|
Holiday party season will be here before we know it, which means it’s time to start planning your company holiday party. Read on to find out how to host a company party, with our My Big Day event planning experts’ list of dos and don’ts.  DO We’ve learned a thing or two after more than 16 years in the events industry. Here are our top 10 DOs for your company holiday party. Find the right date The holiday season means travel and a full social calendar for many people, so it’s important to plan early and get input on your event date. Choose several potential dates and poll employees to see which date will have the greatest attendance. Once you’ve chosen a date, book that venue – and we mean, like, yesterday. Find the right location (not the office) Since your company probably isn’t the only one throwing a holiday party this year, secure your location ASAP. Even if your office is big enough to host your party, your employees probably spend 40+ hours per week there. Why not switch it up with a fun venue downtown? Be sure to consider proximity to the office (so the travel time will be similar to the time it takes your employees to get to work), parking space, venue capacity, and amenities like a kitchen, stage, or projector wall. And don’t forget restroom access!  Consider food preferences Don’t just buy the tray labeled “party food” at the grocery store. Consider your employees’ food preferences. Maybe you have a lot of vegetarians in the office, or sweet treat fanatics. A vote also comes in handy in this situation. Be sure to ask about any food allergies, particularly if that means you’ll need to keep certain foods out of the event space completely. Hire an event planner Feeling overwhelmed yet? We recommend hiring a local event planner who already knows where the venues are and what’s available. Event planners can create a timeline for your event, suggest caterers and entertainment, and make suggestions about how much food and alcohol to purchase. Let us do the heavy lifting – the holidays are busy enough. Incorporate team building Any time most of your team is in the same place is a great time to do some team-building. Your employees probably don’t want to spend their holiday party watching cheesy videos about teamwork, but there are plenty of creative alternatives. A Secret Santa or White Elephant gift exchange is a popular choice. Here are some others:
Consider an off-season party Two of the major challenges of holiday party planning – guest attendance and securing a venue – can be offset by having a party just before or just after peak holiday season. Beat the crowd with an early November event, or bust the January blues with a post-New Year’s gathering. You’ll have more venue options and fewer scheduling conflicts. Recognize your employees A holiday party is a great time to show some employee appreciation after another hectic year. Present a slideshow of accomplishments as a company or present awards to each employee. Bonus: Incorporate team-building by asking colleagues to recommend awards for each other.  Consider an alcohol limit Alcohol is not uncommon at company parties, but if you’re serving it, consider having a cut-off of two or three drinks per guest. Nobody wants to drink too much, do something embarrassing in front of their colleagues, and then have to see them Monday morning. Having a drink limit allows guests to relax and enjoy themselves without taking things too far. Give a gift Gifts are a seasonally-appropriate way to show appreciation for your employees and engage in some team building. Gift exchanges are great for team bonding, and presenting employees with gifts during the holidays boosts morale throughout the year. Plan entertainment Your party entertainment may be built-in with planned activities like gift exchanges, rewards ceremonies, and other team-building exercises, but some holiday background music creates a fun ambience. Bluetooth speakers are budget-friendly, while a DJ or live musician is lively and memorable. If you don’t have any activities planned, consider making your holiday party an outing to a play or comedy performance. DON’TS Unfortunately, we’ve also learned a thing or two NOT to do when planning a company event after 15 years in the biz. Download the FREE printable below and avoid the top 10 mistakes companies make when planning an event. 
When you book with MBD Marketing & Events, we do all the heavy lifting. Our holidays are filling up with contracts, so book ASAP with our team of creative, experienced event planners for an unforgettable company holiday party. For business and private event tips and ideas, follow My Big Day on Facebook and Instagram. Visit our Venues in Colorado & Wyoming Pinterest board for more location inspiration for your next gathering  Small Business. Big Impact.
As a connected collective of experts, My Big Day specializes in the creative touches so many marketing campaigns & events these days are lacking. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns! Allow us to WOW you and your guests! As purveyors of fun with My Big Day, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Contact MBD Marketing & Events Small Business. Big Impact. Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us We serve the entire Front Range; Denver, Southern Wyoming, the CO Mountains, and Northern Colorado: Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor, Berthoud, Estes Park, Lyons, Longmont, Boulder, Wellington, Johnstown, Evans, Severance, Timnath, Mead, Frederick, Firestone, Milliken MBD's team member, Sarah Biekert, did some research for our client The Family Center/La Familia and is bringing you this list of 13 Halloween events for children in Northern Colorado - October 2022.  Opening of Día de los Muertos at Global Village Museum Cost: $5 for adults; $3 for students and seniors 200 West Mountain Avenue, Fort Collins (970) 221-4600, admin@globalvillagemuseum.org Dates: October 7 – November 19 "Día de los Muertos" opens Friday, Oct. 7, at the Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures with free admission from 5-8 pm as part of First Friday Art Walk. Creepy Walk in the Woods at Savage Farms Cost: $30 per person or $25 with coupon 1750 Savage Road, Loveland info@creepywalk.com Dates: October 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29 at 6 p.m. What's that sound? It's your heartbeat! Something is just behind that bush. A spooky time for all kids 12 and up – ok to come depending on their scare level. Kids 11 and under are not welcome and no refunds will be given. Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt - Loveland’s New Fall Tradition Cost: Free All over downtown Loveland and Centerera Dates: October 15 - 31 Artistic scarecrows are waiting for you across the city – from downtown and Centerra to fun places in between. These aren’t your typical scarecrows – each has been meticulously designed by local artists and businesses to show off Loveland’s thriving art community. The hunt is free and open to everyone. Players who complete the hunt will win a prize and be eligible for grand prizes. Must download the free, official Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt app - EVENTZEE to participate.  Pumpkins on Parade at Gardens on Spring Creek Cost: Children 4 and under FREE; Children 5-11 $5; Adults and children 12+ $10 2145 Centre Avenue, Fort Collins (970) 416-2486, gardens@fcgov.com Dates: October 20-23, nightly from 6-9 p.m. The third annual Pumpkins on Parade is a fun-for-all-ages celebration of Halloween and the harvest, featuring hundreds of pumpkins and gourds arranged across The Gardens in artistic displays and festive activities for the whole family! Costumes are encouraged! This event is candy-free. Loveland Downtown Pumpkin Festival Cost: FREE; pumpkin decorating $12 Dates: October 22, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. The Foundry Plaza 246 North Cleveland Avenue, Loveland (970) 699-2856, info@lovelandpartnership.org We’ll feature local farmers market pumpkins, Loveland artists, Pumpkin Sculptures, food vendors and more! Shop farmers market stands and vendor booths throughout The Foundry Plaza and enjoy some time downtown in the crisp fall air! Candy Crawl at Fort Collins Marketplace Cost: FREE Dates: October 23 from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. Fort Collins Marketplace College Avenue and Horsetooth Road, Fort Collins (720) 438-2500 The Candy Crawl at Fort Collins Marketplace is back! Join us for safe trick-or-treating and other activities for the whole family! Ghost Tales Historic Rialto Tour Cost: $15 Dates: October 24 and 25 at 7:30 p.m.; October 26-28 at 9 p.m. 228 East 4th Street, Loveland (970) 962-2120, RialtoT@cityofloveland.org Come look in the dark crannies behind the scenes, learn about our collection of restless souls and experience the chill firsthand. Kids 14+; parents use your best judgment.  Creepy Cinema Classics at Rialto Theater Cost: $13 Dates: October 26 at 7 p.m. – House of Wax (1953) October 27 at 7:30 p.m. – The Blob (1958) October 28 at 7:30 p.m. – Ooze and Schmooze featuring The Blob (1958); adults only; $40 228 East 4th Street, Loveland (970) 962-2120, RialtoT@cityofloveland.org Movie nights for young and old who enjoy classic scary movies. Pumpkin Plunge Windsor Cost: $6 per child Dates: October 28 at 5 p.m., 6 p.m., and 7 p.m. Community Recreation Center Indoor Pool 250 North 11th Street, Windsor (970) 674-3500 Dive into the spooky spirit at the Pumpkin Plunge! Swim through the water to find the perfect pumpkin to decorate. For ages 2-12. Children under 6 must be within arms reach of a parent. Pre-registration required and closes October 21. Space is limited!  Treatsylvania at Lee Martinez Farm Cost: $7 Dates: October 28 from 5:30-7 p.m. October 29 from 5-7 p.m. October 30 from 1-3 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. The Farm at Lee Martinez 600 North Sherwood Street, Fort Collins (970) 221-6665 Reservations for Treatsylvania will open at 7 a.m. on Wednesday, October 5. Children ages 10 years and under receive treat bags filled with goodies - including coupons, promotional materials, and of course, candy! Participants also enjoy a hayride, a walk through the not-so-spooky barn, and photo opportunities.  Halloween Hullabaloo – Fall River Drive Cost: FREE Centerra Marketplace 1569 Fall River Drive, Loveland (970) 962-9990 Dates: October 29 from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. (costume contest from 3-4 p.m.) Centerra is overjoyed to have the 16th Annual Halloween Hullabaloo return to the Street Festival on Fall River Drive! This FREE spooktacular street festival will feature a wide variety of complimentary hands-on and interactive activities for all ages from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy pumpkin bowling, a not-so-spooky hay maze, face painting, petting zoo, spookie selfie station, games, treats and more! Complimentary goodies and candy available courtesy of Centerra Engagement Assembly, while supplies last. In the spirit of community giving, we are asking all attendees to please bring non-perishable canned food donations to benefit Loveland’s House of Neighborly Service. Trunk or Treat at Timberline Church Cost: FREE 2908 South Timberline Road, Fort Collins (970) 482-4387 Dates: October 30 from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Fun and free for the whole family! Foster Care Awareness and variety of vendors and fun at this FREE family event! Dress up if you want or just enjoy the outdoors! Halloween Creepy Movies at Rialto Theater Cost: $7 228 East 4th Street, Loveland (970) 962-2120, RialtoT@cityofloveland.org Dates: October 31 from 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. Enjoy classic movies that put the fright in the night? “Dracula” begins at 7 p.m. and is followed by “Frankenstein” at 8:15 p.m. These movies are not rated but are fun and can be scary to littles. Use your best judgment. We invite you to take advantage of these community events and exhibits to celebrate the spooky season as a family this October! Follow The Family Center/La Familia on Pinterest, Facebook and Instagram for information about our organization, related news, and fun, educational ideas for your family.  Small Business. Big Impact.
As a connected collective of experts, My Big Day specializes in the creative touches so many marketing campaigns & events these days are lacking. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns! Allow us to WOW you and your guests! As purveyors of fun with My Big Day, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Contact MBD Marketing & Events Small Business. Big Impact. Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us We serve the entire Front Range; Denver, Southern Wyoming, the CO Mountains, and Northern Colorado: Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor, Berthoud, Estes Park, Lyons, Longmont, Boulder, Wellington, Johnstown, Evans, Severance, Timnath, Mead, Frederick, Firestone, Milliken What is a corporate recipe for success when it comes to building healthy and successful professional (workplace) relationships? A sprinkling of a positive company culture that promotes interaction and connection between coworkers. How do employers promote these connections? Easily through team-building activities and exercises. Team building exercises or activities are games, meetings, experiences and events that are designed to motivate group members to get to know and respect each other - often times on a different level that what they are used to in the office. While often silly or far from “work-related”, team-building exercises are activities that are thoughtfully designed to encourage teamwork. They produce a variety of benefits, including - thoughtful communication between participants (coworkers), motivation to try new approaches to problem solving, creative thinking, and building trust.  The 5 main types of corporate team-building Ultimately, the activities you choose to focus on depend on your goals. Some experiences are strictly designed to foster relationship building, while others focus more on developing specific skills. There are 5 main types of team-building:
Icebreakers Quick games and icebreaker activities are a great way to kick-off a professional gathering. They are often used to motivate employees to participate. Some easy meeting icebreakers are:
Communication Activities that focus on healthy and thoughtful communication patterns are a great way to develop strong communication skills in a low-risk environment.
My Big Day Marketing & Events has developed a variety of scavenger hunts for corporate clients – some focusing on the communication part, some focusing on fun.
 Problem Solving Activities that focus on creative problem solving often lead to better results in the workplace. Escape Rooms could again be used to hone these skills, but here are a few other activities that will help your group find creative solutions to challenges:
Creative Thinking Encouraging creativity in play often translates to success in the board room!
Employee Bonding Happy people produce good work! You can encourage relationship building outside of the office with these suggestions:
 My Big Day Marketing and Events has a team of professional planners and facilitators who can help you plan engaging activities for your team. We can develop an itinerary that will help you reach your team-bonding goals, which in turn will help you find success - both in and out of the office! For more inspiration, you can check out these curated Pinterest Boards dedicated to Company Retreats and Adult Party Games. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for updates and tips.  Small Business. Big Impact.
As a connected collective of experts, My Big Day specializes in the creative touches so many marketing campaigns & events these days are lacking. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns! Allow us to WOW you and your guests! As purveyors of fun with My Big Day, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Contact MBD Marketing & Events Small Business. Big Impact. Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us We serve the entire Front Range; Denver, Southern Wyoming, the CO Mountains, and Northern Colorado: Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor, Berthoud, Estes Park, Lyons, Longmont, Boulder, Wellington, Johnstown, Evans, Severance, Timnath, Mead, Frederick, Firestone, Milliken  A surprise rainy September Saturday could not stop love in Morrison, CO this past Saturday! Our friends at Primary Event Rentals worked tirelessly to put together a stunning ceremony site and reception tent filled with perfect details. As part of MBD's marketing services, we captured the magic behind the scenes for their website and promotion purposes. While the day didn't provide much sunlight, there was still love in the air. Glass goblets, copper cups, soft white accents and warm candlelight. A giant tent that can seat 300+, huge dance floor and rustic accents fit for a ranch. Congratulations Stephanie & William!  Small Business. Big Impact. As a connected collective of experts, My Big Day specializes in the creative touches so many marketing campaigns & events these days are lacking. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns! Allow us to WOW you and your guests! As purveyors of fun with My Big Day, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Contact MBD Marketing & Events Small Business. Big Impact. Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us We serve the entire Front Range; Denver, Southern Wyoming, the CO Mountains, and Northern Colorado: Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor, Berthoud, Estes Park, Lyons, Longmont, Boulder, Wellington, Johnstown, Evans, Severance, Timnath, Mead, Frederick, Firestone, Milliken   The entire MBD team could not be happier for our own Carrie Stadtmueller (now Kaufman)! Carrie and Derek said I DO at the YMCA in Estes Park at the lovely mountaintop Overlook Chapel. All who witnessed the ceremony truly felt their love and commitment to one another. As friends and co-workers, we were honored to support Carrie in so many ways. Enjoy some of our favorite photos captured by Lisa Joy Photography and overly excited wedding guests.   August 5th, 2022 was a great day for golf at The Mariana Butte Golf course! A sold out tournament supporting the Dr. Stan Scheer Student Opportunity Fund for TEF - and only in its second year! MBD Marketing & Events loves putting on this tournament and the fun players who attend!  Thompson Education Foundation has incredible sponsors and supporters! This tournament helps to raise over $30K for students through what they call the YES FUND. TEF gets the opportunity to say YES to students who would otherwise not be able to afford some of the field trips offered, opportunities to afford to play sports, or to play and instrument in the band. Thanks to these donors, students in the Thompson School District all have to opportunity to participate in activities that everyone deserves. As part of MBD's service offering, we provided the following to Thompson Education Foundation for this event:
Thompson Education Foundation Facts:
Until next year, keep swinging NoCo!   My Big Day was ecstatic to be enlisted as the 'fun makers' for Slate360, an event company based out of Nevada/Boston. The team at Slate360 asked us to plan a packed itinerary filled with experiences and excursions in Colorado. From booking car services to/from the hotel and out and about, to meals, to team-building activities, we had a blast putting together tons of fun for this client! Our new friends know how to make all of their team members feel welcome. Fantastic lodging at The Elizabeth Hotel in Old Town Fort Collins, a custom candy bar, packed fridge, every supply that could make one feel comfortable when traveling, and monogramed gifts for all! Here is a taste of just 2 days of the team's itinerary...   Thank you to our photography friend, Dick Knapp, who captured some candid moments of the team and headshots! If your company is looking for a custom experience for your retreat and/or team-building, you know who to call.... MBD Marketing & Events.  Small Business. Big Impact.
As a connected collective of experts, My Big Day specializes in the creative touches so many marketing campaigns & events these days are lacking. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns! Allow us to WOW you and your guests! As purveyors of fun with My Big Day, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Contact MBD Marketing & Events Small Business. Big Impact. Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us We serve the entire Front Range; Denver, Southern Wyoming, the CO Mountains, and Northern Colorado: Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor, Berthoud, Estes Park, Lyons, Longmont, Boulder, Wellington, Johnstown, Evans, Severance, Timnath, Mead, Frederick, Firestone, Milliken We are obsessed with the fresh, clean, and classic style of Ciara and Shane’s Woodlands wedding in Morrison, Colorado! The couple (and Mother of the Bride) paid close attention to every single detail to create a beautiful day complete with many special personal touches. The result was an unforgettable day of beauty, fun, and love! My Big Day was honored to be a part of this special celebration of their lovestory!  Guests were ushered around the stunning venue hall to a comfortable breezeway that overlooked the mountains and surrounding forest of The Woodlands just outside of Morrison, CO. They were encouraged to mingle over cool drinks and games of cornhole, or take advantage of comfy lounge chairs overlooking the venue grounds while they waited to be ushered to the ceremony site. The simple arbor that stood at the front of the ceremony isle matched the shape of the mountains that surrounded the beautiful site. Ciara and Shane took advantage of the views and nature for their decor, choosing to add only two large ferns at the back of the seating area. Guests were given packets of rose petals that they tossed after the touching ceremony and celebratory “I Do’s”!  The bride wore a beautiful lace and beaded gown while her groom looked handsome in a deep burgundy suit. The men looked dashing in black while the bridesmaids and flower girls shimmered in gold. Florals were kept sleek and simple with bouquets of gathered greenery with pops of white provided by large Mums. The reception hall was full of a mix of farmhouse tables, round banquet tables, and high-tops, encouraging guests to mingle while sampling delicious treats from the many food stations set around the room. Ciara and Shane spent extra time creating a very personalized menu that mixed food from special trips and moments in their lovestory. They had signage explaining the significance of each dish served. The food provided a window into some of the most special moments of their courtship.  From the food to the decor to the unique touches like kissing bells and a telephone guest book, this wedding was a memorable affair. It was wonderful to walk with Ciara and Shane through their planning process, and an honor to celebrate with them on their Big Day! If you’re looking for some wonderful wedding inspiration, scroll through some of the photos from Ciara and Shane’s lovestory! The Couple: Ciara & Shane Marple Event Planners: My Big Day The Venue: The Woodlands, Colorado Officiant: Keith Hortsman DJ/MC: Colorado Wedding Productions Photographer: Taylor Nicole Photography Cake: Shamane’s Bakery Florist: Bride and Mother of the Bride Catering: Catering By Design Event Rentals: Colorado Party Rentals Videographer: Hillhound Productions Beverage Service: Peak Beverage Small Business. Big Impact. As a connected collective of experts, My Big Day specializes in the creative touches so many marketing campaigns & events these days are lacking. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns! Allow us to WOW you and your guests! As purveyors of fun with My Big Day, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Contact MBD Marketing & Events Small Business. Big Impact. Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us We serve the entire Front Range; Denver, Southern Wyoming, the CO Mountains, and Northern Colorado: Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor, Berthoud, Estes Park, Lyons, Longmont, Boulder, Wellington, Johnstown, Evans, Severance, Timnath, Mead, Frederick, Firestone, Milliken  With so many nonprofit clients, our My Big Day team spends a lot of time securing donations and sponsorships for events. Here are some essential tips for finding and keeping event sponsors for your small company or nonprofit.  What are event sponsors? Sponsors are companies, organizations, or individuals who fund an event in exchange for publicity, so that proceeds from the event can go to the host organization. Sponsors typically provide monetary funds, but may also offer in-kind donations of goods, promotional sponsorships through platforms like websites or social media, or advertising sponsorships. How do I find event sponsors? When searching for potential event sponsors, consider organizations that have something in common with your own, such as a mission, values, and/or an audience. Your chances of securing a potential sponsor are much greater if there is reason for them to be interested in your event, such as a professed interest in your company’s goals and beliefs or potential for the sponsor to market themselves to their desired audience. You can also look at a company’s website, social media pages, and news articles to see if they’ve sponsored similar events in the past. When sourcing sponsors, consider:
How do I secure event sponsors? Event planners often provide potential sponsors with a sponsorship packet – a digital or printed pamphlet that breaks down the benefits a sponsor receives based on the amount of funding they provide. A sponsorship packet should include details about audience demographics, projected or past attendance numbers, vendor names, any data or analytics you can provide about your organization’s reach on individual platforms, and testimonials from past sponsors. For nonprofits, testimonials from beneficiaries can be very appealing to potential sponsors. Elements that can help with emotional appeal for both small businesses and nonprofits include your startup story, inspiration behind your organization, your mission statement, and ways your organization benefits the local community. Typical sponsorship benefits include brand exposure, audience engagement, and improved reputation for the sponsoring organization. A sponsorship packet outlines levels of sponsorship (for example, Silver, Gold, Platinum) and corresponding publicity benefits.  What are some common event sponsor benefits?
 What are some creative event sponsor benefits? Make your sponsorship packet stand out by offering these unique event sponsor benefits:
Our talented team of women comes from a variety of educational backgrounds with decades of experience in the marketing, communications, and event planning industries. Reach out to find out how we can help you grow your small business or nonprofit! For business and nonprofit marketing and event tips and ideas, follow My Big Day on Facebook and Instagram.  Small Business. Big Impact.
As a connected collective of experts, My Big Day specializes in the creative touches so many marketing campaigns & events these days are lacking. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns! Allow us to WOW you and your guests! As purveyors of fun with My Big Day, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Contact MBD Marketing & Events Small Business. Big Impact. Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us We serve the entire Front Range; Denver, Southern Wyoming, the CO Mountains, and Northern Colorado: Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor, Berthoud, Estes Park, Lyons, Longmont, Boulder, Wellington, Johnstown, Evans, Severance, Timnath, Mead, Frederick, Firestone, Milliken Whether you’re just starting your small business or are well-established, a communications plan is crucial for your business success. Here are four reasons why you need a small business communications plan – and how My Big Day can help.  What is a communications plan? A communications plan or strategy is a system through which businesses communicate news and marketing messaging within the company and externally. Internal communication may occur between colleagues, human resources staff, and company management. Information may be communicated externally to the public, news media, clients, suppliers, and other businesses. The goal of a communications plan is to ensure your business’s messaging remains consistent, no matter who is receiving information and from which representative of your company. Communications plans are designed to be proactive, but are absolutely necessary in a crisis. A communications plan may address not only what message should be broadcast, but through which channels (for example, that certain types of messaging should be communicated through email, over the phone, or via internal memos).  Why do I need a communications plan for my small business? Company Image A standardized, professional method of communication with the public lends your business credibility. Consistent communication builds external trust in your business, and trust is paramount to success. It is important to know which message(s) you want to convey to specific target audiences, which is where marketing comes into play. Conflicting information released by different parties sporadically conveys an image of disorganization, which degrades trust. Having a unified communications strategy that everyone in the company is aware of prevents confused messaging. Crisis Management Some sort of reputation crisis, whether big or small, is inevitable during the life of your small business. It may be one disgruntled client or a newsworthy catastrophe that affects a wide audience’s perception. Either way, having a strategic communication plan in place will reduce uncertainty for you and present your company as a unified front under scrutiny. Community Relations Engaging with and supporting your community is essential to your business’s image. Your company’s public reputation is enhanced by giving back, including support of nonprofits, local initiatives, and other businesses. Staying abreast of industry happenings helps you make better business decisions, and positive relationships with other businesses build trust and mutual respect. Internal Business Objectives and Employee Morale Having everyone in your company on the same page is essential to efficient operations. Everyone in your company should understand their roles and tasks and have the information necessary to carry them out. Missing or inconsistent information frustrates employees and decreases performance. Trust, loyalty, and transparency are cultivated through a consistent internal communications plan between employees and management.  How do I create a small business communications plan? Creating an effective small business communications plan requires knowledge of branding, measurable goals, target markets, media relations, communication channels, campaigns and events, and evaluation of measurable communication analytics. Executing a strategic communications plan is a big job, and most small businesses don’t have a marketing or PR professional in-house. Internal communications plans, particularly for small companies, can be managed by an owner, president, or manager. External communications are best managed by professionals trained in marketing or public relations. At My Big Day, we offer a long list of small business services, including strategic communications planning, in conjunction with:
 Our talented team of women comes from a variety of educational backgrounds with decades of experience in the marketing, communications, and event planning industries. Reach out to find out how we can help you grow your small business! For business marketing and event tips and ideas, follow My Big Day on Facebook and Instagram. Visit our Small Business Marketing Pinterest board for more from your local small business experts!  |
Search our blog
About MBD
Making Business Personal. We pride ourselves on giving you something to look forward to. We are a connected collective of creatives - owned an operated by outstanding women. Want More?Never miss an event or opportunity. Sign up for our newsletter!
Disclosure: *All content produced by My Big Day; DBA Big Deal Company, including websites, are the property of My Big Day LLC and protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. You may not copy, reproduce, distribute, transmit, modify, create derivative works, or in any other way exploit any part of our materials without the prior written permission from My Big Day LLC. Search Categories
All
Monthly Archives
April 2023
|
||||
RSS Feed
Never miss an event or opportunity. Sign up for our monthly newsletter.
My Big Day Company LLC 2006-2023 www.MyBigDayCompany.com
970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 EMAIL US
We serve the entire Front Range; Denver, Southern Wyoming, the CO Mountains, and Northern Colorado: Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor, Berthoud, Estes Park, Lyons, Longmont, Boulder, Wellington, Johnstown, Evans, Severance, Timnath, Mead, Frederick, Firestone, Milliken
Where We Are & Where We've Been:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|