How to Plan a Sober Wedding That Still Slaps

Let’s be real—booze has long been the unofficial +1 at weddings, especially in my Irish homeland. But guess what? You absolutely CAN have an unforgettable, love-soaked, dance floor-filling celebration without the champagne tower or regretful espresso martinis. Here's how to plan a sober wedding that still slaps (hard).

Why Choose a Sober Wedding?

Whether you or your guests don’t drink for personal, cultural, or health reasons, a sober wedding isn’t a vibe killer—it’s a chance to get creative as hell. Maybe you're California sober and you'd like to have a 420-friendly wedding instead?

A sober wedding allows for a unique experience that focuses on love, connection, and fun. It’s about celebrating your relationship in a way that feels authentic to you.

Re-think Your Venue

Sober weddings open up a world of venue possibilities beyond the classic winery or bar-adjacent function room. Consider these options:

• Botanic gardens at golden hour

• Your favourite coast or beach

• Art galleries with moody lighting and maximalist vibes

• Community halls with character (and maybe a disco ball)

• A trendy warehouse

• Outdoor cinema-style setup under the stars

• Brunch at your favourite cafe

• A private dining room in your favourite restaurant with exquisite food

  
  

When alcohol isn’t the main event, your location can shine in all its quirky, heartfelt glory.

Crank Up the Entertainment

Without a bar to gather around, your guests need other ways to mingle and connect—and that's where you get to have fun. Here are some ideas to keep the energy high:

• Have a DJ that's been well briefed on your music taste

• Interactive games like wedding bingo or a love story quiz

• Karaoke or lip sync for your life (yes, I can facilitate this)

• Photo booth with silly props and instant prints

• Live music, roving performers, or even a drag queen Celebrant & MC

• Mocktail-making station or bubble tea bar

• Board game or video game lounges

• Live tattoos or piercings

  
  

When you deliberately make fun part of your planning, people loosen up fast (no vodka required).

Serve Delish Drinks

Please, I beg you—don’t just offer Coke and orange juice. This is your wedding, not a kid’s birthday party. Create a non-alcoholic drinks list with intention:

• Botanical spritzes with fancy garnishes

• Kombucha cocktails

• Cold brew + tonic combos

• Magical Matcha!

• Sparkling iced teas with edible flowers

• Milkshake station (or gelato)

  
  

If you're working with a bar team, make sure they can get excited about creating a dry menu that’s still lush.

Set the Vibe

Let guests know it’s a sober wedding from the get-go—but make it sound like the badass celebration it is. Reframe it with joy, not restriction. Something like:

“We’re throwing a love party full of music, laughter, and incredible booze-free cocktails. Come as you are, ready to dance your ass off!”

Trust me, when you show up excited about it, your guests will follow. Your wedding is about you two, your story, and the community that holds you. If alcohol doesn’t have a seat at the table—amazing. Let’s make everything else shine brighter.

Conclusion

A sober wedding can be just as vibrant and memorable as a traditional one. It’s all about the love, the laughter, and the connections you create. So embrace the opportunity to plan a celebration that reflects your values and your unique story.

And if you need a celebrant, MC, and/or DJ who knows how to bring the good vibes without a drop of booze in sight, you know where to find me. 💃