Sober holiday tips: How to enjoy booze-free celebrations [Video]

Last year, when Lauren Haydel began her first sober holiday season, she wondered how difficult it would be to avoid alcohol at family parties and celebrations with friends. She owns a boutique, Fleurty Girl, in New Orleans’ French Quarter, a neighborhood synonymous with drinking.

But few people questioned her choice. “Instead of them asking me why,” Haydel says, “they ask me, ’Oh, do you feel better?’”

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Many friends told her they’re considering avoiding alcohol themselves.

Sobriety has been having a moment, says Jessica Jeboult, founder of the website and online community A Sober Girl’s Guide.

“This is the ultimate time to rediscover or change your relationship with alcohol,” she says. With so many alcohol-free products available and growing awareness about the benefits of staying sober, “there is maximum support.”

If you are planning to stay sober this holiday season, here are tips from …