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In recovery from addiction, finding new ways to celebrate milestones and create lasting memories is essential. And, there’s one emerging trend that holds immense value for those in recovery – and it’s the sober hen do. But what exactly is a sober hen do, and what would it entail for those who have battled addiction?
Whether you are a bride or groom in recovery, a supportive friend or family member looking for hen do ideas for sober brides, or a professional in the addiction recovery field, this guide will provide insights into the benefits of a sober hen do and offer ideas to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience that aligns with the principles of recovery.
What is a Sober Hen Do?
Expectations surrounding a hen do often include drinking, followed by a nasty hangover the next day. It may be surprising, but more people than ever are searching for sober hen do ideas for a variety of reasons.
The National Wedding Survey of more than 2,400 newlyweds in 2022, revealed that 11% of weddings last year were alcohol-free, an increase from 10% the previous year.
Leading wedding expert, Zoe Burke said, “With more than 1 in 10 weddings in the UK last year being alcohol-free, it’s not a surprise to see the pre-wedding celebrations follow suit. As more millennials and older Gen Z-ers identify as sober-curious or practise mindful drinking, we can expect this number to grow even more”.
But this isn’t just a generational influence. People are interested in sober hen party ideas to avoid the horrible hangover, to be more health conscious, to cater for pregnant guests or a pregnant hen, and to cater for any alcoholics in recovery. More and more people are also becoming sober curious.
Wedding experts at Hitched, recently revealed that in a survey of 966 respondents, almost two-thirds (60%) of guests, would happily attend a booze-free hen party, with the remaining 30% saying they would go if they had to.
With so many guests happy to attend a non-alcoholic hen party, more planners are looking for alternative hen do ideas to incorporate all the fun expected of a hen do, without the need for alcohol. Women’s Health has even announced a huge increase in the amount of 0% alcohol now available to purchase in shops and bars, with more distilleries than ever creating non-alcoholic versions of their iconic drinks.
Benefits of an Alcohol-Free Hen Do
There are more benefits to a non-alcoholic hen do than you might think!
Firstly, you’ll save a lot of money that you’d otherwise be spending on booze. Saving money on drinks is a great incentive to go alcohol-free. You could also put this extra money towards fun activities for a sober hen do. Guests would also be able to drive home after the event, rather than having to stay overnight, saving even more money on accommodation.
Secondly, drinking alcohol naturally increases everyone’s emotions and lowers inhibitions, often resulting in a lot of mess to clean up. A sober hen would avoid any inevitable drama and allow more time for engaging in personalised activities for the bride (and remember it all in the morning).
Thirdly, a sober hen do is more inclusive. If people don’t drink because of their religion, their age, because of financial worries, because of addiction, or because of personal choice, it can sometimes feel like there’s a lot of pressure to drink, particularly at a hen do. An alcohol-free hen do takes this pressure and any anxiety away. No one will be asking why you’re not drinking or pressuring you into taking more shots. Everyone will be on the same page, allowing everyone to enjoy the event equally.
For those in recovery from alcohol addiction, it’s important to find ways of enjoying traditions that usually involve alcohol. Sober hen do’s are a great way of not missing out on something that many people find to be a special experience, without risking your sobriety.
Related Article: How To Stay Sober When You Are Going Out
Active and Outdoor Hen Do Ideas
Staying active and being outdoors on a hen do is a great idea, especially if you’re not holding back on the treats! You could get active and relieve some tension by attending a dance class. Not only would this help to shake off any pre-wedding stresses, but it will also create a fun shared experience with the group. You could even rehearse an iconic dance like Dirty Dancing or Grease to perform at the wedding.
Yoga is another fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors and keep active at a hen do. This is the perfect way to relax and take a break from the stresses of daily life. If you want to avoid the cost of a specialist yoga retreat, you can hire an instructor for an hour or just download a yoga class online.
Creative Ideas for a Sober Hen Do
Ever tried to make perfume? A perfume-making class is a great alternative hen do idea. You can learn about the history of perfume and the entire creative process to make your unique scent, perhaps to wear at the wedding.
Another creative idea for a sober hen do is to hold a crafting party. If the bride-to-be is a crafty queen, then there’s plenty to do, from quilting, flower arranging, pottery classes, sewing, or creating something unique for the wedding, like bunting or a seating plan. This really gets everyone involved with something to show for your hard work at the end!
Relaxing and Pampering Sober Hen Do Options
A spa day for a hen do has always been a popular choice, and there’s no reason it can’t be alcohol-free. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax before the big day and incorporate some spa treatments in time for the wedding, such as pedicures, manicures, facials, and plenty more.
Another relaxing way to spend your hen do is with a movie night at home. Organise a cosy night in with your favourite films and tonnes of popcorn. You could even turn it into a pyjama party for ultimate relaxation or add in the fun of pizza, making for lots of laughs without the alcohol.
Fun and Social Sober Hen Do Ideas
If you’re looking for fun and social sober hen do ideas, then why not try a roller disco? Relieve the 80s in your best leg warmers and take to the dancefloor on your roller skates. Or, if skating isn’t your thing, try your hand at karaoke! Take turns to choose songs for each other and give it your best shot – lots of laughs are guaranteed.
If you’re looking for fun activities for a sober hen do where you can stay in, a board game night is a great option. Have a board game extravaganza from Monopoly to Jenga. Everyone can bring one with them. You could even offer a small prize to each winner, keeping everyone engaged in the evening.
