It’s generally accepted lore that, even in the sober-curious era, many professional environments still rely heavily on alcohol for social lubrication, camaraderie, and wooing clients. The resulting corporate culture is often one where those who choose not to imbibe can feel like outsiders and worry about making critical connections with co-workers and clients alike. This culture often carries over into professional meeting spaces, particularly multi-day events and retreats. Making these events more sober-inclusive isn’t just about accommodating preferences—it’s about maximizing attendance and ensuring every professional has an equal opportunity to network, engage, and contribute. When event planners focus on creating environments that go beyond the conventional happy hour format, they open doors to broader participation and more meaningful interactions.

Unfortunately, while the broader food and beverage industry is enthusiastically embracing the sober-curious movement, many professional conferences and events still offer only limited options for non-drinkers, defaulting to soda or water. This outdated approach misses the opportunity to create spaces where everyone feels valued, comfortable, and included. The journey toward more inclusive events starts with understanding why this change matters and how we can inspire it.