Q & A – No Alcohol at the Wedding!

QUESTION:

Hello!

I have a bit of a dilemma. What’s the best, most diplomatic way to include on our wedding invitations that the reception will not have alcohol? And if I decide to have just a champagne toast, how would I include that, as well?

We specifically do NOT want alcohol served (except for a possible champagne toast and they may decide against that, as well.) It’s pretty tricky because I think guests will assume that alcohol will be there, so there could be disappointment. Thanks so much for your help!

Thanks so much for the advice.

Larry in Virginia

ANSWER:

Hi, Larry~

If you are planning a completely alcohol-free wedding and reception, my first suggestion is that you not have a champagne toast, and instead toast with sparkling cider. You can do something as easy as having bottles of sparkling cider and fluted glasses on each table.

As for the invitations, formal wedding etiquette would have you not include information about the alcohol-free policy. The reason being that the main purpose of the wedding and reception are to celebrate your wedding, not to celebrate the alcohol at your wedding (so it shouldn’t even be an issue).

However, I understand that people have come to expect alcohol as a part of wedding receptions, so I do understand your predicament.

If you feel it is completely necessary to advise your guests of the fact that alcohol will not be served, here are a few ideas.

In the lower left hand corner of the invitation or on the RSVP card (in small letters) include the words:

Alcohol Free Reception – No Alcohol Permitted

-or-

This will be an alcohol-free event

-or-

The Bride and Groom respectfully request that no alcohol be served or consumed during their wedding celebration. The reception will be alcohol free.

No matter what, I’m sure you will raise a few eyebrows with this verbiage included in your invitations. However, it doesn’t really matter, does it? This is your big day, and you must remember to enjoy it, and not worry about what everyone else is thinking.

I hope you find this information helpful. Please let me know if I can be of any further service. Happy planning!

Sincerely,
Eve-Maridy