My Big Day Events Blog: Weddings, Events, Deals, Ideas, Planning, Colorado in the Know!

Event Site Review: Pelican Lakes, Windsor CO

7/31/2014

The My Big Day team recently interviewed Taylor with Pelican Lakes and Water Valley, Windsor's event center, wedding site and golf course.

Whether you picture an indoor or outdoor reception Pelican Lakes can accommodate your dream. Looking for a beach wedding in the mountains? The two are hard to find, but there is a sandy beach and small island, suitable for wedding vows in front of your guests (up to 180 people).

While some brides look for venues offering a DIY option, Pelican Lakes truly is a full-service option for brides who don't want to worry about juggling multiple vendors and contracts. All catering, bar, tables, chairs, and service staff are offered with their event package. While you may pay a little more up front, a full-service event package helps make your day stress-free. As event planners, the My Big Day team appreciate brides who hire us when booking with Pelican Lakes, as we are able to focus on the larger details and pampering our clients vs. setting up tables, chairs, lines, etc.

For corporate, company, or family events, the Water Valley Banquet Room is flexible, and offers some of the best views in Northern Colorado!

Not only is the event space kept very clean, the decor is a mountain/rustic theme, which appeals to most Coloradoans.

For more information about events at Pelican Lakes or the Water Valley Banquet space in Windsor, CO, visit their website HERE.

My Big Day Wedding: Bruce & Sherry

7/19/2014

The setting was perfect for this couple's country ranch themed wedding...
Bruce and Sherry got hitched at Ellis Ranch in Loveland. My Big Day was honored to be selected as the wedding planners for this fun day!
Bruce and Sherry were surrounded with love every moment of their Big Day. From the horse drawn carriage, to the photo booth, to the wagon used as a gift table... the little touches made all the difference!

Below are all the vendors in addition to My Big Day that made this beautiful wedding possible.

Ceremony: Ellis Ranch, Loveland CO
Reception: Ellis Ranch, Loveland
DJ: Trebled Entertainment
Photography: Lowercase Imaging
Florist: Marioposa Flowers
Videography: Elevation Pictures
Cake: Batter Up Cakes

Event Site Review: Zoe's Cafe, Greeley CO

7/7/2014

Recently My Big Day visited Zoe's cafe in Greeley to learn more about their event space for our clients. Ben Fusco, the Director of Events gave us a fantastic tour!

With 3 different event spaces to pick from, an ideal soda bar, a stage perfect for a band or DJ, and with a 256 person capacity, Zoe's can be the perfect space for your next event, no matter what the occasion!

My Big Day often finds that some of our clients specifically seek out venues where you can choose your own caterer, and bring your own alcohol. Zoe's is one of the rare venues that allows both. Their basic package includes 2 bartenders, and security. Beer and wine can be provided by you! They don't enforce a preferred vendor list, so you can feel free to chose vendors of your liking.

In our opinion, the rental rate is extremely affordable, and the space is extremely flexible! My Big Day has assisted with a wedding at this location, and the staff was very accommodating. If you are researching venues for your next birthday party, holiday party, charity event, company event, shower or wedding, we highly recommend Zoe's Cafe in Greeley, CO!

Tips For Planning A Community Meeting

6/12/2014

Need assistance with your next company meeting or community event?
Contact My Big Day!

Christine Kovacs Forster, Owner/ Party Planner
My Big Day llc
Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068
Email Us
Located in Loveland, CO

by Brielle Welch, My Big Day

Community meetings are held to bring a together a group of various viewpoints to discuss issues, ideas, and information. For these things to be shared in a timely fashion, and in a way that has a purpose, follow these tips:

Plan early- When guests know that an event is going to happen ahead of time, they are more likely to attend. This also gives much more time for you to plan and ensure things will go off without a hitch. Have a planning committee. Other people can assist in planning so you are not overwhelmed and they can have valuable insight and suggestions.

Set a goal- What is the purpose of the meeting? What are you hoping to accomplish? You should ask yourself these questions when developing the goal of the meeting. This will also help attendees stay on track with their discussion and problem solving.

Create an agenda- Community meetings tend to get off topic because there is no set plan. By creating and keeping to an agenda, there will be less off topic discussion and attendees will feel like they are there for a reason. It will also be easier to accomplish your goal this way.

Encourage participation- Community meetings need be all inclusive. You should invite adults, children, business people, elected officials, and everyone in between. Everyone has valuable ideas and the decisions made in their community will affect them; they should have a say.

How to increase participation- Your event should be publicized. How can people come if they do not know it is happening? Twitter is a great tool for this. Have community members follow your group on twitter so they can be updated 24/7. Other media, such as radio, newspaper, and television, are also good resources for publicity. Ask other people on the planning committee to bring a few guests. These people are likely to invite another guest and attendance keeps growing.

Gluten-Free Party Planning in Northern Colorado

5/31/2014

Lately My Big Day has received a number of requests for referrals for gluten-free bakeries. Conscious brides and grooms, and thoughtful party hosts think of their guests when planning an event menu.

Often you may have guests that are vegetarian, vegan, or have allergies towards nuts, dairy, eggs, dyes, etc. You may have guests who have certain religious beliefs that don't allow them to eat pork, or all food they eat must be Kosher.

While chances are, you won't have to meet all of these requests at your event, there is a growing number of folks who are gluten-free.

There is a popular quote from Julia Child,

"A party without cake is just a meeting."

We think this is pretty accurate. Most parties have a dessert of some sort, and cakes and cupcakes are still the most popular treat! Cupcakes and cakes, and most pie crusts contain gluten. Offering gluten-free desserts doesn't mean you have to sacrifice taste. Gluten-free treats are simply made with a different kind of flour instead of wheat flour (ex: rice, coconut, etc).

In Northern Colorado there are a number of bakers offering gluten-free goodies.

Here are those we recommend:

Becca's Gourmet Goodies (cakes, pies, cupcakes, cookies, etc) - located in Wellington, but they will deliver!
PlayCake Bakers (cupcakes) - located in Fort Collins
B Sweet Cupcakes (cupcakes) - located in Loveland
Batter Up Cakes (cakes and cupcakes) - located in Greeley
Buttercream Cupcakery (cupcakes) - located in Fort Collins

DIETARY CHART
V = Vegetarian
VG = Vegan
NF = Nut Free
DF = Dairy Free
GF = Gluten Free
DyeF = Dye Free
SF = Soy Free
EF = Egg Free

Welcome to the My Big Day 2014 Summer Interns!

5/22/2014

My Big Day is proud to welcome our summer interns!
Carrie has been with us for a few months, and Brielle, Randi and Brooke just joined the team a week ago!
Check out our "About My Big Day" page to read their bios and get to know our team!

Our team has a large range of experience and contagious excitement about event planning.
Welcome, ladies!

Site Visit: The Odd, The Unusual... Mead's "Scooterhinge"

3/25/2014

Their tagline is, "Scooterhinge, A Nostalgic Rental Hall." But this venue in Mead, Colorado is more than nostalgic. It's eclectic, it's strange... it's downright a museum of the odd and unusual!

The My Big Day team went on a site visit of Scooterhinge to get an idea of what future signature events might makes sense in this space. We also receive requests for affordable event spaces where clients have the option to bring their own caterer and alcohol. This place offers all of that and more! So we wanted to get a feel of what this venue is all about before we make referrals to our clients.

Located between Loveland and Longmont, Mead is a town of less than 4,000 people. The owner of Scooterhinge is a collector of sorts. He purchased this building and started bringing in his collectibles (old motorcycles, classic cars, vintage dolls, nostalgic toys, the list goes on.)

Here are some quick stats, should you consider renting Scooterhinge for your next event:

Seats 280
Bring your own booze
Bring your own food/caterer
5 disc CD player and sound system available
Big Stage available for band or DJ
Multiple rooms
Indoor smoking room
Outdoor patio
Indoor outhouse (and working bathrooms)
Pool table
Kitchen available
Photo opps galore!
Clean up staff available at $1 per person (on your guest list)
Rental fee: $150/hr

See our slideshow below with some photos of Scooterhinge.
To visit their website, CLICK HERE
Do you need more event venue recommendations?
Contact My Big Day!

Interview Guide for Your Potential Band or DJ

3/4/2014

Many people don’t realize it, but music plays a crucial part in your event. The band or DJ sets the mood for your special day so the importance of having a true professional is pivotal.

To ensure you are getting a professional-- listen to referrals, go out and see the band play or at the very least conduct a phone interview. After you’ve listened to them, arm yourself with these questions to ask your DJ or band -- and you should be prepared to dance the night away.

Below is My Big Day's helpful list of 26 questions you should be asking!

Potential Event DJ or Band Questions:

1. How long have you been performing (corporate events, weddings, etc)

2. How many events have you done in the last year?

3. Will you have multiple events on my event day/weekend?

4. Will the band leader or DJ serve as the MC during the event?

5. Can we provide a “Do Not Play” list and a MUST play list?

6. How many hours will you be playing according to the contract?

7. How many breaks will you take? How long are those breaks?

8. How will you handle the music during your breaks?

9. How much do you charge to learn a new song for my wedding? (Band) Or to download a song you don’t have in your music library? (DJ)

10. Will you be cuing the events? If so, how do you typically pace event receptions? An event planner will put this together for you, and be the liaison to the DJ/MC, but if you don’t have a planner, you’ll be relying on the DJ for the timing of the evenings events.

11. Do you bring all your sound, instruments and wiring?

12. Will you ensure the venue has enough power?

13. What will your attire be at the event?

14. What is your plan if you are ill or there is an emergency and you can’t work my event?

15. What is the deposit required to reserve you for our date date?

16. When is the final balance due?

17. What is your cancellation policy?

18. What payment forms do you accept?

19. When we book your company, are we booking YOU, or someone else?

20. Do you have any event vendors that you recommend? (It doesn’t hurt to ask)

21. Have you performed in the venue we are holding the event in? Are there any technical challenges there? (acoustics, noise permits, music cut-off time, etc.)

22. Do you bring back-up equipment, should something happen to your… (speakers, sound board, playlist, etc.)?

23. Do you offer any additional services at a discount if I book both? (Photobooth, video, etc.)

24. How early do you arrive for set-up?

25. What do you love most about your job?

26. Tell us what your company does best, and why that’s important to us and our event.

*** My Big Day offers helpful tips and downloadable interview guides FREE of charge, for all of our clients!

Affordable Event/Venue Rentals in Northern Colorado

2/24/2014

Looking for that needle in a haystack for your meeting or event? A good, affordable, flexible, centrally located venue is hard to find!
My Big Day receives requests from friends, clients and complete strangers weekly to pass on our 'little known secret' venues.
While we can't promise any of our favorite venues are secret, we can say that the places below do meet much of our commonly requested criteria.

Check out our recommended venues in Northern Colorado below.

And... to pull your event off without a hitch, consider hiring an event planner!

LOVELAND: The Rialto
The Rialto building and theatre in Downtown Loveland offers a variety of spaces for meetings and events large and small!
The variety of spaces can accommodate groups from 12 -1,000 people!
The beautiful, new rooms in the Rialto Theater Center are the perfect place for:

Business Meetings and Events
Fundraising Events
Holiday Events
Weddings
Anniversary & Graduation Celebrations
Learn More: http://www.cityofloveland.org/index.aspx?page=1178

FORT COLLINS: City Buildings
Whether your planning a wedding, a birthday party, business conference or corporate function the City of Fort Collins Recreation Department can offer you a clean, convenient and affordable location that fits your needs and your budget. Recreation’s primary rental facilities, Northside Aztlan Community Center and Fort Collins Senior Center, are equipped with the latest audio-visual technology, modular rooms and full-service catering kitchens. Their attentive facilities staff will be available during your event and prepared to assist you while making your event a success.
Learn More: http://www.fcgov.com/recreation/rentals.php?7#clubtico

Loveland: Mc C Ranch
Once a well kept secret, this ranch is now often booked every Saturday of the year for 'barn weddings'. An affordable and flexible event center indeed! You can bring your own caterer and alcohol, which few venues allow. A "DIY Bride's" delight!
Our only caution is that you may want to have some extra helpers on hand. Pricier venues have to account for staff. If you reserve the Mc C Ranch, you may want an event coordinator by your side, and some helpful friends!
Learn More: https://www.facebook.com/pages/McC-Ranch/122449521107894

GREELEY: Zoe's Cafe
Located in the heart of Downtown Greeley, Zoë's is a locally owned, non-profit coffeehouse & event center. Centered on the themes of beauty and justice, they are passionate about engaging the community on every level. Theylove the arts! So, there is an emphasis on supporting local artists and musicians through the art gallery and live music venue; they also host a wide variety of groups and community events through the use and rental of their space.
Learn More: http://www.greeleydowntown.com/businesses/zoes-caf%C3%A9

LOVELAND: The Majestic Gathering Place
The Majestic Gathering Place is in the Historic Building operated by the Fraternal Organization, Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Built in 1903, and listed on the City of Loveland Historic Places, this building is a great space for any event. With over 4,000 square feet of space and capacity for 250 guests, the Majestic is one of the largest gathering spaces in the Loveland area.
They are also located on 4th Street, in the heart of Downtown Loveland.
Learn More Here: http://www.majesticioof.com/index.html

FORT COLLINS: Crescendo
Crescendo is a fun place to come for tastings, gatherings or meet-ups. They are a surprisingly large space, and offer a great deal of flexibility for your event. Since Crescendo is located in Old Town, Fort Collins --- it is an ideal and centrally located establishment. Call, stop by or email them for pricing.
Website: http://crescendo-usa.com/partners
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Crescendo-Fort-Collins/391695417586243

LONGMONT: Firehouse Art Center
The Old Firehouse Art Center is a historic landmark in downtown Longmont. Renovated in 1999, the Firehouse Art Center is now a permanent art gallery and facility for art education and classes. The main gallery can hold up to 100 people standing, 80 people seated auditorium style and 40 people seated at tables. The back room/classroom features a kitchen with two sinks, microwave and small fridge. It can hold 40 people standing and 16 seated at tables. There are two bathrooms, one in the main gallery and one in the back room/classroom.
See more at: http://venueplease.com/venue/firehouse-art-center#sthash.KYM4aiqt.dpuf

FORT COLLINS: Elks Event Center
The Lodge Room in their new facility accommodates 220 people which makes it a perfect setting for most gatherings. The room has a very warm vaulted wood and beam ceiling with elegant lighting designed to create the perfect mood for your event. The walls are painted with warm shades of color and the terrazzo floor lends itself perfectly to dancing. The room is equipped with a handicap accessible stage ample for live music set-ups. Since they only allow one event in the Lodge Room per day, your event will have their staff’s full attention.
Learn More Here: http://www.fortcollinselks.org/facility

LOVELAND: B Sweet Cupcakes
This small space seats about 30... perfect for meetings, parties, clubs, small receptions, baby showers, birthdays, etc! And the best part, they only charge $25 an hour to rent the space!
Oh wait, the better part is that it's INSIDE of a cupcake shop!
B Sweet Cupcakes is a gem in Downtown Loveland.
The space is a private room, tables, chairs, private bathroom access, etc. It's quiet and smells like cupcakes. Need we say more?

Location: 425 E. 4th Street, Loveland, Colorado 80537
Website: http://www.bsweetcupcakes.com/index.html
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bsweetcupcakes/132419660136742

FORT COLLINS: Pappy's Corner Pub
This venue is great for small, private parties. They have a private room with seating for up to 35. Pappy's doesn't charge for the room as long as you are ordering some food from them. And their food is delish!
Although Pappy's is called a pub, it's a nice, clean restaurant, where many parties are help in the private room!
They tend to book up, so call ahead to reserve the room.
Learn More: http://www.pappyscornerpub.com/

LOVELAND: The Chilson Center
City buildings often offer the most flexibility at a great price.
The Chilson Recreation and Senior Center is one of Northern Colorado’s most complete facilities for meetings, wedding receptions, conferences and other activities both social & recreational.
There are a large variety of rooms of all sizes available for rent by the hour.
Learn More: http://www.ci.loveland.co.us/index.aspx?page=261

GREELEY: City Buildings
Just as with Loveland and Fort Collins, Greeley has a large number of rental options available through the city. The Recreation Division has several options to choose from when looking for the perfect space to host your event.
Click on the link below to see more. You won't believe the number of options!
Learn More: http://greeleygov.com/Recreation/Facilities.aspx

Unexpected Event Expenses on your BIG DAY

2/4/2014

Let's face it... weddings can be expensive.

From the gown, to the food, to the venue, to the photography, to the flowers... every detail costs money.

If you aren't properly prepared, you can be in for quite a shock. Many websites offer budgeting spreadsheets to help couples plan for their BIG DAY.
Unfortunately most of them don't add line items for all the miscellaneous things that can pop up, or aren't obvious on your contracts.

My Big Day has come up with a list of items that you may want to consider budgeting for when planning your Big Day. Not all items are necessary, but they should certainly all be considered. This way, you'll be able to breathe easy knowing you planned for anything unexpected.

For example...