Alcohol-Free Wedding Receptions: Don’t Apologize!

by Lisa Beth Miller

A question was posed to me this week regarding how to inform guests that no alcohol will be served at a wedding reception, so I thought this should be addressed!

My answer is simple. Your wedding is your event. Your guests should be honored to be included, but are not entitled to know every aspect of your plans before the event. Therefore, absolutely no explanation or apology is needed if you decide not to serve alcohol!

Brides and grooms make this decision for a variety of reasons. Some plan weddings for early in the day and feel that alcohol is not necessary at a simple brunch reception. Others have a quick reception in a church hall that does not permit alcohol. Some simply do not wish to spend money on alcohol and instead serve a lavish meal. Still others choose not to serve alcohol in order to be sensitive to an addiction with which a close family member may struggle.

Regardless of why alcohol is not being served, it is absolutely no one’s business! Plan your wedding the way YOU want to plan it. If alcohol is simply not in your plans, skip it without guilt.

If you do end up NOT serving alcohol, here are some fun tips to keep everyone happy:

1. You can still have a “signature drink” if you aren’t serving alcohol! Maybe it is a yummy smoothie or milkshake, or a delicious punch, or even mini-mocktails! Have fun with it!

2. Serve a variety of drinks–not just soda and water. Maybe offer some different iced teas or refreshing lemonades. Offer sliced fruits, mint leaves, and cinnamon sticks as creative garnishes to the beverage choices.

3. You can still have a toast! Maybe offer sparkling cider in fancy champagne flutes for the toast, or just allow guests to toast with the drinks that they are enjoying.

Enjoy your wedding and remember, make no apologies for your planning choices!