The holidays are full of parties and gatherings, whether with friends and family, or co-workers from your office. As a guest of these parties, it’s easy to gift a bottle of wine to show your appreciation to the host or hosts, but, if everyone brings alcohol to the fete, chances are that someone could leave the party after having too much to drink. Besides, non-alcoholic gifts show you put more thought into a gift than a quick grab of a bottle at a local grocery store.
Responsible hosts limit the amount of alcohol their guests can drink, with the understanding that most guests will be driving home. However, after drinking a few drinks with friends, adding another bottle of wine (or more) may not seem like a big deal after the holiday “buzz” hits. That buzz can quickly turn tragic, or at least lead to a drunk driving conviction, ignition interlock requirement and more. By offering a non-alcoholic gift, you’re helping keep your hosts and the other guests safe from drunk driving.
Instead of a bottle of wine or a favorite bottle of liquor, think of any other items that are used during holiday parties. Scented soaps, lotions and candles are always great during these weeks, especially if a host has plenty of guests, family members and/or in-house events that will use their supplies. While having alcohol on hand is great, your host will probably really love that he or she can have those smaller items handy once the season is in full motion.
Flavored coffee, tea or hot cocoa are welcome gifts, as well, giving your host the ability to serve non-alcoholic drinks with holiday warmth to guests. Plus, when friends stop by unannounced, there is always a festive drink on-hand that will keep the drunk driving to a minimum. Of course, you can always give the gift of being a designated driver for any party you attend, eliminating your host’s worry about how guests will arrive home safely.
Drunk driving can lead to devastating consequences, and no holiday season should be remembered by that irresponsible choice. As a guest, your own choices matter a lot to your host – from the non-alcoholic gifts you bring to your decision to remain sober behind the wheel. Keeping the holiday spirit alive doesn’t require a bottle of wine, just a few hours with good friends followed by a safe ride home.