You can absolutely have a super fun, alcohol-free event!

Lots of special events are planned without including alcoholic beverages. At Jacquie’s Gourmet Catering, we want you to know there are all kinds of ways to keep the beverages you do serve fun, inclusive and inviting – while keeping your event safer for those who drive, families with children, and those people who cannot drink alcohol.

According to Jacquie Bols, “Throwing a memorable, fun event doesn’t necessarily mean alcohol has to play a part. There are definitely times alcohol can take a backseat to non-alcoholic and spirit-free options in order to create an inclusive environment for all partygoers.”

“The catering industry, together with bars, restaurants, and their guests, are coming together thoughtfully to find a balance between NA (non-alcoholic) and their alcoholic counterparts. Making healthy lifestyle choices should definitely be front and center.”

A positive way to headline the fact that you are throwing a NA event is to call the event something that sounds fun and savvy, such as calling the event Zero-proof, no-proof, or spirit-free (empowering!), rather than calling it what it is not (non-alcoholic). Then, have fun coming up with lots of spirit-free drinks that will whet the imagination every bit as much as they whet the appetite!

Here are some brilliant ideas from our creative bartending staff:

• Have fun with tonic waters, gingers, sparkling sodas, lime and lemon, and fruit mixers. After all, these essential beverages are responsible for ¾ of every alcoholic beverage, so why not make them the centerpiece of your mocktails?
• Many brands of alcohol-free beer are actually delicious. There are national brands to try as well as those from local breweries. Give them a chance!
• Did someone ask for a toast? Sparkling bottles of champagne-like beverages look and taste so very similar to the real thing – right down to the label! Toast away… safely and happily!
• Get creative in naming your special Mocktails of the Evening. You could name them after those that are throwing the party, honored at the event, or even nod to the season, the date, or an organization itself.

Here is a mocktail we road-tested and loved – to get you started:

"Thyme Will Tell"

Ingredients

• 3 grapefruits, juiced
• ¾ ounce fresh lime juice
• ¾ ounce agave syrup
• 1 sprig thyme, for garnish

Directions

1. Light thyme on fire and catch smoke in a snifter and cover with a coaster.
2. Shake grapefruit juice with lime juice, then agave.
3. Strain into smoked glass.
4. Garnish with fresh sprig of thyme and serve

Our bartenders will be happy to help you get into “the spirit,” if you will! Get creative and have fun! Make going “spirit-free” adventurous and light-hearted – as well as healthy and positive.

To your health!