I'll have to try the coffee trick, but unfortunately crown royal makes me ill -- perhaps I'll just pour champaign into a coffee cup and pretend away.... Oh wait, I just did that at my man's cousin's wedding in LA this weekend!
Oh, did I just say that out loud??? The reception was held at the church so only punch was available (and not the spiked kind) and I was meeting the entire family for the first time. Now that's another story in itself
I survived -- of course not everyone fell in love with me, but ah well, what can you do....
Getting back to the topic at hand -- but straying somewhat (who me?) -- in Germany you can go to the mall or some stores, order a glass of wine or a beer and enjoy while shopping. I happen to think it makes it a much more relaxing experience -- especially when power shopping. And in reference to drinking and driving, you don't have to have a whole bottle or keg, just a glass or two for a relaxing flush of the cheeks and off you go!