970-613-1455
  My Big Day
  • My Big Day
    • About Us
    • Our Team
    • Our Clients
    • What We Do >
      • Event Management Services
      • Marketing
    • Testimonials
    • My Big Day FAQ
    • Contact Us
  • For Business
    • Business Coaching
    • Corporate Events
    • Fundraising
    • Holiday Parties
    • Business Marketing
  • For Community
    • New Year's Eve >
      • Midnight Ball
      • Bootlegger's Ball
      • Masquerade Ball
      • A Very Tacky New Year
      • Festivus
    • NoCo's Greatest Drive-Thru Trick-or-Treat Experience
    • Easter Keg Hunt >
      • Easter Keg Hunt TICKETS
      • Event Info
      • Keg Hunt Rules
      • Easter Keg Hunt Photos
    • Loveland Drive-In
    • Road Rally >
      • Q&A
      • Tickets
      • Photos
    • Sloshball >
      • Sloshball Photos
      • Sloshball Rules
      • Sloshball Glossary
      • Sloshball Q & A
    • Mom's Big Day
    • NoCo Boo's and Booze >
      • Party Photos
    • Adult Prom >
      • Prom Photos
    • Valentines Day Group Wedding
    • White Trash Bash >
      • White Trash Bash Photos
  • For Love
    • Valentines Day Group Wedding
    • Wedding Packages
    • Wedding Photos & Videos
    • Should I Hire a Wedding Planner?
    • Proposals
    • Bachelor/Bachelorette Party
    • Bridal Showers
    • Planning Tools
  • For Fun
    • Birthdays
    • Baby Showers
    • Sweet 16
    • Graduation Parties
  • My Big Day Blog
  • My Big Day
    • About Us
    • Our Team
    • Our Clients
    • What We Do >
      • Event Management Services
      • Marketing
    • Testimonials
    • My Big Day FAQ
    • Contact Us
  • For Business
    • Business Coaching
    • Corporate Events
    • Fundraising
    • Holiday Parties
    • Business Marketing
  • For Community
    • New Year's Eve >
      • Midnight Ball
      • Bootlegger's Ball
      • Masquerade Ball
      • A Very Tacky New Year
      • Festivus
    • NoCo's Greatest Drive-Thru Trick-or-Treat Experience
    • Easter Keg Hunt >
      • Easter Keg Hunt TICKETS
      • Event Info
      • Keg Hunt Rules
      • Easter Keg Hunt Photos
    • Loveland Drive-In
    • Road Rally >
      • Q&A
      • Tickets
      • Photos
    • Sloshball >
      • Sloshball Photos
      • Sloshball Rules
      • Sloshball Glossary
      • Sloshball Q & A
    • Mom's Big Day
    • NoCo Boo's and Booze >
      • Party Photos
    • Adult Prom >
      • Prom Photos
    • Valentines Day Group Wedding
    • White Trash Bash >
      • White Trash Bash Photos
  • For Love
    • Valentines Day Group Wedding
    • Wedding Packages
    • Wedding Photos & Videos
    • Should I Hire a Wedding Planner?
    • Proposals
    • Bachelor/Bachelorette Party
    • Bridal Showers
    • Planning Tools
  • For Fun
    • Birthdays
    • Baby Showers
    • Sweet 16
    • Graduation Parties
  • My Big Day Blog

My Big Day Blog

Top 10 Reasons to Book Your 2022 Holiday Party NOW!

4/28/2022

 
If it seems like we’re reminding you to plan your holiday party earlier than in previous years, you’re not wrong – but now is the time to book your 2022 corporate or private holiday party with MBD Marketing & Events.
 
As the world opened up in 2021, demand for venues, hotel rooms, plane tickets, and event rentals skyrocketed. At the same time, economic difficulties and massive staff shortages have dominated the events industry. We’re already scouting venues for our holiday party clients so they can have the best of the best.
 
If you want the best of the best too, the time to reserve your ideal venue is NOW. Check out our holiday party planning timeline and checklist if you need help getting started. 
Picture
​Here are 10 reasons to book your holiday party early:
 
Get Your First Choice Date
 
Whether your date has special meaning, employees have already voted on their availability, or you anticipate a lull between projects that would be the perfect time for your coworkers to let loose, the sooner you book, the more likely you are to secure your ideal date.
 
You’ll want to avoid conflict with other major holiday events that are already booked, which could hamper attendance to your event. The sooner you secure your venue, the sooner you can claim that date as your own.
 
Guest Attendance
 
Between family obligations, spouse work functions, and personal holiday traditions, your potential guests are pulled in many different directions during the holiday season. Boost attendance numbers by planning early, so invitees will plan around your event.
 
Venue Choice
 
It’s not news that venues book early, and the best ones book up first. If you’re set on a particular venue – or, in this crazy year, want to find one at all – start making phone calls now. If you book with an event planner, like MBD Marketing & Events, we’ll do that heavy lifting for you and use our network of clients and partners to give you the best chance of securing your dream event space.
 
Vendor Availability
 
Just like venues, vendors book well in advance, and the best are in highest demand. If you have a favorite caterer, are eager to reserve that up-and-coming deejay, or want better quality photos than you got last year, now is your chance to reserve these vendors.
Picture
​Staff Shortages
 
Historic staff shortages in the event industry have affected almost every aspect of every event we’ve managed in 2022. By planning early, you can:

  • Increase your chances of finding a venue with enough staffing to host your event
  • Give yourself flexibility
  • Allow time to deal with cancellations or required changes to your event
  • Give your venue as much notice as possible, so they can spend the coming months working to accommodate your requests
 
Venues, vendors, your event planner, and YOU will all appreciate the extra time to work through unexpected challenges that come with current conditions in the events industry.
 
Avoid Holiday Rush Pricing
 
As in any business, supply and demand affect consumer pricing. While venues may have holiday rates set well in advance, holiday travel and accommodation prices skyrocket as demand approaches its peak. Give yourself and your guests time to shop for the best deals by reserving your holiday party date now.
 
Early Booking Discounts
 
Not only does early booking mean you can avoid spending more than necessary, you may even be able to save. Some venues, vendors, and travel companies – though not all – offer discounts for early booking. Whether you’re able to secure these discounts or not, booking early gives your vendors the best chance at exceeding your expectations, which means you’re more likely to walk away satisfied.
Picture
​Time to Think Outside the Box
 
An epic holiday party requires a lot of planning. Even the most creative pros have trouble throwing together a legendary even last-minute. Securing your date and venue early gives you more time to explore the best entertainment options, and even come up with some unique event activities of your own. Our team meets months ahead of our clients’ events for brainstorming sessions to get our creative juices flowing and create something extra special just for you.
 
Build Excitement
 
The longer your guests know an event is coming, the more excited they’ll be! Anticipation gives everyone something to look forward to, which is a great boost to your friends’ moods or your employees’ morale and productivity. Give your guests the holiday gift of something fun in the forecast.
 
Less Stress
 
Before you know it, you’ll find your own calendar filling up with holiday family gatherings, work commitments, and nights out with friends. Give yourself space to breathe by starting the planning process early. By the time you start receiving phone calls and invites in the mail, you can give yourself a pat on the back knowing your event is ready to go and your VIPs have already RSVP’d.
 
When you book with MBD Marketing & Events, we do all the heavy lifting. Our holidays are already 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.
 

Picture
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

10 Northern Colorado Venues for Your Next Corporate Event or Meeting

3/22/2022

 
By Sarah Biekert, MBD Coordinator & Punctuation Prodigy
 
As your Northern Colorado event experts, we get countless requests for recommendations on where to host company parties, conferences, in-person meetings, seasonal events, and anniversary celebrations. We’ve rounded up 10 unique northern Colorado corporate event venues for your next conference or celebration.
 
Company celebrations and team-building sessions can happen any time of year, regardless of the season, and boost employee morale.
 
We love these unique venues for small groups, big crowds, intimate gatherings, large-scale demonstrations, and everything in between.

 
FORT COLLINS VENUES
 
Edwards House
 
402 W Mountain Ave.
Fort Collins, CO 80521
 
Contact: guestservices@edwardshouse.com, (970) 493-9191
 
The Edwards House has two indoor conference rooms and an outdoor meeting space with amenities including complimentary wi-fi, whiteboards, easels, refreshments, and more.
Picture
​Colorado State University Conference & Event Services
 
Fort Collins, CO 80523
 
Contact: conferences@colostate.edu, 970-491-6222
 
Colorado State University offers more than 14 on-campus event venues for everything from small team meetings to conferences with thousands of attendees. The university offers catering, lodging, and entertainment amenities.
Picture
​Drake Centre
 
802 W Drake Rd.
Fort Collins, CO 80526
 
Contact: (970) 492-6473
 
After closing its event venue during the pandemic, Fort Collins’ Drake Centre is set to reopen soon for team-building events, conferences, and seminars. Projectors, screens, audio enhancement, wireless internet access, podiums, and mics are provided and set up at no extra cost and venues can accommodate 50-475 attendees.
Picture
​Cafe Vino
 
1200 S College Ave.
Fort Collins, CO 80524
 
Contact: cafevino1200@gmail.com, (970) 212-3399
 
Cafe Vino is owned by a local CSU alum, and can accommodate events for 10-140 guests. Gather in one of four private dining rooms or on the outdoor patio.
Picture
​Block One
 
428 Linden St.
Fort Collins, CO 80524
 
Contact: events@blockone.com, 970-420-3692
 
Block One is a DIY venue, making it a flexible blank canvas for your next event. Rental includes the indoor event space, four outdoor patios, and an outdoor terrace. Sonos system, projector, screen, sound system with mics included. Indoor space accommodates up to 191 guests.
Picture
​LOVELAND
 
The Cleveland Room/Desk Chair
 
201 E 4th St.
Loveland, CO 80537
 
Contact: theclevelandroom@deskchairworkspace.com, 970-462-9464
 
Desk Chair houses three corporate event spaces, including the Cleveland Room, Exchange, and Rooftop. The Exchange conference room seats up to 18 people, with flexible $75/hour a la carte pricing. Rental includes comprehensive A/V equipment. The Cleveland Room is a full-service rental that seats up to 140, and the Rooftop seats up to 70 for corporate functions.
 
Picture
​Sweet Heart Winery
 
5500 W US-34
Loveland, CO 80537
 
Contact: info@sweetheartwinery.com, (970) 646-4314

From large business conferences, expos, and fundraising galas to holiday parties and networking events, Sweet Heart Winery offers indoor and outdoor venue options for your every business and corporate gathering. 
Picture
The Ranch Complex & Events Center
 
5280 Arena Cir.
Loveland, CO 80538
 
Contact: kbuttermore@larimer.org, 970-619-4000
 
Venues at The Ranch include the 18,000-square-foot FNBO Exhibition Building, Larimer County Conference Center, and Thomas M. McKee Youth & Community Building. Small meeting rooms are available in the Conference Center and Community Building.


Picture
​The Gressiwick
 
426 N Lincoln Ave.
Loveland, CO 80537
 
Contact: celebrate@gressiwick.com, (970) 315-2443
 
The Gressiwick is a versatile venue and can host a wide variety of events. It is equipped with a projector, screen, and house sound system, perfect for corporate luncheons.
Picture
​Embassy Suites by Hilton Loveland Conference Center
4705 Clydesdale Pkwy, Loveland, CO 80538

Contact: (970) 593-6200
​

Embassy Suites is conveniently located near I-25 for traveling guests, with event spaces ranging from a conference room suited for 18 attendees to a ballroom that can accommodate over 3,000.
Picture
 
While you are planning your next big event, consider asking our friends at mobile bar On The Rocks Co. about drink service for your next corporate event, complete with our very own My Big Day TIPS-certified bartenders! Read more about how On The Rocks can benefit your business here.
Picture
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

Christmas Parties Gone Wrong

12/21/2021

 
Christmas Parties Gone Wrong; All Work and No Play...Celebrating the Holidays with your Work Crew

By Carrie Stadtmueller, Content Conductor
 
There are many types of Christmas traditions out there, but none perhaps as steeped and as important as planning the PERFECT holiday office party! The perfect office party is just the right blend of structure and professionalism with just enough of a relaxed atmosphere where people can cut loose enough with some fun and slight indulgences. A time to celebrate a year of accomplishments!
 
We’ve helped many companies and businesses plan perfect celebrations with class and flair. And, it’s always great for our clients to know that they have an extra set of eyes and hands on site to help should things get out of hand - or slightly out of control.
 
How can things get out of control, you might ask? Well, anytime you mix good food, good drink, good music, and good fun – you run the risk of things getting out of control. Take these examples for instance:
Picture
​“Office Christmas Party”
Starring Jennifer Aniston & Jason Bateman

If you’ve ever held a job, chances are, you’ve also had to deal with the annual work holiday party. As mentioned above, as event planners - we’ve planned a few! Let us just say - the characters in this movie probably could have used our help!

This movie follows an office holiday party that gets wildly out of hand as a branch manager uses the event to impress a potential client while trying to close a sale and save company jobs.
​
One major tip: Remember that this is still a business event.
While it is oky to relax and have fun when you’re at a workplace party, don’t loose sight of the fact that this event is still sponsored by your boss, and you should still remain professional.
​Best of the Christmas Parties - The Office

The Office has great examples for what “not to do” on so many occasions. This compilation of their holiday parties is a gold mine! But, there is one rule that really sticks out in this…

Holiday Party Tip: Don’t drink too much!
If your employer is offering you a drink and you don’t mind - accept, but watch and limit  yourself!
If there is one place you cannot afford to lose your senses, it is at an event that is hosted by your boss and attended by your coworkers. You do not want to be the talk around the watercooler the next Monday!
Best advice - probably stick to a two drink maximum. This will allow you to enjoy yourself without having to pay for it later!
Picture
Picture
​
Die Hard
Starring Bruce Willis
​
While some people may argue whether or not this is truly a Christmas movie (IT IS!) - one thing is certain, it definitely holds some holiday office party lessons to follow.
Holiday Party Tip: Don’t bring uninvited guests.
Your party hosts have been planning for a certain amount of guests. Most caterers and venues require a base payment per guest. It is not appropriate to add to your hosts’ expenses by bringing extra guests to the event.

 
Holiday Tip: Do introduce yourself to others at the company.
If you work at a larger company, make it a goal to talk with a certain number of people with whom you haven’t spoken to or don’t know that well. Holiday parties can be great networking opportunities.

​Holiday Tip: Do arrive and depart on time.
Arriving fashionably late is not appropriate in a corporate setting. You also do not want to be the last one to leave either. Make sure that you are following the time that is listed on the event invitation.

When you choose to celebrate appropriately, your office holiday party can be a great way to build strong team ties and camaraderie and celebrate a year of accomplishments or milestones. Follow these tips to have a great time!

-Your MBD Event Planning Team
Picture
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

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation Drinking Game!

11/23/2021

 
Picture
When the holidays draw near, do you feel the need to reach for a beer?
The relatives are in town, and you are putting in your time with the family...

Well, spike that eggnog, Sparky, grab your favorite moose mug, and play My Big Day's "Christmas Vacation Drinking Game!"


What you will need for this game: an beer, eggnog, wine, or your drink of choice, a Santa hat & a single shot of your choice (perhaps a lime Jello shot topped with cat food).

*** Disclosure: please don't drink to put up with family, then drive.
Picture
My Big Day Drinking Rules:

Take One Drink Every Time...
  • Ellen calls Clark "Sparky"
  • Someone is wearing an ugly holiday sweater
  • There is singing or bells shaking
  • The swimming pool is referenced
  • Clark is wearing a sports team article of clothing

Additional Rules:
  • The entire group takes a drink whenever an advent calendar door is opened.
  • You must yell “Shitter’s Full!” any time you leave to use the restroom, otherwise you must finish your beer when you return.
  • The first person to say “Get me somebody! And get me somebody while I'm waiting!” when Frank Shirley appears on screen for the first time chooses a person to finish their drink.
  • The first person to stand up & fully complete the “knock on the door, peek in…” correctly WITH hand gestures during that scene gives two drinks.
  • At any point in the movie, you can point to someone & yell "RUSS!" If they do not respond with "Right here, dad" they must take a drink (max once per person, this could get out of control).
  • Anytime someone misquotes a line in the movie, they have to wear the Santa hat until it gets passed to the next person.
  • When the movie is over, the last person wearing the Santa hat has to shotgun a beer & finish by saying “Ahh, It’s good, It’s good. It’s good.”
Picture
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 Christmas Story" Drinking Game - MBD Marketing & Events

11/22/2021

 
We've noticed that our followers really appreciate game ideas... especially drinking game ideas.
With a rough couple years behind us, and a global pandemic still lingering, we understand for the need for 'at home' party ideas!


Since our "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation Drinking Game" is so popular, we decided to add
​ 
"A Christmas Story Drinking Game" for those of you looking to add some variety to your regular holiday program viewing!
Picture

"A Christmas Story Drinking Game"

Rules:  Party safe, try to place with drinks that don't have super high alcohol content!  (You will be drinking a lot this game!)  To pad your stomach prior to playing, kudos to the host for providing some "Meatloaf, smeatloaf, double-beatloaf."

Drink every time:
  • The words "Red Ryder" are mentioned
  • "Christmas" is said
  • "You'll shoot your eye out" is said
  • Ralphie fantasizes 
  • Santa is on screen
  • A Christmas carol is played 
  • Ralpie's brother cries 
  • Someone quotes the movie 
  • Ralphie's mother appears to be intoxicated.
  • Anyone curses/swears with gibberish!

Finish your drink:
  • When the lamp arrives
  • When a Triple Dog Dare occurs 
  • Ralphie shoots his eye out 

Group Rules:
  • Everyone must yell "Oh Fuuuuudge" every time someone exits the bathroom while playing.
  • Bonus: If anyone can hold a bar of soap in their mouth for 1 minute, they can assign drinks to anyone else throughout the game!
  • Together the group must sing, "Deck the harrs with boughs of horry, fa ra ra ra ra, ra ra ra ra" at the right point in the movie.

Enjoy!!!
Picture

10 Non-Traditional Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving in 2021

11/9/2021

 
Blog by Sarah Biekert, Punctuation Prodigy
​Local regulations have changed significantly since Thanksgiving last year (with a bit of back-and-forth). We know many of you aren’t ready for a big indoor gathering this year. We’re big fans of finding a way to celebrate no matter what – so here are 10 non-traditional ways to observe Thanksgiving 2021.
Picture
​1. Share a meal with a neighbor. This isn’t a new tradition, but it’s especially suited to this year. Many of your older and/or immunocompromised neighbors have been spending lots of time alone for the past year and a half. And, let’s face it – most of us, whether we live alone or not, could use some extra kindness these days. What better way to cheer someone up than to bring over a warm Thanksgiving dinner plate?

​2. Share a meal with a stranger. The pandemic has also been especially isolating for those who are homeless. If you have qualms about giving out cash, why not share a warm meal instead? Prepare a few extra plates this year, and give them to others in need.  

3. Drive-by decorations. To share some holiday cheer with anyone who drives by, consider decorating your yard or home exterior for Thanksgiving. Purchase your own decorations for a DIY project, or hire a company like Card My Yard for decoration and cleanup services. You can even order decorations for a loved one’s yard! Card My Yard Wellington serves Fort Collins, Laporte, Windsor, Timnath, and Wellington; Card My Yard Greeley serves Greeley, Evans, Windsor, Severance, Johnstown, Milliken, Eaton, and Loveland.  
Picture
4. Video call with built-in games. New video-call apps are multifunctional. Developed with the pandemic in mind, apps like Bunch and WAVE allow you to video chat while playing real-time screen games with participants. Game options range from family-friendly classics like Uno and Scrabble to video games like Call of Duty.

5. Or...play a board game on video with friends and family. If figuring out a new app sounds more like a chore than good entertainment, use the video platform you’re most comfortable with and play with a real board and cards. Make sure the other participant has the same game available. Bingo is an easy video call game for all ages; simply take turns calling. You can even find Thanksgiving-themed Bingo games.

6. Simultaneous movie night. Cue up a Thanksgiving film or favorite holiday movie while on the phone with a friend (make sure to press play at the same time!) or use an app like Teleparty (previously Netflix Party) that synchronizes video playback for a group and adds a group chat (compatible with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and HBO.  

7. Send thank-you notes.
Thank-you notes aren’t just for Christmas and birthdays. Take some time to consider the people you are thankful to have in your life, and make Thanksgiving an opportunity to show them how much you appreciate them. Show gratitude for friends, family, coworkers, and your neighborhood trash pickup workers and postal workers. A handwritten note is always extra meaningful.

8. Recipe exchange. Switch things up a bit this year by adding someone else’s favorite recipe to your Thanksgiving meal. Before the holiday, swap a recipe with a friend or family member who won’t be at your house for Thanksgiving. Each participant cooks the other’s recipe – extra fun if you’re on a video call while you’re doing it. You may just find a new favorite recipe.
Picture
​9. Outdoor games. Colorado weather permitting, let the family burn some energy (or calories) with outdoor games. Outdoor air circulation means you can invite the neighbors over, too. Games like cornhole, Badminton, horseshoes, and charades are fun for adults and kids.  

​10. Surprise someone with their very own parade.
Cooped up grandparents and at-risk family and friends will love watching from the front porch as you drive by in decorated cars or strut down the sidewalk (in full costume, of course). Share some Thanksgiving cheer with those who aren’t comfortable with or able to leave the house this year.  
Happy Thanksgiving from the My Big Day team!
 
Put our team in charge of your next private, corporate, or nonprofit event and have decades of combined marketing and event planning experience at your disposal. Contact us to get started.
Picture
  ​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

How to Set Up a Self-Service Bar for Your Holiday Party

11/7/2021

 
​Entertaining for the holidays can have you juggling many roles: chef, bartender,  performer – even family mediator. Setting up a self-serve bar for your holiday party gives you more time to enjoy your guests, but it may not be as simple as you think. Here are some tips to DIY a successful self-serve bar for the holidays. 
Picture
​Keep the drink selection simple
 
As the party host, it’s up to you how many drink options you’d like to supply for your guests. You can stick to just beer and wine, add in a themed cocktail, or stock all the basics of a full bar and allow guests to create their own drinks. Here are some staples to consider:

  • Scotch
  • Vodka
  • Gin
  • Tequila
  • Rum
  • Red and white wine
  • Beer
  • Mixers like: club soda, cola, diet cola, tonic, lemon-lime soda, ginger ale, orange juice, and cranberry juice
  • Extras like: champagne, brandy, and pimms
  • Garnishes: orange peel, lime, lemon wedges, or other fruit
 
Pre-mix drinks
 
If you’d like to serve a signature cocktail hassle-free, you can pre-mix ingredients and serve them in a large beverage dispenser. To keep drinks cold without diluting them, chill ingredients thoroughly before mixing, then: add ice cubes made out of your non-alcoholic ingredients, add frozen fruit, or choose a beverage dispenser designed to keep liquids cold.
 
Write cocktail recipes for guests
 
If your guests like to be a bit more hands-on, you can provide the cocktail recipe and let guests mix their own drinks. Choose a signature cocktail or two and print the recipes on paper or cardstock, write them on a chalkboard, or even on a mirror. If a drink requires an exact measurement, be sure to have that measuring utensil available. Don’t forget to provide any garnishes.

Picture
​Choose drinks that complement your theme or occasion
 
This is the fun part: brainstorming signature drinks to suit your party theme or occasion. Warm, rich drinks are welcome at a cozy fall or winter party. Traditional drinks like mulled wine are a festive addition to holiday parties. And fresh, fruity drinks are ideal for summer get-togethers. For ideas and inspiration, check out our list of eight signature cocktails for your next event or five fall-inspired cocktail recipes.
 
Purchase the right amount of alcohol for your party
 
Party duration, number of guests, type of alcohol, and type of party all affect how much alcohol you’ll need to purchase. This drink calculator from Evite is a great place to start.
 
Have supplies readily available
 
The supplies you’ll need depend on the complexity of your drink offerings. Even the most basic self-serve bar will need:
 
  • Glassware or cups
  • Corkscrew (if serving wine)
  • Cocktail napkins
  • Bar towel
  • Ice (and a serving utensil)
  • Trash can
 
Other supplies to consider include:
 
  • Jigger (measuring glass)
  • Shaker
  • Fruit and garnishes (pre-cut)
  • Drink stirrers
  • Cocktail shaker
  • Strainer
  • Champagne flutes
  • Short and tall glasses
  • Wine glasses
  • Stemmed cocktail glasses
 
Picture
​eep your guests (and yourself) safe
 
With a self-serve bar, you won’t be able to keep track of how much alcohol each guest consumes. Look for signs of intoxication (loud speech, slurred speech, stumbling, rude behavior, etc.) and discourage any guests you suspect to be impaired from driving. Be ready to call ride services, offer a room for the night, or even to call police if things escalate. Check your local and state laws: As party host, you may be held responsible for the actions of impaired guests, even after they’ve left your property.
 
Sound like a lot? With some planning and drink prep, anyone can provide their own self-serve bar this holiday season. But if you’re short on time or just don’t feel ready, you can book all of these services with On the Rocks.
 
You’ll get a consultation with us to discuss drink ideas, how much alcohol you’ll need to purchase, and delivery coordination. On the day of your event, our TIPS-certified bartenders – trained in safe service and preventing drunk driving and underage intoxication – will serve your guests, so you can be worry free.

Picture

Celebrating Our Own Big Days

11/6/2021

 
Congratulations to MBD's own Carrie and Kathy.
Carrie is celebrating an engagement! Kathy is celebrating a BIG birthday!
​We gathered together to surprise them this week and shower them with some love!

Holidays 2021 - To Party or Not to Party?

10/29/2021

 
It’s been over a year now……

It’s been well over a year of pivoting schedules, canceling plans, and re-imagining how we work and play in this new world of Covid-19. Last year, at this time, the decision of whether or not to hold a holiday party was simple -- no one did. In fact - in many parts of the country, we were under strict lockdown orders, and couldn’t have gathered together if we wanted to.
 
The landscape might look a bit different this year, but overall, the looming question remains the same. Is it safe to host a holiday party this winter, 2021? We might be more open, but with covid variants top of mind for many business owners and corporations, many are asking the question - should we hold a holiday party for our employees and teams? 
Picture
A Case for the Party
 
Many business leaders are looking for ways to celebrate and honor their employees for “sticking it out and surviving” the pandemic. Bringing people together in celebration is a great way to boost morale and to thank everyone for a job well done.
 
People are ready to step away from the Zoom camera and to get out and mingle. They are yearning for some human interaction.

 
A Case for Caution
​

As exciting as getting back to normal and back together sounds, celebrating cautiously is probably the smarter way to go.
 
Planning celebrations in smaller groups, or with hybrid event plans would be prudent. People could still have the feel of gathering together but in smaller and safer numbers. Larger corporations can plan hybrid events with smaller groups connecting via satellite all together to honor local number restrictions and stay safe at the same time.
Picture
Safety tips for Celebrating
​

If you do choose to host a holiday celebration with your work crew, we suggest the following Covid Safe planning tips:

1. Remember that Sanitation is TOP priority.            

Many venues are required to follow strict safety guidelines. Make sure you are communicating these guidelines and rules to your guests.

​Plan on providing extra masks, extra sanitizer, and extra space for your guests as well.
Picture
2. Skip the buffet and other congestive serving mechanisms.

​People don’t really want to grab an appetizer off of a tray in a room of thousands of people - nor should they!
 
Stay away from champagne towers, punch bowls, and buffet lines. Replace these with chef serving stations, hip vending machines, and pre-packaged or individually-boxed food experiences.
 
Food trucks are very popular -- why not hire a few of these to cater your team’s holiday celebration?

 
3. Think outside the box -- THINK OUTSIDE

Don’t plan your typical office holiday party.
 
How about a Scavenger Hunt that takes your staff on a trip around town?
 
Plan a round of “golf” at one of the Top Golf locations in Northern Colorado.
 
Feeling altruistic? Set up a day of volunteering and give back to the community with your crew.
 
Perhaps even give your entire staff an extra day off to spend any way they please.
 
 
When it comes to celebrating the holidays - there are no said rules -- you can make it up as you go, and thanks to Covid, you have an excuse to “shake things up” a bit!
 
Picture
Whatever you do - RESEARCH & COMMUNICATE

Whatever route you decide to do, it is important that you do two things --
 
Research and Communicate
 
It will be up to you to know and follow all of the local, state, and federal rules and precautions. Some of these may impact events. Make sure you are following best practices. It would be bad form to host a party that turns out to be a super spreader - that would not be something to celebrate.
 
Communicating your company’s Covid-19’s response and preparedness is vital, too. Not only with the vendors and venue you choose to use for your celebration, but with your employees, too. Let them know what your expectations are for the event, and the steps your organization will be taking to keep them safe.
 
 
 
For more information on Larimer County Covid-19 Health protocols and guidance:
https://www.larimer.org/health/communicable-disease/coronavirus-covid-19/covid-19-community-updates-public-health-orders
Picture

​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

10 Tips to Party Safely

9/23/2021

 
At My Big Day Marketing & Events, event safety is important to us. As an all-women team, some of us have experienced firsthand dangerous situations – and even sexual assault – at parties. While we’re all about fun, everyone needs to feel safe to enjoy themselves.
 
As we enter the holiday party season, here are some tips for both men and women to celebrate safely.
Picture
1. Use the buddy system. If you’re going with a large group, divide into pairs so each person is responsible for one other. It’s much easier to keep track of one person after a few drinks than to try to remember who you came with and be sure everyone is accounted for. So buddy up, and look out for your partner throughout the night. Make a plan for how you’ll get home at the end of the night, and don’t leave until your partner is accounted for.
 
2. Never leave drinks unattended. It takes less than a second for someone to slip a substance into your drink without your knowledge, and date rape drugs are designed to be odorless, tasteless, and colorless. Don’t trust that your friend or acquaintance watched your drink the whole time you were in the bathroom or getting some fresh air.
 
3. Don’t accept drinks from others. For the same reasons you should never leave your drink unattended, you also should not accept drinks from others. This includes your friends, who may have set the drink down and inadvertently given someone else the chance to add unwanted substances to it. Likewise, don’t drink from communal containers.
Picture
4. Maintain situational awareness. Be aware of your surroundings. This is easier said than done when you’ve been drinking, which is why it’s important to utilize the buddy system and pace your consumption.
 
5. Keep an emergency kit with you. Have a small kit with your ID, phone, keys, and cash or credit card that you can keep on you at all times. Do not set this down or keep it in a loose pocket. If you have space, a phone charger or backup battery is also a good idea.
 
6. Eat and drink (water) first, and throughout the night. Not only will this give you energy to get through the night, it will lessen the negative impacts of drinking alcohol.
 
Picture
​7. Set limits and pace yourself. Decide before you start drinking how many drinks you plan to have. Keep a tally on your phone or have a sober buddy keep track for you. Picking a number and having someone keep you accountable are the easiest ways to keep your intoxicated self from having “just one more.”
 
8. Avoid conflicts. Small arguments can escalate quickly into physical altercations with alcohol in the mix. If someone tries to provoke you, walk away and do not engage them. If you’re being harassed, it’s time to leave, but make sure to leave with a group.
 
9. Trust your gut. Sometimes your gut knows more than you do. If a situation feels “off” or uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to leave. It doesn’t matter if you just arrived, or if the party is ending in just a few minutes. It’s never too early or too late. Put your safety first.
 
10. Avoid alcohol. If you’re in an unfamiliar place and surrounded by strangers, skip the booze. You will be more alert and aware of what’s going on around you. Drinking is best reserved for when you’re with a group of people you know and trust.
 
Put yourself first, and get home safe this holiday season. Our team looks forward to celebrating safely with you for many years to come. Get in touch now and let us plan your next event!
 
Picture
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
<<Previous
    Search our blog

    About MBD

    Small Business. Big Impact. Always Dreaming Bigger!  We pride ourselves on giving you something to look forward to. We are a connected collective of creatives - owned an opperated by outstanding women.

    Want More?

    Never miss an event or opportunity. Sign up for our newsletter!
    SIGN Up

    Search Categories

    All
    2012
    2013
    2014
    2015
    2016
    2017
    2018
    2019
    2020
    2021
    2022
    31 Gifts Loveland
    4th Of July
    501c3
    Activities
    Adult
    Advertising
    Advice
    Alcohol
    Allenspark
    Alterations
    Anniversary
    Art
    Aspen
    Award
    Awareness
    Baby & Me
    Baby Shower
    Babysitter
    Bachelor
    Bachelorette
    Ball
    Band
    Bands
    Banquet
    Bar
    Bar Crawl
    Barn
    Bars
    Bash
    Bazaar
    Beauty
    Beer
    Berthoud
    Beverages
    Birthday
    Birthday Gifts
    Black Tie
    Booze
    Boudoir
    Boulder
    Bouquet
    Boutique
    Branding
    Brewery
    Bridal
    Bride
    Broncos
    Brunch
    Budget
    Building
    Bunny
    Business
    BYOB
    Cab
    Cake
    Campaign
    Candy
    Cards
    Casual
    Catering
    Celebration
    Celebrity
    Ceremony
    Challenge
    Change Gangs
    Charity
    Cheap
    Cherry Lime Boutique
    Cheyenne
    Chic
    Childcare
    Children
    Christine Kovacs Forster
    Christine Kovacs Forster
    Christmas
    Christmas In July
    Church
    Cinema
    City
    Client
    CO
    Coaching
    Cocktail
    Colorado
    Colorado Springs
    Comedy
    Community
    Company
    Competition
    Concert
    Conference
    Consent
    Contest
    Convention
    Coordinator
    Corn Maze
    Coronavirus
    Corporate
    Cost
    Costumes
    Couples
    Covid
    COVID 19
    COVID-19
    Crafting
    Crafts
    Creative
    Cupcakes
    Custom
    Custom Event
    Dad
    Dance
    Date Night
    Date Night
    Dating
    Day Of
    Dd
    Deals
    Decor
    Decorations
    Denver
    Designated Driver
    Dessert
    Destination
    Details
    Development
    Diet
    Dining
    Discount
    Distillery
    DIY
    DJ
    Donate
    Donation
    Downtown
    Dress
    Drinking
    Drink Specials
    Drink Specials
    Drive In
    Drive-in
    Driving
    Drunk Driving
    Dui
    Easter
    Easter Egg Hunt
    Easter Keg Hunt
    Eco
    Education
    Elegant
    Elope
    Elopement
    Emergency
    End Of Year
    Engaged
    Engagement
    Engagement Party
    Entertainment
    Estes Park
    Etiquette
    Ev
    Event
    Event Coordinator
    Event Planner
    Event Planning
    Events
    Experience
    Facebook
    Fair
    Fall
    Family
    Father's Day
    Festival
    Festive
    Festivus
    Fiance
    Fiesta
    Film
    Fireworks
    Fishing
    Florist
    Flowers
    Foco
    Food
    Food Truck
    Formal
    Fort Collins
    Fort Collins Hilton
    Free
    Friendly
    Friendship
    Front Range
    Front Range
    Fun
    Fundraiser
    Fundraising
    Funeral
    Funny
    Gala
    Game
    Games
    Gathering
    Getaway
    Get Away
    Get Away
    Gift
    Gifts
    Girls Night Out
    Give
    Giveaway
    Gluten Free
    Gluten-free
    Golf
    Gown
    Graduation
    Granby
    Grand Opening
    Grand Teton National Park
    Grateful
    Gratitude
    Greeley
    Groom
    Group
    Guests
    Guide
    Habitat For Humanity
    Halloween
    Hangover
    Happy Hour
    Haunted House
    Health
    Heart
    Hiking
    History
    Holiday
    Holidays
    Honeymoon
    Hostess
    Hotel
    House Warming
    Husband
    Hybrid
    Ideas
    Impaired
    Interns
    Interview
    Jackson Hole
    Jessica Weimer
    Johnstown
    Kegs
    Kickball
    Kids
    Laramie
    Larimer
    Larimer County
    Laughter
    Launch
    Lights
    Limo
    Live Stream
    Lodging
    Longmont
    Love
    Lovealnd
    Loveland
    Luncheon
    Luxury
    Magazine
    Makeup
    Management
    Marketing
    Marriage
    Mask
    Masquerade
    Mbd
    Mbd Marketing & Events
    Mead
    Media
    Meeting
    Meeting Planner
    Menu
    Mexico
    Mile High
    Mile High
    Mobile Bar
    Mom
    Mother's Day
    Mountains
    Movie
    Movies
    Music
    My Big Date
    My Big Day
    My Big Day
    My Big Day Events
    My Big Day Marketing
    National
    News
    New Year
    New Year's Eve
    NightLights
    Noco
    No DUI Larimer
    Nono
    Non Profit
    Non-profit
    North
    Northern Colorado
    Northern Colorado
    NYE
    Officiant
    Oktoberfest
    Old Town
    Online
    Online Shopping
    Open House
    Organizations
    Original
    Outdoor
    Outfit
    Package
    Pandemic
    Party
    Party Planner
    Patio
    Performance
    Photographer
    Photography
    Photos
    Pictures
    Pinterest
    Place-setting
    Plan B
    Planning
    Popular
    Presents
    Press Release
    Prizes
    Processional
    Promotion
    Proposal
    Public
    Pumpkin
    Quarantine
    Rabbit
    Race
    Ranch
    Readings
    Reception
    Recommendation
    Register To Win
    Registry
    Remote
    Rental
    Reservations
    Restaurants
    Retail
    Retreat
    Risk
    Road Rally
    Rocky Mountains
    Romance
    Rules
    Rustic
    Safe
    Safe Driving
    Sale
    Santa
    Scavenger Hunt
    Seminar
    Seo
    Sexy
    Shop
    Shop Local
    Shop Local
    Shopping
    Shop Small
    Show
    Shower
    Shower Gifts
    Singles
    Ski
    Sloshball
    Small Business
    Snow
    Social Distancing
    Song
    Speaker
    Specialist
    Specials
    Spirits
    Sponsors
    Sport
    Spring
    Staff
    Streaming
    Style
    Summer
    Superstition
    Surprise
    Sweetheart City
    Table Favors
    Taxi
    Team
    Testimonial
    Thankful
    Thanksgiving
    Thank You
    Theater
    Theme
    Thirty One Gifts Loveland
    Thirty-One Gifts Loveland
    Thompson Education Foundation
    Tickets
    Timnath
    Tipping
    Tips
    Top 10
    Tour
    Tourism
    Tournament
    Trade Show
    Tradition
    Training
    Transportation
    Travel
    Trends
    Tricks
    Trivia
    Tuxedo
    Unique
    User Conference
    Vacation
    Valentine
    Valentines Day
    Valentines Day678d5958bb
    Values
    Vanues
    Vday
    V Day
    Vendor
    Vendors
    Venue
    Video
    Vintage
    VIP
    Virtual
    Visit Loveland
    Volunteer
    Vow
    Vows
    Waiver
    Weather
    Website
    Wed
    Wedding
    Wedding Planner
    Wellington
    Western
    Wife
    Win
    Windsor
    Wine
    Winter
    World Record
    WY
    Wyoming
    Ymca
    Your Big Day
    Your-big-day
    Youtube

    Monthly Archives

    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    May 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    November 2014
    October 2014
    September 2014
    August 2014
    July 2014
    June 2014
    May 2014
    April 2014
    March 2014
    February 2014
    January 2014
    December 2013
    November 2013
    October 2013
    September 2013
    August 2013
    July 2013
    June 2013
    May 2013
    April 2013
    March 2013
    February 2013
    January 2013
    December 2012
    November 2012
    October 2012
    August 2012
    July 2012

    RSS Feed

Never miss an event or opportunity. Sign up for our monthly newsletter.

​My Big Day Company LLC  2006-2022  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
google.com, pub-3956068235726120, DIRECT, f08c47fec0942fa0

Where We Are & Where We've Been:

Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Photo used under Creative Commons from wuestenigel