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Holiday party season will be here before we know it, which means it’s time to start planning your company holiday party. Read on to find out how to host a company party, with our My Big Day event planning experts’ list of dos and don’ts.  DO We’ve learned a thing or two after more than 16 years in the events industry. Here are our top 10 DOs for your company holiday party. Find the right date The holiday season means travel and a full social calendar for many people, so it’s important to plan early and get input on your event date. Choose several potential dates and poll employees to see which date will have the greatest attendance. Once you’ve chosen a date, book that venue – and we mean, like, yesterday. Find the right location (not the office) Since your company probably isn’t the only one throwing a holiday party this year, secure your location ASAP. Even if your office is big enough to host your party, your employees probably spend 40+ hours per week there. Why not switch it up with a fun venue downtown? Be sure to consider proximity to the office (so the travel time will be similar to the time it takes your employees to get to work), parking space, venue capacity, and amenities like a kitchen, stage, or projector wall. And don’t forget restroom access!  Consider food preferences Don’t just buy the tray labeled “party food” at the grocery store. Consider your employees’ food preferences. Maybe you have a lot of vegetarians in the office, or sweet treat fanatics. A vote also comes in handy in this situation. Be sure to ask about any food allergies, particularly if that means you’ll need to keep certain foods out of the event space completely. Hire an event planner Feeling overwhelmed yet? We recommend hiring a local event planner who already knows where the venues are and what’s available. Event planners can create a timeline for your event, suggest caterers and entertainment, and make suggestions about how much food and alcohol to purchase. Let us do the heavy lifting – the holidays are busy enough. Incorporate team building Any time most of your team is in the same place is a great time to do some team-building. Your employees probably don’t want to spend their holiday party watching cheesy videos about teamwork, but there are plenty of creative alternatives. A Secret Santa or White Elephant gift exchange is a popular choice. Here are some others:
Consider an off-season party Two of the major challenges of holiday party planning – guest attendance and securing a venue – can be offset by having a party just before or just after peak holiday season. Beat the crowd with an early November event, or bust the January blues with a post-New Year’s gathering. You’ll have more venue options and fewer scheduling conflicts. Recognize your employees A holiday party is a great time to show some employee appreciation after another hectic year. Present a slideshow of accomplishments as a company or present awards to each employee. Bonus: Incorporate team-building by asking colleagues to recommend awards for each other.  Consider an alcohol limit Alcohol is not uncommon at company parties, but if you’re serving it, consider having a cut-off of two or three drinks per guest. Nobody wants to drink too much, do something embarrassing in front of their colleagues, and then have to see them Monday morning. Having a drink limit allows guests to relax and enjoy themselves without taking things too far. Give a gift Gifts are a seasonally-appropriate way to show appreciation for your employees and engage in some team building. Gift exchanges are great for team bonding, and presenting employees with gifts during the holidays boosts morale throughout the year. Plan entertainment Your party entertainment may be built-in with planned activities like gift exchanges, rewards ceremonies, and other team-building exercises, but some holiday background music creates a fun ambience. Bluetooth speakers are budget-friendly, while a DJ or live musician is lively and memorable. If you don’t have any activities planned, consider making your holiday party an outing to a play or comedy performance. DON’TS Unfortunately, we’ve also learned a thing or two NOT to do when planning a company event after 15 years in the biz. Download the FREE printable below and avoid the top 10 mistakes companies make when planning an event. 
When you book with MBD Marketing & Events, we do all the heavy lifting. Our holidays are filling up with contracts, so book ASAP with our team of creative, experienced event planners for an unforgettable company holiday party. For business and private event tips and ideas, follow My Big Day on Facebook and Instagram. Visit our Venues in Colorado & Wyoming Pinterest board for more location inspiration for your next gathering  Small Business. Big Impact.
As a connected collective of experts, My Big Day specializes in the creative touches so many marketing campaigns & events these days are lacking. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns! Allow us to WOW you and your guests! As purveyors of fun with My Big Day, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Contact MBD Marketing & Events Small Business. Big Impact. Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us We serve the entire Front Range; Denver, Southern Wyoming, the CO Mountains, and Northern Colorado: Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor, Berthoud, Estes Park, Lyons, Longmont, Boulder, Wellington, Johnstown, Evans, Severance, Timnath, Mead, Frederick, Firestone, Milliken  Take it from us, your professional event planners - we never work an event without having an emergency checklist! Even the best plans can fall short and the most experienced event planners can stymied by unforeseen circumstances. Having an emergency checklist and the right supplies on hand can allow you to handle anything that comes your way. Things that move but weren't supposed to: Duct tape fixes everything, right? That's almost true! Having a variety of tape, depending on the situation, is essential. Clear tape, gaffer tape, clothing tape, removable adhesive strips and double sided tape are important tools for fixing things that should be immobile. Sewing kits, safety pins, zip ties, locks and other theft-prevention measures fall into this category as well. Things that don't move but were supposed to: Now it's time to introduce duct tape's other half - WD40! A lubricating spray can be helpful for loud doors, removing sticky things and more. Scissors and wire snips are essential tools as well. An extra cake knife / serving utensils may also be helpful. Climate control: Is the event outside? If so, bug spray and sunscreen are a must. Anti-itch cream and antihistamines for those bites that inevitably happen can also save the day. An ice cold airconditioned event hall? Toe warmers under the table cloth may be needed. Look your best: In the case of a wedding, photo shoot or keynote speaker, appearance matters. Stain stick, oil absorbing sheets, static guard and a lint roller are important tools to make sure that your clients (and you!) be camera ready. Power it up: Extension cords, power strips, batteries, extra charging cables - we've all seen the situation where the cord just isn't long enough. Having additional supplies to provide power will never do you wrong. Additionally, think about what you would need if the power goes out completely - flashlights, lighters and candles.  Mobile office: Permanent markers, pens, highlighters, extra paper, paper clips and binder clips, rubber bands, etc. If you're planning an event with registration or that will take payment, throw in extra money envelopes and receipt paper as well. Extra name tags and acrylic sign holders are also life savers. Safety and wellness: A couple of snacks (remember food allergies) and bottles of water are critical when there's no time for lunch. Basic first aid supplies and pain relief will also keep you and your guests going. Cotton swabs and tweezers have a variety of purposes, and a basic tool kit to hammer in a wayward nail or bend a protruding wire will serve you well. Rubber gloves and trash bags can also help contain messes safely. Example packing list:
You can download our FREE printable checklist below!
 
MBD has been in business for 16 years and we have a team of 15 industry professionals who have learned a thing or two over the years about company events.
What do you NEED to know? Download our free printable!
Small Business. Big Impact.
As a connected collective of experts, My Big Day specializes in the creative touches so many marketing campaigns & events these days are lacking. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns! Allow us to WOW you and your guests! As purveyors of fun with My Big Day, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Contact MBD Marketing & Events Small Business. Big Impact. Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us We serve the entire Front Range; Denver, Southern Wyoming, the CO Mountains, and Northern Colorado: Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor, Berthoud, Estes Park, Lyons, Longmont, Boulder, Wellington, Johnstown, Evans, Severance, Timnath, Mead, Frederick, Firestone, Milliken 
MBD has been planning conferences and managing large-scale events for years. We've have checklists and emergency kits, communications plans and back-up plans.
What do you NEED to know? Download our free Top 10 List! Top 10 Reasons to Enlist a Planner for Your Conference
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.  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.  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:
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.  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.  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 My Big Day Marketing & Events has worked with many wedding venues in our 15+ years in business. We have a record number of weddings on the books for 2022, and one question we keep getting from our couples is: What Colorado venues allow me to bring my own alcohol? With mobile bars and micro weddings still trending for the coming year, more and more couples are exploring wedding venues that allow them to bring in their own alcohol, with or without the requirement of a licensed bartender to serve it. In all cases – based on years of experience and hundreds of weddings – we strongly recommend that you have a TIPS-certified bartender serve your guests. TIPS-certified bartenders are trained to prevent underage drinking; limit that guest who has already had plenty; prevent attendees from driving impaired; and properly report any incidents that do arise for insurance and law enforcement purposes – which benefits you and your venue. Our own My Big Day team is TIPS-certified and provides bartending by the hour through On the Rocks, northern Colorado’s own luxury mobile bar and tap service. Contact us now, and let My Big Day and On the Rocks keep the drinks and the big day flowing smoothly. Still researching wedding venues? Here’s our list of Colorado wedding venues where you can bring your own alcohol. LOVELAND The Garden Room | Loveland, CO 697 North Denver Avenue Loveland, CO 80537 Contact: [email protected], (970) 556-5766 Alcohol: Bring-your-own  The McCreery House | Loveland, CO 746 North Washington Avenue Loveland, CO 80537 Contact: (970) 310-7383, Contact Form Alcohol: bring-your-own FORT COLLINS AREA The Hillside Vineyard | Fort Collins, CO 3924 Bingham Hill Road Fort Collins, CO 80521 Contact: (970) 520-2617, [email protected] Alcohol: bring-your-own Aspen Grove at Sundance Trail | Red Feather Lakes, CO 17931 West County Road 74e Red Feather Lakes, CO 80545 Contact: (970) 556-5053, Contact Form Alcohol: In-house or bring-your-own *For BYO, a Liquor Liability Insurance Policy and certified bartender are required. ESTES PARK  Fall River Village | Estes Park, CO 200 Filbey Court Estes Park, CO 80517 Contact: (970) 325-6864, [email protected] Alcohol: bring-your-own The Landing at Estes Park | Estes Park, CO 1774 CO-66 Estes Park, CO 80517 Contact: (970) 820-0118, [email protected] Alcohol: bring-your-own LONGMONT AREA  The St Vrain | Longmont, CO 635 3rd Avenue Longmont, CO 80501 Contact: (720) 534-2635 or Contact Form Alcohol: Bring-your-own *Bartenders, barware, and mixers are supplied through the preferred catering partner. Boulder Flower Farm | Longmont, CO 4114 Oxford Road Longmont, CO 80503 Contact: Contact Form Alcohol: Bring-your-own The Lyons Farmette | Lyons, CO 4121 Ute Hwy Lyons, CO 80540 Contact: [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own Stone Mountain Lodge and Cabins | Lyons, CO 18055 North St Vrain Drive Lyons, Colorado 80540 Contact: (303) 823-6091, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own BOULDER  The Studio (Boulder) | Boulder, CO 3550 Frontier Avenue, Suite A2 Boulder, CO 80301 Contact: (720) 378-8015, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own (preferred vendor list available) Rembrandt Yard Art Gallery & Event Center | Boulder, CO 1301 Spruce Street Boulder, Colorado 80302 Contact: (303) 301-2972, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own Koenig Alumni Center at CU Boulder | Boulder, CO 1202 University Avenue Boulder, Colorado 80309 Contact: (303) 492-2279, Contact Form Alcohol: Bring-your-own *A licensed server is required DENVER AREA  Walker Fine Art | Denver, CO 300 West 11th Avenue #A Denver, Colorado 80204 Contact: (303) 355-8955, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own *Must be served by licensed/certified bartenders; no corkage fee; recommended vendor list available Space Gallery | Denver, CO 400 Sante Fe Drive Denver, Colorado 80204 Contact: (303) 993-3321, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own University of Denver Conference and Event Services | Denver, CO 1745 S. Hight Street Denver, Colorado 80210 Contact: (303) 871-4333, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own Balistreri Vineyards | Denver, CO 1946 East 66th Avenue Denver, Colorado 80229 Contact: (303) 287-5156, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own  Event Room at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center | Wheat Ridge, CO 4005 Kipling Street Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 Contact: (303) 231-1315, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park | Lakewood, CO 801 South Yarrow Street Lakewood, CO 80226 Contact: (303) 987-7806, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own Pines at Genesee | Golden, CO 633 Park Point Drive Golden, Colorado 80401 Contact: (303) 526-7939 x221, Contact Form Alcohol: Bring-your-own Calvary Church | Golden, CO 1320 Arapahoe Street Golden, CO 80401 Contact: (303) 279-2188, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own  Boettcher Mansion | Golden, CO 900 Colorow Road Golden, Colorado 80401 Contact: (720) 497-7630, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own *A certified bartender is required; no cash or tips allowed. Evergreen Lake House | Evergreen, CO 29612 Upper Bear Creek Road Evergreen, CO 80439 Contact: (720) 880-1016, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own *Must be served by a Colorado Approved Responsible vendor The Barn at Evergreen Memorial Park | Evergreen, CO 26624 North Turkey Creek Road Evergreen, Colorado 80439 Contact: (720) 340-8574, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own *All alcoholic beverages must be served by a licensed and insured bartender CENTRAL COLORADO (NON-DENVER AREA) Main Street Station | Breckenridge, CO 505 South Main Street Breckenridge, CO 80424 Contact: (888) 387-0151, Contact Form Alcohol: In-house or bring-your-own  Lodge by the Blue | Breckenridge, CO 4192 Highway 9 Breckenridge, CO 80424 Contact: (970) 453-2144, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own The Cabin at 9000 Feet | Wolcott, CO Specific address withheld Wolcott, CO 81655 Contact: [email protected], (717) 575-6704 Alcohol: Bring-your-own Guyton Ranch | Jefferson, CO 35293 US Highway 285 Jefferson, CO 80456 Contact: (507) 202-6565, Contact Form Alcohol: Bring-your-own  Bearcat Stables | Edwards, CO 2701 Squaw Creek Road Edwards, CO 81632 Contact: (970) 376-4647, Contact Form Alcohol: Bring-your-own Aspen Historical Society | Aspen, CO 620 West Bleeker Street Aspen, CO 81611 Contact: (970) 925-3721 x107, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own WESTERN COLORADO Black Canyon Stables | Ridgway, CO 362 Golden Eagle Trail Ridgway, CO 81432 Contact: (520) 360-0218, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own  Sopris House | Crested Butte, CO 200 Sopris Avenue Crested Butte, CO 81224 Contact: (800) 903-7761, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own Sage View Ranch | Paonia, CO 40881 Highway 133 Paonia, CO 81428 Contact: (303) 522-2210, Contact Form Alcohol: Bring-your-own Lock Stock & Barrel | Olathe, CO 5328 CO-348 Olathe, CO 81425 Contact: Contact Form Alcohol: Bring-your-own *Only beer and wine allowed; no hard liquor  Flying Diamond Ranch Weddings and Events | Oak Creek, CO 30110 Highway 131 Oak Creek, Colorado 80487 Contact: (970) 846-9229, Contact Form Alcohol: Bring-your-own Once Upon a Time Events | Kiowa, CO 31242 Wedemeyer Road Kiowa, CO 80117 Contact: (720) 838-7608, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own *An event insurance policy must be purchased SOUTHERN COLORADO  ProRodeo Hall of Fame | Colorado Springs, CO 101 Pro Rodeo Drive Colorado Springs, Colorado 80919 Contact: (719) 528-4732, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own *Alcohol must be served by a hired bartender (not a guest); cash bars are not permitted unless a special events liquor license is purchased by the City of Colorado Springs. La Foret Conference and Retreat Center | Colorado Springs, CO 6145 Shoup Road Colorado Springs, CO 80908 Contact: (719) 495-2743, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own *Wine, beer, and champagne only; no cash allowed Lodge at Cathedral Pines | Colorado Springs, CO 13977 Milam Road Colorado Springs, CO 80908 Contact: (719) 886-4044, [email protected] Alcohol: In-house or bring-your-own *BYO alcohol must be served by TIPS-certified bartenders. The Loft Music Venue | Colorado Springs, CO 2506 West Colorado Avenue Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904 Contact: (719) 445-9278, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own  Black Forest Meadows | Colorado Springs, CO 17104 Goshawk Rd Colorado Springs, CO 80908 Contact: (303) 590-8939, [email protected] Alcohol: Bring-your-own The Barn at Howard Creek Farm | Howard, CO 356 County Road 4 Howard, CO 81233 Contact: [email protected], (720) 937-1475 Alcohol: Bring-your-own *Alcohol must be served by a TIPS-certified bartender Cedar Ridge Ranch | Carbondale, CO 3059 Co Road 103 Carbondale, CO 81623 Contact: [email protected], (970) 963-3507 Alcohol: Bring-your-own  Hatchet Ranch | Pueblo, CO 7600 Hatchet Ranch Road Pueblo, Colorado 81004 Contact: (719) 501-3396 or Contact Form Alcohol: Bring-your-own *A licensed bartender is preferred I Bar Ranch | Gunnison, CO 850 County Road 49 Gunnison, CO 81230 Contact: (970) 209-9796, Contact Form Alcohol: In-house or bring-your-own  LePlatt’s Pond | Bayfield, CO 311 County Road 501 Bayfield, CO 81122 Contact: (970) 759-0748 or Contact Form Alcohol: Bring-your-own *Event liability insurance is required for all events. The Black Diamond Lodge | Durango, CO 48475 US Highway 550 Durango, CO 81301 Contact: (281) 751-3147, [email protected] Alcohol: In-house or bring-your-own Let the My Big Day team plan your big day and our TIPS-certified bartenders service your wedding at one of these Colorado venues! We are booking now for 2022 and 2023, so contact us to reserve your date. For more Colorado wedding planning tips and ideas, follow My Big Day on Facebook and Instagram. Check out our Pinterest boards for wedding planning advice, wedding decor ideas, wedding themes, and more!  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 Almost a third of brides-to-be get engaged over the holidays, which means some of you will be stocking up on wedding magazines and poring over wedding checklists in the coming weeks (or maybe you already are, while you wait for that ring – we won’t judge). Weddings are part of our business at MBD Marketing & Events --- and for our client, On the Rocks, so we like to keep up with the latest trends, including this list of nine wedding bar trends for 2022. Did you know 2.6 million weddings are forecast to happen in the U.S. in 2022? That’s the most since almost 40 years ago, in 1984. If you’re one of these millions getting married in the new year, read on for what’s “in” in 2022.  Mobile Bars Hey, that’s us! Mobile bars are still big for 2022, especially those that are serviced. Portable or permanent bars are traditional at wedding venues, but traditional can get a bit boring. Opt for a unique, whimsical mobile bar like our Pearl instead. You’ll stand out from the rest and get tailored service from our TIPS-certified bartenders. Mocktails and Low-ABV Cocktails Having guests at your wedding who don’t drink alcohol is nothing new. But more and more brides and grooms are deciding they’d rather avoid drunken family drama and other inappropriate guest behavior by offering alcohol-free mocktails or “low-alcohol by volume” cocktails. Non-alcoholic beer has been around for decades, but alcohol-free spirits mimicking the taste of tequila, vodka, and flavored liqueurs are increasingly popular. Low-ABV cocktails still contain alcohol, but in percentages similar to those of beer and wine, rather than hard liquor.  Customization and Personalization We love the trend of couples wanting to infuse every part of their big day with their personalities and interests, and this includes cocktails. The signature cocktail came about as a way for couples to create their own drinks, rather than follow recipes from a bar book. Consider a signature cocktail for each newlywed, or one that celebrates the couple. Special touches like monogrammed drink stirrers or personalized napkins are another way to make a statement. Creative Presentations The signature cocktail movement has translated into seemingly endless cocktail presentation possibilities. Couples with a carnival theme may serve drinks in striped cups rimmed with frosting and sprinkles, movie buffs might skewer popcorn for a garnish, and dessert fanatics can serve boozy milkshakes in cookie cups or ice cream cones. Fresh Floral Bar Decor Fresh flowers and greenery aren’t only for bouquets and boutonnieres. Bars are becoming a decor focal point at weddings, incorporating the style of the wedding ceremony and reception. Whether your budget allows for some sprigs of greenery or elaborate bar arrangements, fresh florals make your bar an inviting focal point instead of an afterthought.  Canned Beers, Wines, and Cocktails Canned drinks are ideal for small, intimate weddings or at venues with a strict no-glass rule. They’re also convenient, with less spilling and easier cleanup. You’ll save money on drinkware rentals and washing. Plus, there are so many canned alcoholic beverages available these days, you can find can designs to suit your wedding colors or theme. It’s still good practice to let an experienced bartender (like our TIPS-certified ones) be in charge of canned drinks, to prevent incidents due to guests being over-served. In Colorado, for example, you could even be held liable for an over-served guest who drinks and drives after your event. Vintage Drinks Traditional cocktails are back in style, most notably the aptly-named Old Fashioned. Vintage touches lend elegance to modern weddings. Even the champagne tower, where champagne is poured over a tower of old-fashioned champagne coupes, is making a comeback that doubles as both refreshment and eye-catching decoration.  re-Ceremony Refreshment Bar Another growing trend is the pre-ceremony refreshment bar, which offers guests non-alcoholic options like fruit-infused waters in summer or a hot chocolate station in the winter. It’s not a bad idea to provide some light snacks too, especially for guests who traveled a long way the day of the ceremony and to prevent fainting at a hot summer wedding. Themed Bar and Drinks Your bar and drinks can emulate the overall style of your wedding, or you can get creative with themed cocktails and bar decorations that mean something to you as a couple. One popular option is a travel-themed bar, with cocktails from countries or regions you’ve traveled to as a couple. A cocktail hour bar can also be decorated to suit a theme different from your ceremony and reception style, such as a favorite hobby of the groom or the couple. Drinks themselves can be customized to suit that theme, with creative names and garnishes. Need a wedding planning team? Look no further than the gals at MBD Marketing & Events! You can learn more about our Colorado and Wyoming wedding packages HERE. Ready to book mobile bar services for your 2022 wedding? Contact ON THE ROCKS now. Choose from one of their ready-made packages, or they can create a custom package for you.  * A blog dedicated to our non-profit client, Thompson Education Foundation COVID-19 has forced schools to do what’s being referred to “remote” or “distance” learning this year, and some say it could continue into 2021 as well. This has been a difficult process for parents, students and teachers to adjust to. Just know, you are not alone! Many parents and teachers have been experimenting with what works best for their students during this time. I have gathered the top 5 most helpful tips on how to be successful with remote learning! 1. Make a schedule. Having a consistent daily schedule can allow everyone to feel prepared and ready for their day. Organizing their schedule around your schedule as a parent can ease some stress of working at home and having your kids schooling at home. Consistency is key! For example, if you have math first one day, math should be first every day. Visualize your schedule by printing it out, writing it on a dry erase or chalk board, or making a clickable schedule on their laptop. Set alarms for zoom classes to keep everyone on schedule without having to have it all memorized.  2. Take a typing class. Younger kids who have not had a lot of school experience are feeling overwhelmed. Not only do they have to sit in front of a computer all day, they also must know how to use one! Getting your student typing classes can help teach kids the basics of typing properly with exercises on what all of the keys mean and how to use them. Typing Club offers free classes and exercises to help get your child prepped for remote learning! https://www.typingclub.com  3. Give lots of Breaks. Breaking up the schedule can help your student focus better and be ready to learn. Everyone need breaks throughout their day, whether it’s for snacks, exercise or just to rest their eyes from the screen breaks can help kids feel more independent in remote learning as long as there is consistency. Students thrive on consistency! One tip from a parent was to have activity kits ready for when your child is in between classes and you do not have the time to get them started on something. If the child has activities at their workspace it can help keep them focused and entertained until you can get around to helping them.  4. Give kids an outlet to discuss emotions. One of things to not lose sight on is that you are still their parent, not just their new teacher, or helper with school assignments. By having kids write in a journal they can process their feelings in this uncertain time. A nice addition to your daily schedule is to set aside time to talk as a family about how everyone is feeling and coping with everything.  4. Optimizing the Learning Space. Having a learning space free of distractions, noise, tv and other forms of entertainment can optimize the student’s learning process. Having access to all supplies at their space, within reach that is well organized can also help kids with becoming distracted from needing to leave their learning space to go elsewhere in the home. For even more tips and ideas on how to deal with remote learning visit our Pinterest board. https://www.pinterest.com/MyBigDayEvents/education-k-12/ In response to COVID-19 and Thompson School District’s decision to continue remote learning in schools, Thompson Education Foundation (TEF) and the Literacy Committee of Loveland Rotary Club each committed $10,000 ($20,000 total) to support remote learning for students in 2020. The first purchase was for 5,000 books for students who are participating in TSD’s emergency food distribution program. The books were purchased for all grade levels, PreK-12. In addition, Thompson Education Foundation supplied 500 school supply kits to supplement at-home learning for elementary and secondary students without access to supply resources at home. Donate to TEF and their efforts to help families during these times here. https://www.thompsontef.org/donate  Christmas isn’t just for gathering with friends and family to celebrate the season - it’s also a beautiful time to plan a winter wedding! A December/Christmas inspired wedding is the perfect opportunity to not only celebrate your love, but to also throw the best holiday party ever! We’ve curated a list of some holiday inspired wedding tips and ideas that will surely get you and your guests into the seasonal spirit, and elevate your event beyond the typical holiday celebration!
When you create your invitation suite, make sure you include the following: Invitation for event, directions, response cards & envelopes, inner envelope, mailing envelope, and plenty of postage. You might also consider adding a special reception card, local highlights information, and suggestions for accommodations for out of town guests.  Ceremony & Reception Decor Greenery and red poinsettias are natural choices for Christmas wedding decor (hello, every Hallmark Christmas movie!). You can certainly get creative with how you use these elements. Use greenery garlands to outline reception areas, set up vignettes around white-lighted Christmas trees, include layers of red and white poinsettias as a backdrop for your ceremony. The possibilities are endless. You don’t have to settle for a red and green color palette, either. How about deep navy and silver? White twinkle lights and gold? All of these options are holiday inspired! Bouquets & Boutonnieres There are so many extra touches that you can add to a holiday bridal bouquet and boutonniere! Pinecones are a fun and wintry addition to any Christmas-inspired bouquet. Berries and pine sprigs are also easy festive elements to incorporate. Did you know, according to ancient folklore, the Druids regarded holly as a sacred plant and believed it had magical powers of protection? Definitely consider adding some holly to your floral arrangements for good luck!  Jingle Bells! With a holiday wedding you can capitalize on both Jingle Bells and Wedding Bells! Hand out small bells for guests to ring after the ceremony instead of birdseed or bubbles. Guests can also ring their bells when they want a kiss from the bride and groom during the reception, instead of using their silverware on china to call for this tradition. Serve festive cocktails. You can expand the typical bar with holiday flavors including eggnog, peppermint, and cranberry. Holiday drinks often look fancy with extra flourishes and flair - perfect for a fancy wedding reception! Incorporate holiday inspired guest favors. Guests will be excited to receive a memento that they will actually want to keep! Engraved holiday ornaments with your wedding date, or their names carved or written on a themed ornament will remind your guests of your special day for years to come! You can also send your guests home with tasty treats too! Holiday cookies, gold wrapped chocolates, or even packaged homemade eggnog will surely be hits!  Hot Cocoa and Cookies - Santa’s favorite! Why not consider offering a hot cocoa bar in addition to the spirits you serve? Perhaps include a wide offering of Christmas and Holiday cookies for dessert instead of the traditional wedding cake or cupcakes? You’re guests will enjoy making their own hot cocoa concoctions and dunking their favorite holiday cookies in them for fun! Think Texture. There are so many different textures that you can incorporate into your clothing, decor, and venue to inspire holiday magic. Velvet dresses and accessories for brides and bridesmaids, plaids and cording for grooms and groomsmen, gold and silver accents, wood and greenery, snow and ice…...all special holiday touches. Create a cozy atmosphere. Cozy fires, twinkle lights, candles, and scents of the season, will be an inviting touch for your guests. Create intimacy by utilizing non traditional seating arrangements for dinner - family style serving, seating in groups, long tables, couches and overstuffed chairs by fireplaces.  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 You may have friends or family members – dubbed “COVID Couples’ – who have had to postpone or cancel their weddings because of the pandemic. For most couples, this is a difficult decision to make, and may bring up feelings of sadness, anger, or even loss. Here are some ways to support the special people in your life whose weddings have been affected by COVID – and some things to avoid. DO: 1. Send a surprise gift on their original wedding day. This is likely to be the most difficult day for the couple. Consider sending flowers, sweets, or a gift card for a takeout date night with a note saying you are thinking of them. If you’re on a budget, stick with a handwritten note dropped at their doorstep or surprise them with FaceTime or a phone call. Don’t forget about the groom!  2. Listen. Be a shoulder to cry on for your friends and family. Venting can be a therapeutic way to deal with negative emotions from having to postpone or cancel their wedding. Be open and understanding, but not dismissive or overly positive. 3. Contact vendors. A lot goes in to planning a wedding. If your couple has hired a wedding planner, they can help with reaching out to the vendors the couple has chosen. If not, consider the numerous contracts with the florist, photographer, caterer, cake decorator, venue, DJ, furniture rentals, day-of coordinator, and many more that may exist. Depending on the vendor and the wording of each contract, meetings with vendors may involve renegotiating the contract, maintaining it but postponing the date, or asking for a partial refund.  4. Give them resources. There are many couples in the same boat, and many community and support groups online. The Zola Facebook Community has almost 12,000 members in the throes of pandemic wedding planning. For more local advice, check out Colorado COVID-19 Wedding Support. 5. Deal with guests. Offer to help contact guests to notify them of changes to the event. This could involve a formal, mailed update, or an email or text if the wedding was scheduled for just a few weeks away. Be sure to introduce yourself to the couple’s family and friends if making calls or sending texts on their behalf. You can also help answer guests’ follow-up questions about reservations they had for the wedding or the timing of the rescheduled event (if there is one).  DON’T: 1. Give opinions or advice unless it is solicited by the couple. It is complicated and confusing trying to reschedule a large event with many moving parts, never mind with unwarranted opinions thrown into the mix. Give advice only if you are asked to by the couple. 2. Be overly positive or dismissive. Saying, “It’s going to be fine,” may not go over well. Things may not be okay for your friends or family members, and they don’t have to be. Try saying, “I’m sorry. I wish things were different,” or “I can’t imagine what you’re going through, but I’m here for you.” 3. Expect to be able to fix it. As a friend or family member, the best you can do is listen and offer help or advice if it’s requested. Do not try to fix their feelings or the situation.  Contact My Big Day 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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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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