Damita Miller-Shanklin

Austin Texas is a city of vibrant culture and rapid change. This transformation has been both fascinating and eye opening. Chris Marshall moved to Austin 17 years ago and has watched the landscape change including areas that are almost unrecognizable.

Marshall is the Owner of the Sans Bar. Marshall has found a way to contribute positively to the community through the creation of Sans Bar located in Downtown Austin. It is a unique establishment dedicated to providing a non-alcoholic social environment. This concept was born from Marshall’s personal struggles with alcohol and a desire to help others facing similar issues. “I got sober at 23 and moved to Austin from Houston in 2008,” says Marshall. He went on to say, “I became a counselor and worked extensively with individuals struggling with substance abuse.. I realized there was a significant need for a place where people could socialize without the pressure or presence of alcohol.”

Marshall’s journey to sobriety and community work led to the founding of Sans Bar in 2017. The bar quickly became a haven for individuals seeking a social space free from alcohol. “People would come to him saying they wanted to stop drinking but didn’t know where to go. They missed the camaraderie of socializing but needed a different environment.” The bar aims to be a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of their relationship with alcohol.

The important moment that solidified Marshall’s determination to create this space was the loss of a client who struggled with alcohol. “She talked about how hard substance abuse was for her and how much she missed socializing.” That Friday, she was vibrant and hopeful, but by Monday, she had lost her life. It was devastating and made him realize he couldn’t keep seeing amazing people lose their life to alcohol.

Sans Bar not only offers a safe social space but also engages the community through various events and initiatives. One such initiative is the Sans Bar Academy, which came about during the pandemic. The bar was closed for a year, and Marshall wanted to help the non-alcoholic movement grow. The Academy is a virtual course that helps people start their own non-alcoholic bars or bottle shops, Marshall explains. The Academy has helped over 50 businesses worldwide, teaching everything from business plans to marketing and community building.

Running a small business in Austin comes with its challenges. Marshall shared his challenges. One being the city is growing and changing so fast, and everything is getting more expensive. Another challenge is helping people understand that the Sans Bar space is for “everyone”, not just those who abstain from alcohol. The San’s Bar also hosts a monthly Black-owned business market, fostering a sense of community and support among local entrepreneurs.

Despite the challenges, the bar continues to thrive, adapting to changes and maintaining its mission. “COVID was tough, but it taught us the importance of diversifying our income. We are open only on Fridays and rent out our space for events,” Marshall shares.

Looking ahead, Marshall is focused on expanding the reach of non-alcoholic social spaces, particularly in higher education spaces such as colleges and universities. “Generation Z is drinking less and prioritizing mental health. We’re working with colleges to incorporate non-alcoholic options into their social scenes,” Marshall explains.

Sans Bar is more than just a business; it’s a movement toward healthier, more inclusive social environments. “We know alcohol is harmful, and we’re creating spaces that promote well-being and connection without it,” Marshall concludes. For those in Austin and beyond, Sans Bar offers a glimpse into a future where everyone can find a place to belong, free from the pressures of alcohol.

Visit Sans Bar and join the community that celebrates life and connection in a safe, supportive environment. You can learn more at their website, https://www.thesansbar.com/