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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? 
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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.
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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.
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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!
 
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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
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​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 Importance of the No DUI Larimer Initiative

10/26/2021

 
MBD Marketing & Events is honored to work with a growing number of nonprofit clients. Our marketing team recently began a second year of work for the state-sponsored No DUI Larimer initiative, a branch of our local nonprofit client Partners. 
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​No DUI Larimer aims to keep impaired drivers off northern Colorado roads. Fatal alcohol and drug-caused crashes increased 22% between 2020 and 2021, making this mission more important than ever.
 
In Larimer County, alcohol, marijuana, and other drugs are of great concern when it comes to impaired driving. Colorado past month marijuana use for ages 12 and older is ranked 3rd in the nation and is 85 percent higher than the national average. Larimer County is home to Fort Collins’ Colorado State University, a university with a large student population – one of the reasons rates of alcohol abuse and DUI are higher than in neighboring counties.

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​No DUI Larimer’s call to action, “Make the Call,” is multifaceted. The program encourages the public to Make the Call for a sober ride home, to Make the Call about whether they should get behind the wheel, and to Make the Call to 911 to report suspected impaired drivers. No DUI Larimer engages the community through print, online, and television advertisements, as well as through social media with Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest accounts.
 
No DUI Larimer collaborates with government agencies, local law enforcement, emergency medical services (such as Thompson Valley EMS), and the Colorado Department of Transportation to deliver effective messaging and community education.
 
Driving Under the Infuence (DUI) charges in Colorado may come with fines, jail time, community service, education requirements, and license suspension or revocation. Of course, the greatest consequence of impaired driving is loss of life. No DUI Larimer needs your help to stop impaired driving before it happens, and when it’s happening.
 
Visit No DUI Larimer online to learn more about the program, and share what you learn with your family and friends. When everyone does their part, we can overcome impaired driving in Larimer County.
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Planning Indoor Birthday Parties in Northern Colorado 2021-2022

10/20/2021

 
The event industry is closer to “normal” than this time last year, and venues are responding to the pandemic in different ways. We know many of you have safety concerns but still want to give your child the birthday party they’ve been asking for, especially if they missed out last year. Of course, every family is different – we encourage you to make the best decision for your family’s safety.

One of our clients is The Family Center/La Familia.  They serve families and children in Northern Colorado. Our team has compiled a list of indoor Colorado kids’ birthday party venues still operating this winter (2021). Visit the links below for more information about each venue’s protocols and restrictions.
 
Happy planning!
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Photo via Wooden Mountain on Facebook
Loveland
 
Wooden Mountain Bouldering Gym: https://www.woodenmountain.com
 
Jumpin’: https://jumpinfun.com
 
Premier Gymnastics: https://www.premiergymnastics.net/parties/birthday-parties/
 
Loveland Laser Tag: https://www.laserfuncenter.com/birthday-parties/
 
Build-a-Bear:
​
https://www.buildabear.com/birthday?sc_cid=pslk:google:Birthday:20210825:US:co:acq:0:bb:birthday:birthday:energy:sl:null&gclid=CjwKCAjw_L6LBhBbEiwA4c46ujanNNrUenCZP4IKRhfZaJozFvPkaz6iz24TLkPVp0hDxFoOzIYYeRoCjP4QAvD_BwE
 
Chilson Center: https://www.lovgov.org/services/parks-recreation/chilson-recreation-center/-fsiteid-1
 
Fiona’s Fairy Garden: http://www.fionasfairygarden.com/parties
 
Artisan You: https://www.artisanyou.com
 
B Sweet Cupcakes: http://www.bsweetcupcakes.com/index.html
​
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Larimer County Garbage Garage
Fort Collins
 
Larimer County Garbage Garage: https://www.larimer.org/garbagegarage
 
Urban Air Trampoline Park: https://www.urbanairtrampolinepark.com
 
Fly High Fort Collins: https://foco.flyhightrampolinepark.com
 
The Farm at Lee Martinez Park: https://www.fcgov.com/recreation/the-farm-lee-martinez-park
 
Chipper’s Lanes (two locations): https://www.chipperslanes.com
 
Foothills Activity Center: https://www.fcgov.com/recreation/foothills-activity-center
 
Fort Fun: https://www.fortfun.biz
 
Rollerland: https://rollerlandskatecenter.com
 
The Gardens on Spring Creek: https://www.fcgov.com/gardens/youth-birthday-parties
 
Fort Collins Museum of Discovery: https://fcmod.org
 
Mountain Kids: https://www.mountain-kids.com
 
Mulberry Pool: https://www.fcgov.com/recreation/mulberry-pool
 
City of Fort Collins Pottery Studio: https://www.fcgov.com/recreation/pottery-studio
 
Poudre Fire Authority:
https://www.poudre-fire.org/online-services/request-a-station-tour-firefighter-visit
 
Piano & Guitar Institute: https://pianoandguitarinstitute.com
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Greeley FunPlex via Greeley Tribune
Greeley
 
Greeley Recreation Center facilities: https://greeleyrec.com/about/parties-and-rentals/
 

Windsor

 
The Summit: https://playatthesummit.com/windsor/
 
Windsor Gymnastics Academy: https://windsorgymnasticsacademy.com
 
Piano & Guitar Institute: https://pianoandguitarinstitute.com
 
AmericInn Hotel pool party:
https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/americinn/windsor-colorado/americinn-lodge-and-suites-windsor-ft-collins/overview
 
Windsor Community Recreation Center:
​
https://www.recreationliveshere.com/167/Community-Recreation-Center
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WOW Children's Museum
Lafayette
 
WOW! Children’s Museum: https://wowchildrensmuseum.org
 

Westminster

 
The Butterfly Pavilion: https://butterflies.org/event/birthday-parties/
 

Broomfield
 
Warrior Challenge Arena: https://www.warriorchallengearena.com/kids-parties
 

Denver
 
Challenge Island:
https://challenge-island.com/denver/programs/birthday-parties/
​


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​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

Safe Halloween Event - How Did It Come To Be?

10/16/2021

 
- by Tiffany Dinsmore

​With another year ending, the fall and winter festivities are beginning! As always Halloween is kicking off our holiday season! Although there are a lot more events being held this year people are still being cautious and most events are being held outside. Christine Forster with My Big Day Events and Marketing along with Thompson Education Foundation created a way to celebrate Halloween in a safe and easy way with NoCo’s Greatest Drive Thru Trick-or-Treat Experience. It was a huge success for 2020 and they are hoping for another successful event at the end of the October!
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​I have asked Christine to answer a series of questions to help give some insight on the second year of this event!
 
How long have you been working with TEF?
MBD has been working with Thompson Education Foundation for a couple years now. Although Christine and Kim go way back.
​"We met 17 years ago volunteering for the Downtown Loveland Association."
 
What was your creative process when creating the Drive Thru Trick-or-Treat Event last year?
"The idea came about quickly and naturally, but when developing the concept, it was crucial to us that we evaluate who all may benefit from partnering with an event such as this, where might the drive-thru traffic be most appreciated, etc. We reached out to other entities to inform them of our concept and to invite others to join in to give families a safe Halloween."
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The event must have been a success to do it again this year, what are the fundraising goals for 2021?
"When we initially created this, we didn't have a fundraising goal. We wanted to cover expenses of course - but a safe trick-or-treating option for local families was our biggest goal. We were thrilled by the number of sponsors who supported the event last year and have already seen great response this year!"
 
Is there a particular moment or memory from 2020’s event that stands out to you?
"Being on the back end of management for the event, watching hundreds of tickets get snagged up in minutes was a real Ticketmaster moment.  To know that we had 3,000 people attend the event and thousands more on the waiting list is our top memory for 2020."
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Where is the event located this year and how will it be different from the 2020 event?
"This year we are taking advantage of the generous access we have to the Thompson School District Administration building. This allows for plenty of space for booths, vendor parking, volunteer parking, regulated entrance/exit flow, and indoor facilities for our staff and volunteers.
The event itself will be the same, with the exception of limitations by county and state. Last year we were limited to the number of people we could have 'gather' at an outdoor event, so our booths could only host 2 workers, and we had to limit volunteers and number of cars in attendance by timed interval."
 
What is the biggest challenge that you are facing with putting this event together?
"As with any outdoor event, one challenge can be weather. There is always a chance for snow at the end of October. This event will happen rain, shine, or snow. It will only cancel should there be an absolute blizzard.
​Also, as with any event right now, we are still dealing with a global pandemic. MBD has planned enough events during the pandemic to have plans and processes in place to offer guests, staff and volunteers a safe experience!"


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​The drive-thru trick-or-treat experience is just $5 per vehicle (no campers or busses).
All guests will sign up for a 30 min window of time to arrive. All tickets will need to be purchased online in advance.

Booths are available for businesses, non-profits and schools (and each booth comes with 1 free guaranteed entrance to the event).
 
Thank you Christine for inventing such a unique Halloween experience!
  • Click here for more information on the event
  • Click here for kids costumes ideas
  • Click here for booth ideas for working the event

Event Tickets
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Masks are Officially Back in Larimer County - What Does This Mean for Events?

10/15/2021

 
Masks are back and mandatory indoors beginning October 20, 2021 as issued by the Health Dept for Larimer County. With rising cases and full hospitals, it was only a matter of time before the announcement was made.
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The new public health order, released Friday afternoon by the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment (LCDPHE), calls on everyone aged 3 and up to wear face masks in all indoor public spaces starting at 12 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 20, regardless of vaccination status.
As reported by Denver 7 News:

​County health officials said Friday local hospital ICUs have been operating at or above 100% capacity for the past month. Currently, 40% of patients in the ICU have COVID-19 and 90% of those are unvaccinated. Their hope is that universal mask wearing will help slow transmission of the highly virulent delta variant until more people get vaccinated.

“Larimer County hospitals are being overburdened and we cannot allow this to continue indefinitely,” said Larimer County Public Health Director Tom Gonzales in a prepared statement. “Our hospitals need relief so they can swiftly and adequately treat all urgent medical needs in our community. Universal mask-wearing is the next best prevention tool we have to reduce the strain on our hospitals.”

Data from the Larimer County COVID-19 dashboard shows 35% of the county has yet to receive their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The data also shows the county reported an average of 250+ cases per 100,000 people over the past month.

LCDPHE officials said the public health order will remain in place until the county has met the following metrics for 21 consecutive days:
1. Less than 65 COVID-19 patients in Larimer County hospitals
2. ICU capacity at less than 90% of usual and customary levels
3. A 7-day case rate of less than 300 cases per 100,000 people.
4. A 7-day positivity rate of less than 10%.

Larimer County will become the fifth Colorado county to reinstate mask mandates as cases of the novel virus continue to increase across the state due to the highly transmissible delta variant.

read the entire health order HERE

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What does this mean for your theater tickets or holiday party?

If you are gathering indoors, you will need to wear a mask. This order is in effect until numbers go down.
Social distnacing and sanitizing is still recommended.
Recent research has also shown us recommendations on types of masks in order of effectiveness.

​Quality mask reminders
Especially in higher risk situations, use the best-quality and best-fitting mask you can get. The highest quality masks are designed and tested to ensure they meet a standard.  That means they perform at a consistent level to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The highest quality, in order, are:
  • N95 and KN95 (as well as KF94) are the most effective, provided they are genuine and have been tested to meet a standard. Luckily, the supply of high-quality N95 and KN95 masks has improved. These are better at filtering the virus and now are more widely available for the public. Beware of counterfeits (more on this below). These are disposable, so you will need to replace them (depending on how much you wear it). These are not available in children’s sizes and are more expensive.
  • Surgical masks that have been tested to meet a national standard (ASTM 2/3). These are also disposable.  
  • Cloth masks that have a double layer (more on this below). These can be washed and re-used.
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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.
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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.
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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.
 
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​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!
 
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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

Covid Response - Events during the Delta Variant

9/9/2021

 
Covid Response - Events during the Delta Variant
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After a year of virtual and hybrid events, we thought our industry had turned the corner. We were ready and we were confident with in-person events. We began advising clients that it was safe to gather together once again. Our calendar was bursting at the seams. Events were back, and they were back BIG.
​

 And then, just as we were getting used to our new “new normal”, this pesky rumor started circulating around industry bulletins -- a new, more dangerous variant of the coronavirus was making its rounds. The Delta variant was here. Not an announcement worth celebrating.

​
Events during a global pandemic

This past year and a half, the events industry has had to learn to adapt quickly. Shifting on the fly from fully in-person to full cancellations to hybrids to covid safe events has been a metamorphosis to behold. The change in dynamics within our company alone has been amazing to witness. And while we can all agree it has been one of the most challenging periods, the growth that we have seen - both personally and professionally - has been life and business-changing.

We (My Big Day Marketing & Events) have learned a lot during the pandemic. We have discovered how to creatively manage and pivot live, in-person events, into exciting and engaging virtual and hybrid events. We have figured out ways to deliver points of connection for our communities and clients in covid-safe events when it hasn’t been safe to gather together. And while we are more than ready to be back together, celebrating weddings, anniversaries, business milestones, and community accomplishments live and in-person, we know that we can continue to do so in creative ways until it is safe to do so together in one place.
Our Covid-Safe Practices

Event planning begins months and sometimes over a  year out. We have been living and workin moment by moment, day by day, following every recommendation and order by our counties, our state and the CDC. Our clients are counting on us to help them decide what events to keep and how to 'get creative.'

​We are making sure that we are keeping our clients and our employees safe by implementing and following all CDC recommended guidelines and best practices for events that take place in person. This means we are:


  • Recommending social distancing and masks at all in-person events, regardless if they are planned for indoors or outdoors. We post signage and reminders at every event that we host and manage.
  • Proposing that all of our clients only plan for pre-registration or RSVP events only. This is extremely helpful in the event of potential exposure and a subsequent notification trail. Thorough records and signed guest waivers -- where guests indicate that they are not experiencing any covid symptoms or have not knowingly been exposed -- are helpful tools.
  • Providing multiple PPE stations throughout the event venue. We always come prepared with plenty of hand sanitizer, wipes, extra masks, and gloves for our employees and guests.
  • Implement symptom monitoring protocols upon request. Clients may request that we provide waivers for guests to sign, stating that they are symptom-free. We also can check for temperatures and provide screening questions.
  • Strongly encouraging unvaccinated individuals to wear masks.
  • Providing touchless points of service during the event. This means we recommend shifting from buffet service to plated, full service, or boxed meals. This also means online or live auctions for fundraising events instead of hand-written bids for silent auctions.​​
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How We Are Planning for the Fall and Beyond

Typically during this time of year, our workload consists of venue tours and vendor meetings for the busy upcoming holiday party season. And while our calendars are still filling up with community events, non-profit fundraisers and weddings, many of these are hopeful events for later, reaching further into 2022. 

Unfortunately, we are feeling the effects of this latest surge in hospitalizations due to the Delta Covid Variant. With the new CDC recommendations that everyone - regardless of vaccination status wear masks indoors, businesses and corporations are rethinking their holiday parties and celebrations. Many are canceling. Our own MBD team is even considering hosting a virtual holiday party happy hour instead of gathering together, just to play it safe. 

Moving Forward

As we move forward, we will continue to create events with multiple scenarios in mind. We aim to have a plan A, B, and sometimes a C in place -- just in case lockdowns, restrictions, and other regulations are put in place by the government and local agencies.
​
Part of being an event planner means being prepared for anything and everything. This is the nature of the job. We must say, however, that it is getting somewhat tiresome, trying to keep up with all of the constant changes that this pandemic has thrust upon our society and industry as a whole. We have had to add the title of “community health expert” to our role, and that is a hefty expectation to fill. We are learning on the fly - and we’re just as scared and confused as the next person. That is why we rely on experts to lead and guide our decisions.

We have learned a lot over the last year - a lot of new, exciting, and somewhat scary stuff. We hope that if we can continue to apply what we have learned, listen to each other, and follow guidelines with each other’s health and safety in mind - we’ll find that normal we are all so desperately wanting again.

​
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The New “Normal” Back to School Edition

8/16/2021

 
​Colorado is Back to School in person! After the 2020-2021 school year there have been a lot of questions about what the new “normal” will be this upcoming year for students.

Many of your MBD team members are parents - and we all work with clients who serve and support children and students. Safety and health are very important to us.

Below are a few things that the CDC has recommended to ensure the student and staff safety this 2021 school year.
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Masks for ages 2+ if not vaccinated.
KKTV 11 News wrote that the CDC guidelines say that “Consistent and correct mask use by people who are not fully vaccinated is especially important indoors and in crowded settings, when physical distancing cannot be maintained.” If vaccinated, schools are asking for proof and then a mask is not required.
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Staff, Teachers and Students should stay home if they have any infectious disease.
​This rule refers to any infectious disease, not just COVID. Colds and flus are on the list for being a required reason to stay at home and they recommend going to see a physician as well.
Teachers and staff will continue to have disinfect.
​
Staff and teachers will be supplied with disinfecting spray, to clean high-touch areas regularly.
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The circulation of outdoor air inside will continue to be increased.
​
“Screening testing, ventilation, handwashing and respiratory etiquette, staying home when sick and getting tested, contact tracing in combination with quarantine and isolation, and cleaning and disinfection are also important layers of prevention to keep schools safe.”[1]

[1] https://www.kktv.com/2021/07/21/colorado-health-officials-release-back-to-school-guidance-covid-19/
 
Schools will continue to “Encouraging frequent hand washing and providing access to hand sanitation stations.”[1]
​
[1] https://www.dcsdk12.org/about/leadership/superintendent/looking_forward_back_to_school_2021-2022
 

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Physical Distancing 3 feet or more.
​
“CDC recommends schools maintain at least 3 feet of physical distance between students within classrooms, combined with indoor mask wearing by people who are not fully vaccinated, to reduce transmission risk. When it is not possible to maintain a physical distance of at least 3 feet, such as when schools cannot fully re-open while maintaining these distances, it is especially important to layer multiple other prevention strategies, such as indoor masking.”1

We must all work together to keep our schools safe!
If we can all follow these guidelines we can prevent the spread of most illnesses throughout our schools and homes. Back to school is here and everyone is excited to return to the classrooms! Check out our Pinterest board for Back to School ideas and tips!

​https://www.pinterest.com/MyBigDayEvents/education-k-12/back-to-school-ideas/  
 
https://www.denverpost.com/2021/07/20/colorado-school-guidance-covid-masks-vaccines-2021-school-year/
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/index.html

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NO DUI Larimer Collaboration with Thompson Valley EMS

5/19/2021

 
MBD Marketing & Events continues to support Partners and assist with marketing outreach of the No DUI Larimer Campaign.
​In recent months we have formed a partnership with the Thompson Valley EMS.
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​No DUI Larimer is pleased to announce our latest collaboration, this time with Thompson Valley Emergency Medical Services (TVEMS). The emergency medical personnel at TVEMS see firsthand the effects of impaired driving on Northern Colorado’s roadways. 
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​Thompson Valley EMS was founded in 1983 and is Loveland’s leading provider of emergency medical services, EMS education, and EMS training. The organization’s 80 employees and 12 ambulances respond to over 15,000 TVEMS seeks to promote and facilitate the responsible provision of medical services within the Thompson Valley Health Services District.
 
As part of its vision for compassionate care, TVEMS became a registered CARES program in 2017, providing community outreach and health education to people to prevent illness and injury. In the coming weeks, you can expect to see No DUI Larimer and Thompson Valley EMS promoting each other’s messaging as part of our community health education mission. 
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​EMS Training through Thompson Valley Emergency Medical Services
Photo credit: Thompson Valley EMS Facebook
 
At No DUI Larimer, we believe the issue of impaired driving is best addressed through community collaboration, and we are proud of our partnerships with the Colorado Department of Transportation and TVEMS, two organizations tasked with improving the safety of Colorado’s roads. Together, we can combat impaired driving in Northern Colorado. Follow Thompson Valley EMS and No DUI Larimer on Facebook for updates on our collaboration. Make the Call.

11 Creative, Socially Safe Valentine's Day Ideas for Couples

1/14/2021

 
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Valentine’s Day is yet another holiday that will be different this year, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be special. In fact, you may find that it’s all the more meaningful when you take the time to do something memorable with your partner despite everything else going on in the world.
​

Here are some of our favorite ideas for a socially safe Valentine’s date. ​
1. Get married or renew your vows at Loveland’s annual Group Valentine’s Day Wedding
Reimagined for COVID safety this year, this one-of-a-kind, nationally recognized event is a truly memorable way to spend Valentine’s Day with your loved one. Every couple gets a customized ceremony, keepsake photos, a lock to “Lock Your Love” at the famous LOVE or HEART sculptures in Loveland, gift bags from local businesses, signature wedding cupcakes, and a champagne toast, all for just $95 per couple. Find all the details and buy tickets online here: http://www.valentinesdayinloveland.com

2. Watch a Valentine’s Day movie with popcorn
Create the movie theater date experience at home with a rom-com and some popcorn (or another favorite movie snack). The best part about this date is that it can be done together, if you live with your partner, or virtually, if you live apart. Netflix even has a feature called “Netflix Party” that allows you to watch movies in sync and chat simultaneously – with none of the “Press play now!...No, wait, now! Okay, rewind.” ​
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3. Order delivery or grab some takeout for a date night in
Bring the restaurant date night to you. Order in delivery or takeout from your favorite romantic restaurant - even fancy steakhouses and seafood restaurants are offering takeout during the pandemic. If you want to go all out, recreate the restaurant atmosphere at home with tablecloths, your best plates and glassware, and some candles and flowers to set the mood.

If you don’t live with your partner, you can still enjoy the meal together via video chat. You can even surprise your S.O. (significant other) with the romantic meal by ordering the food ahead of time to be delivered to them. Most restaurants with their own delivery system will offer this, as do Uber Eats’ share system and Grubhub. 

4. Shop local gifts
Show your partner and struggling local businesses some love this year by choosing unique gifts from a small shop in your area. If you’re worried about going inside, many small businesses are offering curbside pickup, and some have even set up online ordering with shipping. If you live in NoCo, check out MBD’s local-centric Valentine’s Day gifts Pinterest board: https://www.pinterest.com/MyBigDayEvents/valentines-day-gifts/ full of unique products from Loveland, Fort Collins, Windsor, and more.
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5. Stream a virtual concert
Virtual concerts are still happening - more than ever. If concerts are a favorite date night pastime for you, now you can recreate the music fan experience at home. You can now easily search Google for a list of upcoming virtual concerts. SongKick also has a great list you can bookmark: https://www.songkick.com/live-stream-concerts of live streaming concerts with times. 

Clear the living room for slow dancing (or a mosh pit, if that’s more your vibe), have an in-home concert “tailgate,” and have your favorite concert drinks on hand. 

6. Make chocolate fondue
Chocolate and romance go hand-in-hand, and nothing is more romantic than melted chocolate with fruit or sweets. You may not feel comfortable going to your favorite fondue restaurant this year, but you can bring the fondue experience home. You can buy a fondue pot online for as little as $15 these days, grab a box of strawberries, melt a bag of chocolate chips, and voilà. ​
7. Take a virtual cocktail or cooking class
Cocktails and cooking are popular couples pastimes that are equal parts romantic and team building exercises (with a dash of humor, too). 

Cozymeal https://www.cozymeal.com/online-mixology-classes offers affordable cocktail classes for starting at $19 per device, so you can join in from anywhere. If you’re looking for a private experience, you’ll need to book out a class from a site like Equal Parts Co. https://www.equalpartsco.com/virtual-happy-hour-information, which will be pricey, but hey – maybe that’s just the luxury you need right now.

If cooking is your ideal romantic date night, Fort Collins’ own The Cooking Studio [https://www.the-cooking-studio.com/private-holiday-parties.html] offers tailor-made, private virtual or in-person classes for couples starting at $200. You’ll get a list of supplies and ingredients to pick up, a list of decadent savory and/or sweet options to choose from, and 1 - 1.5 hours of class time with your own chef.
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8. Send Valentines through snail mail
Maybe you’re in a long distance relationship, or maybe you just want to surprise your partner with a note or two left around the house. Either way, handwritten notes are a romantic tradition that go a long way in today’s world of text messages and Snapchats. 

Take your time writing (practice that cursive?) and, if you’re mailing your Valentine, use your nicest stationery or take some time to personalize what you have. Doodles or notes in the margins will make these keepsakes even more memorable, and you’ll love looking back on them together down the road. ​
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9. Serve your loved one breakfast in bed
Surprise breakfast in bed is basically never a bad idea, if you ask us. Sneak out of bed early to prepare your loved one’s favorite meal (pizza is fine for breakfast, by the way) and surprise them with it. 

Alternatively, cook breakfast together, then head back to bed to enjoy your culinary creations and spend the day being couch bed potatoes.

10. Connect virtually
If you can’t be together this Valentine’s Day, carve out some time to connect virtually. Phone calls, video calls, and virtual activities like an online class or Netflix movie party are an easy way to show someone you’re thinking of them. Other ideas include eating a meal or sharing a glass of wine “together,” live streaming the same concert, or solving a virtual escape room.
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11. Get outdoors together
Coloradoans are known for our love of the outdoors, so take to one of your local trails or head up to the mountains with your partner for a romantic outing in nature. Hold hands, have intimate conversations, take in the scenery, practice teamwork, and boost your health all in one date. ​
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​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
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​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

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