Are Shabbatness dinners curated? What kind of demographic attends the dinners and other events?
Shabbatness dinners used to be limited to small groups of around 10-12 people and were especially curated for both romantic and platonic compatibility. Due to the stress of covering costs and time running this not-for-profit service alone, the business model has shifted. Thanks to a wonderful partnership with J2Food, the dinners have expanded to include up to 50 people in a beautiful private home featuring an array of gourmet kosher food prepared by talented chef Jonathan Hartig. Furthermore, the formerly seated dinners now have an organic, fun mingling format, which allows for more introductions and socializing over the course of the evening. Unlike the past curated dinners I had staffed by myself, my main task at these dinners is to schmooze and help connect the guests to each other. The exciting Shabbatness and J2Food partnership has allowed for these wonderful Shabbat dinners to occur on a regular monthly basis!
While Shabbatness events are open to all, the majority of the people in the Shabbatness database are Jewish young professionals in New York City who range in observance level from secular to conservative and are unmarried. The dinners are particularly tailored to people in their 20s-40s. We are working on more dinners for an older demographic, so stay tuned by subscribing to The Shabbatness Scoop newsletter. In the meantime, those outside of the 20s-40s range are encouraged to attend other, non-dinner Shabbatness events and can also book me for a private consult to help connect to other opportunities and contacts.
Furthermore, we abide by the Code of Conduct set forth by the OneTable organization: “All styles of Jewish practice are equally valid and honored, and all are welcome regardless of religion, race, sexual or gender identity. We cherish the differences among the Jewish people.” Please note that while we welcome everyone, we do reserve the right to accept or deny applicants to a Shabbat dinner.
How often do you have events, and what other kinds of events do you organize besides Shabbat dinners?
Schedule permitting, Shabbatness dinners occur on one Friday of each month. I am also incredibly passionate about health and fitness and host private workout classes. Our “Schvitz and Schmooze” workout events were recently featured in The Forward! I perform stand-up and host a monthly “Schmooze and Show” to bring together people over cocktails and comedy. I partner with Club Getaway in the beautiful Berkshires for weekend getaway opportunities in the summer and early fall. I work with various other organizations, too, to sponsor and host public events that are not necessarily religiously affiliated to provide opportunities to connect people as often as possible. The best way to stay abreast of these opportunities is to subscribe to the weekly Shabbatness Scoop HERE. I will often post to Facebook, as well.
How do I find out about upcoming Shabbatness events?
The best way to find out about the next dinner as well as upcoming events is to subscribe to The Shabbatness Scoop newsletter and check out the calendar.
How much do events typically cost?
Events range in price, but we work hard to keep our costs low and reflect this in our pricing. Shabbat dinners are typically $36. Comedy shows are around $15 (not including the venue’s standard 2-item minimum), and other events vary. We cannot offer any discounts or promo codes.
What’s a dinner like? What are the other Shabbatness events like?
The first 20-30 minutes of a Shabbatness and J2Food dinner are mingling over handcraft “Shabbatini” cocktails and apps. The food is always kosher and deliciously prepared by gourmet chef Jonathan Hartig of J2Food. There are always vegetarian and gluten-free options available, and allergies can be accommodated with notice. After a brief intro by Jonathan and me, Shabbat prayers are led by the guests, and a buffet-style dinner is served. The dinners are inside a beautiful private apartment in the Upper East Side, or, weather-permitting, take place outside on a lovely garden terrace or rooftop. Though there are many places to sit, dinners are mingling-style and not seated.
Other Shabbatness events vary, and information is provided in the event descriptions. I encourage you to come and try anything that interests you!
What are rules and guidelines for the dinners?
There are no refunds. If you can no longer attend and would like to transfer or sell your ticket, it is your responsibility. We cannot assist and are not liable for any issues with selling your ticket. You must let us know if we need to change the name on your ticket. There is a strict registration list at the door, and any name not on the list will not be allowed to enter. All tickets are sold in advance, and there are no sales at the door. Since beginning our partnership in 2019, all of our dinners have sold out, so we recommend getting your ticket in advance. Please note that the refund and transfer policy also applies to non-dinner events.
We ask that all phones are put away for the entire evening. Please note that we make take a few photos for marketing and grant purposes, but just let us know if you are not comfortable being in the shot.
If you want to know who else is coming to the event, we do not release guest lists for any reason.
Good vibes only! Bring your positive energy and excitement. We proudly abide by the Code of Conduct set forth by OneTable, which you can review HERE.
What do I wear, and should I bring anything?
Attire is often themed and/or festive, or otherwise “Shabbat chic”: button-down shirts and/or blazers for guys, and a dress, skirt, or pants with a nice top for girls. Women do not need to cover shoulders, knees, etc. Please come in whatever makes you comfortable and happy!
“You don’t need to bring anything to the dinner but a smile! However, we encourage you to please bring your favorite kosher alcohol to share with the guests.”
What other services do you provide?
As a full-time freelancer, I also offer private Shabbat dinner and event planning services for a fee. Want to have a special dinner in your home, but need help hosting? Whether it’s the organizing, the menu, or the people, I can help! Contact me HERE for a quote, or HERE if you’re interested in kosher catering services with J2Food.
I can also be booked as a party guest or performer, from customized stand-up comedy sets to public speaking engagements. Looking for love? You can find information on my private date coaching and “wingwoman” services HERE.
How can I help?
Shabbatness is my passion project and is primarily run on a volunteer basis. If you or anyone you know might be interested in contributing financially, please email shabbatness@gmail.com. Any support would be greatly appreciated!