At our Low, Light and Alcohol Free Conference I Interviewed Briony May Williams. Briony is a TV presenter and self-taught baker who has appeared on The Great British Bake Off, Escape to the Country, and Food Unwrapped.In a world where socialising often revolves around alcohol, choosing to go alcohol-free can feel like a daunting prospect. But for Briony May Williams, the decision to give up drinking opened up a world of new experiences and joys, proving that sobriety doesn’t mean sacrificing the fun or flavour. Briony, best known for her work in the culinary world and her charismatic presence on television, has become a passionate advocate for the alcohol-free movement. Her story is one of transformation, empowerment, and a mission to elevate the standards of alcohol-free drinks.Discovering the “Game Changer”Briony vividly recalls the moment that changed everything. It wasn’t just a decision to stop drinking; it was about finding an alcohol-free alternative that sparked joy.“Nicolas [at Club Soda] introduced me to a really nice alcohol-free wine, and it was a game changer.”For Briony, the discovery of a quality non-alcoholic option didn’t just satisfy her taste buds; it ignited a passion. She even recounts how she immediately bought several bottles and shared them with a close friend who was also sober.“It’s amazing how movements grow. You find something you like, and you share it. You shock people into enjoying alcohol-free.”Raising the Standards: It’s Time for ChangeBriony is quick to point out that not all alcohol-free options are created equal. Her experiences have shown her the highs and lows of the market, and she’s not afraid to challenge establishments when they fall short.“It infuriates me when I go to a cocktail bar, and they give me some elderflower with soda water. That’s just lazy,”Briony’s frustration is not just about the lack of options; it’s about the missed opportunity to create something memorable.Her message is clear: alcohol-free drinks deserve the same attention to detail and creativity as their alcoholic counterparts. For Briony, it’s not just about replicating the taste of alcohol.“It doesn’t have to taste exactly like a glass of rosé; it just has to taste amazing. I want it to be packed full of flavour, to have that dryness on the palate, and most importantly, to feel special.”Mental Health and Sobriety: A Transformative JourneyGoing alcohol-free hasn’t just changed what Briony drinks; it’s transformed her life. She openly discusses how her decision has had a profound impact on her mental health and well-being.“I’ve always struggled with depression, but in the last 10 months, it has been infinitely better.”She attributes much of her improvement to her decision to quit drinking. Alongside better mental health, Briony has experienced weight loss, better eating habits, and an improved relationship with her husband and daughter.This newfound clarity has fueled Briony’s excitement for the future.“I’m so happy. I used to love going out and getting drunk; I loved the experience. But now, I feel so much better.”It’s a message that resonates with many people exploring alcohol-free options—not as a compromise but as a way to enhance their overall well-being and relationships.A Mission for Better Drinks: Consumers as Catalysts for ChangeBriony’s enthusiasm for alcohol-free drinks goes beyond personal enjoyment; she’s on a mission to change the market. She’s oftFind Club Soda:The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RRFind us on Instagram

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