Why Non-Alcoholic Beverages?

I keep saying I began Poppy's for selfish reasons—and I did!

I'm on my own sobriety journey and, with few good-tasting non-alcoholic beverages available locally, I've made it my goal to make a wider variety of great NA beverages more accessible for Northern Ontario.

Growing Up in Thunder Bay

Growing up in Thunder Bay, you quickly learn there are few extracurricular activities, and even fewer that don't revolve around alcohol. Compound that with long winters, depression, alcoholism, and a slew of other problems, and we often find ourselves constantly reaching for a drink.

Alcohol can be a great way to relax and socialize, but it doesn't deserve control of you or your well-being.

My Journey to Sobriety

For me, drinking began at 19. The first time I drank, I became intoxicated and immediately leaned on alcohol as a crutch in every social situation. I began working in the restaurant industry—working evenings, followed by drinking, a hangover, and then we would do it again. It's a common story.

This lifestyle wasn't working for me, but I couldn't stop.

Thankfully, I was given the opportunity to attend a live-in treatment program, where I received therapy, deeper insight, and tools to better cope with my own mindset—but it still wasn't enough.

I went back into the pit of kitchen life and soon started drinking my after-shift beer, and the rest felt like history.

It's been ten years since I attended treatment.

Sobriety is in no way linear. It's two steps forward and one step back. It's not giving up when you slip, and it's about taking control—not letting substances control you.

I'm proudly nearing three years alcohol-free and continue to work on myself daily.

I had to step out of my old life to get here, and for me, today, it will always be worth it. I would not be here otherwise.

Breaking the Cycle with Alcohol-Free Options

So, let's break the cycle and try something new.

You will likely find authenticity, connection, and growth.

Some of the best advice I have received is to allow room in your sobriety journey. It doesn't have to be cold turkey - it can be in moderation.

Whether you're sober curious or committed to an alcohol-free lifestyle, I hope you find inspiration and empowerment to try something new. I encourage you to move with compassion for yourself and others as we walk this journey together.

Thank you for supporting me,

Poppy