Stay sober and have a jolly holiday season with these expert tips

By MELISSA RAYWORTH

Last year, when Lauren Haydel began her first sober holiday season, she wondered how difficult it would be to avoid alcohol at family parties and celebrations with friends. She owns a boutique, Fleurty Girl, in New Orleans’ French Quarter, a neighborhood synonymous with drinking.

But few people questioned her choice. “Instead of them asking me why,” Haydel says, “they ask me, ’Oh, do you feel better?’”

Many friends told her they’re considering avoiding alcohol themselves.