**10 Proven Strategies to Drive Foot Traffic to Your Business**
If you’re launching a product, hosting a workshop, or throwing a grand opening, attracting attendees is key to a successful event. Here are 10 proven strategies to drive foot traffic to your business events.

​How do I draw foot traffic to my business event?

Generate Social Media Buzz  
Create buzz ahead of your event by leveraging social media. Remember: the more popular an event appears, the more likely passerby are to stop in. Don’t rely solely on people who happen upon your event that day to fill the room. Utilize Facebook events, Facebook and Instagram posts and stories, and even LinkedIn posts to reach your audience.

Use Strategic Timing  
If your goal is to draw the public to your business event, you’ll need to schedule it for the time you see the most foot traffic, which means collecting some data. Pay attention to the days of the week and times of day your location sees the most passerby.
 
For many downtown districts, this means weekend afternoons – but you’ll also want to ensure that you aren’t competing for attendees. Larger events can bring even more foot traffic to your area, but beware of similar, simultaneous events that could draw visitors away from your event.

​Create Eye-Catching Visuals  
Generate curiosity and capture the attention of passerby with eye-catching signage and decorations. Make it clear that an event is happening and that all are invited. Phrases like “open house,” “open to the public,” or “come on in” communicate that your event is open to the public. Vibrant banners, posters, or digital displays should convey key details about the event quickly and effectively.
 
Colorful decorations will attract attention and create a welcoming atmosphere – not to mention make for attractive photos you can share on your business’s social media pages and website.

Put Engaging Staff Front and Center  
Your staff is the face of your brand and can play a pivotal role in the success of your business event. Position your most outgoing, friendly employees toward your event entrance to create a welcoming atmosphere. Engaging staff can effectively communicate your brand’s message, answer questions, and provide personalized assistance, making potential customers feel valued.
 
This level of interaction not only enhances the overall attendee experience but also leaves a lasting impression that can lead to increased brand loyalty and positive word-of-mouth promotion.

Partner with Neighboring Businesses  
One way to use the draw of another business or event to increase your own foot traffic, rather than pull guests away from your event, is to partner with other businesses or events. Other businesses can distribute flyers, display posters, or share information about your event.
 
In return, you can spread the word about their business to your event attendees, or even offer guests discounts for both businesses. This mutual support is a great way to expand your reach in the community long-term.

Offer Discounts  
Everyone loves a good deal. Offering discounts can lure otherwise hesitant passerby into your event. This strategy not only boosts initial attendance but also helps create a sense of urgency.
 
You can also promote these discounts ahead of time to your existing customers through your website, social media, and email lists. The more people are at your event, the more additional foot traffic you’ll see, as people are naturally drawn to events that appear popular. 

​Host Giveaways  
Hosting a giveaway, contest, or game is another fun way to generate excitement about your event. You can offer products or services from your business, a gift basket with products from local business partners, or deep discounts as prizes. Promote the giveaway on your social media platforms and website. Encourage participants to share the event with their friends and family to increase reach and engagement.

Offer Demonstrations or Presentations  
Live demonstrations or presentations provide a dynamic and interactive experience that engages your attendees on a deeper level. These live elements allow participants to see products or services in action, which can effectively showcase their features, benefits, and real-world applications.
 
Moreover, live demonstrations and presentations add substance to your event, creating a memorable and impactful experience, which makes attendees more likely to generate positive word-of-mouth for your business.

Host Activities  
Entertainment is a big draw for events of all kinds. Regardless of your end goal, there’s a creative, entertaining way to achieve it (Psst – this is BIG DEAL Company’s specialty!) Trivia about your company or products, a prize wheel, or games that require attendees to compete against each other for prizes are great interactive ways to spread the word about your products or services.

​Create a Photo Op  
Influencer marketing – using a person with the ability to influence potential buyers of a product or service to promote or recommend the items on social media – is still going strong. One simple way to encourage event attendees to post about your business on social media is to create photo opportunities.
 
We suggest using your brand logo and colors to create an eye-catching backdrop with standout decor (think: balloon arches, floral or greenery walls, or a red carpet). Use signage to encourage guests to pose with their friends and post the photos while tagging your business and/or using special event hashtags. Props are another fun twist, especially if your event has a specific theme.
 
Ultimately, people attend events because they expect to gain something valuable. Remember, the key is to communicate the value of your event and create a buzz that attendees can't resist: on social media leading up to your event, using eye-catching signage the day of, and with unforgettable experiences for attendees. With these strategies, you'll be well on your way to hosting a successful event that leaves a lasting impression in your community.
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At BIG DEAL Company, we're dedicated to helping local businesses succeed. Contact us today to explore how we can collaborate to make your next event a resounding success.

​Planning an event – whether it's a corporate conference, a fundraiser, or a personal celebration –  requires attention to detail, expert coordination, and quick problem-solving. Hiring a skilled and experienced event planner can be the key to transforming your vision into a seamless and memorable reality, saving you time and money.
 
However, not all event planners are created equal. We’ve seen it before – and our team has even been called in last-minute to fix events that have gone off track. In this blog, we'll explore some essential steps to help you make an informed decision.
 
Short on time? Download our “How to Carefully Choose an Event Planner” cheat sheet.

Research
 
Utilize online platforms, recommendations from colleagues, and reviews to create a shortlist of professionals with a proven track record. Look for planners who have experience in organizing events similar to yours and have positive testimonials from satisfied clients.
 
Consider factors such as the number and scale of events they have organized, the types of events they specialize in, and their familiarity with your event's specific requirements.
 
Check References
 
Dig deeper into the experience and expertise of each potential event planner on your shortlist. Request and check references from past clients to gain a better understanding of the event planner's reliability and professionalism. Honest feedback from those who have previously worked with the planner can provide valuable insights into their communication skills, ability to handle challenges, and overall performance.

Look for Creativity and Innovation
 
Events require a creative touch to stand out and leave a lasting impression. Evaluate the event planner's creativity by reviewing their portfolio and asking about unique solutions they've implemented in the past.
 
A planner with a flair for innovation can bring fresh ideas to the table and elevate the overall experience of your event. Our team excels in this area – creativity, originality, and flexibility allowed us to grow our events business when the pandemic hit, while others scaled back.
A seasoned event planner like BIG DEAL Company will bring valuable insights and problem-solving skills to the table.
 
Communication Skills
 
Effective communication is paramount in event planning. Assess the event planner's communication skills, responsiveness, and ability to understand and articulate your vision. Clear and open communication fosters a collaborative relationship, ensuring that everyone is on the same page throughout the planning process. Emergencies will arise, so an attentive planner who responds promptly is a must.
 
Transparency and Integrity
 
Choose an event planner who operates with transparency and integrity. This includes providing detailed contracts, outlining fees and expenses clearly, having direct conversations about expectations, and being honest about potential challenges or limitations. A trustworthy event planner will draw on their experience to prioritize your best interests and ensure a successful event.
 
Your choice of event planner can significantly impact the success of your event. Remember, a well-chosen event planner not only executes logistical details but also adds a touch of magic to create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests – this is our favorite part!
 
Download our How to Carefully Choose an Event Planner cheat sheet for reference as you navigate the event planner selection process.
 
Looking for fresh recommendations and new relationships? Reach out to BIG DEAL Company. For more industry tips and ideas, follow BIG DEAL Company on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
 

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, our industry and our clients are buzzing with excitement and questions about what lies ahead. From the evolution of technology to the changing preferences of event attendees, the landscape of events continues to transform. Here are nine predicted event trends for 2024 our BIG DEAL team thinks will hold true in the year to come.

​Micro events
Micro events are smaller events for 10-50 guests that Bizzabo reports are on the rise – a trend we’ve seen amongst our own clients. Micro events are more affordable in an industry with rising prices, personal and meaningful, and create the perfect atmosphere to network and collaborate.
 
Micro events also allow you to get creative with more venue options, unique experiences that are harder to replicate with hundreds of guests, and promote more interaction with guests leading to more meaningful and long-lasting relationships.
 
Year-round event cycle
With micro events comes the year-round event cycle. Where organizations traditionally held one supersized event per year, we’re now seeing a preference among attendees and our clients for multiple, smaller events throughout the year.
 
Mini events year round provide consistent education and engagement for clients and attendees, keeping your mission and brand front of mind in your community.

Sustainability is becoming non-negotiable
The sustainability wave is hitting the events industry harder than ever. Conscious consumers demand eco-friendly practices, and we event planners are stepping up to the challenge. Corporations are seeing their carbon footprint under the magnifying glass, which translates to their events. We’re seeing clients requesting reusable and recycled event materials, paper-free events, and simpler menus with vegetarian and vegan options.
 
From reducing waste and carbon footprints to sourcing local and sustainable materials, 2024 will witness a significant push towards greener events.
 
Immersive experiences
Event attendees continue to seek more all-encompassing, out-of-the-box event experiences – which is where our creative events team excels. Gone are the days of conferences in dimly lit rooms with stale coffee. Natural light, outdoor and nature-influenced spaces, and flexible, intimate settings are increasingly popular.
 
These new event experiences are worth investing in; they are memorable for attendees and yield higher ROI than events of the past.
 
New technology standards
Technology also plays a role in event experiences. Attendees can expect to interact with products, venues, or speakers in new dimensions through Augmented, Mixed, and Virtual Reality, enhancing engagement and leaving lasting impressions.
 
In the background, technologies enable more data collection for event planners than ever, leading to better understanding of guest preferences for future events.
 
Personalization
Tailoring experiences to individual preferences will be a key focus in 2024. From personalized event agendas to curated content based on attendee interests, the emphasis on creating unique, customized experiences will be paramount. AI-driven tools will play a significant role in analyzing attendee data to deliver personalized experiences.
 
Health and safety continue to drive decisions
Post-pandemic, health and safety considerations remain at the forefront of event planning. Enhanced hygiene protocols and contactless technology will persist in 2024. Event planners will continue to prioritize attendee well-being, ensuring that events are not only memorable but also safe spaces for everyone involved.
 
Diverse and inclusive programming
Diversity and inclusion will be woven into the fabric of events more consciously. 2024 will witness a broader representation of cultures, perspectives, and voices. Events will celebrate diversity through inclusive programming, diverse speaker line-ups, and initiatives fostering equality and representation.

Hybrid events aren’t going anywhere
The rise of hybrid events isn't slowing down. In 2024, we expect them to become even more prevalent. The blending of in-person and virtual elements will cater to diverse audiences, allowing greater accessibility and participation regardless of geographical constraints. The ultimate goal is to seamlessly integrate both worlds, ensuring that remote attendees have an equally immersive and engaging experience.
 
As always in the world of events, the key lies in staying adaptable, innovative, and responsive to the ever-evolving needs and desires of attendees. Our BIG DEAL team is excited to be a part of this journey towards redefining the future of gatherings.
 
For more business marketing tips and ideas, follow BIG DEAL Company on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

​In the detailed, and often fun world of event planning, the decision to hire a professional can easily be seen as an unnecessary expense. Many people believe that handling the logistics and details on their own will save money in the long run. However, what many fail to consider are the hidden costs associated with not bringing in an experienced event planner, like BIG DEAL Company. The effects can extend far beyond the initial budget, affecting both the success of the event and the long-term reputation of the organization.
 
One of the most tangible impacts of forgoing an event planner is the potential for overspending. Hiring a skilled event planner can actually save money. We know this sounds counterintuitive, but professionals possess extensive networks and negotiating skills, enabling us to secure better deals on venues, catering, and other essential services. Without this expertise, your business may find itself paying a premium for services that could have been obtained at a lower cost.  In other words, we’ve got the hookup on great pricing.
 
Moreover, the value of time cannot be overstated….seriously. Planning an event demands a significant investment of time, effort, and resources that could be better spent on building your business. A dedicated event planner, adept at managing timelines and coordinating logistics, can streamline the planning process and ensure that the event runs seamlessly.

​The true return on investment (ROI) becomes evident when considering the impact on the success of the event itself. BIG DEAL Company brings creativity, innovation, and attention to detail to the table, transforming an ordinary event (yawn) into an extraordinary one (hooray). From thematic designs to engaging entertainment options, our expertise will enhance the overall experience, leaving a lasting impression on attendees. In contrast, a poorly executed event can tarnish the reputation of your organization and hinder your ability to draw in future attendees or clients.  When your event is a smash hit you will enhance your brand image, foster positive relationships with stakeholders, and generate valuable word-of-mouth marketing.
 
The cost of not hiring an event planner like BIG DEAL Company extends far beyond the immediate financial investment. It involves missed opportunities, overspending, and the potential for a tarnished reputation. The next time you’re preparing to plan the next company event remember that your ROI isn’t just in dollars but also in time, success, image, and future opportunities.

 In the dynamic world of marketing and events, small businesses often face the challenge of standing out in a crowded marketplace. That is where BIG DEAL Company, a marketing and events agency, steps in to support, guide, and ultimately make a significant difference. As marketing and events professionals in Northern Colorado, the diverse BIG DEAL team has worked closely with various small businesses and nonprofits, helping them harness powerful engagement strategies to boost their message and success. 
Below is a list from our pros with 5 ways to elevate your customer engagement game.

​Here are 5 ways in which the BIG DEAL team helps clients engage more effectively with their customers and audiences:
 
1.    Tailored Marketing Strategies
BIG DEAL Company takes a personalized approach to marketing. They understand that there is no “one-size-fits-all” in marketing. Each small business or nonprofit is unique, with its own goals, challenges, and target audiences. By conducting in-depth research and analysis, BIG DEAL creates tailored marketing strategies that resonate with specific audience segments of their clients. This personalized touch ensures that small businesses and nonprofits can connect with their audiences on a deeper level.
 
2.    Creative Event Planning
Events offer powerful ways to engage with customers and donors - all while creating memorable experiences. BIG DEAL Company specializes in creating unique and engaging events that leave a lasting impression. Whether it’s a product launch, a charity fundraiser, or a community outreach event, BIG DEAL has the expertise to design and execute events that align with an organization’s brand identity and goals.

3.    Community-Centric Approach
Being based in Northern Colorado, BIG DEAL Company understands the importance of community engagement. The Creative Collective of BIG DEAL team members work to help small businesses and nonprofits connect with their local communities through targeted marketing initiatives and community events. This work not only helps to boost customer engagement, but it fosters goodwill and loyalty. Connection goes a long way toward building brand trust. BIG DEAL has mastered building connections.

4.    Digital Marketing Expertise
In today’s digital age, an online presence is essential for any small business or nonprofit. BIG DEAL Company excels in digital marketing and building connections through the social media marketplace. BIG DEAL offers services such as website development and design, social media management, and email marketing. Our team knows how to leverage digital channels to reach a broader audience and drive customer engagement. We harness the power of our own large database of social media followers and email subscribers to offer extra exposure to our clients.
 
5.    Fundraising Support for Nonprofits
As a company that works extensively with nonprofits, we appreciate the significance and importance of fundraising. BIG DEAL Company has a proven track record of helping nonprofits raise funds effectively through well-organized events and strategic marketing campaigns. We know how to expand a nonprofit’s presence and exposure in the community, helping many successfully raise funds going beyond their original goal!

​Through our tailored marketing strategies, creative event planning, community-centric approach, digital marketing expertise, and fundraising support, BIG DEAL Company is providing many opportunities for small businesses and nonprofits to enhance and increase their customer engagement practices. We are committed to understanding the unique needs of each of our clients, ensuring that they can build stronger connections with their valued audiences, ultimately leading to growth and success!
 
Learn more about how BIG DEAL does business here, and by following all of BIG DEAL’s social channels: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.

​BIG DEAL Company has years of experience planning events, which means years we’ve spent building relationships with vendors across Colorado. These established vendor relationships benefit not only us, but our customers. They’re so important that we consider these Partnerships one of our Super Powers (alongside Creativity, Organization, Motivation, Unlimited Energy, Unparalleled Experience, and Professional Problem-Solving). Here are 10 ways our long-term vendor relationships are an asset to YOU, our client.

1. Seamless Communication
Established vendor relationships facilitate smooth communication channels. Familiarity breeds efficiency, enabling our team to convey your expectations and requirements with fewer misunderstandings and missteps in event execution. We take pride in our social capital, and we are well-connected with vendors, non-profits, business owners, and other companies who plan large events in our area.

2. Priority Treatment
Vendors we partner with are more likely to prioritize your events. Your commitment to their services and our work behind the scenes allows them to allocate time, resources, and expertise, ensuring that your events receive top-notch attention and care.

3. Customized Services
We’ve seen it many times over the years – vendors who know and trust our team make exceptions for our clients. Vendors have opened up dates that were unavailable, promised faster turnaround times, and made exceptions to their usual protocols because they know our team is working behind the scenes.
When vendors know a professional planning company is involved, they know there will be fewer demands on their time and energy (because we take that on) and that gives them more flexibility in what they provide.

4. Cost Savings
Vendor relationships can lead to cost savings through negotiated rates and bundled services. Some of our long-term collaborations may grant you access to preferential pricing, helping you manage your event budget more effectively.

5. Consistent Quality
Relying on familiar vendors ensures a consistent level of quality for our clients’ events. You can trust that the products and services provided have been vetted by our team, eliminating any unpleasant surprises.

6. Efficient Problem Solving
When challenges arise, vendors who know BIG DEAL Company are better equipped to address them swiftly. Their familiarity with our planning style allows them to find solutions that align with our clients’ objectives.

7. Streamlined Logistics
Established vendor relationships streamline logistical aspects. Vendors who are well-versed in your event requirements – and we ensure they are – can navigate venue layouts, setup procedures, and timelines with ease, enhancing overall efficiency and leaving room to deal with any challenges that arise.

8. Creative Collaboration
Some vendors contribute valuable insights and ideas for events we plan on behalf of our clients. This collaborative approach often leads to innovative event concepts that impress your attendees.

9. Enhanced Trust and Loyalty
Our team’s partnerships foster a sense of mutual trust and loyalty. We invest in our vendors’ success, just as they invest in our clients’. Through this symbiotic relationship,  we see increased dedication by our preferred vendors to achieving outstanding outcomes for our clients every time.

10. Long-Term Relationship Building
Long-term partnerships with vendors lend stability and continuity to our planning process, allowing us to plan efficiently and creatively. When we collaborate with a familiar vendor, we save time on explanations and skip straight to executing your event vision. 

Established vendor relationships are more than a simple transactional arrangement for us – they are essential to successful event planning, and an asset to our clients. Through seamless communication, customized services, cost savings, and enhanced trust, these partnerships allow our team to deliver consistently remarkable results.
 
For more business and private event tips and ideas, follow BIG DEAL Company on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.