Should We Serve Alcohol at Our Vow Renewal Reception?

Q: My husband and I are Christians and do not consume alcohol, but some guests who will be attending do. Should we serve alcohol at the reception?

A: Deciding whether to serve alcohol at your vow renewal reception is entirely a personal choice and should reflect your values and comfort level. While some guests may expect alcohol at a celebration, your reception should be a reflection of what feels right for you and your spouse. If you prefer not to serve alcohol for religious or personal reasons, that’s completely valid, and there are plenty of ways to create an enjoyable atmosphere without it.

Here are some tips and ideas to help you navigate the decision:

1. Make the Decision Based on Your Values

Whether you abstain from alcohol due to religious beliefs, personal preference, or lifestyle choices, it’s important to stay true to what you believe. Your guests are there to celebrate your commitment and love, and they should respect your decision. Don’t feel pressured to serve alcohol simply because some of your guests might expect it. The focus of the day is on your vow renewal, not the drinks.

2. Offer a Variety of Non-Alcoholic Beverages

If you choose not to serve alcohol, make sure you provide a wide variety of non-alcoholic drinks for your guests to enjoy. Here are some options to consider:

• Sparkling Water: Serve a selection of sparkling waters with fresh fruit or flavored syrups for a fun, sophisticated touch.
• Punch or Mocktails: Non-alcoholic versions of classic cocktails like mojitos, piña coladas, or margaritas can be just as delicious and refreshing.
• Coffee and Tea Stations: A hot beverage station with coffee, tea, and specialty drinks like hot chocolate or chai can offer a cozy and comforting vibe, especially if your event is in cooler weather.
• Sodas and Juices: Have a selection of sodas and fruit juices available, making sure there’s something for everyone’s taste.

3. Consider Signature Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Even without alcohol, you can create signature drinks that make the event feel special. Crafting custom mocktails, inspired by your favorite flavors or themed around your vow renewal, can add a personal touch to your reception. You can also offer sparkling juices or apple cider for toasts, giving guests a celebratory option without alcohol.

4. Make the Non-Alcoholic Theme Clear

To avoid any confusion or disappointment, you may want to let guests know in advance that alcohol won’t be served. This can be done subtly on your wedding website, invitation, or through word of mouth. Letting guests know ahead of time gives them the opportunity to adjust their expectations and ensures everyone is on the same page.

5. Alternative Options if You Want to Accommodate Guests

If you’re comfortable with the idea, but don’t want to have alcohol as a central part of your celebration, you could consider a compromise. For example:

• Limited Alcohol Options: You could serve just wine or beer, but avoid hard liquor and cocktails, keeping things more low-key.
• BYOB: Another option is to allow guests to bring their own alcohol if they wish, but not provide it yourselves.
• Wine for Toasts Only: You could offer wine for toasts, allowing guests to raise a glass in celebration without making alcohol a major part of the event.

Final Thoughts

Whether or not you serve alcohol at your vow renewal is entirely your decision and should reflect your beliefs and preferences. There are plenty of creative and thoughtful ways to make your reception fun and memorable without serving alcohol. Focus on offering a variety of non-alcoholic beverages and creating a welcoming environment that celebrates your love and values.