​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!
 

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:

1. Lack of Event Management Tools and Technologies: Unlike industries such as marketing or sales that are supported by advanced automation tools, event planning often lacks comprehensive, specialized technology solutions. This forces planners to handle multiple complex tasks manually - from juggling schedules and coordinating with vendors to creating the perfect backup plan for any unforeseen emergency.
2. Venue Selections - A Time-Consuming Process: Finding the perfect venue for an event is one of the most critical tasks event planners face. The process can be extremely time-consuming, as it involves evaluating multiple options and analyzing location logistics, audience capacity, and amenities. Simply securing a venue that fits the event’s specifications isn’t enough - planners must also conduct on-site inspections, check for potential problems, and ensure the venue aligns with the event’s overall vision. And - even after selecting the “perfect venue”, planners might still face issues during the event, such as poor technical setups or “less-than” coordination and communication from the venue’s staff.
3. Managing Expectations of Multiple Stakeholders: Event planners are often caught in the crossfire of managing the expectations of multiple stakeholders - and they have the added stress of producing many “once-in-a-lifetime” events. From clients and attendees to vendors and service providers, each party has its own set of demands and priorities. Meeting these varying and sometimes conflicting expectations requires careful coordination and most importantly, clear communication. A misstep in any one area can lead to dissatisfaction, ultimately impacting the overall success of the event.
4. Financial Risks and Uncertain Budgets: Budget management is a crucial component of event planning, and it is often one of the most stress-inducing aspects of the job. Most event planners are forced to work within limited budgets that must stretch to cover a wide range of costs - from venue rentals and catering to marketing and audiovisual services. Rising costs and fewer venues and vendors to choose from post-pandemic, make financial planning more difficult than ever. Planners often have little control over unexpected price hikes, such as increases in food and beverage costs and labor charges. These unpredictable expenses can create financial strain and they often force planners to make difficult decisions to cut costs in areas that could impact the overall experience.
5. High Expectations for Flawless Execution: The pressure for perfection in event planning is huge. Clients expect events to run seamlessly, and even minor hiccups can lead to anger and damage a planner’s reputation. Whether it’s technical glitches, logistical errors, or last-minute changes, any disruption can be detrimental to the event’s success. Event planners must be proactive problem solvers, anticipating any potential issues before they arise.
6. Having to Rely on Others: Another key factor that often contributes to the most stress of event planning, is the need to rely on multiple vendors and external teams to execute. Coordinating with suppliers for services such as catering, audiovisual support, and venue management often presents challenges. Late deliveries, miscommunication, or underperformance by vendors can create chaos. Event planners often also fill the role of relationship managers who have to oversee and manage relationships in order for everything to run smoothly.

​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:
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Instagram
LinkedIn
YouTube
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Let’s create something amazing together!

When the weather starts to warm up, many companies start thinking about their company summer party.  How can you make sure that your party is a blast and not a dud?  Here are eleven tips that your employees wish you knew.
 
1. Inclusive Planning: Employees appreciate when bosses consider diverse interests and preferences when planning the summer party, ensuring there's something enjoyable for most everyone.
 
2. Advance Notice: Providing ample notice for the summer party date allows employees to adjust their schedules accordingly and increases attendance and engagement.  Plus, if you include families in the festivities, it helps give them time to free up their schedules as well. 
 
3. Outdoor Venue: Most employees enjoy outdoor venues for summer parties, offering fresh air, sunshine and a change of scenery from the office or virtual work environment.
 
4. Family-Friendly Activities: Incorporating family-friendly activities allows employees to bring their loved ones, fostering a sense of community and work-life balance.
 
5. Variety in Food and Drinks: Offering a diverse range of food options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices, ensures all employees can enjoy the culinary experience. Likewise, a selection of beverages, including non-alcoholic options, caters to all preferences.  It also adds to the feeling that this party is for everyone regardless of food/drink restrictions.
 
6. Interactive Entertainment: Interactive entertainment such as games, photo booths, or team-building activities adds a fun and engaging element to the party, that allows employees to relax and really get to know each other.
 
7. Music Selection: Bosses should consider diverse music preferences among employees and aim for a playlist that appeals to a broad audience, ensuring everyone can enjoy the ambiance.  Consider music styles and even cultural differences to really make everyone feel represented.
 
8. Flexible Schedule: Allowing flexibility in the schedule, such as offering staggered start and end times, accommodates employees with personal commitments and ensures maximum participation.  Plus, it gives a more casual feel that allows employees to come and go as they need.
 
9. Recognition and Appreciation: Taking the opportunity during the summer party to recognize and appreciate employees' hard work and achievements boosts morale and reinforces a positive company culture.  Let them know that you value what they do and that the party is for them.
 
10. Safety Measures: Implementing safety measures, such as providing sunscreen, shade, and hydration stations, and even Band-Aids ensures employees can enjoy the party comfortably and safely, particularly in hot weather.
 
11. Feedback: Setting up a feedback mechanism post-party allows employees to share their thoughts and suggestions for improvement, ensuring future events better meet their preferences and expectations.
 
Whether you plan it yourself or let an event planner like BIG DEAL Company plan the perfect summer party, the name of the game is inclusivity, appreciation, and most of all fun.  Ultimately these gatherings are a chance to build a team that will care about each other and thus the overall success of the business.  Have fun out there!
​

​In the fast-paced business world, establishing and nurturing connections is often a key driver of success. Networking is no longer about exchanging business cards at a business event. It’s a strategic and integral part of building a thriving professional ecosystem.
 
Big Deal views networking as a building block within an overarching strategic plan. We’ve gathered some easy steps, tips, and insightful questions to help you become a master networker, breaking the ice and truly connecting with others!

The Significance of Business Networking

1. Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers: Networking is a bridge that connects professionals, breaking down barriers and fostering collaboration. It opens doors to opportunities that may not have been possible otherwise.
2. Knowledge Exchange: Networking allows for the exchange of ideas, experiences, and industry insights. Learning from others and staying informed can give your business a competitive edge.
3. Creating a Support System: Owning and operating a business can be challenging. Networking can build a support system of like-minded individuals who understand your journey and can offer guidance or mentorship.
4. Access to Resources: Whether it’s access to sponsorship funding, partnerships, or valuable skills - networking expands your resource pool.

 
Tips for Networking Success

1. Be Authentic: Real connections stem from authenticity. Be yourself, share your passions, and listen actively to others.
2. Set Clear Goals: What is it you would like to achieve through networking? Whether it’s finding new clients, collaborators, sponsors, or mentors, having a clear set of goals should guide your interactions and conversations.
3. Diversify Your Network: Make sure you are casting a wide net. Connect with professionals from various industries and backgrounds - even those who are way different than your own. These connections will enrich your perspective and broaden your opportunities.
4. Follow Up: Building new relationships requires effort. Follow up with your new contacts, express gratitude for their time, and nurture those connections over time.

30 Icebreaker Questions for Meaningful Connections
Arrive to your next networking event armed with some thought-provoking and conversation-building questions! You’ll establish a deeper connection and stronger rapport with a new contact if you move beyond the typical, “So what do you do?” questions. Here are some of our favorites:

1. What inspired you to pursue your current career?
2. Can you share a career highlight or achievement that you’re particularly proud of?
3. How do you stay updated on industry trends?
4. Any upcoming travel plans?
5. What brought you here today?
6. How do you two know each other?
7. What’s your favorite way to unwind after a busy week?
8. What are you reading currently?
9. What goals are you currently working towards, both personally and professionally?
10. What was your first job?
11. What’s one thing you’re excited about that’s coming up in 2024?
12. Tell me about your current role?
13. Tell me about yourself.
14. Have you been here before?
15. Do you mind recommending……
16. Have you worked on any exciting projects lately?
17. How long have you been with your company?
18. What do you like most about working in this area?
19. Did you grow up in this area?
20. How did you hear about this event?
21. Do you attend a lot of networking events?
22. What’s your best networking tip for introverts?
23. You seem to be having a great time - mind if I join you?
24. Do you mind if I introduce myself?
25. Have you attended any conferences lately?
26. What are some common misconceptions about your role?
27. Which skills do people overemphasize in your industry?
28. Are you working on any side projects at the moment?
29. What do you enjoy most about your job?
30. Do you know XXXX? Could you introduce me to them?

 
These questions are designed to spark meaningful conversations. They should help you move beyond surface-level interactions and build lasting connections.
 
Remember, successful networking is not just about what you can gain, but also about what you can contribute to the professional community. So - get out there - network with a purpose, and watch your business thrive!
 
Discover more of our business and marketing tips when you follow BIG DEAL Company on social media: Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest, YouTube, and Instagram. Stay current on industry trends and follow our latest events in our blog. Looking for some marketing support? Reach out to our team of marketing professionals. Every client we serve is a BIG DEAL!

BIG DEAL Company was thrilled to help Western Midstream Partners (WES) with their family holiday party in Platteville, CO. We were charged with pulling together a way for families to connect and feel celebrated by their employer. 

While we cannot share photos of all of the happy children and families - we can tell you that we accomplished our goal ---- a successful event and JOY spread to all who attended!

BIG DEAL Company was thrilled to assist with all of the details for this huge corporate holiday party for Western Midstream Partners (WES). For months we have been living in spreadsheets, contract negotiations and decorating strategy. Working on events with this level of detail is what we live for!

Below is a general list of deliverables provided by BIG DEAL Company:
•RFP to all eligible facilities and hotels
•Presentation of available options to client for review 
•Contract negotiation 
•Event theme ideation
•Theme presentation for selection
•Invitation design
•DJ/Band RFP
•Research (vendors, venues, transportation, activities, dining)
•Venue site visits
•Hotel room block management
•Decor/Rental research and planning
​•Event signage and printed materials
•Itinerary creation
•Vendor and activity booking
•Vendor activity oversight onsite
•Prize ideation and purchase
•Gift giveaway management (drawing)
•RSVP tracking management & guest communication
•Parking management
•Registration desk/ check-in 
•Event budget tracking
•Full onsite event assistance by BIG DEAL team 

We appreciate companies like Western Midstream who find it important to celebrate their employees, and bring them together to bond and have some simple fun! We love bringing JOY to the job!

​Creating a memorable guest experience at a conference or company event is crucial for creating a positive and lasting impression.
As marketing and events professionals with a focus on nonprofit work and community engagement, we have a unique perspective to offer when it comes to planning memorable and impactful conferences, fundraisers, and events.
We have pulled together a comprehensive list of things to consider when planning your next conference. These strategies will help boost event engagement and will provide your business or nonprofit, targeted ways to reach your guests on a personal level.

​Enjoy these 11 TOP TIPS to elevate your guests' experience at your next event!

Enhance your guest experience and ensure your events leave a lasting impression by building an experience that includes:

1. Personalized Invitations and Communication: Leverage your attendee data to send personalized invitations and messages. Tailor the content to individual interests and roles, showing attendees that their presence is valued. This personal touch will help make your attendees feel appreciated.
2. Interactive Sessions and Workshops: Incorporate engaging activities, including polls, Q&A sessions, and interactive workshops for your guests to choose from. The more interactive, the more your attendees will be engaged.
3. Provide Networking Opportunities with a Purpose: Everyone thrives on building connections! Organize networking sessions that encourage attendees to interact with each other. Provide icebreaker activities, discussion groups, and themed meet-and-greets to facilitate meaningful connections.
4. Enlist a Strategic Event App: There are a variety of helpful event apps that you can utilize to host all your events’ information in one spot. These apps are created and built to help enhance the guest experience. They can provide real-time schedules, interactive maps, and the ability for guests to connect with other attendees. You can even brand them to match the vibe and feel of your event!
5. Choose a Theme and Decor to Match: Create immersive environments built around a theme. Choose decorations, lighting, and visuals to help set the tone for the event and make a lasting and memorable impact. A good theme will create a cohesive flow for the entire event.

6. Shower your guests with thoughtful swag items and gifts: Show appreciation to your guests with meaningful and sustainable event swag. Find take-aways that follow your event theme.

7. Embrace Technology: Most large event venues offer a variety of exciting event tech packages. These packages can include interactive displays, video work, holograms, and app integrations. You might also consider adding gamification elements to keep attendees engaged and to encourage exploration.

8. Align your event with a cause: Leverage nonprofit connections to encourage attendees to contribute. Showcasing your company’s charitable initiatives will help foster a sense of purpose.

9. Bring in captivating Keynote Speakers: Secure dynamic keynote speakers whose stories will resonate with your audience. Their topics can be aligned with the theme of your event. Hire a diverse range of speakers to cater to the various interests and backgrounds of your guests.

10. Have a post-event strategy: Stay top of mind beyond the event by sharing post-event content, including session recordings, presentation decks, and event recaps. Use their delivery as an opportunity to reconnect with attendees, and request a post-event survey to help you build better events year to year.
​
11. Provide activities for the senses: Invite local catering companies and restaurants to showcase their flair as part of the culinary portion of your event. Create interactive food stations that not only cater to diverse tastes, but also highlights the local cuisine. Food is always a great connecting experience!
​After guests have dined to their delight, make plans to offer wellness and relaxation activities. Set up relaxation spaces, provide mindfulness sessions, or even treat guests to mini spa treatments to promote relaxation for all.

​In today’s competitive business landscape, the success of your event or conference will hinge on the guests’ experience. Each element, from personalized invitations to the immersive decor, will play a pivotal role in leaving a lasting impression.

​Take these concepts to the next level with the expertise of a company that shares your values and vision. BIG DEAL Company has a strong track record of creating exceptional events. Our team of professionals bring a dynamic blend of creativity, strategic thinking, and a passion for making a difference. We are dedicated to bringing your event’s goals to life!
 
Consider hiring BIG DEAL Company for your next corporate event. We will serve as your event planning partner. We will take the time to understand your company’s unique perspective and we will share your commitment to enhancing your guests’ experiences. We are ready to collaborate with you to create an event that goes beyond expectations!

BIG DEAL Company loves planning the FUN! As most companies know, planning the fun is a TON of work! We are grateful that slate360 chooses to rely on BIG DAY Company to plan all of the intricate details of their annual company retreat. Travel, lodging, meals, break-outs, excursions, transportation... it can take months to pull it all together and pull it off. We love what we do - and the end result of bringing our clients JOY!

Planning Considerations from the Experts at BIG DEAL Company:

Does the destination align with your meeting priorities?
The first thing to consider is that the destination must work for the business purpose.
What are your priorities for the meeting? What kind of team building do you envision?
Will you want to do group activities or let people choose their own adventure? What
time of year will work best? Answering these questions are the first step in selection
your destination.

Location, location, location...
Once you've identified your business priorities, the next step is to narrow down your
location options. What type of team do you have? What kind of company are you?

What type of venue are you looking for?
As you ponder your location options, also consider the type of venue that you're looking for. Are you ready to pull out all the stops for a luxurious celebration? Do you need a functional space where your team can work hard and then play hard? 

Budget and Attendance
As you narrow down your wish list, it's likely that your location and venue selection will boil down to how many people it can accommodate and how it will fit into your
budget. Also, consider peak visitation and plan accordingly - you may be
able to receive discounts or more robust packages during the off season. 

Planes, Trains and Automobiles
Even the most wonderful venue can become a nightmare when it comes to
transportation. Consider distance from a major airport, transportation availability and cost for large groups, back up options if needed, and proximity to entertainment, dining, etc.

You've Selected the Location. Now What?
This is where the sky is the limit! Consider both group options and plenty of free
time to explore. By giving your employees time to soak up the sun and fresh air, your meetings will be more relaxed and productive.

We Do It So You Don't Have To
Destination planning isn't for the faint of heart!  We're here to help. We travel!
A destination meeting is a big deal, and so are we! Let us find the perfect 
experience to meet your company's needs, budget and expectations.

Whether you’re planning a retreat or conference, a large event or small - details
matter. Having planned hundreds of company events, below is BIG DEAL's 10 tip
checklist for planning your next Colorado event.

1.What’s your Why? Clearly define the objective and purpose of your retreat or
conference. Are you aiming for team building, education, networking, or a
combination of these?

2.Select the Ideal Location: Colorado has loads of scenic and vibrant locations.
Consider popular options like Northern Colorado, Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs, or mountain towns like Aspen or Vail, depending on your preferences, accessibility, and seasonal weather.

3.Now You Need a Venue: Select a venue that suits your event's size, requirements
(technology, food options, etc.), and budget. Look for conference centers, resorts,
hotels, or even unique spaces like mountain lodges or ranches.

4.Accommodation: Ensure comfortable accommodation options are available
near the event venue. Negotiate group rates with hotels or explore vacation rentals
for larger groups.

5.Transportation: Arrange transportation options for attendees, including airport
transfers if necessary. Consider renting vans or buses for group transportation or
provide guidance on public transportation.
​
6.Create a Detailed Itinerary: The detailed itinerary should include scheduled
sessions, speakers, team-building activities, meals, breaks, and any recreational or
sightseeing opportunities for attendees to enjoy. A nice touch would include
clothing options, and extra items to pack like sunscreen or an umbrella.

7.Catering: Coordinate with the venue or external caterers to arrange meals,
snacks, and refreshments during the event. Consider dietary restrictions and
provide options that cater to various preferences.

8.Make it Fun: Plan team-building exercises, icebreakers, or recreational activities
to foster networking and collaboration among attendees. Colorado offers
opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, or team-building exercises in
nature.

9.Guest Speakers and Facilitators: Identify keynote speakers, presenters, or
facilitators who align with your event's theme or purpose. Colorado has a vibrant
community of professionals in various fields who may be interested in participating.

10.Audio-Visual Setup: Ensure the event venue has proper audio-visual
equipment, including microphones, projectors, screens, and internet connectivity
for presentations and workshops.

BIG DEAL Company is here to help make your next retreat, get-together, or teambuilding event a fun-filled success. We offer seamless services that take the
pressure off you and allow you to take in the full experience. Colorado is a beautiful
location to bring your team together and create productive relationships for your
business.