Renee Miller

Fractional Operations Support | Self-Employed

When did you commit to an alcohol-free lifestyle?

2/11/2021 — I had what many would call some “rock bottom” moments during my 10+ year relationship with alcohol. There were more than a few times I wasn’t proud of, and they brought with them an unhealthy mix of anxiety, shame, and disappointment. I’d toyed with the idea of sobriety before, taking breaks here and there — sometimes for a few months, sometimes even a couple of years. But I’d always circle back, testing the waters to see if I could “drink like an adult” (whatever that means).

Drinking was such a big part of my social life and, honestly, who I thought I was. It wasn’t until therapy that I started to understand I was using alcohol to feel more at ease in my own skin. I thought the fun, silly, easy-going version of me only showed up after 2 (or 10) drinks. I didn’t feel the need to drink every day — but when I did, I gave it my all.

Name some unexpected joys since going alcohol-free.

Turns out, I’m still fun, easy-going, silly — and I can still let loose… just with way less anxiety. I’ve learned to be comfortable with who I am, the good and the messy parts, all of it. Living alcohol-free means there’s nothing masking who you are — you just get to be. And that’s powerful.

Another unexpected joy? Realizing how solid my support system is. The love, grace, and patience I’ve received from people around me has been such a huge part of this journey. It’s proof that your past — the dark moments, the mistakes, the guilt — doesn’t define who you are.

And of course, being a mom has brought a whole new level of gratitude and joy. I’m fully present. I notice things I probably would have missed before. Living this NA life has given me confidence I didn’t know I needed — and I truly believe I’m a better person for it.

Name a hard part about being alcohol-free.

In the beginning, it was figuring out how to be social again. I had to re-learn how to show up — at work happy hours, networking events, weddings, parties — without a drink in hand. I had to feel all the feels without numbing any of them.

I actually got sober the year we got married — yep, I was completely sober at my own wedding. At first, that thought made my stomach turn. But the day came, and it was honestly the best day ever. I remember the woman doing my hair and makeup saying, “You’re the calmest bride we’ve ever had,” and I just smiled and said, “This is me — no Xanax, no weed, no alcohol, just ready to have fun.” AND I did! One of the best memories to date. 🩵

In those early months, I had no idea I’d grow so comfortable in this alcohol-free life. Now? I’m an NA snob who gets mildly offended when a restaurant doesn’t have a solid zero-proof menu.

Favorite social media accounts, podcasts, or books about sober living

Weirdly enough, I don’t follow any. I’m not on Instagram or Facebook — LinkedIn is where I live online. And I follow just about every NA brand out there. That’s how I keep up with what’s new in the space. And obviously keeping up with Orangily newsletters and posts!

Favorite alcohol-free drinks!

Still so many I want to try, but here are the current go-tos:

Beer: Athletic Brewing & Partake (also love Heineken 0.0, Stella NA, and Corona NA)

Sparkling: MIONETTO Alcohol Removed (a staple in our house) & SOVI — The Wild Child

Spirits: ALMAVE blue agave (mixes well with anything), Dirty Pelican, and To Be Honest Hemp-Infused Spirit (especially with MONDAY gin + fresh lime juice 👌🏼🍋🟩)

THC-infused: BRĒZ & Nowadays

Advice for anyone considering going alcohol-free:

Do it for you. Not for anyone else. Take it one day at a time. Find your people early on — the support and community make all the difference. You're not alone on this journey! And seriously, reach out — I’d love to hear your story and walk alongside you in it. 💕

Additional thoughts

I’m so excited about how the NA world is evolving — it’s full of creativity, flavor, and so many amazing options. For me, the placebo effect is real. Give me a great NA drink in a cute glass, and I’m relaxed, happy, and not missing a buzz at all.

Cheers! 🥂🍾🍻