Welcome!

Welcome to Sober Portland

Hi there,

First off, thank you for taking the time to visit my little corner of the internet. It means the world to me that you're here. Whether you're sober, sober curious, or simply exploring, this space is for you—a community where you can feel seen, supported, and inspired.

Let me introduce myself. My name is Jessica (Salad for short), and I'm the person behind Sober Portland. This blog is a passion project, born out of my personal journey with sobriety and my love for Portland's vibrant, quirky, and ever-evolving culture.

A few months ago, I made the life-changing decision to get sober. Like many, I started drinking as a way to cope—with anxiety, with past traumas, with the stresses of daily life. At first, it felt like alcohol was my safety net, but over time, it became the very thing holding me back from living authentically. My mental health was in a downward spiral, and I knew something had to change. Sobriety felt like the most daunting and impossible thing, but also the only way forward.

And it’s been the best decision I’ve ever made. Choosing sobriety gave me clarity, a renewed sense of self, and the strength to prioritize my mental health in ways I’d never thought possible. But let me tell you—it wasn’t easy. Navigating a world that often glorifies drinking while trying to redefine my relationship with it has been a challenge. I’ve learned so much along the way, and that’s exactly why I’ve created this space.

Sober Portland exists to celebrate all the incredible ways to live and thrive without alcohol in this amazing city. Portland has so much to offer beyond the bar scene—from stunning nature to incredible food, cozy coffee shops, and a growing community of people who value connection without the buzz. I’m here to shine a light on that, to show you that sobriety isn’t about giving up something—it’s about gaining so much more.

Through this blog, I’ll share stories, resources, and recommendations for everything from Portland’s best non-alcoholic drinks to tips for staying connected and supported on your journey. This isn’t about judgment or perfection—it’s about finding what works for you and building a life that feels good from the inside out.

If you’re reading this and feeling unsure or alone, know that you’re not. There’s a community waiting for you, one that understands the ups and downs, the victories, and the setbacks. My hope is that Sober Portland becomes a place where you feel welcome, understood, and empowered—whether you’re just starting to explore sobriety or have been on this path for years.

So, again, thank you. Thank you for being here, for reading, and for showing up for yourself in whatever way that looks like. I’m so glad you’re part of this journey with me.

Welcome to Sober Portland—let’s thrive together.

With gratitude and love,
Jessica