors is no small feat.  You know that once a person is in your location you’ve got a captive audience, but how do you get them in in the first place?  Whether you’ve got a café, a boutique, or a wellness studio, standing out in the crowd takes creativity and strategy. Before you say you simply don’t have time to build a plan, check out these easy and effective marketing tips to help boost foot traffic—and keep customers coming back for more.
 
Create an Irresistible Offer
People love a good deal, so why not give them one? Limited-time promotions, BOGO (buy one, get one) offers, or discounts for first-time customers can entice people to visit your business. Make the offer clear, and easy to understand, and put it on social media, your website, and even on a sandwich board outside your store.  Don’t forget to add a call to action like one of these:

• Claim Your Discount Today!
• Be Part of the Fun—Register Now!
• See What Everyone’s Talking About—Shop Now!

Lean Into Local Events 
Get out there and partner with community events or host your own. That’s right, get to know your neighbors.  Activities like a pop-up shop, a workshop, or a fun seasonal event like a holiday market can attract loyal customers and new faces. Bonus: collaborating with other local businesses can expand your reach.
 
Step Up Your Curb Appeal 
Your storefront is like a first impression—it needs to wow! Clean windows, colorful signage, and eye-catching displays make all the difference. A chalkboard with a quirky message or your daily specials can grab the attention of passersby (or even go viral on social media).  The ‘vibe’ of your location should be easily understood just by standing out front.
 
Engage on Social Media
Consistency is key when it comes to social media. Your followers want to know that you’re staying current and love to hear about new arrivals, upcoming sales, or behind-the-scenes content. Be real and interactive and respond to comments and messages promptly. Pro Tip: Don’t forget to include your location and hours in your bio to make it easy for people to find you.  You wouldn’t believe how often this is looked over.
 
Use Email Marketing
Email marketing might not sound flashy, but it works. Create a simple, engaging newsletter to keep your customers in the know about promotions, events, and new products. Make it worth their while by including exclusive deals, hot tips, or sneak peeks.
 
Encourage Word-of-Mouth 
Happy customers are your best advertisement!  Again, happy customers are your best advertisement.  Yes, it’s worth repeating because they are valuable and often underused.  Encourage them to share their experiences by offering referral discounts or running a review contest. The more buzz, the better!
 
Get Listed Online 
Make sure your business is easy to find by updating your Google Business profile and being listed on Yelp, TripAdvisor, or other platforms relevant to your industry. Include accurate information, great photos, and a few glowing reviews.  More and more people are turning to various niche apps to find what they are looking for from restaurants to spas.  Get listed!
 
Make It Personal
Finally, remember that marketing isn’t just about tactics—it’s about relationships. All of these tips may help to bring people in, but then it’s in your court to get them to come back. Personalized touches can turn a one-time visitor into a lifelong fan.  Here are just a few ways to make their experience special:

• Greet Them by Name
• Remember Their Preferences
• Celebrate Special Occasions
• Offer Tailored Recommendations
• Provide Flexible Options
• Be Attentive and Engaged
• Offer Exclusive Perks
• Make It Easy

Marketing doesn’t have to be overwhelming.  Just start small by selecting a few of the tips to focus on and stay consistent. The key is to experiment, track what works, and refine your strategy over time. With a little creativity and effort, you’ll have customers streaming through your doors in no time!
 
Whether you’re just starting or growing your business, BIG DEAL is here to bring your marketing out of black and white and into full color, helping you thrive. We understand small businesses because we are one too!

**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.