She's Sparkling AF: Cari Hahn

Cari Hahn

Owner Ember and Belle™️ | Clutch and Kindle™️

When did you commit to an alcohol-free lifestyle?

Five years ago, most of my weekends started with 5 p.m. cocktails. As a cancer survivor, I was aware of the risks alcohol carried, and I was tired of not feeling my best after a night out.

For a few years, I kept it moderate. But over 2.5 years ago, I chose to go completely alcohol-free.

I had bigger goals, bigger dreams, and I realized alcohol was getting in the way of becoming the person I wanted to be.

Name an unexpected joy(s) since going alcohol-free.

One of the greatest unexpected gifts of not drinking has been experiencing life clearly, just as it is. I’ve come to love quiet mornings and weekends where I wake up refreshed after a good night’s sleep.

I no longer carry that lingering anxiety wondering what I said or did when the drinks flowed too freely.

Name a hard part about being alcohol-free.

The hardest part of not drinking was navigating all the “firsts.”

The first time I danced at a wedding sober, which turns out, you absolutely can. And once I did, it was just as fun… maybe even better, without the hangover.

Along the way, I also realized some friendships were more about the moment than the connection. I may not be as wild as I once was, but I still have fun these days; it just looks like being happily in bed by 9.

Favorite alcohol-free drinks!

Club soda with lime is definitely a go-to if NA options aren’t an option. I absolutely love French Bloom sparkling NA rose- it is how I celebrated 10 years cancer free!!  I love sparkling wines, so this is an amazing option.

Ellis in Noblesville makes amazing NA cocktails, and Something Splendid has NA Rose on the menu! Athletic Brewing Co beer is great on a summer day or in a bar.  

Advice for anyone considering going alcohol-free:

I wish I had tried the AF lifestyle much earlier in life. My husband has been in recovery for over 8 years, and I feel like we’ve both had so much clarity and happiness since we stopped drinking alcohol. I would definitely visit Orangily in person and chat about some of the NA options or getting amazing NA recipes online. I haven’t regretted not drinking once.