by Shell Righini (aks Low No Drinker Magazine's Dear Aunty Shell)
1 - Plan a Booze-Free Date Night
If you're coupled up, ditch the traditional wine-and-dine routine. Instead, cook a meal together, have a movie marathon, or try an activity you've never done before—like pottery painting or an escape room! If you're single, plan a special night just for you. Treat yourself to a fancy dinner or a spa evening at home with your favourite face mask, candles and a bottle of NA fizz like Saicho's sparkling jasmine tea*. Buy some new PJs and journal about all the ways you are going to show up for yourself this year.
2 - Celebrate With Friends
Valentine's doesn't have to be all about romance. Host a Galentine's or Palentine's Day with your closest friends. Play games, eat great food, and laugh until your cheeks hurt. Friendship deserves just as much love and attention as romance.
And make sure to stock the fridge for all the fun NA cocktails you can come up with! Or if beer is more your thing, get some cans of 'We Can Be Friends' in – Their recent 'Cloudy Krush' collab with Vault City contains Sicilian lemons and is a refreshing drink which I recommend you and your pals enjoy with an obscene amount of nachos.
3 - Create a Signature NA Drink
Valentine's Day is the perfect excuse to experiment with alcohol-free drinks. Whether you're
enjoying them alone or with someone special, crafting your own alcohol-free drink feels indulgent and fun.
And you won't find it hard to get inspiration – shelves are now filled with options to play Tom Cruise with. One of my favourites is 'La Vie En Rose Spritz' by Mindfully Cami, which mixes Everleaf Mountain, Noughty Rose* and tonic with loads of ice and fresh strawberries. Simple and delicious!
4 - Indulge in Something Special
Treat yourself to something! Buy yourself flowers, that book you've been wanting, or what about a piece of sober-themed merch to celebrate your new sober lifestyle? We Recover Loudly will be announcing the first drop of their exclusive, small-batch designs that celebrate your journey in the coming weeks. Make sure to follow @werecoverloudly for the latest updates.
5 - Write Yourself a Love Letter
Ok, another cheese ball moment, but I invite you to take a moment to reflect on your sobriety journey. Write yourself a love letter celebrating how far you've come, what you've learned, and all the things you love about yourself. It's a powerful reminder of your worth and an amazing confidence boost.
And if your immediate reaction to this suggestion is "NO!" you should definitely do it! Because it is when we are uncomfortable that the best growth happens.
About Aunty Shell: Shell is a dynamic podcast producer, editor, and host of the hit show We Recover Loudly, where she breaks down the stigma around addiction and celebrates sobriety. As a qualified recovery coach, Shell is launching bold, unapologetic sobriety merchandise in February 2025—designed for those who are loud and proud in their sober journey. Shell's work continues to spark change with heart and purpose.
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