On Saturday, October 3, 2026, more than 500 guests put on their best Western wear and gathered at Colorado Youth Outdoors in Fort Collins for NOCOFest Goes West, the fifth annual fundraiser for Avery's Light. The night had live music, food trucks and a lot of heart, and it raised more than $290,000 for individuals with special needs and their families in Northern Colorado.
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At Big Deal Company, we're proud to serve as the event planning and marketing team behind NOCOFest. This year's event was the biggest one yet!

For 2026, NOCOFest moved to a new venue, Colorado Youth Outdoors, and took on a Western theme. The bigger space made room for more guests, more vendors and more fun.

Here's what the evening included:

• Live music from Northwoods to start the night
• The NOCOFest Program, a short look at the families and programs the event supports
• A live auction and paddle raise, funding the programs Avery's Light supports
• DJ OSO keeping the dance floor full until the end of the night
• Food trucks, vendors and walking entertainment, all against a Western backdrop
• More than 30 auction items donated by generous community partners

Why NOCOFest Matters
Avery's Light started after its founding family heard the word "no" far more often than "yes," so they set out to build a place where the answer would always be yes.
"Sometimes what's missing isn't ability – it's opportunity." — Kristen Bland, Founder, Avery's Light
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Today, Avery's Light is Northern Colorado's leading advocate for inclusive recreation, adaptive programming and family resources. Every ticket, every sponsorship and every drink at NOCOFest helps fund that work all year long, through grants, therapy, adaptive recreation and inclusive programs that turn "no" into "yes."

The community showed up in a big way:

• 500+ RSVPs
• 30 sponsors
• 68 vendors
• 30+ auction items
• $290,000+ raised, about 45% more than in 2025

We're also proud of how carefully the money was managed. The total event cost  well under the original estimate, so more of every dollar goes straight to the families Avery's Light serves.

Our job is to make sure people hear about a great event and want to be there. This year's multi-channel campaign brought big results:

• Statewide press. The media release went to outlets across Colorado, and NOCOFest was featured in more than 20 publications and outlets
• Facebook reach grew more than five times. Posts drew 58,276 views during the campaign, up from 10,846 last year.
• Social media sold tickets. Facebook link clicks jumped from 5 to 689 YOY.
• Engagement nearly quintupled. Facebook interactions rose from 274 to 1,308, an increase of 377%.
• A steady presence on Instagram. The account recorded views every single day of the campaign, for 28,204 total views and 613 interactions.

A night like NOCOFest takes months of work. Here's what went into it:

• 9 months of planning
• More than 1,500 emails and 100 meetings
• 3 site visits to the new venue
• 3 lead planners and 9 event support staff
• 19 volunteers on site
• A website refresh and a new ticketing system
• Shared planning files, a communications plan, messaging templates and a media kit for every partner

Our design team also created a new NOCOFest logo, the event program, signage, social media ads and the sponsorship package.
None of this would have worked without the Avery's Light board, the volunteers and an amazing community.

Thank You to Our Sponsors
"Every sponsor at this event is choosing to invest in possibility, helping create more opportunities for individuals with disabilities to participate, belong, and thrive in our community." — Lori Couch, Executive Director, Avery's Light

A heartfelt thank you to the sponsors who made NOCOFest Goes West possible:

• Presenting Sponsor: Carrico Family Foundation
• Power of Possibility Sponsor: Edward Jones
• Inclusion Champion Sponsors: High Country Beverage, Colorado Youth Outdoors, Rope n' Rascals, Primary Event Rentals
• Breaking Barriers Sponsors: Bank of Colorado, LSI
• Ability in Action Sponsors: Centennial Leasing & Sales, PFC, PJL Schmidt, Peterson Toyota, Fusion Lighting & Design
• Belonging Sponsors: Big Deal Company, Front Range Energy, Thompson River Pediatrics, Tracy & Rusty Bailey
• Gift of Hope Sponsors: ENT – now Wings Credit Union, The Genesis Project, Robert & Susan Majerus, CBRE's Fort Collins Office, Scheels, Renaissance Insurance, Springhaus, Woodland Homes, Connecting Point, and Greg Roeder – LIV Sotheby's Realty

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We've loved helping NOCOFest grow, and we're thankful to Avery's Light for trusting us with an event that means so much to so many families. We can't wait to see what's next.

A conference can look flawless on paper. Great venue? Check. Speakers booked? Check. Lunch ordered? Check. Name badges ready? Check. Then the doors open.

Suddenly, 300 people are waiting in the registration line, no one can find Breakout Room C, the coffee station is backing up, the keynote speaker needs an adapter that isn’t available, and half the attendees are checking their email instead of connecting. Planning a conference involves much more than just booking rooms and creating an agenda. The small details that go smoothly often go unnoticed, but when they go wrong, people remember them.

At BIG DEAL Company, we’ve organized multi-day conferences, corporate meetings, trade shows, retreats, and events throughout Colorado and across the country. Here are 10 conference planning mistakes we believe need more attention. Think of this as a conference planning checklist for the details that don't always make it onto the checklist. 

1. Choosing the Venue Before You Know How the Event Needs to Work
It’s exciting to find a beautiful venue, but what looks good isn’t always what works best.
Before signing a contract, think beyond capacity. How will 400 people get from the keynote to three breakout sessions? Where will they grab coffee? Is there enough space outside meeting rooms for conversations? Where will exhibitors load in? How far are the restrooms from the meeting space?
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Even something as basic as elevator capacity can cause problems when hundreds of people need to change floors at once. Start with the attendee experience and your event goals, then choose a venue that fits those needs.
If you’re beginning the venue search, BIG DEAL Company’s guide to planning conferences and retreats with a national event planner offers a look at some of the considerations that go into larger events.

2. Filling Every Minute of the Agenda
A schedule that runs nonstop from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. might seem impressive, but people need time to process what they learn, check their messages, take breaks, grab coffee, and network. Often, the best moments at a conference happen outside the planned sessions.

Rather than asking, “What else can we fit in?” try asking, “Where can people have time to breathe?” Schedule 20- or 30-minute breaks, optional activities, longer lunches, or open networking times on purpose. Treat open time as an important part of the program, not just empty space to fill.

3. Planning for Attendance Instead of Engagement

Having 500 people show up isn’t the same as having 500 people engaged. Today, attendee engagement is one of the most important ways to measure an event’s success. Cvent’s 2026 venue sourcing research found that 63% of planners see attendee engagement as a top success factor.

So let’s ask: what do we want attendees to do while they’re here?
Meet three new people? Participate in a discussion? Visit exhibitors? Learn a new skill? Connect with company leadership?

Once you know what you want people to do, plan the event to encourage that. A conference shouldn’t just give people a place to sit—it should give them reasons to get involved.
Read more about current venue sourcing and attendee engagement trends from Cvent.

4. Putting Networking on the Agenda and Assuming It Will Happen
“Networking: 4:00–5:00 p.m.”  Great. But now what?
Putting 200 strangers in a ballroom with drinks doesn’t guarantee real connections. Give people reasons to talk. Add conversation prompts to cocktail tables, group attendees by industry or interest, offer small-group discussions, and set up comfortable lounge areas away from the noise. Try these ideas to make networking memorable.

• Conversation prompt cards: Place unexpected, work-related questions on tables that go beyond “What do you do?” Try prompts like, “What’s one problem you wish someone here could help you solve?”
• Interest-based meeting spots: Create designated areas for different industries, job roles, interests, or conference topics so attendees can easily find people with something in common.
• Networking challenges: Give attendees a simple mission, such as meeting someone from another industry, finding someone with a complementary skill, or making three new connections before lunch.
• Small-group rotations: Instead of one large networking reception, periodically put attendees into groups of four to six people. Smaller groups make it much harder to stand quietly on the sidelines.
• Conversation-friendly spaces: Add lounge seating, cocktail tables, quieter corners, and places to set down a drink or plate. The physical environment can make networking significantly easier.
• Build networking into an activity: Use trivia, collaborative challenges, tasting experiences, workshops, games, or other activities that give strangers something to do together. Conversation tends to happen more naturally when “networking” isn't the only objective.

5. Forgetting About the Five-Minute Experience
Conference planners naturally focus on the big things: keynote speakers, meals, entertainment, audiovisual production, and breakout sessions. But attendees experience dozens of tiny moments throughout the day.

• Where do I put my coat?
• Can I charge my phone?
• Where can I refill my water bottle?
• Where can I take a phone call?
• Is there somewhere quiet to sit?
• Where do I put my coffee when I’m trying to shake someone’s hand?

Each of these things might seem small on its own, but together, they affect how comfortable and organized your event feels.
Before the event, walk through the conference as an attendee and look for small issues that could cause problems.

6. Treating Accessibility as a Checklist
Accessibility shouldn’t be something you address after the floor plan and agenda are finished. Think about it from the beginning.

Consider aisle width, seating options, captioning, accessible entrances, signage, dietary needs, sensory stimulation, registration forms, transportation, and quiet spaces. One especially useful idea is to include accessibility questions during registration rather than waiting for attendees to contact you individually.
Accessibility improvements often help everyone. For example, a quiet room can support someone with sensory needs and also give an executive a place to relax before presenting.

7. Forgetting to Plan the Transitions
Here’s one of the least glamorous parts of conference planning and one of the most important:
What happens between things?

• If a keynote ends at 10:00 and breakout sessions begin at 10:05, can everyone realistically get there?
• What happens when 350 people leave the ballroom at once?
• Will they all encounter the coffee station?
• The sponsor displays?
• The restrooms?
• A narrow hallway?

Good conference planning also considers the spaces and moments between scheduled activities.
Sometimes, simply moving a coffee station or adding five minutes to the schedule can do more for attendees than adding another activity.

8. Making Food About the Menu Instead of the Schedule
Yes, the food should be good. But conference catering is also logistics. If 500 attendees have a 45-minute lunch break, how quickly can they actually be served? If everyone gets coffee at the same time, how many stations do you need? Are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options clearly identified?

Here’s something planners sometimes miss:

Where will the food be placed? Even a beautiful buffet can cause problems if the line blocks an entrance or makes people walk against the natural flow of the room. Consider food as part of your floor plan and schedule, not just as a catering order.

9. Having a Plan B That’s Really Just “We’ll Figure It Out”
What happens when the microphone stops working? A speaker’s flight is canceled. The outdoor reception gets hit with a Colorado thunderstorm. The Wi-Fi struggles. A vendor is late.

No one enjoys planning for problems, but professional event planning means deciding what to do before something goes wrong. Make backup plans for your biggest risks and choose who can make quick decisions.

Even better, decide in advance what will trigger your backup plan. For example, instead of saying, “If the weather is bad, we’ll move inside,” set a time and process: “At 1:00 p.m., the event lead and venue manager will check the forecast. If severe weather is likely, the reception moves indoors.”

This way, you have a clear decision process instead of a last-minute debate.

10. Trying to Make the Internal Team Do Everything
Your employees may be highly organized and capable. That doesn’t mean they should spend conference day looking for extension cords, texting the caterer, checking speaker arrivals, answering attendee questions, and figuring out why the presentation won’t display correctly.

Ask yourself what you really want your team to do during the conference. If they should be building relationships, talking with employees, meeting sponsors, or joining sessions, they shouldn’t also be handling all the behind-the-scenes work.
That’s one of the biggest differences between organizing an event internally and bringing in an experienced event planning partner.

If you’re considering outside help, here are five questions to ask before hiring a planner for a multi-day conference.

The Best Conferences Feel Easier Than They Were to Plan
Attendees don’t need to know that someone spent 20 minutes deciding where the coffee station should go. They shouldn’t notice there was a backup laptop behind the stage, a lunch schedule change, or a plan for a delayed speaker. They just know the conference felt easy. That’s usually the sign of great event planning.

The BIG DEAL Company team manages conferences, corporate meetings, retreats, trade shows, and special events from Northern Colorado to destinations across the country. If you’re planning an event with many people, lots of details, or little room for mistakes, connect with BIG DEAL Company to see how an experienced team can make things much easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How far in advance should you start planning a conference?
For a large or multi-day conference, planning can easily begin nine to 12 months in advance, and sometimes earlier. Venue availability, hotel room blocks, speakers, entertainment, transportation, and vendor availability can all affect the timeline. Starting early also gives you more flexibility instead of forcing you to choose from whatever is still available.

2. What is the most commonly overlooked part of conference planning?Attendee flow is one of the easiest things to overlook. Planners often focus on what happens inside each room without considering what happens when hundreds of attendees leave those rooms at the same time. Hallways, elevators, restrooms, food stations, registration areas, and transitions between sessions all deserve attention.

3. How can you make a corporate conference more engaging?
Start by identifying what you want attendees to do, not simply what you want them to hear. Build in opportunities for conversation, participation, movement, networking, smaller group discussions, and downtime. Engagement doesn’t always require more entertainment or technology. Sometimes it requires fewer presentations and more opportunities to participate.

4. When should you hire a professional conference planner?
Consider bringing in a professional planner when the event involves multiple days, several vendors, hundreds of attendees, travel logistics, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, complicated audiovisual needs, or an internal team that needs to participate in the conference rather than run it. An experienced planner can also be valuable much earlier in the process, particularly during venue sourcing, budgeting, contract review, and event design.

Fall makes party planning easy. With cooler weather, colorful leaves, seasonal foods, football, Halloween, harvest time, and cozy get-togethers, there’s no shortage of inspiration. And you have more choices than just pumpkins and orange tablecloths. They give people a chance to connect face to face. Research from Freeman and The Harris Poll found that 95% of professionals trust a brand more after attending its in-person events, and 82% think meeting in person is the best way to build strong professional relationships.

This makes fall a great time for businesses, nonprofits, and organizations to bring people together before the holiday rush. A well-planned event can strengthen relationships, celebrate employees, thank clients, raise awareness, or just let people enjoy each other's company.

No matter what you’re planning, whether it’s a company event, fundraiser, neighborhood party, birthday, client gathering, or just a get-together with friends, a strong theme ties everything together. It helps you choose décor, food, entertainment, activities, and even invitations.
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Here are 10 fall event themes, ranging from laid-back and cozy to stylish and unexpected.

1. Modern Harvest Dinner: Think harvest party, but with a fresh twist.
Skip filling every spot with pumpkins and go for a more refined look. Use natural textures, seasonal greenery, wood accents, candles, dried grasses, and just a few well-placed gourds. Right now, fall decorating trends favor natural materials, richer colors, and details that enhance a space instead of taking it over.

Décor Ideas:
Use long farm tables, linen runners, amber glassware, wood serving boards, dried florals, apples, pears, mini pumpkins, and plenty of candlelight.

Activity Ideas:
Host a wine or cider tasting, serve a farm-to-table dinner, or have guests write what they’re thankful for on cards to add to the décor.
This theme works well for corporate dinners, client appreciation events, fundraisers, rehearsal dinners, or Friendsgiving.

2. Fall Festival, Grown-Up Edition: Take all the best parts of a classic fall festival and tailor them for adults.
Set up different areas for guests to explore during the event, instead of having everyone sit at a table the whole time.

Décor Ideas:
String lights, picnic tables, plaid blankets, barrels, wooden signs, mums, lanterns, fire pits, and cozy lounge areas.

Activity Ideas:
Cornhole tournaments, pumpkin bowling, live music, food trucks, local beer or cider tastings, lawn games, and a fire pit with gourmet s’mores.
If it’s a company event, encourage some friendly competition between departments. Bragging rights don’t cost a thing and can be a big motivator.

3. Murder Mystery in the Mountains: Fall is a great time to add some intrigue.
Plan an event inspired by an old mountain lodge, a historic hotel, or a remote cabin where something mysterious has happened, and anyone could be the culprit.

Décor Ideas:
Vintage luggage, old books, brass candlesticks, lanterns, antique frames, dark florals, maps, keys, and handwritten clues.

Activity Ideas:
You can hire a murder mystery company or set up teams to collect clues during the night. Ask guests to dress up and give them character roles ahead of time.
This theme is great for company parties, birthdays, retreats, Halloween events, and fundraisers.

4. Après Autumn: Who says you have to wait for snow to enjoy après-ski vibes?Bring in the relaxed feel of a mountain lodge and host an “Après Autumn” event with cozy seating, warm drinks, mountain-inspired food, and outdoor fun.

Décor Ideas:
Plaid blankets, faux fur, lanterns, wood accents, mountain greenery, fire pits, string lights, and comfortable lounge furniture.

Activity Ideas:
Set up a hot chocolate or coffee bar, offer outdoor games, bring in acoustic music, create a build-your-own trail mix station, or host a cocktail hour by the fire.
Want more Colorado-inspired event ideas? Check out the BIG DEAL Company blog for venues, planning tips, and inspiration.

5. Fall Field Day: Not every company event has to be another cocktail party.
A Fall Field Day gets people moving and working together, making networking and team building feel more natural.

Décor Ideas:
Team pennants, colorful bandanas, chalkboard scoreboards, picnic tables, hay bales, and simple fall florals.

Activity Ideas:
Create teams for relay races, giant Jenga, cornhole, trivia, scavenger hunts, tug-of-war, pumpkin rolling, or even some silly office-themed games.
Wrap up with food, drinks, and fun awards—not just for first place, but for things like Best Team Spirit or Most Questionable Strategy.

6. Dark Academia Dinner Party: If you want something totally different from classic fall décor, try the moody side of the season.
Dark Academia blends old libraries, vintage university vibes, candlelit dinners, literature, and historic architecture for a sophisticated fall theme.

Décor Ideas:
Stacks of old books, taper candles, dark green or burgundy linens, brass accessories, vintage frames, botanical prints, old maps, and handwritten place cards.
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Activity Ideas:
You could host literary trivia, a mystery game, dramatic readings, a whiskey tasting, or even a 'secret society' scavenger hunt.
This theme is perfect for historic venues, museums, libraries, old hotels, or any space with dramatic architecture.

​7. Campfire Social: Sometimes, simple is best.
A Campfire Social sets up a relaxed, casual space where people can unwind and really connect.

Décor Ideas:
Fire pits, Adirondack chairs, blankets, lanterns, thermoses, string lights, enamel mugs, picnic tables, and outdoor lounge furniture.

Activity Ideas:
Set up a gourmet s’mores bar, invite an acoustic musician, serve chili or soup flights, play camp-themed trivia, or organize yard games.
If it’s a company event, skip the forced networking and set up a few smaller seating areas. Comfortable spots to gather usually spark conversation on their own.

8. Vintage Halloween: Halloween doesn’t have to be all about inflatable ghosts and plastic skeletons.
A vintage Halloween party brings a sense of nostalgia, style, and just the right amount of spookiness.

Décor Ideas:
Black taper candles, vintage Halloween illustrations, old apothecary bottles, antique frames, black lace, pumpkins, dried flowers, candelabras, and warm amber lighting.

Activity Ideas:
Host a costume contest with unique categories, offer tarot card readings, show classic scary movies, play Halloween trivia, set up a photo booth, or create a themed cocktail or mocktail station.
Looking for visual inspiration before you decorate? Follow BIG DEAL Company on Pinterest for event décor, theme ideas, and entertaining tips you can save for your next party.

9. Game Day Tailgate: Fall and football go hand in hand, so why not embrace it?A tailgate-themed event can be as casual or as polished as you want, depending on your guests.

Décor Ideas:
Team colors, pennants, turf-inspired table runners, stadium-style food stations, picnic tables, coolers, string lights, and oversized screens.

Activity Ideas:
Football toss competitions, cornhole, squares, trivia, prediction boards, tailgate food competitions, or a chili cook-off.
Not everyone follows football, so include games and activities that don’t require knowing who’s playing quarterback. The goal is to make the event welcoming even for guests who came strictly for the snacks.

10. Autumn After Dark: Instead of building the theme around pumpkins or leaves, build it around what happens when the sun goes down.
This theme is perfect for outdoor events in September or October, when the evenings are cool but still pleasant.

Décor Ideas:
Use lots of twinkle lights, lantern pathways, lit-up trees, candles, glowing centerpieces, fire pits, and cozy lounge areas. Stick to a simple color palette and let the lighting set the mood.

Activity Ideas:
Bring in live music, create an outdoor movie area, offer telescope stargazing, set up fire pits, host a nighttime scavenger hunt, or create an illuminated photo area.
This theme works well for fundraisers, client appreciation events, milestone celebrations, and company parties. It feels seasonal without being linked to any one holiday.
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The best fall theme is the one your guests will love.
A theme should make planning simpler, not add a long shopping list. First, think about how you want your guests to feel. Do you want them laughing and competing, relaxing by a fire, dressing up, exploring, networking, or enjoying a beautiful meal together?

Once you know the experience you want, pick a theme that fits. Focus on a few key details—lighting, décor, food, entertainment, and one or two memorable activities. You don’t need everything to match the theme. Sometimes, less is more.
Looking for more ideas? Follow BIG DEAL Company on Pinterest for inspiration you can save all year, and check out the BIG DEAL Company Blog for more event planning tips.
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If your fall event has gone from 'This could be fun' to 'Who’s going to organize all of this?' BIG DEAL Company is here to help. From creative ideas and venue selection to vendors, logistics, décor, entertainment, and event-day coordination, our team can turn your vision into an event you’ll actually enjoy.

​Frequently Asked Questions
1. How far in advance should I start planning a fall event?
For a larger corporate event, fundraiser, or private celebration, several months of lead time gives you more choices for venues, entertainment, rentals, and vendors. Smaller gatherings can often come together faster, but popular September, October, and November dates can fill quickly. BIG DEAL Company also recommends planning holiday events early so you have more options rather than choosing from what’s left.

2. How can I decorate for fall without making everything orange?
Use texture and natural materials instead of relying entirely on traditional fall colors. Wood, greenery, dried grasses, linen, wool, brass, amber glass, candlelight, burgundy, olive, chocolate brown, and muted gold can create a distinctly autumnal atmosphere without turning the room into a pumpkin patch. Natural materials and deeper, muted colors are also showing up prominently in current seasonal décor.

3. How do I choose the right fall theme for a corporate event?
Start with your goal, not the décor. If you want employees interacting, consider Fall Field Day or a Fall Festival. If you’re entertaining clients, a Modern Harvest Dinner or Autumn After Dark may fit better. For team building, a Murder Mystery or activity-focused event gives guests a reason to work together. The theme should support what you want people to experience, not simply make the room look seasonal.
 
Ready to make your fall event a BIG DEAL? Check out more ideas from BIG DEAL Company and see how creativity, good planning, and the right team can turn an ordinary gathering into something people remember long after winter starts.

Somewhere between the signed venue contract and the opening keynote, a lot of multi-day conferences quietly go sideways. Not because the planner did anything wrong, but because the RFP process rewarded a polished proposal over a proven system.
 
If you’re comparing planners and event planning companies for a multi-day, multi-year conference contract, the gap between a smooth three days and a stressful planning window rarely shows up in the pitch deck. It shows up in five specific questions.

1.   How many multi-day, multi-year conferences have they actually run?
Ask for the number, not the adjective. “Extensive experience” means nothing on its own – a track record does.
 
BIG DEAL Company has planned 20+ annual company conferences nationwide for a single client, every one on budget, with zero missed deadlines and zero major incidents – covering venue selection, budgeting, speaker coordination, and local-experience design, plus a multi-year trade show booth presence in Las Vegas.

2.   Will they run the full arc on-site, or just the parts before the doors open?
Plenty of planners are strong on the front end – venue, contracts, budget – and then hand you off once the event actually starts. A multi-day conference needs someone in the room for all of it.
 
For a multi-day, cross-departmental conference, our team handled full-service management end-to-end: project management, vendor coordination, the master schedule, staffing, and live on-site production – while turning scattered department-level material into one cohesive agenda.

3.   Can they operate as a standing partner, not a one-time hire?
A multi-year RFP isn’t really about one event. It’s about the relationship that has to hold up across every event after this one.
 
We serve as a standing event team for a Colorado media and events client – not a one-off vendor – contracted for 6+ events annually with a dedicated event lead. For another client, an 8+  year relationship now covers all-company conferences for a 400-employee organization.

4.   Do they handle destination logistics – housing, vendor rates, and everything in between?
Multi-day usually means travel. Hotel blocks, group rates, ground transportation, and a program that has to work from arrival to departure, not just for the main session.
 
We’ve sourced and secured destination venues for multiple full-scale conferences, managed group housing and rate negotiation across every vendor and the venue itself, and built the full multi-day program – meals, local experiences, and programming included.

5.   Do they bring marketing and communications firepower, or just logistics?
A conference is also a public-facing brand moment. Registration, sponsor acquisition, press, content – none of that runs itself.
 
For the region's largest manufacturing conference, we managed ticketing, registration, marketing, staffing, volunteer coordination, and trade show floor design for 50 booths and 400+ guests. For an ongoing awards-and-conference partnership, we have handled 9 large events a year – logistics, ticketing, contracts, and budgeting, start to finish.

A conference planner books the room. A conference partner protects the days you can’t get back if something breaks.

If you’re evaluating proposals for a multi-day or multi-year conference contract, we’ve run this exact playbook across Colorado, Wyoming, and destination locations nationwide. Reach out to see our past conference work and find out if we’re the right fit before you finalize your proposal.
 

Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between an event planner and a conference planner?
An event planner typically manages a single occasion from start to finish. A conference planner manages a recurring, multi-day program — parallel sessions, multiple speakers, sponsors, and often a multi-year contract behind it, not just one date on the calendar.

How far in advance should we hire a planner for a multi-day conference?
Most planning teams bring in a planner 9 to 12 months before their first multi-day conference. For a standing, multi-year contract, the earlier the better — an experienced planner adds value at the RFP and site-selection stage, not just after the contract is signed.

Does BIG DEAL Company handle standing, multi-year conference contracts?
Yes. We currently serve as the standing event team for a Colorado media and events client (6+ events a year) and have held an 8+ year conference planning partnership with a regional credit union for its 400-employee all-company events.

What states does BIG DEAL Company serve?
We're based in Northern Colorado and serve clients across Colorado, Wyoming, and destination locations — including a nationwide, multi-year conference program spanning 20+ annual events across the country.

What does a full-service conference planner actually handle?
Venue and vendor sourcing, contract negotiation, budgeting, speaker and entertainment coordination, sponsorship and fundraising, registration and ticketing, event staffing, marketing and PR, on-site production, and permitting — ideally from one accountable team instead of five separate vendors.

The CEO of BIG DEAL Company, Christine Kovacs Forster, lives and breathes JOY.  Entertaining people and being entertained is what simply moves her.  My Big Day (now BIG DEAL) was formed in 2006 after Christine received constant requests to help businesses with their marketing and event planning.  In 2023 she re-branded as BIG DEAL Company.

With 28 years in media and event planning, today her passion lies in creating events for all to enjoy and campaigns that elevate businesses and non-profits. Christine serves on numerous event and marketing committees, was a Commissioner for the City of Loveland, serves as an advisor to Destination Colorado, and served on boards for local non-profits. Giving back is a priority both personally and professionally.

BIG DEAL clients recognize Christine as their fearless partner who runs each event with a walkie-talkie, clipboard, and numerous spreadsheets. "Organized" is an understatement. Her national media advertising experience lends itself to significant local client successes.  The event & marketing business is a relationship business, and Christine is known for being a connector in the community, and ultimately a friend to everyone she meets!  She and her team pride themselves on extraordinary service and original events.

Education: 
Bachelors in Organizational Communications
Diploma in Learning and Development
Event and Hospitality Management Certification
​Event Marketing Certification
Tourism Marketing Certification
​Gamification Certification
Online Marketing Certification
Hotel & Catering Management Certification
Mobile Marketing Certification
Wedding Planner Certification
TIPS Certified
Tenderwise Training Complete
​Digital Marketing Certification
Responsible Alcohol Sales
​Cannabis Impaired Driving Certification

With over a decade of experience in professional event planning, Tiffany brings creativity and expertise to every project. Her passion for creating memorable experiences stems from her belief that the perfect blend of cuisine, beverages, music, and people creates extraordinary moments.

With a degree in Hospitality and Restaurant Management, specializing in Event Planning, Tiffany successfully transitioned her event coordination skills into a dynamic marketing career at BIG DEAL Company. She thrives in the fast-paced digital landscape, continuously expanding her expertise through professional development and staying ahead of emerging trends.
Her commitment to excellence and eagerness to embrace new challenges makes her a valuable asset to any project. Tiffany's dedication to continuous learning and growth is reflected in her innovative approaches to both marketing strategies and event management.

Education: 
Internship with My Big Day (now BIG DEAL)
Bachelor of Science, Hospitality and Restaurant Management
Event Marketing Certification
Tourism Marketing Certification
TIPS Certified
Tenderwise Training Complete
Responsible Alcohol Sales
​Cannabis Impaired Driving Certification

Sarah discovered her passion for events while planning her own wedding in 2011. Since then, she has designed and executed events for life’s most meaningful milestones, with her work featured in renowned publications such as Martha Stewart Weddings, The Knot, Style Me Pretty, 100 Layer Cake, and You & Your Wedding magazine.

In 2018, Sarah joined BIG DEAL Company, where she has expanded her expertise to include corporate events, nonprofit fundraisers, political campaigns, event marketing, and the company’s signature events. In addition to event planning, Sarah curates content for platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. She also channels her creativity into writing blogs for nonprofit organizations and small business clients.

When she is not busy with work or her twin girls, she enjoys time with family and friends, hiking around Fort Collins, solving jigsaw puzzles, and binge-watching a good TV show. Sarah is thrilled to be a member of a creative, innovative team of women.

Education:
Bachelor of Arts in Journalism with a minor in Fashion Merchandising 
​Tourism Marketing Certification
Political Campaign Internship
TIPS Certified
Tenderwise Training Complete
Event Marketing Certification
Cvent Event Management Certification
​Cannabis Impaired Driving Certification

Lesli Tanski’s path has been curvy with lots of U-turns, detours, and construction.  Always driven by a sense of curiosity and passion for positivity she has seen success and experienced failure and applies it to her marketing knowledge and skills.  She was born and raised in Colorado and went on to receive her film degree in Vancouver, Canada followed by her undergraduate in Liberal Arts from Colorado State University.  She worked as a commercial producer for Comcast Spotlight for nearly eleven years before opening a food and spirit specialty shop with her husband in downtown Fort Collins.  It was through the business that she fell in love with the connection a business can create with its community whether it’s in person or online.  Other notable accomplishments include a master's degree in Library Education and undergraduate studies in media studies and English.  Lesli has had the fortune of growing up in a family and community that embraces creativity, love, and the common desire to constantly learn new things. 
​
Lesli’s other passions include being involved in animal advocacy, being an awesome aunt, knitting, and loving her husband and cats.  In case it’s not obvious she’s a card-carrying cat lady.  

Education:
Masters of Library Education
Bachelor of Arts , Liberal Arts 
Film and Film Studies Degree
Google Analytics Academy Certification

Kathleen’s career began in media sales, advertising, and marketing. Working in advertising mediums from commercial radio and TV to public radio, streaming video, podcasts, and along the way, working with businesses to improve their share of voice, and get the most from their marketing budget.
She joined BIG DEAL to continue to share her understanding of marketing and promotions.
Most of Kathleen’s career has been spent working with Northern Colorado businesses, helping them to navigate the sometimes confusing advertising industry. She has numerous connections, and influence in the area.
She and her husband Dan have 3 dogs, and stay very active with fitness rituals, travel, and doggy explorations.

Education:
Bachelors of Science in Business – Marketing - “magna cum laude”
Certificate – Center For Sales Strategy
Certified – Google Ads

Boards & Committees:
City of Loveland, Community Marketing Commission
Marketing & Development Committee – La Familia / The Family Center
Marketing Committee Co-Chair – Denkai Animal Sanctuary
College America – Program Advisory Committee

Mikaela brings deep experience in strategic event planning, community relations and corporate social responsibility to The Big Deal Company. As a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) with more than a decade in the nonprofit and corporate sectors, she thrives at the intersection of purpose and business.
Mikaela has banking experience and focuses on marketing and events for the western markets. Previously, she's held various event and community relations roles at IMA Financial Group, BCD Meetings & Events and the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce.
Mikaela has planned hundreds of events—from VIP dinners and leadership retreats to conferences and city-wide volunteer activations. She's passionate about connecting mission-driven organizations with meaningful resources and corporate partners.
Outside of work, she sits on the Development Committee for the Art Students League of Denver and previously served as Board Chair for Environmental Learning for Kids (ELK).
​
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Daniels College of Business, University of Denver 
Certificate in Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) Strategy from University of Colorado - Boulder
Project Management 360 Certification from Cornell University 
Certified Meeting Planner (CMP)
Cvent Event Management Certified 
Responsible Alcohol Sales Certified (StateFoodSafety)
Graduate of the Leadership Arts Program, Colorado Business Committee for the Arts
AI Fundamentals Certificate​

​Kayla Dixon-Rivera is a Colorado native passionate about community, storytelling, and bringing people together. Her love for connecting with others inspired her career in journalism, where she spent four years in Cheyenne as a morning anchor and producer before joining the No. 1 ABC affiliate in South Florida for three years.

Her experience extends beyond the newsroom. Kayla has worked in video production for the Colorado Eagles and has helped national nonprofits and businesses earn media coverage on television stations across the country, including FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates.

Kayla earned her Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Colorado State University-Global, where she discovered a passion for using marketing and creative storytelling to help people and organizations share their stories and connect with their audiences.

Outside of her professional work, Kayla is a mom to two young boys, a devoted dog lover, and an avid reader with an ever-growing TBR (to-be-read) list. She believes the best stories can inspire, connect, and bring people together.

Education:

• Bachelors of Science in Marketing
• Certificate in Digital Marketing

​On June 13, 2026, Northern Colorado celebrated something that doesn’t come along often: the completion of a 45-mile paved trail three generations in the making.
The Connecting Communities: Poudre River Trail Celebration brought more than 1,500 people to Timnath Community Park for an official ceremony and community event honoring the final connection of the Poudre River Trail, stretching from Bellvue to Greeley. And that was just the crowd in the park! An estimated 3,000 additional trail users took to the corridor that same day, making the total community reach well over 4,500 people!

​A Milestone Worth Marking
The morning opened with official remarks and a symbolic ribbon ceremony, where dignitaries from five regional partner organizations - Larimer County, the City of Fort Collins, the Town of Windsor, the Town of Timnath, and the City of Greeley - each connected a piece of ribbon representing their community’s role in building the trail. Over sixty-five confirmed dignitaries were invited to attend, reflecting the depth of partnership behind this project.
 
The celebration that followed featured 15 vendor and partner booths, food trucks, family activities, yard games, and a visit from Wilder, GOCO’s Generation Wild spokes creature. Fifty attendees were notified as gift bag winners, and the energy throughout the morning matched the scale of what was being celebrated.

The Numbers Behind the Day
Big Deal Company was proud to serve as event coordinator for this regional milestone, supporting 11 project and event partners, 21+ vendor partnerships, and nearly 15 volunteers alongside a 9-person BIG DEAL Company team. And best of all, it was all delivered under a $22,000 budget!
 
The story traveled far beyond the trailhead. Event coverage appeared across 26 media placements in 20+ outlets, including The Coloradoan, BizWest, CBS Denver, CBS News Colorado, The Denver Gazette, KUNC, North Forty News, and Yahoo News, among others.

What It Means
The Poudre River Trail is now one of Colorado’s longest paved multi-use trails. It’s a connected corridor linking parks, open spaces, neighborhoods, and communities along the Cache la Poudre River. The June 13 celebration wasn’t just a finish line. It was proof of what’s possible when communities commit to a shared vision over the long haul.
 
We were honored to help bring it to life!

FAQs
1. Can anyone use the Poudre River Trail, and where do I start?
 The trail is free and open to the public. The COTREX App at Trails.Colorado.gov is the recommended tool for finding access points along the 45-mile corridor from Bellvue to Greeley.
2. Who built the Poudre River Trail, and how long did it take?
 The trail spans five jurisdictions — Larimer County, Fort Collins, Windsor, Timnath, and Greeley — and represents more than 50 years of planning, funding, and construction across multiple generations of local government partners and grant funders.
 
Big Deal Company provides event coordination, communications, and marketing support for organizations across Colorado.
Learn more at www.BigDealCompany.com.

photo credit: City of Fort Collins

A great event partner doesn’t start with logistics - they start with your goals. The right team takes the time to understand your strategy and your brand, then brings it all together in a way that actually connects with people and supports your long-term goals.

​There’s a moment in almost every event planning conversation where someone says, “We just need help pulling this together.”
 
And we get it. Timelines get tight. Details stack up fast.
 
But here’s the truth that most people don’t realize until after the event is over:
If your planning partner only focuses on execution, you’ll end up with a well-run event that doesn’t actually do much for your organization.
 
That’s where the Big Deal difference shows up!
​
What does a great event partner actually do?
A great event partner connects the dots between your organization and event goals and the experience itself. They don’t just plan - they translate vision into something tangible, strategic, and measurable.
 
Here’s a quick example:
Big Deal Company was brought in through an RFP process to support a multi-partner, multi-event celebration. The language in the RFP leaned heavily toward a festival, a community celebration, even a fair-style experience. On paper, it sounded like something large, open, and highly public-facing.
 
But here’s where things shifted.
 
Once we got into the intake process - real conversations, not just scope reviews - it became clear that wasn’t what the client actually wanted.
 
They weren’t trying to throw a festival.
 
They wanted to:

• Capture press attention and clearly communicate the purpose behind the milestone/purpose of the celebration
• Educate the public on why this moment mattered and how it benefits the broader community
• Honor the partners and funders who made the project possible
• Be thoughtful about sustainability in how the event was designed and executed

 
These goals required a completely different strategy.
 
A festival prioritizes scale and foot traffic. However, our client was looking for an event built with intention, focusing on storytelling, and building community connections.
 
So we shifted the approach.
 
Instead of building something wide and high-volume, we designed a more focused, curated experience - one that still felt like a celebration, but carried the weight of the message behind it.
 
Through our 20 years of experience, we have learned that a celebration can be meaningful, and a festival can be loud. They’re not the same thing - and choosing the wrong one changes everything.
 
That’s what a great event partner does.
 
They don’t just respond to what’s written in an RFP.
They listen for what’s actually needed - and build from there.

​1.    Good event partners understand your goals before proposing tacticsThis is where most event planning goes sideways.
 
Ideas come too early. Strategy comes too late.
 
At BIG DEAL, we slow this part down on purpose. Every project starts with an extensive intake process - not just a questionnaire, but real conversations. We want to understand:

• What success actually looks like for you
• How your brand communicates
• Who you need in the room (and why)
• What this event needs to do beyond the day itself

 
We know from experience - without clarity, even the most creative ideas can miss the mark.
 
2.    Good event partners treat events as tools - not one-time momentsA great event partner doesn’t measure success by how the event felt in the moment.
 
They look at what happens after.
 
Events should support:

• Brand Visibility - Are the right people seeing you?
• Connection - Are relationships being built or strengthened?
• Long-term growth - Is this opening doors for future opportunities?

 
We’ve seen beautifully designed events fall flat because they weren’t tied to anything bigger.
 
We’ve also seen simpler events outperform expectations when rooted in clear goals and objectives.
 
That is the difference that strategy makes.

3.    Good event partners build collaboration into the process - not just the kickoffGreat events are rarely created in isolation.
 
They’re built through ongoing collaboration.
 
At BIG DEAL, our planning process includes:

• Regular planning meetings
• Internal communication cadences
• Checkpoints for alignment and adjustments

 
Things change - priorities shift, and new ideas come up. That’s all part of the process.
 
When communication stays consistent, the event stays aligned with your goals - not just the timeline.

4.    Good event partners balance creativity with thoughtful executionCreativity gets attention. Execution builds trust.
 
A great event partner knows how to bring both together.
 
That means:

• Designing experiences that feel intentional - not overdone.
• Managing details so nothing gets lost in the process.
• Anticipating challenges before they show up.

This is where experience really shows through.
 
You can have a great idea. But if it’s not executed thoughtfully, the experience falls apart quickly.

5.    Good event partners take a curated, strategic, and community-aware approachNot every event should feel the same. And not every audience responds the same way.
 
A great partner understands context.
 
At BIG DEAL, that means:

• Being selective about what actually fits your brand
• Designing with your audience and community in mind
• Creating experiences that feel relevant, not generic

 
People can tell when something is just “put together”.
 
And they can definitely tell when it was built with intention.

If you’re unsure, this quick resource can help:
 The 1-minute checklist that saves you from event panic

So…what does this mean for your next event?
The right event partner doesn’t just make things easier - they make them more effective.
 
They ask better questions.
They connect ideas to outcomes.
They build something that lasts longer than the event itself.
 
That’s how ideas turn into experiences that actually matter.

Ready to approach your next event differently?
If you’re planning something and want it to feel aligned, strategic, and intentional from the start - let’s talk. Our team can help build the right foundation for a successful event.
 
BIG DEAL COMPANY TEAM
BIG DEAL Company is a strategic event and experience partner focused on helping brands create meaningful, results-driven events. Known for a collaborative process and thoughtful execution, the team works closely with clients to align every experience with long-term goals.

​FAQs

What makes an event partner different from an event planner?
 An event partner focuses on strategy, goals, and long-term impact—not just logistics. They align the event with brand objectives and outcomes, while a planner typically focuses on coordination and execution.

Why is strategy important in event planning?
 Strategy ensures the event supports visibility, relationships, and growth. Without it, events may run smoothly but fail to deliver meaningful business results.

How does collaboration improve event success?
 Ongoing collaboration keeps everyone aligned, allows for adjustments, and ensures the event evolves with changing priorities. It reduces miscommunication and strengthens execution.

What should I expect from an event intake process?
 A strong intake process includes conversations about your goals, audience, messaging, and success metrics. It lays the foundation for a more effective and tailored event strategy.
​
How do events support long-term organizational growth?
 Events create opportunities for brand exposure, relationship building, and future partnerships. When aligned with strategy, they contribute to sustained momentum.

In today’s saturated events and marketing world, an event should be more than a one-off happening on somebody’s calendar. Events can be powerful engines that fuel ongoing engagement, build deeper relationships with stakeholders, and amplify your brand throughout the year. At BIG DEAL Company, we help our marketing and events clients turn every event into a dynamic piece of a larger, integrated marketing ecosystem that keeps audiences connected long after the lights go down.

​Events as Cornerstones of Your Marketing Plan
 Whether you’re planning a large community festival, a client appreciation reception, or a donor coffee, events have an undeniable ability to draw attention, spark conversations, and create memorable experiences. But their power doesn’t stop at the event itself – when thoughtfully woven into your marketing strategy, events become catalysts for year-long engagement.
 
Events give people something to experience – meaningful moments that strengthen emotional ties to your brand. Marketing gives people a reason to show up in the first place – and keeps them involved long after. Together, they form a symbiotic relationship that drives higher visibility, stronger loyalty, and better results.

​Small Events, Big Returns
You don’t need a massive budget to achieve a high return on event investment. In fact, more frequent, smaller events were a top driver of engagement and, for businesses, sales, as reported by Cvent in 2025. In an Outlook on Events 2025 report, 72% of in-house marketers stated that events were their company’s most effective marketing channel.
 
Simple, inexpensive events like cause marketing activations, community coffee hours, or donor appreciation gatherings can be incredibly effective when paired with smart marketing:

• Generate anticipation: Teasing events before they happen through targeted email campaigns and social media builds excitement and relevance.
•  Boost visibility: When attendees share their experience online, sponsors promote their event contributions, or vendors talk about their experience working with your company, you amplify your reach organically.  
• Extend engagement: Follow up with content captured at the event – photos, videos, testimonials – to sustain the buzz and give your audience more reasons to stay connected.

 
These small but impactful touchpoints strengthen relationships and continuously feed your marketing channels with engaging, authentic content, instead of “fluff.”
 
Marketing Makes Every Event Work Harder
 Annual or recurring events are gold mines for long-term engagement because they give your audience something to look forward to each year. They are also cost-effective (and have predictable costs) because you do not have to “reinvent the wheel” every time.
 
Regular events allow you to:

• Reinforce brand presence: The more frequently your audience interacts with your brand in positive ways, the more top-of-mind you remain.
• Build tradition and community: Annual happenings become part of your audience’s rhythm – something they anticipate, plan for, and share with others.
• Create year-round content opportunities: Each event becomes a story you can tell across your digital platforms.

At Big Deal Company, we specialize in layering events into comprehensive marketing plans so that each touchpoint (before, during, and after an event) works together to enhance impact and extend your reach. By aligning strategic promotional efforts with unforgettable experiences, we help brands unlock lasting engagement that drives growth.

​The Symbiotic Power of Events + Marketing
Events provide the experience – something real and shareable that people remember. Marketing provides the momentum – the strategy to get people there and keep them invested over time. When fused, this partnership creates a feedback loop of anticipation, engagement, and advocacy:

• Marketing draws people to your event.
• The event creates buzz on social media, in local press, and within communities.
• That buzz feeds back into your marketing channels as fresh content and new stories.
• The cycle continues, building momentum that lasts far beyond the day of the event.

 
Delivering Joy – and Results
At BIG DEAL Company, we believe thoughtful events and smart marketing aren’t separate services; they are integrated experiences that elevate your brand and drive engagement. By treating your goals as our own, we help you craft event-driven marketing programs and marketing-driven event buzz that make every interaction count, strengthen relationships, and build connections that last all year long.
 
For business and nonprofit marketing and event news and tips, follow BIG DEAL Company on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why should events be part of a larger marketing strategy?
Events are powerful on their own, but they become significantly more effective when integrated into a comprehensive marketing plan. Marketing builds anticipation before the event, drives attendance, and keeps the conversation going afterward. When events and marketing work together, they create a year-long engagement cycle instead of a one-day experience.
2. Do smaller events really make an impact?
Yes. In fact, industry research shows that more frequent, smaller events are a major driver of engagement and sales. Simple gatherings like donor appreciation coffees, cause marketing activations, or community events can deliver strong returns when supported by targeted email campaigns, social media promotion, and strategic follow-up content. Smaller events often create deeper connections at a lower cost.
3. What makes annual or recurring events so valuable?
Recurring events help reinforce brand presence and build tradition within your community. They are also cost-effective because planning becomes more streamlined over time. Annual events create consistent marketing opportunities, predictable budgeting, and a reliable touchpoint your audience looks forward to each year.
4. How do events and marketing create long-term engagement together?
Events provide the experience: something memorable and shareable. Marketing provides the momentum: the strategy that drives attendance and extends the life of the event. When combined, they create a continuous feedback loop: marketing brings people in, the event generates buzz and content, and that content fuels future marketing efforts. This cycle strengthens relationships and builds lasting brand loyalty.

In today’s crowded market, how your business shows up—online, in public, and within your community—matters more than ever. Thoughtful marketing strategy, authentic brand storytelling, and memorable experiences aren’t “nice-to-haves.” They’re how trust is built, and momentum is created.
 
That’s where Big Deal Company comes in. We’re more than executors of tasks—we’re strategic partners who understand how to elevate brands, connect people, and create impact that lasts.
 
From small local businesses to mission-driven nonprofits, the organizations that thrive with us share one thing in common: they care deeply about their people and the communities they serve. And they want their story told well.

Turning Real Challenges Into Meaningful Results
Here are the most common reasons businesses reach out to Big Deal Company—and how we help solve some of the biggest challenges leaders face today.

They Need Event Experts Who’ve Truly Done It All
Planning a conference, community gathering, grand opening, or employee celebration can feel overwhelming fast. Logistics pile up. Details multiply. Time disappears.
 
Big Deal Company brings deep experience in event strategy and execution, from defining the event's purpose to managing every moving part behind the scenes. We don’t just make events run smoothly—we ensure they reinforce your brand, strengthen relationships, and create moments people remember long after the lights go down.

They Want a Full-Circle Marketing Strategy—Not Just Tactics
Visibility today takes more than posting on social media or running an ad here and there. It requires a cohesive marketing strategy that aligns messaging, channels, timing, and storytelling.
 
We build campaigns that work hard across platforms—from strategic planning and creative development to execution and measurement. The result? Marketing that feels intentional, consistent, and aligned with real business goals—not scattered or reactive.

“Doing It the Same Way” Just Isn’t Working Anymore
Markets evolve. Audiences change. Expectations rise.
 
Clients come to us when they know repeating last year’s approach won’t cut it. We help organizations challenge the status quo, move forward with purpose in their long-standing annual events and fundraising strategies, and refine a brand story that resonates.
 
Fresh ideas matter—but only when they’re grounded in strategy and executed well.

​They Value a Partner with Deep Community & Industry Connections
Behind every great event or campaign is a strong network—venues, vendors, media partners, collaborators, and creatives who know how to deliver.
 
Big Deal Company brings years of relationship-building to the table. We know who to call, when to call them, and how to bring the right people together to strengthen outcomes and save our clients time. Community connection isn’t an add-on for us—it’s part of how we work.

They Want a Team That Cares About People — Not Just Deliverables
Our clients feel the difference because we treat their work like it matters—because it does.
 
From nonprofit fundraisers to brand launches, we’re invested in the people behind the mission. Authentic brand storytelling helps organizations connect with audiences in ways that feel human, meaningful, and memorable. When people feel seen and valued, loyalty follows.

Why Storytelling & Strategy Make the Difference
At the heart of impactful marketing and events is a clear, compelling story—one that reflects who you are, what you stand for, and why your audience should care.
 
When strategy and storytelling align:

• Your brand becomes memorable, not forgettable
• Marketing feels cohesive, not scattered
• Events become experiences—not just calendar items

 
Big Deal Company doesn’t just produce campaigns or events. We help organizations tell their stories in ways that connect, engage, and inspire action.

From Vision to Execution—Without the Stress
Large-scale festivals, new location launches, multi-channel fundraising campaigns, and year-long marketing initiatives all depend on one thing: strong execution that turns great ideas into real results.
 
Big Deal Company blends strategic insight with creative thinking and detailed follow-through—so nothing falls through the cracks and every goal is supported with intention.

Who Thrives With a Big Deal Partnership?
We work best with organizations that care deeply about their people, their communities, and the stories they tell. Our clients value thoughtful communication, intentional strategy, and human-first engagement.
 
Here are some industries, sectors, and organizations that could see big results when working with Big Deal Company:

• Community-Driven Small Businesses looking to stand out locally and build lasting relationships
• Boutique Hotels & Hospitality Groups seeking elevated guest experiences, grand openings, and seasonal events
• Counseling Centers & Mental Health Clinics that need sensitive, human-centered storytelling aligned with their mission
• Chambers of Commerce, City Tourism & Business Associations hosting ribbon cuttings, festivals, and community initiatives
• Food & Beverage Brands launching products, pop-ups, and immersive brand experiences
• Law Firms & Legal Practices celebrating milestones, hosting open houses, or launching services with polish and professionalism
• Tech Startups & Creative Agencies planning launches, retreats, and branded experiences that bring ideas to life
• Healthcare Organizations & Clinics managing community events, announcements, and outreach with care and precision
• Restaurants, Breweries & Food Brands opening doors, rolling out menus, and hosting events that feel fun, elevated, and on-brand

​Nonprofits Ready to Grow - our sweet spot! We step in as a fractional communications and fundraising strategy team, supporting campaigns, donor engagement, and event-based fundraising with purpose-driven storytelling.

​Big Deal Company exists to help organizations grow, connect, and create experiences people don’t forget.
If you’re ready for marketing and events that feel intentional, human, and impactful—we’re ready to help you tell your story.
Connect with our team on social media: Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Want to make your business a BIG DEAL? Let’s chat: 970-613-1455
 
Frequently Asked Questions

• What types of businesses does Big Deal Company work with?

Big Deal Company works with a wide range of organizations, from community-driven small businesses and hospitality brands to nonprofits, healthcare organizations, law firms, and tech startups. What our clients have in common is a desire to connect meaningfully with their audience and create experiences that feel intentional, polished, and people-centered.

• How does Big Deal Company combine events and marketing strategy?

We approach events and marketing as one connected ecosystem. Every event supports a larger brand or marketing goal, and every campaign is designed with real-world engagement in mind. By aligning strategy, storytelling, and execution, we help ensure that marketing efforts feel cohesive—not fragmented—and that events extend their impact beyond a single day.
​

• Can Big Deal Company support nonprofit fundraising and community campaigns?

Yes—nonprofits are one of our core focus areas. We often act as a fractional communications and fundraising strategy partner, helping organizations plan campaigns, design event-based fundraising efforts, strengthen donor engagement, and tell their story in ways that inspire long-term support

• What makes Big Deal Company different from a traditional event planner or marketing agency?

We don’t operate in silos. Instead of focusing on just logistics or just promotion, we take a full-circle approach that blends strategy, creativity, community relationships, and execution. Clients value our understanding of the big picture and the smallest details—and our genuine care for the people behind the work.

• When should an organization bring in Big Deal Company for support?

Organizations often reach out when they’re planning a major event, launching something new, refreshing an existing initiative, or feeling stuck doing things “the way they’ve always been done.” If you’re ready for more intentional strategy, stronger storytelling, and support you can trust, it’s the right time to start the conversation.

People don’t remember schedules.
They remember how an event made them feel.

Download our free printable with event tips for transformational events!