When you’re planning your wedding, it can be tempting to make it all about you and your beloved. And you are the most important people on the day! But it’s also nice to consider your guests and to make sure they’re having a good time. For those that don’t drink alcohol for whatever reason, as well as kids, it can be wonderful to serve non alcoholic beverages that are actually interesting to consume at the wedding reception. Especially during the toasts!

You may also choose to not have alcoholic drinks at your wedding. There can be plenty of reasons for this, including a history of alcoholism, religious or venue restrictions. Cocktails and other alcoholic beverages can add a big cost to your wedding reception. So it can be a good idea to think about setting up a dry bar at your wedding, where guests can get great non alcoholic drinks.

Non Alcoholic Drinks for Wedding

Sodas

A classic that is loved by children and adults. Look at a few options to find some that are lower in sugar. Some brands pack a huge sugar hit which your health-focused guests and parents of young children won’t really want. You can still get the flavor and the sweetness of soda without a truckload of sugar in each can or bottle.

Premium Water / Sparkling Water

Sparkling water makes a simple drink like water into some special for your guests to drink. You can easily buy bottles or cans of various flavors that give your guests variety and choice. Sparkling water for the table can also be a great way to encourage guests to drink more water and stay hydrated. Normal water can be a bit bland. But bottles of sparkling will encourage your guests to drink up. Add some slices of fruit, cucumber or herbs to add a delicate flavor as well.

Fruit Juices

Freshly pressed juices can be a delightfully refreshing option if you’re somewhere that there’s access to lots of fresh fruit. There’s nothing quite like freshly squeezed orange juice in Florida! Or if you want something a little different, try looking for fresh-pressed vegetable juices. You’ll get in the deliciousness of spinach, kale or beetroot as an extra vitamin boost.

Kombucha

Kombucha, a probiotic drink made from fermented tea, can almost feel like a cocktail when you’re drinking it. Serve it in a great glass with a piece of fruit to make it look cocktail like. Some varieties do end up with high sugar content, so do your research and compare a few brands. You’re bound to find one that you not only like the flavor of but also is reasonable on the sugar side.

Mocktails

Serving signature cocktails? Make sure your bartenders know how to turn them into delicious mocktails as well so that all your guests have a special drink during the cocktail hour. A virgin Moscow Mule with lots of ginger ale, fresh lime and ice can be a delight for those not drinking and help them blend in with the crowd. Some non-drinkers don’t want to be conspicuous, especially if they’re newly pregnant. Giving them the chance to work the crowd with a cocktail-looking drink in hand can serve as the perfect disguise.

Non-alcoholic Punch

A non-alcoholic punch is a great idea if you’re looking to keep costs down at your wedding. You can make it yourself and you can serve it in large punch bowls where guests can help themselves so that you can reduce the cost of having to pay for wait staff to serve drinks. If serving alongside alcoholic punch, make sure you’re advising your guests which is which!

Iced Tea

There’s nothing quite as refreshing as iced tea on a hot, sunny day. Speak to your wedding planner about what local fruit or flavors you can include to make it more unique for your guests. This can be popular with people drinking alcohol as well, so make sure you have plenty on hand for all your guests. It provides a great drink for them to alternate with alcoholic beverages.

Milkshakes

If you’re having a wedding theme that is fun, youthful or carnival-like, you could serve milkshakes to your guests. Keep in mind that they can be very filling, so consider serving in small glasses or serving sizes. Stick with classic flavors like strawberry, chocolate and vanilla or mix it up with exotic ice cream flavors for something a little more unusual.

Old Fashioned Lemonade

Refreshing, zesty and a little sweet. Old fashioned lemonade is a great drink that you can make in advance and serve in a variety of ways. If you’re having waitstaff they can serve to your guests, or use large punch bowls to create a dry-bar area where guests can help themselves. If doing the latter, serve with large slices of lemon in the punch bowl for dramatic effect.

OLD FASHIONED LEMONADE

Makes 7 servings

Ingredients

1-1/3 cups sugar
5 cups water, divided
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
1-3/4 cups lemon juice (about 10 large lemons)

Instructions

Combine the sugar, 1 cup of water and lemon zest in a large saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved (about four minutes).
Remove from the heat and stir in the lemon juice and remaining water.
Refrigerate until cold and serve over ice.