Marketing in 2026 is less about being loud and more about being real. Small businesses have a huge advantage right now because people want connection, personality, and brands that feel human. If you stay flexible and curious, you can compete with much bigger companies without blowing your budget. Here are the top marketing trends as researched and reported.  BIG DEAL is focusing on how small businesses will grow and stand out in 2026.

​1. Short Form Video Still Wins
Quick videos on social media are not slowing down. Reels, Shorts, and TikToks continue to capture attention because they are easy to watch and easy to share. Behind the scenes clips, quick tips, staff highlights, and day in the life videos help people feel like they know your brand. Keep it simple and authentic.

2. AI as a Creative Sidekick
AI tools are becoming part of everyday marketing, not a scary future thing. Small businesses are using AI to brainstorm content ideas, write drafts, plan campaigns, and organize customer data. The key is to let AI support your creativity, not replace your voice.

3. Community Over Audience
Growing a loyal community matters more than chasing big follower numbers. People want to feel included and seen. Private groups, email lists, loyalty programs, and local events help turn customers into fans who come back and bring friends with them.

4. Hyper Local Marketing
Local businesses are increasingly engaging with their neighborhoods and cities more than ever. Local partnerships, local influencers, and local events help you stay visible where it counts most. Search engines and social platforms are also favoring content that feels relevant to specific locations.

5. Authentic Brand Storytelling
Perfect marketing is out. Real stories are in. Customers connect with businesses that share their why, their challenges, and their values. Show the humans behind the brand, share lessons learned, and celebrate wins both big and small.

6. Smarter Email Marketing
Email is still one of the strongest tools for small businesses. In 2026, it is less about selling every time and more about adding value. Share helpful tips, updates, exclusive offers, and stories that keep people opening their emails and looking forward to them.

7. Interactive Content
Polls, quizzes, questions, and comment-driven posts keep people engaged longer. Interactive content invites your audience to participate instead of just scroll. It also gives you insight into what your customers care about most.

8. Purpose Driven Marketing
Customers are paying attention to what brands stand for. Supporting causes, showing sustainable practices, and giving back to the community can build trust and loyalty. This only works when it is genuine and aligned with your business values.

9. Consistent Brand Experience
People expect a smooth experience everywhere they interact with your business. Your website, social media, emails, and in-person experience should all feel connected. Clear messaging and consistent visuals help customers recognize and remember you.

10. Flexible Marketing Plans
The biggest trend of all is adaptability. Platforms change fast and customer behavior shifts quickly. Small businesses that review their marketing often and are willing to test new ideas will stay ahead. A flexible plan allows you to pivot without panic.

Marketing in 2026 is about connection, creativity, and clarity. Small businesses that show up consistently, tell honest stories, and focus on real relationships will continue to thrive. You do not need to do everything at once. Start with the trends that fit your brand best and build from there. Big results often come from small, intentional moves done well.

Need help? This is what we do best! Let us be your personal storytellers and contract communications team.

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.

If your marketing feels like a leaky bucket - ads bring traffic, social gets likes, emails get opens, but sales don’t consistently follow - there’s a good chance the issue isn’t your effort.
 
It’s your customer journey flow.
 
At Big Deal Company, we help small businesses build marketing systems that don’t just attract attention - they guide people smoothly from “I might need this” to “I trust you” to “I’m telling everyone about you.” This article breaks down what a customer journey is, the five stages, and how journey mapping improves revenue, retention, and referrals.

​What is a Customer Journey in Marketing?
A customer journey is the complete series of experiences and touchpoints a person has with a company - from initial awareness to post-purchase advocacy.
 
This includes everything from:

• A social post that introduces your brand
• A blog article that teaches a solution
• A sales page that reassures a buyer
• An onboarding email that prevents buyer’s remorse
• A support experience that turns customers into promoters

 
When your journey is intentional, marketing becomes less random - and results become more predictable.

What is Customer Journey Flow?
Customer journey flow is the designed path you create so customers move naturally from one stage to the next - without confusion, friction, or unnecessary delays.
 
Think of it like this:
A customer journey is what customers DO.
Customer journey flow is how you GUIDE THEM.
 
Small businesses win when they build a flow that:

• Answers questions before customers ask them
• Builds trust at the right moments
• Removes friction at key decision points
• Reinforces value after purchase

 

​The 5 Customer Journey Stages (With Practical Small Business Examples)
Most people don’t wake up and decide to buy from your brand immediately. They move through a purchase path that typically includes five stages:
 
1.    Awareness: “I have a problem.”This stage begins when someone identifies a pain point.
Examples:

• A runner is tired of sore heels and realizes they need better running shoes.
• A business owner can’t scale customer support and needs a better platform.

 
What to publish here (best content types):

• Educational blog posts
• How-to guides
• Ebooks and whitepapers
• Checklists and templates           

              
Goal: Help them understand the problem and possible solutions–without pushing a hard sell.

2.    Consideration: “What are my options?”Now the customer is researching and comparing providers. They know what kind of solution they need–they’re deciding who to trust.
Best content types:

• Product comparisons
• “Best tools for….” listicles
• Case studies
• Webinars or workshops
• Feature breakdowns and use-case pages

 
Goal: Show differentiation clearly and help them self-select your brand.

3.    Decision: “I’m ready—prove this is the right choice.”At this point, buyers have narrowed their options. What they want most is reassurance:

• Will this work for me?
• Is this worth the money?
• What happens if I get stuck?

 
What works best:

• Product demos
• Consultations with experts
• Clear pricing + transparent FAQs
• Testimonials and proof
• Fast, friendly pre-sale support

 
Goal: Make purchasing easy, confident, and low-friction.

4.    Retention: “I bought—did I make the right move?”A customer might be happy, but it’s your job to keep it that way.
 
Retention tools that pay off:

• Strong onboarding materials
• Success check-ins
• Quick-start guides
• Proactive customer support
• Dedicated success managers (even part-time/virtual for small teams)

 
Goal: Help customers see value quickly and consistently—so they don’t drift to competitors.

5.    Advocacy: “You need to try this.”              
Advocacy is the revenue multiplier stage. Happy customers become your best marketing channel.
 

How to fuel advocacy:

• Proactive support
• A simple and approachable experience
• Referral and loyalty programs
• Shareable moments (“Look what I achieved!”)
• Easy review requests at the right time

 
Goal: Make referrals effortless and natural.

What are the Benefits of Customer Journey Mapping?
Customer journey mapping is one of the highest ROI moves a small business can make—because it turns assumptions into insights.
 
Here are the biggest benefits:

1. Understand your customers better A journey map forces you to see your brand from the customer’s perspective, including the roadblocks they experience.
Example: In financial services, customers tend to research heavily because decisions are personal and high-stakes. A smart sales team responds by providing hands-on education and reassurance throughout the journey.

2. Improve the customer experience Journey maps organize feedback so you can optimize what’s working - and fix what’s not.
Example: If shoppers abandon carts at checkout, a quick survey may reveal that your payment system is clunky or untrustworthy. Fixing that single point can lift conversions immediately.

3. Encourage team-wide collaboration Journey maps clarify who owns what stage and how teams connect.
Example: Marketing drives awareness through ads and content, while support ensures a smooth post-purchase experience. When everyone sees the same map, collaboration gets easier.

4. Increase customer retention Retention rises when you understand what causes drop-off—and what keeps customers coming back.
Example: After purchase, sending a thank-you email with a small discount on the next order reinforces the value and encourages repeat purchases.

5. Provide proactive service Data lets you anticipate needs and solve issues before they become complaints.
Example: If customers frequently contact you after hours, creating a knowledge base helps them find answers anytime—reducing support load and increasing satisfaction.

Why and When Should You Use a Customer Journey Map?
You should use a customer journey map because it helps you understand customer expectations—and improve the experience people have with your business.
 
If you’ve ever had a relationship or friendship end suddenly and wished you understood what went wrong, you already understand the value of mapping. Journey mapping gives you the clarity you need in business.
 
When to create one:

• As soon as possible (especially if you’re trying to grow)
• When conversion rates stall
• When customer support requests increase
• When churn rises or retention dips
• When you add a new offer, service, or marketing channel

 
Who needs one: Businesses of all sizes—especially small businesses that need every marketing dollar to work harder!

How to Build a Simple Customer Journey Flow (Small Business Friendly)
Here’s a practical approach you can implement without a giant team or complicated software:

​Big Deal Company’s Take: The “Flow Over Funnel” Advantage
Funnels are useful—but small businesses grow faster when they think in FLOW:

• Flow builds trust, not just clicks
• Flow reduces friction, not just drop-offs
• Flow creates repeat customers and advocates, not just one-time buyers

When your customer journey is well-designed, your marketing feels less like convincing—and more like helping.

FAQs: Customer Journey Flow and Mapping
What is customer journey mapping?
Customer journey mapping is the process of documenting every step and touchpoint customers experience with your business—from awareness to advocacy—so you can identify friction, improve experiences, and increase conversions.
What are the 5 stages of the customer journey?
The five stages are:

1. Awareness
2. Consideration
3. Decision
4. Retention
5. Advocacy

Why is customer journey flow important for small businesses?
Because it helps small businesses turn limited time and budget into consistent results by improving conversions, retention, and referrals while reducing friction and customer confusion.

What should I include in a customer journey map?
Include customer goals, questions, touchpoints (website, social, email, support), emotions, friction points, and opportunities for improvement at each stage.
How does customer journey mapping improve conversions?
It identifies where people get stuck or drop off—like confusing offers, weak reassurance, or checkout issues—so you can fix high-impact bottlenecks and increase sales.
​
When should I create a customer journey map?
Create one as early as possible, especially if you’re launching a new offer, scaling marketing, experiencing churn, or trying to improve conversion rates.
 
Customer journey flow isn’t just marketing theory—it’s the difference between “busy” and profitable. When your touchpoints work together, customers move forward with confidence, buy faster, stay longer, and refer more often.
 
Want more practical, small-business-friendly strategies like this (plus templates, examples, and real-world fixes you can implement fast)? Follow Big Deal Company on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube for weekly insights that turn marketing into momentum.

Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities. They’re the cozy coffee shops that remember your order, the boutiques that stock one-of-a-kind finds, and the service providers who go above and beyond because your business truly matters to them. At BIG DEAL Company, we proudly support and amplify the work of small businesses every day – and we’re here to let you in on a little secret:
Supporting a small business doesn’t have to cost a thing.
In a world where many marketing efforts come with a price tag, there are powerful, totally free ways you can help a local business grow. Here are some BIG ways to make a difference – for free!

1. Write a review
It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s highly influential. According to a recent survey, 93% of customers read online reviews before making a purchase. Whether you use Google, Facebook, Yelp, or another industry-specific platform, your review helps potential customers feel confident about choosing that business. A thoughtful review boosts visibility and adds trust.
​
2. Make a referral
Word-of-mouth marketing still reigns supreme, and it’s absolutely free. Tell your friends, coworkers, and family members about the businesses you love. Recommend your favorite photographer when someone needs headshots, or suggest that fantastic taco truck for a corporate lunch. Every referral extends the business’s reach beyond its own audience, and that matters more than you know.
Bonus points: Tag them when someone asks for recommendations on social media.

3. Follow them on social media
Effortless and effective – follow their page or profile on social media. Businesses use social media to connect with their audiences, announce new products, share behind-the-scenes content, and celebrate wins. When you follow, like, comment, or share their posts, you’re helping them reach more people organically. Algorithms love engagement, which means your one click can lead to dozens of new views.

4. Share their content
If you love what a business posts, don’t just like it – share it. Sharing their content on your feed, stories, or groups exposes the business to an entirely new audience. Think of it as giving them free advertising with little effort to you.

5. Engage with their posts
Comments, likes, tags, and reactions tell platforms that a business’s content matters. The more engagement they get, the more people the algorithm will show it to. Your quick “LOVE this!” or heart emoji goes further than you may realize.

6. Post about them
Take a photo of a product you love, a meal you enjoyed, or a service you received and post it with a tag. That user-generated content not only provides credibility, it tells the world you believe in that business.

7. Attend their events
Whether it’s a ribbon-cutting, pop-up, workshop, or grand opening, showing up matters. A crowd helps build buzz, and your presence means the world to an owner who’s poured their heart into that moment.

8. Join their email list
Staying connected through newsletters helps them communicate directly with people who care. You might not buy today, but being on that list means you’re part of their community, and that alone has value. Plus, being on the list makes it easy for you to forward sales, promotions, and other info to your social circle.

Every single one of these actions (reviews, engagement, referrals, and kindness) creates marketing momentum for businesses. When small businesses grow, our communities grow with them. They hire locally, invest locally, and give back locally.
And the best part is, you can make this BIG impact without spending a dime.
If you’re a small business looking for more support than what a few reviews or referrals can generate, BIG DEAL Company is here to help you grow – without weighing you down. We’re a connected collective of creative experts with deep experience in marketing, event production, and community building; we treat every client as a priority and tailor our services to fit businesses of any size.

Free Downloadable checklist:

Ever Feel Like Digital Marketing Has Its Own Language? You’re not alone. Between the jargon, acronyms, and constant updates, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But three strategies - SEO, AEO, and GEO stand out as the backbone of visibility and conversion in today’s digital world.
 
No matter the size or type of your business - a local cafe in Northern Colorado, managing an online store from Fort Collins, or growing a service-based brand in Greeley- understanding the difference between SEO, AEO, and GEO can help you attract more traffic, leads, and sales. It’s also the key to staying ahead of how people actually search today.
 
Let’s break them down. Simple. Clear. Actionable.
 What is SEO (Search Engine Optimization)?In Simple Terms :SEO is all about making your website show up on Google (and other search engines) when someone types in a query.
 
Key SEO Components:

• Keywords - What people type in search boxes.
• Meta titles & descriptions - The info that shows up in Google results.
• Backlinks - Other sites linking to your content.
• Technical SEO - Site speed, mobile-friendliness, structure.

 
Why SEO Still Rules in 2025:

• It drives organic traffic without paying for ads.
• Builds authority and trust over time.
• Helps you dominate on-page and blog-based search queries.

What is AEO (Answer Engine Optimization)?
Simply Put:AEO helps your content get picked up and presented as direct answers by AI tools like ChatGPT, Google’s Search Generative Experience (SGE), Alexa, Siri, and more.
 
AEO Focuses On:

• Natural language and intent (what users really want).
• Structured data like FAQ schema and how-to markups.
• Concise, conversational answers ideal for snippets and AI pulls.

 
Why AEO is a 2025 Power Move:

• AI and voice searches are surging.
• People want quick, spoken answers - not just 10 blue links.
• Tools like Google’s AI Overviews and ChatGPT’s browsing favor clear, authoritative sources.

What is GEO (Geolocation Optimization)?
Local Made Simple:GEO targets people based on location. If you want your business to show up in “near me” searches or on Google Maps, GEO is your best friend.
 
GEO Tactics Include:

• Adding local keywords: “best tacos in Fort Collins,” “lawyer in Greeley.”
• Claiming and optimizing your Google Business Profile.
• Getting listed in local directories and gaining reviews.

 
Why GEO is a Must for Local & Physical Businesses:

• People search with the intent to visit or buy nearby.
• “Open now near me” searches are peaking.
• GEO gets you in front of high-converting local audiences.

Each strategy has its lane - but when you align all three? You win the race!
 
How to Use SEO, AEO, & GEO Together
​
Step by Step Strategy Stack
At Big Deal Company, we empower brands to dominate digital visibility through a proven three-tier strategy. First, we build a strong SEO foundation by optimizing the website and blogs with high-performing keywords, clean site structures, and search-friendly content. Then, we elevate that presence with Answer Engine Optimization (AEO). We achieve this by creating targeted content, including FAQ sections, how-to guides, and conversational responses, all tailored for AI tools, voice search, and featured snippets. Finally, we localize reach through GEO tactics, creating location-specific landing pages, boosting directory visibility, and encouraging authentic reviews to capture in-person traffic and regional engagement. Through these methods, businesses aren’t just found - they are chosen!
 
Optimization Checks
To maximize your visibility across search engines, AI tools, and local listings, we recommend this essential checklist:

• Use structured headers (H1, H2, H3) enriched with keywords and natural questions to guide both users and search crawlers.
• Craft content in a conversational tone to match AEO and voice search behaviors.
• Implement schema markup to help AI engines surface your content as trusted answers for FAQs, how-to guides, and local info. (This is a more advanced step - Big Deal Company can help guide you through this process.)
• Ensure your business is accurately listed on Google and relevant local directories to capture GEO-driven searches.
• Refresh your content regularly to stay relevant, human-focused, and algorithm-ready.

 
Final Thoughts: Why All Three Matter
SEO gets you found.
AEO gets you featured.
GEO gets you chosen.
 
Modern marketing isn’t about choosing one - it’s about mastering all three.

 ​When you combine traditional search with AI discovery and local relevance, you create a marketing strategy that’s future-proof, powerful, and hyper-targeted.
 
So the next time you update your content or plan a campaign, ask yourself: “Am I optimizing for SEO, AEO, and GEO?”
If not - it’s time to start! Big Deal Company is ready to help you master all three!

​Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What’s the difference between SEO and AEO?               
SEO helps your site rank in traditional search engines. AEO ensures your answers are picked up by AI tools and voice search.

2. How can I optimize my content for voice search? Use natural questions, add FAQ sections, and format clear, concise answers. Schema markup helps, too.

3. What is a schema markup and why is it important?
Schema markup is a type of structured data code you add to your website that helps search engines and AI tools better understand your content. It highlights key elements like FAQs, reviews, business details, and how-to steps, making it easier for your content to appear in rich results, voice search responses, and AI-generated answers. By using schema, you’re telling search engines exactly what your content means-not just in what it says - boosting your visibility across SEO, AEO, and GEO platforms.

4. Does GEO help if I sell nationally or globally?
Yes - GEO can target localized micro-markets even within broader national campaigns.

5. Will AI tools like ChatGPT use my content?               
If your content is well-structured, informative, and optimized, AI tools may source or summarize your insights.

6. How do I combine all three strategies?               
Integrate: SEO for structure, AEO for answers, GEO for local. A content calendar helps you balance all three consistently.
 
Work with Big Deal Company
Big Deal Company specializes in strategic visibility - helping brands grow through expert SEO, cutting-edge AEO, and hyper-targeted GEO solutions. We can help you build your online presence, work to get your business and knowledge featured in AI-generated answers, and strategize to help you dominate local search in your market.
 
Let’s Connect! Follow us on social media for latest tips, insights, and success stories:

• Instagram: @bigdealcompanyco
• Facebook: Big Deal Company
• LinkedIn: Big Deal Company

 
Have a Project or Question?
Reach out anytime at [email protected] or visit our site at www.BigDealCompany.com to schedule a free consultation.
 
We don’t just get you found.
We make you unforgettable.

​Choosing between in-house and outsourced marketing is a crucial decision that impacts your brand’s growth, efficiency, and ROI (return on investment). Each approach offers unique benefits, and the right choice depends on various factors, such as budget, scalability, and creative needs.
 
At Big Deal Company, we understand that marketing is more than just strategy - it’s about creativity, connection, and delivering results. As a leading marketing collective, we specialize in high-impact campaigns, event planning, and brand growth strategies. Whether you’re looking to build an internal team or leverage expert outsourced marketing services, we help businesses navigate the best approach to achieve their marketing goals. Let’s dive into the benefits of both in-house and outsourced marketing to help you and your business make an informed decision.

In-House Marketing
Pros:

• Deep Brand Understanding - Your team lives and breathes your brand, ensuring messaging aligns with our company’s voice and values.
• Direct Communication - Immediate feedback and collaboration lead to quick decision-making and adaptability.
• Complete Control - You oversee all strategies and executions, providing alignment with your exact standards and objectives.

Cons:

• Higher Costs - Salaries, benefits, training, and tools add up, making it a significant investment.
• Limited Skill Sets - Your team might lack specialized expertise, requiring additional training or hires.
• Scalability Challenges - Expanding or reducing the team based on project needs can be slow and costly.

Outsourced Marketing
​Pros:

• Access to Experts - Agencies offer specialized skills across various marketing disciplines, ensuring high-quality execution.
• Cost-Effective - You pay for services as needed, avoiding the overhead associated with full-time employees.
• Scalability and Flexibility - Easily adjust the level of services based on your current needs without long-term commitments.

Cons:

• Less Brand Familiarity - External teams may require time to fully grasp your brand’s nuances and values.
• Communication Delays - Working with external partners can sometimes lead to slower decisions and implementation (due to delays on both sides!).
• Potential Misalignment - There’s a risk that the agency’s vision doesn’t perfectly align with your brand’s goals.

Financial Considerations
Hiring an in-house marketing team involves significant costs, including salaries and benefits. For example, hiring a marketing manager, content creator, SEO specialist, and designer can collectively cost over $150,000 (conservatively) annually.
 
Engaging an agency like Big Deal Company can be more economical. Monthly retainer rates for comprehensive services like SEO, PPC, and content marketing can total around $7500 or less, offering a broad range of expertise without the long-term financial commitment.
 
Creation and Ideation
In-house teams will have an intimate understanding of your brand. They will have an easy time fostering ideas that align well with company culture and objectives.
 
Outsourced agencies can bring fresh perspectives to your vision and goals. Contracted agencies typically have teams that can draw on diverse experiences across industries, which can lead to innovative and creatively unique campaigns.

​Which One Is Right for You?
The best choice depends on your business’s size, budget, and marketing goals. If you need a hands-on team that fully embodies your brand or you deal with sensitive information that needs to reach niche audiences, an in-house team might be the way to go. If you want access to top-tier expertise that is always on top of the latest trends and that can provide flexibility and cost savings, outsourcing could be the smarter move.
 
At BIG DEAL Company, we specialize in bringing creativity to life - whether through unique marketing strategies, innovative campaigns, or unforgettable events. We’re purveyors of fun, passionate about growth, and dedicated to making every client a priority. If you’re looking for a marketing partner that delivers results with energy and originality, let’s make something amazing together!
 

Congratulations to the BizWest team for a successful 2025 Economic Forecast event! A tremendous amount of information, and outlooks for the upcoming year.
Renowned economist Dr. Rich Wobbekind provided insights into where the economy has been and where it’s going at this highly popular luncheon, attended by over 500 people.

BIG DEAL Company is the proud planning company of BizWest.

Keeping up with marketing trends is crucial for small and mid-sized businesses to remain competitive and relevant in a fast-changing marketplace. Trends like human-driven AI use, short-form video content, and sustainability resonate with modern consumers, helping businesses build stronger connections and trust. BIG DEAL Company is proud to already be using all of these predicted trends with our clients.

Short-Form Video Reigns
 
Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook Reels, and YouTube will remain popular for short-form videos. Creative, bite-sized content that quickly grabs attention will be key to engaging audiences surrounded by marketing content on social media. Generational targeting will remain essential in determining which video platforms best suit your audience, which is why we sit down with each new client to determine which social media platforms will get the highest return on investment.
 
Personalization of AI Tools
 
Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be central to marketing strategies, enabling quick research, efficient content creation, and optimized ad creation – when used correctly. While AI excels at streamlining operations, personalizing content, and handling repetitive tasks, it lacks the human ability to empathize and connect emotionally, and it lacks the knowledge you and your marketing team have about your business – why we NEVER recommend our clients use purely AI-generated blogs or social posts.
 
Human oversight in AI-driven interactions and content is essential for accuracy and emotional connection. This balance helps build trust and loyalty, as customers are more likely to engage with businesses that prioritize genuine content and interactions over purely automated writing.
 
Focus on Sustainability and Transparency
 
Ethical and sustainable practices will appeal to eco-conscious consumers. We not only prioritize sustainability in our event planning services but prioritize it in our personal lives. Community support is one of our team’s core values, which is why we volunteer, donate, and market for nonprofits as individuals and as a company. We partner our marketing initiatives with local nonprofits to cross-promote causes while increasing visibility for our clients.
 
Transparency about data usage, AI-generated content, and business values will become critical for building trust and loyalty with audiences.
 
Micro-Influencer Partnerships
 
Collaborating with micro- and nano-influencers will remain a cost-effective way to reach niche, engaged audiences authentically. BIG DEAL Company consistently takes advantage of our connections throughout northern Colorado to get our clients’ content in front of a larger audience, by cross-posting relevant content on company pages, sharing content and events to local groups, and shouting out our clients on our business pages, newsletters, and website.
 
Zero-Click Content
 
Businesses will increasingly use social media to provide valuable, engaging content directly on platforms, avoiding clicks to external sites. Engagement is lost with each click, which is why we strive to provide relevant information directly on social media through screenshot-able infographics and action buttons to initiate a phone call, send an email, or purchase a product without leaving your social feed.

​Omnichannel Marketing Experiences
 
Integrating online and offline touchpoints will provide cohesive customer journeys, leveraging data from both to enhance experiences. We collect data from our clients’ social media pages, websites, and in-person events to guide future marketing efforts. And, while online marketing is a large part of our business, we find there is no substitute for a conversation at a local chamber event or a holiday gift delivered to a prospective partner.
 
Conversational Search Optimization
 
Businesses should optimize content for conversational queries and emphasize local keywords to capture nearby customers, which is why we take a human approach (considering, “what would I type if I was searching for this content?”) to determine keywords for our clients’ blogs and web page content.
 
Soundless and Visual-First Ads
 
In the overwhelming social media world of auto-play ads clogging up news feeds, silent ads with emphasis on visuals and closed captions are making a comeback. Ads that get your point across without sound also enable you to capture your audience’s attention in environments where sound isn’t feasible, like a waiting room or workplace.
 
Generational Targeting
 
As always, generational targeting is essential to get the content we create with you in front of the right people. Tailoring channels and strategies to different age groups (e.g., Gen Z prefers TikTok, and Millennials like email campaigns) ensures we direct your message to those most likely to complete your call to action, whether that’s a purchase, a donation, or a post share. 

Long-Form Content Resurgence
 
While short-form still dominates social media, in-depth articles and videos will remain essential for storytelling and expertise. Blogs, podcasts, and events offer opportunities for long-term attention from your audience.
 
In-depth articles, infographics, or guides are particularly effective in nurturing leads, as they address customer pain points in detail and educate them on solutions, moving them further down the sales funnel. For businesses where being an industry expert is essential, long-form content also provides depth, authority, and increased value to audiences.
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Contracting Is The New Workforce
The shift towards project-based work structures in various industries encourages the use of contract help. This trend has been increasing significantly in the US. Businesses prefer to assemble teams with diverse skills for specific projects, fostering innovation and efficiency. (Source: Forbes, "The Rise Of The Gig Economy And Why It's Different This Time")

Having a dedicated marketing team that actively monitors and adapts to these emerging trends ensures your business not only meets current consumer expectations but also anticipates future shifts. With the right team and tools, you can turn these trends into opportunities for stronger engagement, higher conversions, and sustained success.

Contact BIG DEAL Company now for a tailored marketing plan that suits your small business needs and budget - from a dedicated contract partner. 

BIG DEAL Company loves and theme - and we love working with clients who appreciate a theme and beautiful décor! One of our clients is a national company that hosts 2 of their holiday parties in Colorado. This year we had the opportunity to plan the fun and support the following themes, "Jingle All The Way To The Jackpot" and a family party that was decked out in Traditional Christmas cheer!

The planning process for these December events began in May - prospecting venues, vendors, budgeting, theme ideation,  and all of the big details for these complex events. The casino holiday party included a band, casino rental company, caricature artist, fortune teller, dinner/bar, and AI photo booth!

The family Christmas party was a great way for all Colorado families to see Santa and Mrs Claus, write letters to Santa, have their faces painted, receive gifts from Santa - and eat, drink & be merry!

Thank you to all of the vendors and event team for making these events successful and for bringing joy to families across Colorado!