Today we’d like to introduce you to Ellie St. Aubin.
Ellie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
The idea for Dry In The Desert was ignited through my own journey of becoming alcohol-free. I was very much in that “gray area” of drinking for a few years, where I knew I had a problem with alcohol, but didn’t feel like it was “enough” of a problem to stop altogether. At the time, I didn’t know anyone else who had gone fully sober either, so I had no clue what a life without alcohol could even look like.
It took me 4 years of trial, error, and experimentation to finally be happy and grateful that I get to live an alcohol-free life, instead of dreading it. I started working for Grüvi, a non-alc beverage company, which completely opened my eyes to the booming NA world out there that is not just for people in recovery, but for anyone looking to live a healthier, elevated lifestyle. This industry remains focused on socializing, partying, and the beverages we all enjoy – just without the pesky ethanol ingredient.
All the different parts of my journey inspired me to provide fun social events in my community where the attendees have the same exact experience as any other night out – zero FOMO. Though there may be some minor positive side effects like waking up without a hangover, driving home safely, and not DMing your ex.
Taking booze off the table, allows everyone to socialize in the same headspace, make authentic connections, and form lasting memories.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The biggest challenge for me is that event planning is completely foreign to me!
I am constantly learning in the process. The creative curating is my favorite part of it all, but I am blessed with so many helping hands who believe in this booze-free party to really make these events pop off and teach me things along the way!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Dry In The Desert was born in October 2022 but is taking off quickly. We are aiming to host at least one big event a quarter with other smaller meet-ups sprinkled throughout the year. Beyond providing these vibrant events around the Valley, Dry In The Desert is also committed to having an online presence for anyone who is sober-curious, whether you’re a drinker or not.
What makes me most proud of this community in Phoenix is our ability to be innovative and on the cutting edge of trends and at the same time being so accessible and tight-knit. People are always willing to help others succeed here and we want to carry that value forward in our organization.
Whether you’re taking the night off, a month off, curious about what non-alcoholic beverages taste like, or shooting for the stars with full sobriety, we’ve got you covered and you don’t have to miss out on a thing. There is only more joy to be had at the booze-free party!
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I look forward to meeting more of you at a Dry In The Desert event and to playing a small part in making Phoenix a more inclusive and lively community!
Follow us on Instagram to see event recaps, new event details and ticket links, and other booze-free info.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/dryinthedesert
Image Credits
Venea Meyer
