To thefrum Chabbadnik man who talked to me at the checkout at my job and invited me to Shabbat services – a pierced and tattooed convert with a non-traditional Jewish name on my name tag with a Magen David necklace. You made my day.

I’m Reform but love Judaism of all stripes from cultural Jews to the most frum Orthodox. I’m comfortable staying officially Reform but consider myself on the traditional side, more Conservative practice leaning. You were extremely kind and confirmed the welcomness of Chabad. I know I’m not officially accepted as a Jew to Chabad and would have to convert Orthodox, but you did make me love Chabad more after watching a lot of videos and podcasts from Chabad rabbis. I said I’m not a Chabbadnik but he said “someday maybe you will” and gave me a smile.

I’m definitely taking him up on his offer, I’m a woman and know the separation and a lot of the social rules, but is there any little things I should be aware of except the obvious like the dress code and such? I don’t want to stand out so I’m planning on just using my Hebrew name, covering tattoos and taking out piercings.

I do cover my head with a semi-large headband as a kippah alternative, will I stand out if I wear this? I know my tallit is staying home even though in reform and conservative spaces this is the norm.

I just don’t want any awkwardness at the end of the day lol.