Considering an alcohol-free wedding can be stressful. We know that weddings are big parties and many guests will expect some drinks. We also know that you want your guests to have a good time. At the end of the day, however, it’s your special day and you’re free to do as you please.

Maybe you and your partner are not big drinkers or maybe you come from religious families who frown upon drinking. Whatever the reason, you have a tricky decision to make.

Here are some pros and cons of an alcohol-free wedding to help you make the best choice for you:

Pros: 

– Your expenses will be much lighter on the pocket 

Supplying all your guests with enough alcohol for the entire wedding can cost you a small fortune. You’ll also have to provide the drinks whether or not they consume all of it.

If you have an alcohol-free wedding, you save all of that money!

– There’s no risk of guests getting too tipsy 

Everybody has that one family member who tends to get a bit out of control with the drinks. There is always a risk of things getting out of hand when there are drinks involved.

Avoid all the potential shenanigans with an alcohol-free wedding.

– You can get creative 

There are tons of alternatives to alcohol, and the concept is not unheard of. Get creative with mocktails or other replacements. This is a chance for you to add more of your personality to your special day.

– Everyone gets home safely 

There will be no need for Uber, Taxify, or any other app. Guests will leave completely sober and will get home safely.

Cons: 

– The dance floor might be less lively 

Drinks do tend to lighten the mood; they definitely loosen your guests up more than anything else can. Without alcohol, there may be less mingling and dancing.

– No champagne toast 

Toasting to your marriage may be a bit weird without champagne.

– It’s against expectations 

Most guests expect to be served drinks at a wedding. This could lead to some disappointed or fidgety people in your audience.

Whatever you decide,  remember that this is your day!  You can do what you like. It is a good idea, however, to mention that the wedding is an alcohol-free zone on your invitation – if that’s the route you decide to take. It will save you a lot of unnecessary questions from guests on the big day.

There are in-between options too.  You don’t necessarily have to choose between zero alcohol or freely flowing drinks. A cash bar or a limited bar may also be possibilities to consider.

Also read: Open bar vs cash bar: what’s the difference?

Image: Pexels 

Two words almost guaranteed to put a smile on the face of your guests are “open bar”. However, open bars come with benefits as well as downfalls. So which option is right for you and your wedding, an open bar or a cash bar?

What is an open bar?

An open bar is when drinks are served for free from a bar at a function. Those hosting the event pay per head and usually covers a variety of alcohols including beers, ciders and wines.

Pros

– guests will appreciate it, especially after spending money or travelling for your wedding

– liquid courage will encourage guests to have more fun

– it makes your life easier as you don’t have to plan out estimated costs per beverage

Cons

– it is costly

– guests can take advantage and drink too much

– drunk people may put a negative effect on your wedding

What is a cash bar?

A cash bar is when guests can purchase drinks from a variety of alcohols at the bar at a given function.

Pros 

– it is the more affordable option, allowing you to put the money towards something else

– guests are less likely to go overboard with drinking, thus avoiding messy moments

Cons

– can be considered a little tacky (it’s not!)

– guests might feel like it’s inconsiderate to have to spend even more money at a function where they’re considered to be the guest

Image: Pexels

Signature cocktails don’t necessarily have to be something invented from scratch. It can simply be one delicious drink for you to serve your guests all night long, with a few personal touches and add-ons, of course.

THE CLASSIC MOJITO

Mojitos are perfect as a simple starter and are an easy choice with its neutral flavours of mint, lime and gin. Spice things up by adding your favourites herbs and spices, or serve a fruity option.

RED WINE SANGRIA

A little sweet and the perfect summer drink, sangria is a delicious option that is affordable to serve as well. Make it before the time with your and your partner’s favourite summer fruits, a dry red and some fresh fruit juice.

MARGARITAS

This classy drink is another easy (and super affordable) option to have. Grab some tequila, lime, oranges and water and mix it up for a fun, summery cocktail. Even better? Set out a bunch of yummy ingredients to create a margarita-making station for your guests.

FRENCH 75

If you want to keep things really simple but still fun, opt for your usual quality champagne and add a dash of gin, lemon juice and sugar. You can also add some fruits and herbs to garnish, depending on whether you are going for a winter or summer theme. We love taking inspiration from a Bellini by adding a teaspoon of fresh fruit puree to the bottom of each glass. Guests who prefer a sweet drink will appreciate this touch.

WATERMELON PUNCH BOWLS

Having a punch bowl at your wedding says that you are a fun and laid-back couple who enjoy the summertime. First, choose your spirit. We recommend something with a more neutral flavour, like vodka or can. Add watermelon pieces, water, mint, lime and watermelon puree and you have a delicious and refreshing beverage for your guests!

A HOT IRISH COFFEE

For an autumn or winter wedding, a delicious and warm cocktail is an excellent way to treat your guests. If you want to make the Irish Coffee sweeter, replace the whiskey with Kahlua, or serve each to give your guests the option. If it’s really cold, Kahlua hot choccie goes down really well too!

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