How to Have a Sober Wedding
Taking a break from alcohol and getting married? Whether you’re taking a break from alcohol or completely sober, there are ways to celebrate if you choose to serve - or not serve - alcohol at your wedding.
Although weddings and alcohol seemingly go hand in hand, many couples are choosing to host dry (aka no alcohol) or dry-ish weddings. Thankfully, there are numerous options - including non-alcoholic wines, beers, spirits and cocktails - to choose from so you and your guests will have an amazing time.
Reasons for a Dry Wedding
There are various reasons couples host a dry wedding. Religion, for example, is a huge reason couples don’t serve alcohol at their wedding. Another reason is budget! Alcohol is a huge expense (especially if you have an open bar), so hosting a dry wedding is great way to save money.
Making the Wedding Dry
While it isn’t necessary to announce you’re hosting a dry wedding, you can include a line in your wedding website or invitation if you think your guests are expecting alcohol at your wedding.
Tips for Hosting a Dry Wedding
Keep the guest list small - it’ll help manage guests’ expectations.
Day weddings are best for dry weddings since it sets a tone for no alcohol to be there.
Include exciting elements such as a lively DJ and dance to keep guests engaged.
Serving Alcohol While Sober
If you’re sober or not drinking at the moment but want to include alcohol for your guests, you can serve beer and wine instead of a full bar - or even have a full bar if you’d like! It’s really up to you how you serve alcohol as a sober host - and don’t be afraid to be creative!
Navigating a Dry Toast with an Inclusive Bar
With boozy events, it’s great to include a variety of choices for ALL to drink. Try including non-alcoholic cocktails on the menu for those who still like to “drink” without alcohol present. Kombucha is a great option to include and can be utilized for a variety of mocktails - and even cocktails!
Today, mocktails are extremely popular and can easily be included as an option for sober guests. In fact, if you choose to have a signature cocktail at your wedding, have a mocktail version so sober guests can feed included.
For a dry toast, try picking up some non-alcoholic champagne, wine, or rose as it can be served alongside Champagne. That way, drinkers and nondrinkers can both participate in wedding traditions.
Dry weddings don’t have to be boring! By including fun mocktail options, keeping the wedding small, and providing lively entertainment, hosting a dry wedding will be just as fun as a wedding with alcohol - except without the hangover!