Absolutely not!

It seems to me that this whole trend of serving giant feasts at the reception, with open bar, dancing, and live band or DJ is ridiculous! The point, in my opinion, is to visit with one another, for one family to get to know the other if they don't already, for everyone to celebrate this new phase of life on which the couple is embarking.

Instead, it seems to have become a contest to see who can have the most elaborate post-wedding party, to spend more, in one night, than the couple might spend on a down-payment on a home. Is this really the best way to celebrate the new couple? Really?

That being said, I think every couple needs to do what THEY want for their reception within the bounds of their (or their parents') reasonable fiscal ability. If you want to serve a nice, sit-down supper at the reception, and you can afford to do so, then do as your heart desires. If you cannot afford alcohol for your guests, at least you are providing them with a meal and the chance to mingle. In fact, by not serving alcohol, you reduce your liability and theirs (no drinking and driving).

If you want a toast (or more than one), try using a sparkling cider, cream soda, or sparkling grape juice. Every guest, even children, can join you in these toasts.

No you shouldn't. It's your wedding and if neither of you drink, then it is your choice whether or not to provide alcohol. If I didn't drink, I would not spend extra money on something I'm not going to enjoy. What you can do, is allow people to provide their own alcohol if they want it, but kindly inform them that purchasing alcohol *for* the bride and groom is not necessary because neither drinks.

If you wish to have a non-alcoholic wedding and reception, simply say so. It can be worded kindly and in a way that no one can argue with you about it. Example: "With respect to the wishes of the bride and groom, alcohol will not be served at the reception."

Ah, well think of your family and friends. When they have social gatherings together, big or little, do they drink much? For some families its a big thing to get merry and have a ball. If your families are like that, don't you want them to have a good time at your wedding? Sure you do! Even if you only provided a little and said it was only pre-dinner drinks or a cocktail and drinks after the toast....

Personally, I think its up to how you see the reaction from the family - you guys don't drink OK, but are they going to be happy ( and thus make YOU happy ) if there is nothing for them to drink?

I think answering this in your own circumstances will tell you what you should do.

Last point though - if you are not going to serve alcohol TELL them. Don't leave it as a last minute surprise for everyone OK, its usually served so just let them know if its not....fair I think

Of course it is your wedding. However, you should consider some things. Do a fair proportion of your family and friends drink? If so, and you do not serve alcohol, don't be surprised if they leave as early as they can, and they avoid future social events you may have. If you are hoping for an event that people will enjoy and remember you would want to accommodate your guests whether you yourself drink or not.

Personally, I would suggest a variety of classy beers, with some non-alcoholic beers for those who do not drink.

Alcohol is often included in weddings because it is supposed to be a festival of sorts, however, it is YOUR festival. If you as a couple don't enjoy alcohol I see no reason to pay for it to be at your wedding. Is there reason to object to others bringing their own drinks? ( I can see for instance how a recovered alcoholic may not want it present) That's for your to decide, but if there isn't, let them bring their own. For instance if you know someone in particular likes a bit of wine or something, let them know you aren't planning on supplying any no shame in BYOB. :)

Absolutely not! It's your wedding, and if you don't feel comfortable serving alcohol and having to deal with drunken guests, it's your call. Wedding are sacred occasions, not an excuse to get plastered on free booze. I'm sure you want all your loved ones there on this special day, but if they refuse to come because you won't provide alcohol then they aren't really being supportive of your feelings and of your marriage. If you both want an alcohol-free lifestyle, your wedding is the time to make that wish known so your families all know where you both stand. Have the courage to hang on to your convictions!

Ok here I go...

If you serve no Alcohol!
1. You save a lot of money!!
2. You could diminish the chance of "incidents"
3. Easier clean up
4. People that are there for you will be there for you not the free booze

If you serve Alcohol!
1. There will be a lot more people at your wedding
2. It will be easier for your future families to bond
3. people tend to be more generous when drunk. (extra honey moon money)
4. It will be easier to get people on the dance floor

At the end of the day it is your wedding and the control is yours having said that you need to strike a balance. Try serving a limited amount of alcohol or having a simple toast. People that want to drink will drink if that means going to the bar after your wedding events are done then thats what will happen.

You shouldn't feel obligated to do anything you don't want to do at your own wedding. That being said, make sure to examine the impact of your decision. More people than you think actually refuse to attend dry weddings. Though my girlfriend and I do intend to serve alcohol at our wedding due to our personal preferences, the fact is that deep resentment would boil its way through family lines if we didn't. Some people view the lack of an open bar at a wedding to be a sign of poverty and utterly humiliating. I don't feel this way, but it might be wise to think of ways to smooth over those unhappy with your decision for these reasons.

It is foolish thing to serve alcohol .when your pocket are not permitting to bear the cost..Living in the present is best for any body...

Why are you asking. Does your fiance think you should and you do not want to? I think the reason your asking should be your consideration. If your soon to be spouse thinks you should than honor his wishes as he knows his family and friends best as well as you are starting your marriage by making decisions together... otherwise, no you do not have to offer alcohol or anything else if you do not wish or finances are in question...