Cocktails & Early Starts: David & Sarah, the Power Couple Balancing Non-Alcoholic Bliss with Melbourne Buzz
Official 2024 febfast Australia Ambassadors Sarah Bunnell and David Andrew from Naked Life Spirits share their secrets and tips for cutting back or switching sober for 29 days this February to raise funds for YSAS services and programs.
In the heart of Melbourne’s vibrant scene, amidst trendy cafes and bustling brunch spots, lives a couple navigating life’s social events and an active lifestyle – David and Sarah. Their secret weapon? Not a hipster elixir, but an arsenal of bubbly, zero-proof cocktails brimming with flavour and purpose. Dave, together with his amazing team founded Naked Life Spirits, a thriving non-alcoholic ready-to-drink business, proving that you can drink more than just a lemon/lime & bitters when not on the booze – they’re the real deal, minus the hangover.
But their story isn’t just about delicious drinks. It’s about conscious choices, finding joy in not compromising, and proving that a vibrant life and non-alcoholic sips can go hand-in-hand, even with a 2-year-old demanding cuddles and early wake ups.
“We live a social life – brunches, barbecues, rooftop evenings. But sometimes, you want to cut back, be present with Lucie, our daughter, or wake up fresh for that 6am surf session. Non-alcoholic cocktails let you join the party, actually enjoy your drink, and feel included without the buzz.”
David Andrew, founder of Naked Life Spirits
“Before I met you Dave, I embarked on this crazy ‘sober year’ journey. Not because I had a problem, but for personal growth. It opened my eyes to a world of clarity, energy, and a newfound appreciation for the little things. My social interactions changed from late nights at a bar to Yoga classes and morning hikes with a girlfriend. I still enjoy the occasional glass with friends, but now I have this incredible toolbox of non-alcoholic options. It’s like unlocking a secret menu of deliciousness without the consequences.”
Sarah Bunnell, business partner at Naked Life Spirits
Q: So, Naked Life Spirits integrate well into your lives?
Sarah: It’s definitely been a perk for me as I drink very minimal these days and was pregnant during the launch! Dave and his development team saw a gap – high-quality, adult-like non-alcoholic drinks that weren’t sugary sodas or watered-down fruit juices. We wanted sophisticated flavours, natural ingredients, and a touch of elegance you could pop open at any occasion.”
David: “And it’s not just for non-drinkers! Think of it as a swap in. When I am out for a beer with a mate I will often have an alcoholic beer followed by a non-alc. I can keep drinking, without drinking. I also love turning up to a BBQ loaded up with our Naked Life Spirits to add to the esky. It’s about freedom, choice, and enjoying life on your own terms.”
Q: Is this the end of alcohol for you guys?
David: “(Laughs) Not at all! We’re not anti-alcohol crusaders. But we’re offering an alternative, a way to experience the social joy and ritual of a drink without the downsides. It’s like having your cake and eating it too, guilt-free and head-clear. We love giving people more choice.”
Sarah: “And let’s be honest, there’s something liberating about sipping on a delicious “Non-alc Mojito” while everyone else is nursing hangovers the next day. You feel like you’ve won the weekend!”
Q: Any final words for those curious about the “sober-ish” life?
Sarah: “Just try it! Don’t think of it as deprivation, think of it as an adventure. Discover a world of vibrant flavours, feel your energy soar, and rediscover the joy of simple moments. And if you still want that occasional glass of wine, go for it! Enjoy it mindfully, savour it, and appreciate the choice you have.”
David: “Our community is full of non-drinkers, big drinkers and everything in between. Our purpose is to provide choice and to truly change the face of drinking across the globe”
So there you have it – David & Sarah, along with the amazing Naked Life Spirits team redefining what it means to have a good time. With their bubbly personalities, infectious laughter, and a fridge full of zero-proof delights, they’re proving that living consciously doesn’t mean missing out on life’s zest. In fact, it might just add a whole new layer of flavour and freedom to the mix.
Ready to join the movement? Grab a Naked Life Spirits cocktail, raise a glass, and toast to a life where you have your cake (and cocktail) and eat it too.
It’s not too late to join 1,600 febfasters and take the 29-day challenge yourself, with your workplace or some friends. Sign up at febast.org.au