Expert: HAUTE EVENTS, formerly C & G Planning(Christine Bailey, Owner) - 4/1/2007

Question
Mrs. Bailey- My fiance and I are planning on getting married next March and need your advice on a very delicate matter. We would like to have a non-alcohol reception. First off we really do not like drinking but that really is not the main reason. We have been told that many places will have the couple sign a contract that they will take responsibility for guest drinking (behavior, drunk driving). Many people who we have shared the idea with think we are out of our minds saying that such an idea is insulting and that guests will not enjoy the event as much and might take it out on us by not giving as much in their gift. Can you please advise 1) Are we out of our minds? 2) Whats the best way to do this without taking away the good time we want guests to have?

Thank you
Michael

Answer
I actually have a client getting married in June that is in a similar position. I am based in CA and I am not sure where you are located but in my own experience I have never come across such a clause in a property contract that releases them from liability for something they are providing their own client.  

But to answer your questions:
1)  Absolutely not.  If you dont want it then dont have it.  To not have alcohol at a wedding is also not an insult, its your wedding and youre paying for it.

2)  If you're concerned about your guests having a good time a compromise would be to have some alcohol provided.  You could do a selection of 2 signature drinks served during the cocktail hour to help loosen people up or you could just serve wine with dinner.