Nonalcoholic Drinks Are Raising the Bar at Weddings and Events Across Northeast Ohio

Open bar decisions can feel overwhelming, especially for couples trying to balance creativity, cost and guest preferences. From mocktails to margaritas, today’s weddings are moving away from one-size-fits-all bar setups in favor of curated experiences that reflect the couple’s spirit. Sip Social NE Ohio offers a fresh alternative with a variety of options that feel personalized, inventive and manageable.

After spending 25 years in the nonprofit sector running development teams, Maureen Ischay saw a gap in the event industry. She planned countless fundraisers and galas, often hiring bars that were either too simple or too over-the-top. She wanted something in between, an experience that felt elevated without the expense or waste of a full open bar.

That idea is the foundation for Sip Social NE Ohio, which uses up to seven taps to deliver customized wedding beverages that strike the perfect balance between casual and sophisticated.

Innovation has become a driving force behind the business. Ischay and her team create a new drink each week to feature on social media, using it as an opportunity to test flavors, experiment with ingredients and connect with potential clients.

Lately, she has noticed a growing demand for spirit-free drinks at receptions and showers, inspiring recipes that are designed to be flexible and fun, tasting just as good on their own as they do with a shot added for guests looking for an extra kick.

According to Wine Enthusiast, citing data from wedding planning platform Breezit, searches for “dry wedding” have risen 85% in the past year.

“Customers are super grateful that we have nonalcoholic options available,” Ischay says. “I think people are just kind of getting tired of thinking that you have to drink alcohol to have a great time.”

A 2023 Gallup poll found that only 62% of U.S. adults under 35 say they drink, down from 72% in 2001. Many younger guests are embracing moderation, exploring mindful drinking or skipping alcohol entirely, in favor of creative alternatives that still feel celebratory. With her line of kegged beverages, Ischay is helping to meet that shift, offering guests something more exciting than soda and water at a time when fewer young adults are reaching for alcohol.

READ MORE: Rely on These Trends and Tips For Planning a Perfect Cleveland Wedding

That same care extends to presentation. Each setup includes garnishes, creative toppers and handcrafted touches that lead with intention. Whether it’s a frothy mocktail made with Fee Foam or a cocktail finished with a touch of smoke, every beverage receives the same attention to detail.

The mobile setup adds another layer of appeal for weddings and private events. The truck’s tap wall becomes a natural focal point at receptions, drawing curiosity and encouraging guests to interact. Beyond the novelty, the tap system also makes spirit-free options feel seamless and discreet. Every drink, alcoholic or not, is served the same way, allowing guests to enjoy what they like without standing out.

“They are treated no differently than we would do for an alcoholic beverage,” Ischay says.

With every pour, Sip Social NE Ohio is redefining the wedding toast, crafting drinks that look, feel and taste like a celebration of something new.

Four Mocktails We Love

Cherry Good Time

• Cold brew 

• Vanilla chai simple syrup

• Oat milk

• Cherry syrup cold foam

Habanero Lime Margarita

• Orange juice

• Lime juice

• Lemon juice

• Simple syrup

• Water 

• Habanero lime syrup 

• Spirit free tequila (optional)

Blackberry Italian Soda

• Soda water

• Blackberry lemon simple syrup 

• Half and half

Strawberry Mint Lemonade

• Freshly squeezed lemon juice

• Simple syrup 

• Water with strawberry mint simple syrup

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