How to Throw a Sober Bachelorette Party

Bachelor and bachelorette parties are staple events when getting married, and are sometimes viewed as equally as important as the wedding itself. It’s a last hurrah, so to speak, for single life and there really isn’t a specific way to do it—although there are some classic favorites. While these parties often involve alcohol, the concept of a sober bachelorette party is a popular alternative for brides and other attendees who cannot drink for whatever reason. Some can’t drink because they are under 21 years old, religious prohibition, health conditions and/or medication, or because they simply choose not to drink.

There are also sober bachelorette parties for brides who are recovering from alcohol or drug abuse, who forgo the inclusion of alcohol and alcohol-related activities as a part of their recovery. The maid of honor is often responsible for planning and hosting these parties, but taking into account the needs of a recovering bride can make the job a bit more difficult. However, it does not mean that you can’t be successful in throwing a memorable bachelorette party for the bride-to-be.

As the maid of honor and party host, you should talk with the bride about the details of the event regardless of if it is to be sober or not. Things such as the guest list and timing are often up to the bride, so their input is needed in the planning stages. You can ask them about things they’d like to do and if there’s anything they should avoid as a part of their recovery—places they used to go, triggers, etc. Some brides may be okay with going to a restaurant where alcohol is served or if their guests drink (in moderation), and might order non-alcoholic versions of cocktails instead. Others may want to completely avoid alcohol, and you may need to help them cope if they encounter a trigger during the festivities. Such information regarding their triggers and how others can help them cope may need to be shared with the party’s attendees.

Not everyone is going to be okay with the idea of a sober bachelorette party. Keep in mind that there may be some people—party guests, staff at the place you go, attendees at those places, etc.—who may try to pressure the bride into drinking or may possibly be upset that she isn’t drinking. Make it very clear that it’s the bride’s party and she gets to decide what she wants to do. When inviting guests, state on the invitation that it will be a sober event for the bride and whether or not alcohol will be involved in any way. While this may impact who does or does not attend, disclosing that information can help the bride out tremendously.

Talking with the bride and getting her input can help you brainstorm some really fantastic ideas for a sober bachelorette party. It doesn’t even have to be a traditional party either. Some bachelorette parties go for a girls’ weekend style approach, where it’s more like a vacation than a party and can be done over the course of a few days. Going to a location like a spa, adventurous destinations, interest-related retreats, or special events can all be used as an option for a sober bachelorette party because they often don’t require alcohol to be fun. This can still be an option even if the party is going to be a one-night or one-day event, although there may be limitations based on time and location.

However, the party doesn’t have to go to anywhere specific. You can host it at your home or in the bride’s home (if offered) and do activities there. This does allow for a bit more control over the party and what happens, so it may be a better option for avoiding triggers or if there are budget constraints. The bride may also be a bit more comfortable at someone’s home than out at a restaurant or spa, depending on their interests.

At-home bachelorette parties, sober or otherwise, can allow you to bring the fun to you. Games are a popular choice for at home bachelorette parties, and you can create your own just for the event. Go old school with a girls-only sleepover with movies, popcorn, and ice cream. Bring the spa to you with at-home beauty treatments, manicures and pedicures, and makeovers. Basically, anything that can be done at home without the need for alcohol is an option.

Author: Aimee Lyons (DIYDarlin.com)