Hold the Alcohol: The Rise of the AF Wedding

The latest cocktail trend? Sans booze! We dive into why you should consider putting a mocktail on your menu.

Newlywed Kerry Benson began her alcohol-free journey in June 2020, and what started as a month-long challenge turned into a lifestyle. “I think I was hesitant to put a label on what I was doing and to make the full commitment to being sober or alcohol-free. I was worried about what people would think, I was worried if I would miss alcohol—namely IPAs and red wine. But what I learned over time is that this is my journey and there is no right answer, except the one that makes me feel my best emotionally and physically. As of right now, that is an alcohol-free lifestyle.”

Whether it’s drinking less or not drinking at all, recent years has caused habits to evolve, ushering in trends of hard seltzers, non-alcoholic beers, and zero-proof spirits.

Ultimately, as Benson’s wedding approached, the decision to not drink seemed like a no-brainer. “Why would I? I feel better when I don’t drink, I don’t feel like I am missing out, I love my mocktails and non-alcoholic products, and I am certainly not shy about telling people that I don’t drink—anymore.”

And with the variety of bar options and as much creativity going into craft mocktails as their cocktail counterparts, it’s easier than ever to offer alcohol-free options, allowing guests to skip the booze but not the party.

“We have seen an increased demand for mocktails, low ABV recipes, and sustainable ingredients over the last couple of years,” says Parker Boase, owner of Liquid Lab in New York City. “The great thing about mocktails is they encourage inclusivity at events. They are not only great for those who don’t or can’t drink, but are also an exciting option for weddings.”

And Benson’s experience backs that up. “Probably the most exciting and unexpected benefit of offering non-alcoholic products at the wedding was that people who are not alcohol-free tried and liked them. I had so many guests tell me that their minds were completely blown by how good the alcohol-free products are.”

So how can you ensure you’re serving a mocktail that’s worth imbibing? Give it the same mixology attention as you would a cocktail, blending fresh ingredients to create a complex flavor—not skimping on the garnish and rimming—and present in glassware that complements the drink.

“Ask your venue if you can bring your own alcohol-free products to the wedding. With all the alcohol-free products available these days, you can bring non-alcoholic versions of your favorite drinks like alcohol-free beer, champagne, and event spirits,” says Diana Licalzi of The Sober Dietitians.

Want to add a mocktail to your menu? These recipes are perfect for fall celebrations.

SPARKLING CIDER by The Sober Dietitians

If you’re craving a crisp, cool cider without the alcohol, this drink will certainly do the trick. Serve in a champagne glass to toast a special moment!

Ingredients

• 2 cups 100% apple juice
• ¼ cup orange juice
• 2 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 2⅔ cups seltzer

Tools

• Pitcher or large measuring cup

Preparation

1. Combine all the ingredients except the seltzer in a pitcher or large measuring cup. Stir.
2. Divide the mixture among four highball or champagne glasses.
3. Top with seltzer ( 2/3 cup per serving).

POM SPRITZER by The Sober Dietitians

This effervescent mocktail looks and tastes festive and would be perfect for sipping at a wedding. What better way to celebrate love than with a non-alcoholic drink with antioxidant-rich pomegranate juice?

Ingredients

• 1 sprig rosemary
• 2/3 cup 100% pomegranate juice
• 2 teaspoons lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 to 1½ cups seltzer
• Additional rosemary and pomegranate arils for garnish

Tools

• Muddler
• Shaker

Preparation

1. Muddle the rosemary in the bottom of a shaker.
2. Add the pomegranate juice, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, and ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into two champagne flutes.
5. Top with seltzer (1/2 – 3/4 cup per serving) and stir.
6. Garnish with rosemary and pomegranate arils.

FESTIVE FIZZ by The Sober Dietitians

Made with cranberry juice and fresh thyme, this mocktail is the perfect accompaniment to a fall wedding!

Ingredients

• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 teaspoons peeled and chopped fresh ginger
• 2/3 cup cranberry juice
• 1/4 cup and 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1 cup seltzer
• Additional thyme and fresh cranberries for garnish

Tools

• Muddler
• Shaker

Preparation

1. Muddle the ginger and thyme in the bottom of a shaker.
2. Add the cranberry and orange juices and fill the shaker with ice. Shake vigorously.
3. Fill two lowball glasses with ice and strain the shaken mixture into the glasses.
4. Top with seltzer (1/2 cup per serving) and stir.
5. Garnish with thyme sprigs and fresh cranberries.

Cover Photo by Andrea Piacquadio | CocktailPhotography Credit: Kerry Benson and Diana Licalzi

**Originally featured in Love Inc. V7 print issue. Grab your copy here.**