How to Stay Sober During a Bachelorette Party
Congratulations! You’ve been invited to a bachelor or bachelorette party! You’ve probably watched movies like “Bridesmaids,” where the bride is celebrated during fun, and over-the-top activities all involving alcohol. Maybe you’ve run into a bachelorette party where participants are hopping from bar to bar and asking people to buy the bride a shot.
Being a Sober Girl does not disqualify you from having fun at social events, even when alcohol is present. Bachelorette parties are important traditions for brides-to-be to enjoy before they get married. However, depending on where you are in your relationship with alcohol, attending bachelorette parties is challenging without a plan.
It may seem like all fun and games, but it’s important to be aware of when your sobriety could be threatened. When the party hits that tipping point, that is a good sign it is time to go. Being honest about where you are in your relationship with alcohol can put you in a better position to attend a party and not feel tempted to drink.
Here is a list of the 10 must-have tips for staying sober at a bachelorette party, and enjoying yourself.
1. Follow the bride, keep your boundaries
You might be one of the only people at the party who is booze freer during the party. Be respectful and mindful of the bride’s wishes. After all, this is her special day, but don’t feel pressured to compromise your morals or your sobriety.
2. Talk it out
Chances are high that everyone will know who doesn’t drink. Still, it’s a good idea to talk it out. That way, everybody knows what to expect and can be mindful during the party/trip. Take initiative and talk to the bride about your boundaries to alleviate expectations.
3. Get non-alcoholic drinks
Most of the activities will involve places where alcohol is being served. Have a preferred non-alcoholic drink in mind when you go out. There are tons of amazing alternatives, here are a few of my favorites: A Sober Girls Guide to Non-Alcoholic Drinks. My go-to when out at a bar that doesn’t have anything exciting is the Sober Girl Classic: muddled lime, and mint, lots of ice, topped with soda water (Topo Chico is preferred)
4. Go out during the daytime
It’s more common for people to drink and get boozy at night. For that reason, attend the daytime stuff, like lunches, spa trips, shopping, and pool hangs. Think quality time vs. quantity time.
5. Be the designated driver
Volunteer to be the DD and drive everyone around. If there are multiple sober attendees, take turns sharing the responsibility. This is a great way to hold yourself accountable if you don’t want to drink. Not to mention, you control the music and the vibe for each ride.
6. Have a sober wing woman
Find another sober person or someone who is supportive to lean on during the party. If there isn’t anyone present, go on to our members-only group chat in the Sober Girl Social Club and reach out for support. There is always someone available to chat and offer support when you need it.
7. Know when to fold em’
There might be times when things get out of hand during the party. You might also just be ready to end the night early. In any case, listen to your gut. Don’t let FOMO (fear of missing out) get the best of you. A wise friend of mine said nothing good happens after midnight, she was right. Nothing significant happens, especially with people who have been drinking. If anything they keep repeating the same story and situation because they are drunk! Take your sexy Sober Girl self home.
8. No means no
No matter what your reasons are for avoiding alcohol, everyone in attendance should respect your wishes to remain sober, including YOU! True friends and loved ones will support your decision. If you are a Sober Girl, it’s best to remember that nothing can come before your sobriety. When you make it a priority, your actions will naturally align with your goals.
9. Skip traditional alcohol venues
Bars, strip clubs, and traditional party cities like New Orleans and Las Vegas might provide too much temptation. In that case, attend the festivities less focused on alcohol. For example, go for dinner but skip the nightclub.
10. Sober Girl time out
Parties can be overwhelming and extremely overstimulating, it is important to acknowledge this. Take a time out in your hotel room, bathroom, on a walk, or out in the parking lot. Remember to breathe. You are the captain of your ship and everything will be ok. Enjoy yourself and make yourself proud, you got this ❤️