Press Conference Invitation: Tuesday, January 7, 2025, 4pm MT
 
Exclusive First Look of Loveland’s 79th Anniversary Valentine Season Details
 
Includes unveiling of 2025 Valentine Re-Mailing Program card, cachet and stamp; annual Sweetheart Festival details; annual Group Wedding & Vow Renewal Ceremony information
 
LOVELAND, Colo. – December 17, 2024 – In Loveland, Colorado, the nation’s Sweetheart City, Valentine season starts now. The Loveland Chamber of Commerce and Visit Loveland Colorado are kicking off Loveland’s 2025 Valentine Season with a press conference on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 at 4pm.
 
What: Loveland Valentine Season 79th Anniversary Press Conference
When: 4 p.m. MDT, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025
Where: Sweet Heart Winery 5500 W US-34, Loveland, CO 80537
 
Highlights of the 2025 Valentine Season
The city that has become synonymous with love is preparing to showcase its most anticipated annual tradition. Loveland continues to capture hearts worldwide, processing an astounding 100,000 Valentines each year and maintaining its status as the nation's premier Valentine destination.
 
Exclusive Unveiling Details:

• Press conference will feature live reveal of the 2025 Valentine card, cachet, and postmark
• Media representatives will have unprecedented access to capture close-up images of the 2025 Valentine mailed items, products and event announcements
• Comprehensive press materials, including B-roll and high-resolution photos, will be distributed following the January 7th

 
Exciting Upcoming Events
The celebration extends beyond the postmark, with several must-attend events marking the season:

• Loveland Sweetheart Festival: The largest Valentine's Day celebration in the country
• Sweetheart Classic: A unique athletic event for love-minded runners on February 15th
• Valentine Group Wedding at Sweet Heart Winery: A romantic celebration on February 14th
• Loveland Lights Live: A magical evening under the stars

 
This year's program continues Loveland's legacy as the epicenter of a global Valentine tradition, offering a unique blend of romance, community, and connection. Media outlets are encouraged to be part of this momentous occasion and help share the magic of Loveland's cherished Valentine traditions. Thank you to the Loveland Chamber’s Valentine Season Sponsor, Elevation Credit Union.
 
"We are excited to celebrate 79 years of sharing love worldwide! Each year, the Valentine season in Loveland continues to captivate hearts. There's no more meaningful way to spread love, joy, and hope than through a heartfelt Valentine from the Sweetheart City. This year's designs and messages reflect our ongoing dedication to kindness and connection. Continuing this cherished tradition is especially important as we remind the world that love is the most beautiful gift we can give and receive." – Mindy McCloughan, President, Loveland Chamber of Commerce
 
***Press attendees who attend also receive a Valentine Gift Bag from Visit Loveland and event vendors.
Thank you for your continued support of this program. We look forward to seeing you there!
 
Please RSVP:
Christine Forster | BIG DEAL Company | [email protected] | 970-613-1455
 
Press Questions can be directed to:
Mindy McCloughan | Loveland Chamber of Commerce | [email protected] | 970-744-4791

Northern Colorado knows how to bring the ‘it’ factor, even in the dead of winter. As the countdown to midnight begins, you’ve got plenty of options to create a memorable New Year’s celebration. Maybe you’re the life of the party or perhaps you’re someone who prefers a quieter start to the year, we’ve got you covered with this extensive list of creative ideas!
 
1. Stargazing at Horsetooth Reservoir
Skip the crowded parties and head to Horsetooth Reservoir for a celestial celebration. Bundle up, bring some hot cocoa, and toast to the New Year under the stars. Who needs fireworks when the Milky Way has you covered?
 
2. New Year’s Eve Bonfire Bash
Swap the fireworks for a cozy bonfire night with friends and family. Gather around the flames, roast marshmallows, and share your best moments from the past year. Add a festive touch by writing your resolutions on biodegradable paper and tossing them into the fire—symbolizing a fresh start.
 
3. Old Town Fort Collins Bar Crawl
Why settle for one party when you can hit up several? Old Town Fort Collins offers a variety of bars, breweries, and live music venues to keep your spirits high. Just make sure you’ve got a ride home—or a hotel room nearby.
 
4. NoCo Snowshoe Adventure
Welcome the New Year by trekking through the winter wonderland of Rocky Mountain National Park. Nothing says “new beginnings” quite like crisp mountain air and snow-covered trails. Bonus points if you spot a moose.
 
5. New Year's Extreme Rodeo
Kick off the New Year with a wild ride at the New Year’s Extreme Rodeo in Loveland. This adrenaline-filled event features top-notch bull riding, daring barrel racing, and plenty of cowboy (and cowgirl) action. It’s a uniquely Colorado way to welcome 2025 with thrills and a touch of Western flair. Saddle up and get ready for an unforgettable evening! Get details here.

​6. Cozy Cabin Getaway
Escape the hustle and ring in the New Year in a cozy cabin in Estes Park. Gather your closest friends or family, make a roaring fire, and enjoy a low-key evening with board games and champagne.
 
7. Winter Brewery Tours
Northern Colorado is beer-central. Many breweries offer special New Year’s Eve events or tours. It’s a great way to learn more about your favorite craft beers while toasting to a bright future (and maybe picking up some trivia for your next game night).
 
8. Plunge into the New Year
Start the new year off with a splash—literally—by taking a polar plunge. Several local organizations host these icy dips to support charities. It’s invigorating, slightly crazy, and definitely a conversation starter.  Here’s one we think looks shivering good!
 
9. Family-Friendly Countdown
For those with little ones, check out daytime countdown events at local community centers or museums. The Windsor Community Recreation Center, for example, hosts activities and an early countdown so the kids can celebrate without missing bedtime.
 
10. Special New Year’s Eve Menus at Local Restaurants
Treat yourself to a culinary experience this New Year’s Eve as many Northern Colorado restaurants roll out special multi-course menus just for the occasion. From gourmet appetizers to decadent desserts, these meals are designed to make your celebration unforgettable. But don’t wait too long—reservations are filling up fast!
 
No matter how you choose to celebrate, make safety your top priority. Whether it’s arranging a designated driver, dressing warmly for outdoor activities, or pacing yourself during those brewery tours, a little planning goes a long way.
 
From all of us at BIG DEAL Company, we wish you a safe, happy, healthy, and safe new year to each and every one of you.  Cheers!

​“Sustainability” - it’s been an events industry buzzword for years, but let’s be honest - it’s much more. Sustainability is a responsibility.

At Big Deal Company, we take this responsibility seriously. Here’s a glimpse into how we ensure our events (and clients) leave a positive impact on the planet:

Digital Transformation:
​Zoom, Zoom, Zoom! We’ve fully embraced digital meetings, reducing the need for in-person gatherings, and cutting down on transportation emissions. We also have moved all of our record-keeping to digital platforms, and work to keep most of our communications online, as well. By leveraging technology, we not only save time and resources but also significantly lessen our carbon footprint.

Local Sourcing: From event items to printing materials, we prioritize sourcing locally. Not only does this support our community, but it also reduces the environmental impact associated with long-distance transportation.

Team-wide Recycling: Sustainability starts at home! Our entire team is committed to personal recycling, ensuring that we minimize waste at home, in the office, and at our events.

Comprehensive Recycling Options: We go the extra mile to provide recycling options at all our events. From dedicated bins to clear signage, we make it easy for our clients and their attendees to dispose of their waste responsibly.

Reuse, Reuse, Reuse: Our commitment to sustainability extends to every detail, including event signage. We use recyclable paper for all printed signage and repurpose and reuse the frames that hold them, minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency.
​
Linen Laundering: Whenever possible, we use and launder our own linens instead of opting for disposable alternatives. This not only reduces waste but also ensures a higher-quality experience for all.

Recycled Decor: Sustainability doesn’t mean sacrificing style. We recycle and reuse decor for multiple events, giving each gathering our unique Big Deal touch while minimizing environmental impact.

Compostable Catering: Food waste is a BIG DEAL. Whenever we’re not using china for an event, we prioritize compostable catering options, ensuring that even leftovers can sustainably return to the earth.

BIG DEAL Carpool Karaoke: Transportation is a significant contributor to carbon emissions. That’s why our team strives to carpool to most events and meetings, reducing the number of vehicles on the road and the associated environmental footprint. Plus, we enjoy each other’s company - carpool time is team-building time, too!

​The holiday season is here, and for our small business clients, it's a prime time to connect with customers, boost sales, and create memorable brand experiences. As we approach the end of 2024, new trends are shaping how businesses engage with consumers. Here's a look at five holiday marketing trends we’re leveraging to help our BIG DEAL Company small businesses stand out this year.
 
Hyper-Personalized Marketing
 
Consumers now expect more than just generic messages. Personalization is key to catching their attention. Leverage demographic data and customer interactions to send tailored holiday greetings, product or service recommendations, or special discounts based on purchase history.
 
Email campaigns allow you to address potential customers by name; carefully managed email lists mean you can send various emails targeting different customer groups to ensure you’re offering personalized solutions to meet your audience’s needs.

Community and Nonprofit Initiatives
 
Consumers appreciate brands with strong values that give back, and the giving spirit is never stronger than during the holiday season. Use social media to show your audience how you’re giving back this season, and invite them to participate.
 
Hosting a toy drive, supporting a local charity, or donating a portion of sales can deepen customer loyalty and spread goodwill. Consider offering a nonprofit donation at checkout, donating in-kind to nonprofit events, or sponsoring a holiday fundraiser and inviting your followers (customers) to join you.
 
Collaborate on Social Media
 
Collaborating with other small businesses or nonprofits in your area can amplify your reach. Joint promotions, pop-up markets, or cross-promotions on social media are great ways to build community spirit and drive traffic.
 
This collaboration goes hand-in-hand with your support of community initiatives; be sure to mention any sponsorship of local charities and partnerships on initiatives that give back, tagging other small businesses and nonprofits along the way for increased visibility.
 

Holiday-Themed Visuals and Messaging
 
Holiday-themed images and posts are powerful tools for boosting small business marketing during the festive season. These visuals instantly capture the joyful spirit of the holidays, creating an emotional connection with your audience.
 
By aligning your brand with the season’s mood, you can enhance engagement, increase visibility, and keep your business top-of-mind during the holidays. Adding festive imagery to your social media, email campaigns, and website creates a cohesive, celebratory experience that resonates with audiences.
 

Prepare for Increased Customer Care Needs
 
The holiday season often brings a surge in customer inquiries, purchases, and service needs. Think of this as an opportunity. Respond to comments on your social media pages and posts promptly, boosting your credibility and increasing the reach of your content (social platforms put popular posts in front of more people). Each time you respond to a private message on one of your pages, you’re demonstrating your commitment to excellent service; and, every face-to-face interaction can leave a lasting impression.
 
Timely online interactions can turn inquiries into sales opportunities, as many customers use social platforms to seek immediate answers before making purchasing decisions. In a fast-paced digital world, quick responses can set your business apart and help you foster trust and engagement with your audience.
 

The holiday season is a golden opportunity for small businesses to connect with customers in meaningful ways. By staying on top of these trends and tailoring your approach to your audience, you can create a memorable holiday marketing campaign that drives sales and builds loyalty.
Need help bringing your holiday marketing ideas to life? BIG DEAL Company specializes in crafting campaigns that deliver results. Let’s make this holiday season your most successful yet.
​
For business marketing news and tips, choose BIG DEAL Company. Follow us on social media for event highlights, creative inspiration, and updates on our latest projects.
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End-of-Year Fundraising Tips for Nonprofits: Maximize Donor Engagement and Donations
When the calendar turns to November, many nonprofits enter one of the most crucial fundraising periods of the year. The holiday spirit, tax benefits, and seasonal giving days create a unique opportunity to drive donations that support mission-driven initiatives. Here are essential year-end fundraising tips to make the most of this giving season and set your nonprofit up for success.

1.    Segment Donor Lists for Targeted Messaging
An effective way to reach donors is by tailoring messages that resonate. Start by pulling your donor lists and segmenting them by factors like donation frequency, donation amount, or specific past campaign involvement. With segmented lists, you can craft personalized messages for each group to increase engagement and the likelihood of donations. For example, you could target major donors with messages about impact-driven milestones and smaller donors with updates about ongoing needs or progress.
 
Benefits of Donor Segmentation:

• Increases Engagement: Personalized messages foster a stronger connection with each group.
• Improves Donation Rates: Targeted appeals are more relevant and impactful.
• Enhances Donor Relationships: Regular, relevant updates make donors feel valued and informed.

 
2.    Review Last Year’s Fundraising Results for SMART Goal Setting
Take a data-driven approach by analyzing previous years’ fundraising performances. Identify which channels (email, social media, direct mail) contributed the most and how different donor segments responded to each campaign. This insight will help you create SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) goals and set predictable outcomes for this year.
 
SMART Goal-Setting Tips:

• Set Specific Revenue Targets: Define the exact amounts you aim to raise through each channel.
• Measure Campaign Success: Determine engagement rates, average donation amount, and donor retention metrics.
• Keep Goals Achievable: Consider resource availability and adjust goals accordingly.

 
3.    Create a Year-End Marketing and Communications Calendar
An organized marketing calendar is essential to manage the complex end-of-year giving season. Include special dates and events, distribution channels, target audience segments, and clear calls to action for each campaign. Assign team members responsible for each action and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate effectiveness.
 
Components to Include in Your Calendar:

• Channels and Distribution Dates: Determine when and where your campaign will be shared.
• Audience Segments: Tailor messaging based on donor demographics or donation history.
• Responsibilities: Assign team members to specific tasks.
• KPIs: Track metrics such as funds raised, email open rates, and social engagement.

 
4.    Send a “Loop-Back” Email to All Donors
A “loop-back” email is an effective way to re-engage previous donors. Send an email to donors who contributed in the past, reminding them of their impact and encouraging them to support your mission again this year. Highlight how last year’s donations were utilized and share stories of success.
 
Why Loop-Back Emails Work:

• Builds a Stronger Donor Connection: Donors appreciate hearing about the results of their contributions.
• Encourages Repeat Giving: Sharing impact stories increases the likelihood of renewed support.
• Easily Customizable: Adapt messages based on each donor segment’s past contributions.

 
5.    Gather Stories to Inspire and Share
Donors respond to real stories of lives changed or community improvement. Gather stories from your beneficiaries, staff, or volunteers that exemplify your organization’s impact. These narratives can be shared through emails, social media, or even a dedicated video campaign to bring your mission to life.
 
How to Use Stories Effectively:

• In Email Campaigns: Include a short story with a strong call to action.
• On Social Media: Share stories with engaging visuals or videos for maximum reach.
• During Events: Feature live or recorded testimonials at fundraising events or holiday galas.

 
6.    Send Thanksgiving Gratitude Messages
Thanksgiving offers a perfect time to express your appreciation to all of your generous donors. Utilize “You” language in messages to all of your donors, thanking them for their contributions throughout the year - “Because of You”, “Your Kindness….”, “Your support has made a difference”. This message doesn’t need to or shouldn’t ask for a donation. Expressing gratitude fosters goodwill and reinforces the donors’ sense of purpose and impact.
 
Ideas for a Gratitude Campaign:

• Personalized Emails: Address donors by their name and reference specific campaigns they supported throughout the year. (This is why segmenting your donors is so helpful!)
• Thank-You Videos or Voice Recordings: Share a video message from your organization’s leaders or those impacted by donations. You can also change up your donation thank you’s with a recorded greeting sent as an attachment - these can be highly personal with messages directly from the Executive or Development Director.
• Social Media Shoutouts: Publicly thank donors or recognize notable contributions on all of your social media channels.

​7.    Secure a Matching Gift Opportunity
Donor matches are a powerful way to maximize contributions, as many donors are motivated by the potential to double their impact. Work with major donors or corporate sponsors to set up a matching gift for year-end giving campaigns. Highlight this match in all promotional materials to encourage giving.
 
Matching Gift Tips:

• Highlight the Urgency: Communicate that contributions will be matched only for a limited time.
• Emphasize Impact: Explain how matched gifts significantly amplify impact.
• Share Progress: Update donors on the progress toward the match to encourage contributions.

 
8.    Set Up a Peer-to-Peer Holiday Giving Campaign
Peer-to-peer fundraising engages your supporters in promoting your cause within their personal networks, expanding your reach organically. Equip volunteers, board members, and loyal donors with the tools they need to run mini-campaigns on your behalf. Provide sample social posts and email templates to make it easy for them to ask friends and family for support.
 
Peer-to-Peer Campaign Tips:

• Create Fundraiser Kits: Provide social media assets and email or phone scripts for participants.
• Encourage Friendly Competition: Offer rewards or recognition for top fundraisers.
• Monitor Progress: Track the performance of each peer-to-peer campaign and recognize high achievers.

 
9.    Use Clear Calls-to-Action in All Communications
Every piece of communication should include a clear, compelling call to action (CTA). Whether it’s donating, volunteering, or sharing a story, a CTA should be specific and easy to follow. Phrases like “Donate Now to Double Your Impact” or “Yes - I want to provide affordable housing for families in my community!” are both actionable and inspiring.
 
10.    Focus on Growing Your Donor Base, Not Just the Funds Raised
When evaluating year-end fundraising success, nonprofits often focus on the total amount of funds raised. However, emphasizing the number of new donors can be equally valuable, if not more so.
Attracting new supporters expands your donor base, builds long-term relationships, and boosts future fundraising potential. By welcoming new donors, your organization creates a broader community of advocates and supporters who may contribute regularly, increasing your impact over tie.
Celebrating this growth in new supporters highlights the strength and reach of your mission beyond just dollar amounts - making it feel less transactional, and fostering a stronger, more diverse network of supporters for years to come.
 
 
With thoughtful planning and data-driven approaches, nonprofits can make the most of the end-of-year giving season. By segmenting donor lists, setting clear goals, sharing impactful stories, and expressing gratitude, you can build stronger connections with donors and inspire increased contributions. Utilize these strategies to create a memorable and successful year-end fundraising campaign that sustains your mission well into the coming year.
 
Big Deal Company is proud to support many nonprofits during the end-of-year giving season and beyond, helping organizations maximize their impact through strategic fundraising campaigns and successful event fundraisers. We offer a variety of downloadable resources, expert tips, and best practices, all designed to make your year-end giving campaign a success.

Follow us on social media for event highlights, creative inspiration, and updates on our latest projects.
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What a SPECTACULAR coming together of our community to celebrate this resource! BIG DEAL Company was hired by the City of Loveland and City of Fort Collins to assist with this large event. Our team worked tirelessly to put together all of the details, messaging and on-site execution to ensure a wonderful experience for all who attend.  Below are photos and background information on the BRAND NEW FNL (Northern Colorado Regional Airport) Terminal.
*thank you to the Loveland and Fort Collins photographers, and personal photo submissions!

40 Under Forty presented by BizWest - 2024
Celebrating young professionals shaping the future of the Boulder Valley and Northern Colorado.

Boulder Valley and Northern Colorado 40 Under Forty recognizes 40 emerging business leaders, under 40 years of age, who are making a mark on their communities through professional success and volunteer activities.

BIG DEAL Company is the proud event planning company, supporting BizWest's feature events. Congratulations to all of the 2024 winners!

LEARN MORE HERE

*photos by Dick's Photography

The Jobs of Hope “Hope Unlocked” fundraiser on Oct.17, 2024.
Below is a summary of the 2024 event:

EMAIL RECOGNITION:

• Newsletters to all JOH subscribers
• Emails sent to designated recipients including sponsors
• Emails to local dignitaries and esteemed guests
• Emails to all vendors, partners and sponsors

WEBSITE:

• Event page with sponsor recognition
• RSVP Eventbrite page
• Event recognition on BIG DEAL website
• Media coverage

DIGITAL:

• Social media posts across platforms
• Social media cross promotion on BIG DEAL and event pages and community pages
• BIG DEAL promotion
• Event listing across 50+ event listing sites
• Tons of media press online!

****photos by Dick's Photography

Below is a summary of the 2024 event:
​EMAIL RECOGNITION:

• "Save the Date" notifications
• Emails sent to Cache NHA mailing list
• Post-event follow up email to all vendors, sponsors, and attendees

WEBSITE:

• Event page with sponsor recognition
• Ticketing page
• Event recognition on BIG DEAL website
• NoCo Style Coverage
• Townsquare Media Coverage
• Macaroni Kid Media Coverage
• Countless media publications (Press release)

DIGITAL:

• Social media posts across platforms
• Social media cross promotion on BIG DEAL and event pages and community pages
• NoCo Style coverage
• BIG DEAL promotion
• Event listing on 50+ websites
• KUNC promotion
• Townsquare coverage