BIG DEAL Company was proud to be a part of the City of Loveland's, "Small Business, Big Summer" promotion. The goal of the promotion was to increase visibility to the small business community to customers and other businesses, forging new relationships with community partners and increased community awareness about all the awesome places to shop in Loveland! 

This promotion came with some great numbers (and we love numbers!)

• 306 raffle entries submitted from shoppers
• 262 visits to the website with our listed businesses
• 52 participating Loveland businesses
• 12 raffle prizes donated by thoughtful participants  
• 5 community partnerships supporting outreach efforts (Downtown Development Authority, Visit Loveland, Economic Development, Chamber of Commerce, Loveland Business Development Center)

For BIG DEAL, we care that we contribute to the success of others and to the cities we live in. Thank you to all who make this program possible and supported it this summer!

When the weather starts to warm up, many companies start thinking about their company summer party.  How can you make sure that your party is a blast and not a dud?  Here are eleven tips that your employees wish you knew.
 
1. Inclusive Planning: Employees appreciate when bosses consider diverse interests and preferences when planning the summer party, ensuring there's something enjoyable for most everyone.
 
2. Advance Notice: Providing ample notice for the summer party date allows employees to adjust their schedules accordingly and increases attendance and engagement.  Plus, if you include families in the festivities, it helps give them time to free up their schedules as well. 
 
3. Outdoor Venue: Most employees enjoy outdoor venues for summer parties, offering fresh air, sunshine and a change of scenery from the office or virtual work environment.
 
4. Family-Friendly Activities: Incorporating family-friendly activities allows employees to bring their loved ones, fostering a sense of community and work-life balance.
 
5. Variety in Food and Drinks: Offering a diverse range of food options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices, ensures all employees can enjoy the culinary experience. Likewise, a selection of beverages, including non-alcoholic options, caters to all preferences.  It also adds to the feeling that this party is for everyone regardless of food/drink restrictions.
 
6. Interactive Entertainment: Interactive entertainment such as games, photo booths, or team-building activities adds a fun and engaging element to the party, that allows employees to relax and really get to know each other.
 
7. Music Selection: Bosses should consider diverse music preferences among employees and aim for a playlist that appeals to a broad audience, ensuring everyone can enjoy the ambiance.  Consider music styles and even cultural differences to really make everyone feel represented.
 
8. Flexible Schedule: Allowing flexibility in the schedule, such as offering staggered start and end times, accommodates employees with personal commitments and ensures maximum participation.  Plus, it gives a more casual feel that allows employees to come and go as they need.
 
9. Recognition and Appreciation: Taking the opportunity during the summer party to recognize and appreciate employees' hard work and achievements boosts morale and reinforces a positive company culture.  Let them know that you value what they do and that the party is for them.
 
10. Safety Measures: Implementing safety measures, such as providing sunscreen, shade, and hydration stations, and even Band-Aids ensures employees can enjoy the party comfortably and safely, particularly in hot weather.
 
11. Feedback: Setting up a feedback mechanism post-party allows employees to share their thoughts and suggestions for improvement, ensuring future events better meet their preferences and expectations.
 
Whether you plan it yourself or let an event planner like BIG DEAL Company plan the perfect summer party, the name of the game is inclusivity, appreciation, and most of all fun.  Ultimately these gatherings are a chance to build a team that will care about each other and thus the overall success of the business.  Have fun out there!
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