I had an interesting experience at golf yesterday. During the 15th hole, a gal broke out the beers, and it was a bit awkward because two of the four of us didn’t know that I don’t drink. One friend, who was aware of my situation, said, “I have non-alcoholic beer; I’ll bring some next time.” The other friend, whom I had told about my decision not to drink since May, responded with, “Good for you!” I suspect she only drinks because of the alcohol-centric culture we live in.
I managed to get through it, and we even went to happy hour where I had a non-alcoholic drink. Perhaps you could have suggested having the gathering at a park or courtyard where everyone brings something. But I understand that a pub is much easier, but it's great that you recognized how alcohol-centric culture can feel exclusionary. I recently listened to a podcast featuring Mel Robbins and Todd Rose discussing Collective Illusion, which I think you might find interesting.
I hosted a party once for 150 people, debuting a bunch of my new artwork that had just gone on exhibit. It was to be 6-10pm on a Friday. Prime drinking hours. Because I don't drink, I planned to offer exclusively NA options, including a signature mocktail.
A few days before the event, my best friend pushed back on my plans. "You need to have beer," she said. "And wine. People are going to expect it." I resisted, explaining that I was designing the experience in my own style. She insisted, though, and I didn't want to dismiss her wisdom. She cares about me. I trust her judgment quite deeply.
The night of, she showed up with two cases of beer. We stuck them in the venue's service fridge.
The event ended up being a huge hit, and nobody went for the beer (or opened the three bottles of wine someone else brought). The cases sat in the fridge as people drank Phrantinis (seltzer + pineapple juice) and Sanbitters (Italian soda ftw!).
Though it may require a little creativity to overcome the marketing might of boozedom, I'm here to say a fab alcohol-free world is possible.
I had an interesting experience at golf yesterday. During the 15th hole, a gal broke out the beers, and it was a bit awkward because two of the four of us didn’t know that I don’t drink. One friend, who was aware of my situation, said, “I have non-alcoholic beer; I’ll bring some next time.” The other friend, whom I had told about my decision not to drink since May, responded with, “Good for you!” I suspect she only drinks because of the alcohol-centric culture we live in.
I managed to get through it, and we even went to happy hour where I had a non-alcoholic drink. Perhaps you could have suggested having the gathering at a park or courtyard where everyone brings something. But I understand that a pub is much easier, but it's great that you recognized how alcohol-centric culture can feel exclusionary. I recently listened to a podcast featuring Mel Robbins and Todd Rose discussing Collective Illusion, which I think you might find interesting.
Thanks for this. I have not heard of collective illusion - will explore!
This is the nugget in the podcast, but the whole thing is interesting https://share.google/0oCIjLXMprpdnhUrS
I hosted a party once for 150 people, debuting a bunch of my new artwork that had just gone on exhibit. It was to be 6-10pm on a Friday. Prime drinking hours. Because I don't drink, I planned to offer exclusively NA options, including a signature mocktail.
A few days before the event, my best friend pushed back on my plans. "You need to have beer," she said. "And wine. People are going to expect it." I resisted, explaining that I was designing the experience in my own style. She insisted, though, and I didn't want to dismiss her wisdom. She cares about me. I trust her judgment quite deeply.
The night of, she showed up with two cases of beer. We stuck them in the venue's service fridge.
The event ended up being a huge hit, and nobody went for the beer (or opened the three bottles of wine someone else brought). The cases sat in the fridge as people drank Phrantinis (seltzer + pineapple juice) and Sanbitters (Italian soda ftw!).
Though it may require a little creativity to overcome the marketing might of boozedom, I'm here to say a fab alcohol-free world is possible.