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Episode 25: Introducing The Inclusive Event Planner!
In a must-listen episode of the Sober Life Rocks podcast, host Margy Schaller interviews Laura Nelson, co-founder of Sober Life Rocks and author of the newly released book, The Inclusive Event Planner.
Together, they explore one of the most pressing topics for today’s event planners: creating alcohol-free, inclusive spaces that welcome everyone, regardless of drinking preferences. As more people embrace sobriety and mindful drinking, the demand for inclusive events—from weddings to corporate functions—has never been more significant.
In this blog, we’ll uncover Laura’s strategies for designing events that resonate with all guests, regardless of their choice to drink or not. We’ll also spotlight her book, The Inclusive Event Planner, a guide that’s already gaining traction among event professionals eager to make thoughtful, inclusive changes. Read on for insights and actionable tips on hosting events that foster connection, inclusivity, and fun for everyone!
What Does “Inclusive Event Planning” Mean for Sobriety?
As more people adopt alcohol-free lifestyles—1 in 5 Americans, according to recent research—the demand for inclusive event planning has soared. But what does it mean to create an inclusive event, especially for those who don’t drink? Laura Nelson, co-founder of Sober Life Rocks and author of The Inclusive Event Planner, emphasizes that inclusivity means acknowledging and respecting the preferences of all attendees, including those who abstain from alcohol.
“An inclusive event treats non-drinkers equally, offering them a full range of options to enjoy the celebration,” explains Laura. Inspired by her own journey and the experiences of others who have felt overlooked at alcohol-centered events, Laura is on a mission to change how gatherings are planned. Her approach focuses on shifting the emphasis from alcohol to shared experiences, meaningful activities, and genuine connection, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and included.
Why Inclusive Event Planning Matters for Non-Drinkers
In the podcast episode, Margy and Laura dive into the rising demand for events that cater to sobriety and mindful drinking. With a growing number of people choosing not to drink—whether for health, personal reasons, or recovery—event planners today have the unique opportunity to redefine social gatherings by moving beyond alcohol as the main attraction.
An inclusive event isn’t just considerate; it’s modern and essential. By creating spaces where alcohol isn’t the central focus, event planners can broaden their appeal, increase guest comfort, and enhance the experience for everyone in attendance. Inclusivity isn’t a passing trend; it’s becoming a crucial component of modern event planning, and those who embrace it are setting new standards in the industry.
Key Strategies for Event Planners: How to Make Your Event Inclusive for Non-Drinkers
Laura Nelson’s new book, The Inclusive Event Planner, outlines several strategies for event planners who want to make their events more welcoming for people who don’t drink alcohol. Here are some practical tips from their podcast conversation:
1. Offer a Wide Variety of Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-alcoholic options should be more than just soda or water. Instead, provide a selection of beverages that are both creative and flavorful. Consider mocktails (non-alcoholic cocktails), fresh juices, non-alcoholic beer, kombucha, or sparkling waters with garnishes. By offering a variety of interesting alternatives to alcoholic drinks, guests who don’t drink can still enjoy something festive without feeling left out.
2. Highlight Non-Alcoholic Options
Make sure your non-alcoholic drinks are easy to spot and easily accessible. Whether it’s setting up a designated “mocktail bar” or listing non-alcoholic options prominently on the drink menu, visibility is key. You want your sober guests to feel that these options are just as important as the alcoholic ones.
3. Communicate Inclusivity in Advance
One of the easiest ways to make sure your event is inclusive is to communicate with your guests ahead of time. Let them know that you’ll be offering non-alcoholic options and that everyone will be welcomed, no matter their drinking preferences. This can be done in your invitations or through your event website.
4. Create Alcohol-Free Spaces
Some guests may prefer to be in an environment where alcohol isn’t the central focus. Consider creating a designated alcohol-free area where people can gather, socialize, and relax away from the bar or drink stations. This space can be especially important for guests in recovery or those who just want a break from the alcohol-centric vibe of a traditional event.
5. Timing of Alcohol
Alcohol at an event can often dictate the flow of the gathering. One strategy Laura recommends is to serve alcohol later in the event, after the initial socializing or activities. This allows non-drinkers to enjoy the early part of the event without feeling pressure or being excluded. Timing alcohol service in this way can shift the focus to activities and experiences rather than just drinking.
6. Inclusive Social Activities
Many events include drinking games or activities that require alcohol. For an inclusive event, planners should consider activities that don’t revolve around drinking, such as trivia, karaoke, dance-offs, or icebreakers that encourage conversation and connection without any alcohol involved.
Opportunities for Growth in Inclusive Event Planning
As Laura shared in the podcast, the trend toward sober events is on the rise. People are increasingly seeking events that don’t center around drinking or that offer an alternative for those who choose not to drink. This shift presents a huge opportunity for event planners to expand their services by designing events that are more inclusive, not only for non-drinkers but also for those in recovery or people simply choosing to avoid alcohol for personal reasons.
“Inclusivity is becoming a core value for the future of event planning,” Laura explained. The growing demand for alcohol-free options at events shows that this is not just a passing trend but a lasting shift in how we approach socializing and celebration.
As event planners adapt to these changes, they will find that they are not only providing a more comfortable environment for guests but also attracting a wider audience. This includes people who might have previously avoided events due to alcohol-centric atmospheres or the pressure to drink.
Practical Tips for Event Organizers: Dealing with Alcohol
When planning an inclusive event, there are several things to keep in mind when it comes to alcohol:
1. Research Guest Preferences
Before the event, try to gather information about your guests’ preferences. Some may prefer non-alcoholic drinks, while others may prefer alcoholic options in moderation. Understanding your guest list allows you to better cater to everyone’s needs.
2. Plan Alcohol-Free Entertainment
Instead of focusing on activities that revolve around alcohol, make sure your event is filled with entertainment options that don’t require drinking. Consider live music, group activities, or workshops that are fun and engaging without any alcohol involved.
3. Toast Without Alcohol
If your event includes a celebratory moment like a toast, make sure there’s something for everyone to raise. Sparkling water, non-alcoholic wine, or kombucha can all be used to toast just as effectively as champagne or cocktails.
4. Set the Tone in Invitations
Use your event invitations to emphasize the inclusivity of your event. Whether it’s through language in the invitation or a note on your event page, make it clear that your event is welcoming to people who don’t drink.
Conclusion: Create an Inclusive Event Today
As we continue to see a shift toward sobriety and mindful drinking, inclusive event planning is becoming a necessity for modern gatherings. By offering diverse non-alcoholic options, promoting inclusivity in your event design, and being thoughtful about your guests’ needs, you can create a space that’s welcoming to all—whether they drink alcohol or not.
If you’re an event planner looking to learn more about how to create inclusive, non-alcoholic events, check out Laura Nelson’s The Inclusive Event Planner. It’s now available for purchase and offers a wealth of practical advice and strategies to help you design events that cater to everyone.
Don’t miss out on creating more inclusive, thoughtful gatherings that leave everyone feeling welcomed and respected. Start planning with inclusivity in mind and make your next event one to remember—for all the right reasons!
The Inclusive Event Planner is available for purchase now. Be sure to grab a copy today and start planning your inclusive event with Laura Nelson’s expert advice!
The post Episode 25: Introducing The Inclusive Event Planner! first appeared on Sober Life Rocks.
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By Sober Life RocksIn a must-listen episode of the Sober Life Rocks podcast, host Margy Schaller interviews Laura Nelson, co-founder of Sober Life Rocks and author of the newly released book, The Inclusive Event Planner.
Together, they explore one of the most pressing topics for today’s event planners: creating alcohol-free, inclusive spaces that welcome everyone, regardless of drinking preferences. As more people embrace sobriety and mindful drinking, the demand for inclusive events—from weddings to corporate functions—has never been more significant.
In this blog, we’ll uncover Laura’s strategies for designing events that resonate with all guests, regardless of their choice to drink or not. We’ll also spotlight her book, The Inclusive Event Planner, a guide that’s already gaining traction among event professionals eager to make thoughtful, inclusive changes. Read on for insights and actionable tips on hosting events that foster connection, inclusivity, and fun for everyone!
What Does “Inclusive Event Planning” Mean for Sobriety?
As more people adopt alcohol-free lifestyles—1 in 5 Americans, according to recent research—the demand for inclusive event planning has soared. But what does it mean to create an inclusive event, especially for those who don’t drink? Laura Nelson, co-founder of Sober Life Rocks and author of The Inclusive Event Planner, emphasizes that inclusivity means acknowledging and respecting the preferences of all attendees, including those who abstain from alcohol.
“An inclusive event treats non-drinkers equally, offering them a full range of options to enjoy the celebration,” explains Laura. Inspired by her own journey and the experiences of others who have felt overlooked at alcohol-centered events, Laura is on a mission to change how gatherings are planned. Her approach focuses on shifting the emphasis from alcohol to shared experiences, meaningful activities, and genuine connection, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and included.
Why Inclusive Event Planning Matters for Non-Drinkers
In the podcast episode, Margy and Laura dive into the rising demand for events that cater to sobriety and mindful drinking. With a growing number of people choosing not to drink—whether for health, personal reasons, or recovery—event planners today have the unique opportunity to redefine social gatherings by moving beyond alcohol as the main attraction.
An inclusive event isn’t just considerate; it’s modern and essential. By creating spaces where alcohol isn’t the central focus, event planners can broaden their appeal, increase guest comfort, and enhance the experience for everyone in attendance. Inclusivity isn’t a passing trend; it’s becoming a crucial component of modern event planning, and those who embrace it are setting new standards in the industry.
Key Strategies for Event Planners: How to Make Your Event Inclusive for Non-Drinkers
Laura Nelson’s new book, The Inclusive Event Planner, outlines several strategies for event planners who want to make their events more welcoming for people who don’t drink alcohol. Here are some practical tips from their podcast conversation:
1. Offer a Wide Variety of Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-alcoholic options should be more than just soda or water. Instead, provide a selection of beverages that are both creative and flavorful. Consider mocktails (non-alcoholic cocktails), fresh juices, non-alcoholic beer, kombucha, or sparkling waters with garnishes. By offering a variety of interesting alternatives to alcoholic drinks, guests who don’t drink can still enjoy something festive without feeling left out.
2. Highlight Non-Alcoholic Options
Make sure your non-alcoholic drinks are easy to spot and easily accessible. Whether it’s setting up a designated “mocktail bar” or listing non-alcoholic options prominently on the drink menu, visibility is key. You want your sober guests to feel that these options are just as important as the alcoholic ones.
3. Communicate Inclusivity in Advance
One of the easiest ways to make sure your event is inclusive is to communicate with your guests ahead of time. Let them know that you’ll be offering non-alcoholic options and that everyone will be welcomed, no matter their drinking preferences. This can be done in your invitations or through your event website.
4. Create Alcohol-Free Spaces
Some guests may prefer to be in an environment where alcohol isn’t the central focus. Consider creating a designated alcohol-free area where people can gather, socialize, and relax away from the bar or drink stations. This space can be especially important for guests in recovery or those who just want a break from the alcohol-centric vibe of a traditional event.
5. Timing of Alcohol
Alcohol at an event can often dictate the flow of the gathering. One strategy Laura recommends is to serve alcohol later in the event, after the initial socializing or activities. This allows non-drinkers to enjoy the early part of the event without feeling pressure or being excluded. Timing alcohol service in this way can shift the focus to activities and experiences rather than just drinking.
6. Inclusive Social Activities
Many events include drinking games or activities that require alcohol. For an inclusive event, planners should consider activities that don’t revolve around drinking, such as trivia, karaoke, dance-offs, or icebreakers that encourage conversation and connection without any alcohol involved.
Opportunities for Growth in Inclusive Event Planning
As Laura shared in the podcast, the trend toward sober events is on the rise. People are increasingly seeking events that don’t center around drinking or that offer an alternative for those who choose not to drink. This shift presents a huge opportunity for event planners to expand their services by designing events that are more inclusive, not only for non-drinkers but also for those in recovery or people simply choosing to avoid alcohol for personal reasons.
“Inclusivity is becoming a core value for the future of event planning,” Laura explained. The growing demand for alcohol-free options at events shows that this is not just a passing trend but a lasting shift in how we approach socializing and celebration.
As event planners adapt to these changes, they will find that they are not only providing a more comfortable environment for guests but also attracting a wider audience. This includes people who might have previously avoided events due to alcohol-centric atmospheres or the pressure to drink.
Practical Tips for Event Organizers: Dealing with Alcohol
When planning an inclusive event, there are several things to keep in mind when it comes to alcohol:
1. Research Guest Preferences
Before the event, try to gather information about your guests’ preferences. Some may prefer non-alcoholic drinks, while others may prefer alcoholic options in moderation. Understanding your guest list allows you to better cater to everyone’s needs.
2. Plan Alcohol-Free Entertainment
Instead of focusing on activities that revolve around alcohol, make sure your event is filled with entertainment options that don’t require drinking. Consider live music, group activities, or workshops that are fun and engaging without any alcohol involved.
3. Toast Without Alcohol
If your event includes a celebratory moment like a toast, make sure there’s something for everyone to raise. Sparkling water, non-alcoholic wine, or kombucha can all be used to toast just as effectively as champagne or cocktails.
4. Set the Tone in Invitations
Use your event invitations to emphasize the inclusivity of your event. Whether it’s through language in the invitation or a note on your event page, make it clear that your event is welcoming to people who don’t drink.
Conclusion: Create an Inclusive Event Today
As we continue to see a shift toward sobriety and mindful drinking, inclusive event planning is becoming a necessity for modern gatherings. By offering diverse non-alcoholic options, promoting inclusivity in your event design, and being thoughtful about your guests’ needs, you can create a space that’s welcoming to all—whether they drink alcohol or not.
If you’re an event planner looking to learn more about how to create inclusive, non-alcoholic events, check out Laura Nelson’s The Inclusive Event Planner. It’s now available for purchase and offers a wealth of practical advice and strategies to help you design events that cater to everyone.
Don’t miss out on creating more inclusive, thoughtful gatherings that leave everyone feeling welcomed and respected. Start planning with inclusivity in mind and make your next event one to remember—for all the right reasons!
The Inclusive Event Planner is available for purchase now. Be sure to grab a copy today and start planning your inclusive event with Laura Nelson’s expert advice!
The post Episode 25: Introducing The Inclusive Event Planner! first appeared on Sober Life Rocks.