Host Resources
How to Prepare your Guests

Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?

We heard you’re inviting some Shabbat first-timers to your dinner. We are so excited that you’re bringing some new folks into your Shabbat practice – we know they’re going to have an amazing time! We know anything new can be a little nerve-wracking, someone’s first (or second!) Shabbat dinner is no exception. Here are some things to keep in mind to make sure your guests feel comfortable:

  • Tell them what to expect ahead of time. Let your guests know the timing, level of formality, and structure of the evening. Will you do a few blessings? If so, what will they look like? When should they expect to eat? Your Dinner Description and our “What to expect” feature on the platform are great places to include all of this!

  • Why is this night different from all other weeknights? Share with your guests what Shabbat means to you! Though Shabbat is the Jewish day of rest, everyone around the table is invited to take a pause with us–regardless of their religious affiliation. Rituals and blessings are a way to help us welcome this time of rest, so we can use the evening to recharge after a long week. 
  • Share as you go. Whether it is your custom to do all your blessings in Hebrew or do alternative rituals, it’s important to let your guests know what’s happening. 
  • Let your guests know how and when to participate. Shabbat is participatory! Jewish culture embraces the opportunity to ask and answer questions. You may want to give your guests the same opportunity! If it is your custom to sing, make sure your guests know they are invited to sing along and provide song sheets. When you bless the candles, explain what you are doing and then invite them to close their eyes if they’re comfortable. Let them know that after you say the Kiddush blessing, they can and should take a sip–the same goes for eating the challah!
  • Consider putting OneTable Shabbat Guides or Ritual Cards on the table. Having a physical way to follow along can be a great way to orient someone who is less familiar with Shabbat rituals.