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

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

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

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

The Greeley Family House Summerfest was a resounding success, bringing together community members for a night of fun and fundraising. This annual event supports the organization’s vital mission of providing temporary housing and support services for families experiencing housing instability in Weld County.
 
Hundreds of guests gathered at the beautiful AIMS Community College Welcome Center. The casual and fun event followed a tropical theme, with pineapples and tiki lanterns as decor. Guests mingled in the open outdoor reception area while a Salsa Band and Dancers entertained.
 
Following the welcome reception, guests moved upstairs to the banquet hall to dine on Cuban-inspired dishes provided by the University of Northern Colorado catering team. A mission-driven program and raffle drawing quickly followed dinner.
 
The evening concluded with plenty of laughter and fun, provided by 2 professional comedians from Denver Comedy Works.
 
Big Deal Company played a crucial role in ensuring the event’s smooth operation:

1. Event Management: Our team assisted with overall event coordination.
2. Check-in Process: Big Deal led the check-in procedures, ensuring a seamless experience for attendees.
3. Event Flow: We assisted in managing the flow of activities throughout the evening.
4. Raffle Prize Distribution: Team members were on hand to help organize the distribution of the many raffle prizes at the end of the evening.

 
Special thanks to all sponsors, attendees, and volunteers who made this event possible. The community's continued support is vital in addressing homelessness and supporting families in need.
 
The Greeley Family House is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to assisting families experiencing homelessness in Weld County. Their programs focus on providing temporary housing and support services to very low-income and working-poor families in Greeley and Weld County.

The Big Deal Team is always researching and brainstorming on ways to improve upon events. Our recent research has shown some eye-opening ways to enhance the future of events. Download the free printable below.

Why a “Day of” Wedding Coordinator is a Thing of the Past
A wedding is more than just a ceremony - it’s an intricate event filled with emotions, many details, and months (sometimes years) of preparation. Big Deal Company has worked for years in the wedding industry. In the past, many couples relied on our expertise and secured our services as “day of” wedding coordinators to help bring their vision to life on their big day. However, recently, we have seen this role of “day of” coordinator fade away. More couples have realized the importance of a comprehensive, all-inclusive wedding planning service. This shift is driven by the growing understanding that successful weddings are the result of meticulous planning, consistent communication, and thorough collaboration - elements that are hard and nearly impossible to achieve well with just a “day of” approach. Bottom line - a wedding is often a huge investment, and you want to support and see that investment thrive!

The Evolution of Wedding Planning
Weddings have always been complex events, but the expectations surrounding them have evolved significantly over the years. Today, weddings are not just about two people exchanging vows - although that is the most basic and important part of the day. Today’s weddings are about creating unforgettable experiences reflecting the couple’s personality, style, and love story. As a result, wedding planning has become a year-long process that requires attention to detail, creativity, and the ability to manage unexpected challenges. (This is especially true when it comes to finding the perfect venue - many of our favorites are booked out months, if not years, in advance!)
 
The “day of” wedding coordinator was once a popular option for couples who wanted to save money by handling most of the planning themselves, only to bring a professional in at the last minute to ensure everything ran smoothly. However, the limitations of this approach have become increasingly apparent. Coordinators who come in at the eleventh hour often lack an in-depth understanding of the couple’s vision and the intricate details that have been planned over months. This can lead to disjointed events that often fall short of expectations.

Why “Day of” Coordination Falls Short
Imagine a situation where our team of highly skilled and professional planners is brought in just days before the big event. Our team must familiarize ourselves with all of the vendors, the timeline (sometimes multiple), and specific details in a very short period of time. Our team has the expertise to manage logistics - no problem! - but sometimes there is a disconnect with the couple’s unique preferences, like for example, the significance of certain elements, and such. This can mean that certain subtle nuances that make the wedding truly personal for the couple, run the chance of being missed or understated. The result is often a cookie-cutter event that is well-executed but lacks the more personal touches that automatically come from a deeper, more involved planning process.
 
“Day of” coordinator roles are more reactive rather than proactive. Their main role is to put out fires and ensure nothing goes wrong. Without prior involvement, a day-of coordinator might not be able to anticipate potential issues or have a full contingency plan in place. In contrast, a coordinator who has been involved from the beginning is better equipped to foresee challenges (hello, wild family dynamics – weddings sometimes bring out the worst in people!), address concerns, and ensure the day unfolds seamlessly according to the couple’s vision.

The Benefits of Full-Service Wedding Planning
Couples who truly want to enjoy their wedding day without stress or last-minute surprises are increasingly opting for full-service wedding planning contracts. These contracts typically involve the coordinator from the early stages of planning, allowing them to work closely with the couple to understand their vision, preferences, and priorities. Our team spends time listening to our wedding couples, and asking a series of in-depth questions so that we can walk with that couple from the beginning stages of planning all the way down the aisle (not literally - although ask us about our tips on how to get a shy flower girl down the aisle - sometimes you’ve got to do what you’ve got to do!).
 
Here are some key benefits of choosing a full-service wedding planner over a “day of” coordinator:
​
Seamless Communication and Collaboration
When a wedding planner is involved from the start, they become an integral part of the planning process. They communicate regularly with the couple, vendors, and venue staff, ensuring that everyone is on the same page. This continuous communication helps to build strong working relationships, allowing the planner to better understand the couple’s needs and wishes. It also provides a strong foundation, making sure that any changes or adjustments can be made smoothly and efficiently.
 
Personalized Wedding Experience
A full-service planner has the time and opportunity to get to know the couple on a personal level. They can offer creative ideas, suggest vendors that match the couple’s style, and help to create a wedding that truly reflects the couple’s personality. Our expertise comes with years of connections - we have a deep understanding of the wedding industry and we know the “exceptional” vendors who will make the day perfect in every way.

Detailed Planning and Execution
A full-service wedding planner is involved in every aspect of the wedding, from the initial concept to the final details. They help create a detailed timeline, coordinate with vendors, and manage the logistics of the day. This level of involvement ensures that every aspect of the wedding is carefully planned and executed leaving nothing to chance. You don’t know what you don’t know – but Big Deal Company DOES know! We won’t miss important details and will help guide couples with the big and small decisions. We’ve planned hundreds of weddings - most couples, hopefully, have not!

Peace of Mind
One of the biggest benefits of hiring a full-service wedding planner is the peace of mind it provides. Couples can rest assured that every detail is being handled by a professional who is fully invested in making their day perfect. They can relax and enjoy their wedding day without worrying about whether everything is going according to plan.
 

Why Investing in a Wedding is Worth It
Weddings are one of the most significant investments a couple will make, both financially and emotionally. Given the importance of the day, it’s worth investing in a planning service that offers comprehensive support. While a “day of” coordinator might seem like a cost-effective option, it can ultimately lead to stress and disappointment if things don’t go as planned.
 
Couples who choose a full-service planner are investing in more than just a coordinator - they’re investing in peace of mind, a well-organized event, and a wedding that truly reflects their vision. The higher upfront cost is offset by the assurance that the wedding will be handled with care, expertise, and attention to detail, possible vendor discounts through established relationships, and more - resulting in a day that is both memorable and enjoyable.
 
The Changing Expectations of Couples
The wedding industry has changed a lot over the years. As a result, today’s couples are more informed and have higher expectations for their wedding day. They are less willing to leave important details to chance and more likely to seek out services that offer comprehensive support. The rise of social media, Pinterest, and wedding blogs has also played a role in shaping these expectations, as couples now have access to a wealth of information and inspiration.
 
With this increased awareness comes the realization that “day of” coordination may not be enough to achieve the desired outcome. Modern couples want a planner who can guide them through the entire process, from the initial concept to the final details. They want someone who can offer personalized advice, handle the unexpected, and ensure their wedding day is everything they dreamed (and paid for) it to be!

---Top 8 Luxe, Kid-Free Escapes in Colorado Worth Booking NOW---
Each year, Colorado’s Rocky Mountains undergo a breathtaking transformation as summer heat gives way to crisp autumn air, bringing out the reds, oranges, and yellows of fall – particularly in our nationally-renowned mountain aspen groves. It can also be a hectic time for couples, as school begins, the days shorten, and holiday preparations begin. This year, our team recommends you treat yourself to an opulent, adults-only escape at one of these luxury Colorado resorts.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch | Avon, CO
 
Consistently recognized as one of North America’s top hotels and Colorado’s premier luxury ski resort, The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch is nestled among the majestic Rocky Mountains. This year-round mountain resort combines the comfort of Colorado luxury hotel with the finest outdoor adventures. The resort offers access to the finest Vail Valley and Beaver Creek golf courses, and a luxurious 21,000 square-foot spa and fitness center with 19 treatment rooms, a co-ed rock-lined grotto, an integrated wellness program, and both Pilates and yoga studios.
 
Amenities:
 

• 21,000-square-foot spa
• Access to Vail Valley and Beaver Creek golf courses
• Elevated mountain-inspired accommodations
• Six on-site dining experiences, from sushi to to Michelin-recommended WYLD featuring local flavors
• Outdoor pool and hot tub
• Convenience store & gift shop
• Fly fishing, hiking, biking, whitewater rafting, train rides, bowling, tennis, paddle boarding, zip lining, horseback riding, Jeep tours, and more

Dunton Hot Springs | Dolores, CO
 
Dunton Hot Springs is a small, exclusive resort nestled deep in the San Juan Mountains of the Colorado Rockies. This perfectly restored ghost town boasts hand-hewn log cabins exquisitely furnished, a life-worn saloon serving food of startling quality, challenging trails followed by pampering massages, and sensuous hot springs. For a luxury glamping experience, book a stay at sister property Dunton River Camp.
 
Amenities:
 

• Natural hot springs
• Luxury cabins or glamping “tents”
• Gourmet meals with locally-sourced ingredients
• Guided activities, including fly fishing, horseback riding, hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, rafting, and archaeological day tours

 
The Broadmoor | Colorado Springs, CO
 
The Broadmoor is a legendary destination resort at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, with picturesque views, luxurious accommodations, and unmatched amenities. The resort has held its five-star rating for 63 consecutive years, the longest of any five-star resort worldwide. It is ideal for couples, with seasonal romantic lodging packages, high-end dining and spas, and unique off-site excursions.
 
Amenities:
 

• Luxury accommodations
• 20 on-site dining options – indulge in the Eagles Nest Wagyu beef raised exclusively for the Broadmoor
• On-site movie theater
• Forbes five-star rated spa
• Two championship golf courses
• Three swimming pools and hot tubs
• Five tennis courts
• On-site florist
• Salon
• Seasonal adventures, including fly fishing, hiking, biking, rock climbing, falconry, white water rafting, axe-throwing, archery, and shooting
• 20 retail shops

The Little Nell | Aspen, CO
 
Aspen's only Five-Star, Five-Diamond hotel features luxurious amenities, personalized service, breathtaking mountain views, world-renowned dining and spacious accommodations. In the fall, view stunning golden aspen trees in the town named for them. The Little Nell has an exclusive U.S. partnership with French fashion house Dior’s interiors brand, French Maison Dior, for a full spa residency. Visitors can enjoy the top-flight Dior Spa treatment program created exclusively for the resort.
 
Amenities:
 

• Dior Spa
• Luxury rooms and suites
• Four on-site dining options
• Award-winning wine program with wine cellar experiences
• Complimentary Audi Experience for hotel guests
• Excursions including the fall Aspen foliage tour, fly fishing, river floating, and outdoor movies
• Transportation services
• Boutique
• Pool and hot tub
• Personal shopping service
• On-call physicians
• Luxury pet amenities

Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa | Gateway, CO
 
Indulgence meets adventure at this resort in far-west Colorado, with richly-appointed, Western-inspired rooms, suites, and private casitas. Immerse yourself in nature and have the adventure of a lifetime with the security of modern amenities. Special experience: starting your day on a private terrace in the secluded Unaweep Canyon.
 
Amenities:
 

• Spa
• Grotto-style pool and hot tub
• Private terraces
• Tesla charging stations
• Palisade Ranch 1800s ranching experience
• Hiking, mountain biking, off-road touring
• Access to Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Four Corners Monument, and Grand Mesa National Forest
• Sustainably-constructed, energy-efficient lodging

C Lazy U Ranch | Granby, CO
 
If you thought “luxury dude ranch” was an oxymoron, C Lazy U hopes to prove you wrong. This all-inclusive resort is kid-friendly, but offers plenty of opportunities for privacy and seclusion. Enjoy rustic luxury lodging, an onsite vineyard, endless activities, and seasonal menus created by the resort’s chef and sommelier.
 
Amenities:
 

• Vineyard
• Gourmet dining
• Rustic luxury cabins
• Onsite photographer
• Use of game room, fishing rods, tennis rackets and balls, basketballs, volleyballs, cross-country skis, snowshoes, poles, and ice skates
• Spa
• Horseback riding, fly fishing, archery, bee hive tours, cattle pushing, guided hiking, wine tasting, hatchet throwing, mountain biking, paddle boarding, and more
• Outdoor pool and hot tub
• Yoga and horsemanship classes
• “Glamping” lodging options

The Springs Resort & Spa | Pagosa Springs, CO
 
The Springs Resort is built around a mineral-rich, geothermal hot spring on the banks of the San Juan River. Comfortable rooms and suites are just steps from the hot springs and include unlimited access to over a dozen wellness activities designed to rejuvenate your mind and body. The Romance Package is ideal for couples.
 
Amenities:
 

• Natural hot springs
• Spa
• Complimentary wellness activities, including sound immersion and guided meditation
• Custom fitness classes
• Four onsite dining options, from the springs-side Canteen to evening-only Atrium Lounge
• Poolside food and drink service
• Private cabana rentals
• Live music
• Horse-drawn carriage rides, horseback riding, ATV trails, rock climbing, hiking, train rides, fly fishing, and wildlife viewing

​ 
Viceroy Snowmass | Snowmass Village, CO
 
Experience modern mountain luxury with on- and off-mountain adventures year round, plus a 7,000-square-foot sanctuary spa and outdoor pools when you’re ready to unwind. The newly-renovated Viceroy Lounge transforms from a modern café by day to a sophisticated bar and lounge in the evening. During the fall, the resort is surrounded by golden aspen trees against mountain backdrops.
 
Amenities:
 

• Full-service spa
• Onsite dining
• All-season heated pool, spas, and terrace
• E-bike rental
• Electric car charging stations
• Dog-friendly accommodations
• Concierge-organized activities including hot air balloon tours, Jeep tours, luxury vehicle rental, mountain biking, fly fishing, golf & tennis, hiking, horseback riding, paragliding, paintball, water sports, and more

 
When you need an adults-only getaway this fall (we know we do!) each of these resorts offers a memorable experience to leave you refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on the new year.
 
For resort venue recommendations, event planning, retreat coordination, and more, reach out to our BIG DEAL team. Crafting memorable experiences is our specialty!
 
For event and retreat tips and ideas, follow BIG DEAL Company on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
 

BIG DEAL simply loves supporting Premier Skin Clinic, based in Fort Collins, with their marketing and event needs. Supporting fellow female business owners in building their dreams is an absolute joy. Chrissy and the PSC team hosted over 100 guests for their 8th Anniversary Open House. Their industry experts featured products and services that improve our health inside and out.

Guests enjoyed educational demonstrations, lovely food and drink, specials and over $20,000 in giveaways! An event NOT to be missed! Interested in attending next year? Sign up for their newsletter to get all of the insider information!

NoCo's Premier Med Spa and Wellness Clinic
Call to schedule a consultation today. (970) 221-1285
Real people. Expertly trained. Real results.
PremierSkinClinic.com

BIG DEAL is honored to be the event planning partner for a team of EVENT PLANNERS! Our client, Slate360 is constantly bringing joy to their clients through thoughtful trade show event booth designs. They have BIG jobs and deserve time together to connect and take a break from planning. For the 3rd year, we have supported them with full-service event planning for their annual retreat. This year, they selected Savannah, GA as their destination.

The team enjoyed a fun version of Slate360 Jeopardy, a Tiki Boat ride, a thoughtful 'future focus' activity, planning meetings, meals in historic buildings, a piano bar, privately rented cove by the hotel pool, a penthouse suite for team time, shopping along the cobblestone streets and more!

Our host hotel was The Alida Hotel. The staff was WONDERFUL. The sales and event teams were exceptionally easy to work with, friendly and knowledgeable. We highly recommend staying with them.

Services Provided by BIG DEAL Company:

• Fact finding calls with Slate360 team
• Compile a comprehensive venue RFP that includes all itemized requests
• Research venues across the country
• Send RFP to list of venues that fit qualifications
• Negotiate concessions with venues
• Narrow venues down to top list and present overviews of each to the Slate360 team
• Research (vendors, venues, transportation, activities, dining)
• Collaborate with the team to finalize top activity and dining choices
• Itinerary creation
• Bi-weekly check-ins with updates
• Close collaboration with hotel sales team
• Rooming list finalization
• Flight travel tracking
• Vendor and activity booking
• Transportation scheduling to/from airport
• Transportation management around town
• Hotel/resort staff communication
• Destination activity and dining guide suggestions for team
• Rooming list, travel list and allergy list assistance
• Itinerary beautification/design for team dissemination
• Webpage for itinerary access
• Planner travel (1 person) to/from destination for onsite assistance
• Runner/assistance for any staff needs onsite
• Peace of mind

Our team is honored to support the work of Jobs of Hope, serving Weld County.
Along with the Greeley Chamber of Commerce, Jobs of Hope hosted a ribbon cutting event and house rededication on July 11th, 2024.

The Jobs of Hope Ribbon Cutting for the Rick Hartman House of Hope was a huge success. This event hosted over 100 guests! Thank you to all supporters and community members who attended.

At BIG DEAL Company, with over 20 years of event planning experience, we know how valuable tip sheets, lists and guides can be. When plotting out seating arrangements, table sizes and linens, knowing what length to order and how it will look on a table can be tricky. Our team has put together a helpful guide that can be useful for any event and table arrangement (conferences, meetings, retreats, weddings, parties, picnics, etc)

Below is a free printable you can download and utilize as a guide to make sure you rent or buy linens the right size for your next event.
Should you need the help of event experts to help plan and execute your event, reach out to BIG DEAL Company!

Top 7 Silent Auction Items that can Guarantee Fundraising Success!

Silent auctions are a common staple of nonprofit fundraising events. They offer a unique opportunity to engage donors and raise significant funds for a worthy cause.
 
At Big Deal Company, we have first-hand knowledge of what items attract the most interest. We are always on the lookout for that special something that will generate the highest interest and bids!
 
Gone are the days of gift baskets and gift cards. Today’s fundraising auction bidder craves experiences and high-end ticket items. We have a good pulse on what is popular in Northern Colorado (mountain weekend getaways, professional sports packages, etc.). Follow along to see some of the top silent auction items that guest love to bid on nationwide, backed by anecdotes from successful fundraising events to illustrate their impact.

1. Exclusive Vacation Packages Imagine offering a trip to a private island, a chartered fishing trip in an exotic location, or a luxury ski resort. Vacation packages consistently draw high bids due to their unique and experiential nature. For instance, at a recent charity gala supporting children’s education, a week-long stay at a Tuscan villa, including cooking classes and wine tours, sparked a bidding war. The package ultimately sold for $10,000, significantly exceeding expectations and providing essential funds for educational programs. (Charitybuzz. (n.d.). Retrieved from Charitybuzz)

That might be an outlier, but a vacation package that includes a luxurious stay and engaging activities, can garner a lot of excitement. Take some time to research popular travel destinations and pull together a package that will inspire guests to dream and bid!

2. VIP Event Tickets
Tickets to major events, such as the Super Bowl, the Oscars, or Broadway premieres, are always a hit. These items are sought after because they offer access to experiences that are typically hard to come by. At a fundraising dinner for a popular arts nonprofit, VIP tickets to a sold-out Broadway show, including a backstage meet-and-greet with the cast, fetch an astounding $7500, supporting the nonprofit’s outreach initiatives. (BiddingForGood. (n.d.). Retrieved from BiddingForGood)
The Super Bowl or the Oscars might be out of reach, but could you partner with a local business who might have box seats for a local professional sports team - Broncos, Rockies, or Avalanche? Throw in a gift card for dinner out and tickets to a game, and you can easily pull together a winning ticket!
 
3. Celebrity Meet-and-Greets
Donors relish the opportunity to meet their favorite celebrities, whether they are athletes, musicians, or actors. At a silent auction for a healthcare charity, a meet-and-greet with a popular TV star generated immense excitement. The chance to have dinner with the celebrity saw competitive bidding, and pulled in a $5000 contribution in support of medical research! (Charity Navigator. (n.d.). Retrieved from Charity Navigator)
Northern Colorado is a long way from the bright lights of Hollywood, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t make bank on this type of experience! Check with Colorado Sports Teams or Universities - there may be a favorite figure who would be willing to donate an evening with a fan.

4. Unique Artwort
Art can sometimes be a tricky item to auction - after all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder! However, original artwork or signed pieces from well-known artists can often attract art enthusiasts and collectors. A piece by a renowned artist donated to an environmental conservation fundraiser not only drew attention for its beauty but also for its cause. The artwork sold for $8000, funding important projects and raising awareness for the nonprofit’s mission.(Charitybuzz. (n.d.). Retrieved from Charitybuzz)

There are a lot of talented artists in Northern Colorado - perhaps you can add to the package with a pair of tickets to the Denver Art Museum, too?
 
5. Fine Dining Experiences
Exclusive dining experiences, such as a private chef’s dinner or a wine pairing event, are perennial favorites. At a recent silent auction to benefit a homeless shelter, a package that included a private dinner for ten prepared by a Michelin-starred chef, along with a curated win selection, secured a $6000 bid. This experience not only provided a memorable evening for the winning bidder but also significant support for the shelter. (Charitybuzz. (n.d.). Retrieved from Charitybuzz)

Dinners for bidders and their guests also help to further the nonprofit mission. More people are exposed to the mission and brand, and the experience may inspire attendees to donate to the charity in return for a fun evening!
 
6. Luxury Goods
High-end items such as designer handbags, jewelry, and watches are always popular. At a gala for a youth mentorship program, a donated Rolex watch attracted a lot of attention. The bidding was intense, and it ultimately sold for $9000, helping to fund mentorship opportunities and other programs for the nonprofit. (Paddle8. (n.d.). Retrieved from Paddle8)
​
Does your organization have a large and generous donor who has a jewelry collection? This type of partnership is a way to combine planned giving and an event auction for maximum impact! 

7. Sports Memorabilia
Autographed sports memorabilia, such as jerseys, balls, and equipment, are particularly appealing to sports fans. They are extremely popular auction items at golf tournaments!
At a recent fundraiser for a community sports league, a baseball signed by a Hall of Fame player ignited some fierce bidding competition. The item sold for $4500, supporting the league’s efforts to provide sports equipment and facilities for underprivileged youth. (BiddingForGood. (n.d.). Retrieved from BiddingForGood)
 
To maximize the success of your auction, consider the interests and passions of your donors. High-quality, unique items that offer exclusive experiences or rare opportunities tend to attract the highest bid. Additionally, storytelling can enhance the appeal of auction items. Consider enlisting the help of a professional auctioneer to help drum up excitement for the package you are trying to sell. The auctioneer can share anecdotes about how a winning bid will leave a lasting impression in the lives of your organization’s beneficiaries - inspiring more generous bidding!
 
At Big Deal Company, we specialize in curating exceptional silent auction items that will captivate your guests and elevate your fundraising efforts. Let us help you create an unforgettable event that not only raises funds but also deepens engagement with your cause.
Contact us to learn more about our services and how we can help support your next fundraising event.