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Guesting Pro-Tips

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Written by: The OneTable Team
Updated 2026

Guesting Pro-Tips

Shabbat dinner unifies us across the globe — no matter where you go, there’s a magical way of being present with one another around the Friday night table. All that said, opening your home to a stranger can be intimidating.

As a guest, our biggest tip is to share as much as possible with a potential host so you’re not a stranger by the time you walk through their door. Here are some ways to make it happen seamlessly:

  • Have fun with your bio. Head to ‘Profile Settings’ on your OneTable account to fill out some questions that can help your host get to know if you’ll be the right fit for their table. In your bio, think about including…
    • What do you do? Hobbies?
    • What kind of community are you seeking?
    • What’s your ideal Shabbat?
    • Bonus: upload a photo that shows off a little bit of who you are.
  • Send a note to your potential host about why you chose their dinner, and ask if there’s anything you can bring. 
    • Imagine you overheard someone talking about an awesome Shabbat they were hosting that you would love to go to. IRL, would you just ask if you could go? Or would you say something more like, “Hey, I also love board games and pizza. I just got a new game I could bring, could I and a friend join you?”
  • When you’ve been accepted to a dinner…
    • Arrive on time or message the host if you’re running late.
    • Don’t show up empty-handed; wine or flowers are always easy host gifts.
    • DON’T GHOST YOUR HOST! Can’t make it? Things happen. Make sure to let them know as soon as possible.
  • When a table you requested doesn’t work out…
    • If you requested early, you may still have time to find another open seat!
    • Reach out to our team. We always want to know what’s working and how it can improve.

Really don’t know what to expect? We’ve got you, click here!

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This resource was originally written by Amanda Herring in 2019 and updated by OneTable in 2026.