‘Tis the season of fresh starts! Resolutions, manifestations, health and wellness plans, and for lots of us, Dry January. The Hampsey household is embracing the latter this year, not just as a post-holiday cleanse, but as a way to intentionally de-center alcohol in favor of connection. Don’t get me wrong, I love a glass of bubbles, but that’s never what I remember most from my times with loved ones when I celebrate with them or ring in the new year.

This got us thinking – beyond Dry January, what does it look like to decenter alcohol at weddings? At Day One Wedding Co., it’s important for us to consider the “why” of each aspect of the day. We know that wedding celebrations can often revolve around toasts, specialty cocktails, and champagne towers, but that’s not what makes them special or memorable. You are!

NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE ALTERNATIVES

These ideas aren’t just “drinks without booze” or boring/tacky/pandering half-attempts. Work with your bartenders or caterers to thoughtfully weave beautiful and delicious beverages that ALL of your guests can enjoy. Drinkers and non-drinkers alike will appreciate the effort!

Opt for a specialty lemonade as your welcome drink before your ceremony, especially for those outdoors!
Swap your signature cocktail for a mocktail! (You can have the option to add a shot of something if folks want to make it ~spicy~.)
Upgrade your water by offering sparkling or still bottles at each table.
Plenty of soft drinks available at the bar, served in glasses to feel more elegant.
Feature your favorites in glass bottles with a cute sign!
Luxurious tea display during cocktail hour feels elegant and special.
Espresso station alongside dessert. Anyone for an affogato?

ACTIVITIES THAT BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER

All too often, folks rely on liquid courage in various social settings, especially those related to weddings, but there are plenty of ways to spark laughter and conversion without it.

For engagement parties, try interactive games like trivia about the couple, DIY flower arranging, or a photo scavenger hunt.
At showers, host a tea tasting, cooking class or craft workshop.
For bachelor and bachelorette parties, consider group hikes, escape rooms, spa days, or a slide deck challenge.
At the wedding, thoughtful seating arrangements are one of the best ways to help guests to feel at ease. Personal touches like handwritten notes, prompts to figure out what connects each person at the table, or a photo or memory you share with them can get people chatting instantly, while reminding them of the “why” of the celebration.

Focusing on shared experiences helps everyone feel included and keeps the energy high, with or without a cocktail in hand.

CREATING AN INCLUSIVE ATMOSPHERE ALL YEAR ROUND

Ultimately, the goal is to make everyone feel welcome, whether they’re participating in Dry January, living alcohol-free, or simply choosing not to drink that day. We recommend providing a mix of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring no one feels singled out. At Day One Wedding Co., we believe the best celebrations are those where every guest feels seen, supported, and able to enjoy themselves fully.

While Dry January is a wonderful starting point, these ideas can inspire mindful, inclusive celebrations any time of year. Whether you’re planning a summer soiree or a cozy winter wedding, centering your events around connection, creativity, and care will always be in style. We’re here to help you craft a wedding season that reflects your values and brings your loved ones together, no matter what’s in their glass.

And if I’ve learned anything from The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, Momtok certainly doesn’t need alcohol to go all out; do you?