I’m not a political person — will I still be a good host?

Absolutely. A good host enjoys bringing people together, is curious about how their community works, and cares about making it better. Salonette isn’t about debating national headlines or persuading other people you’re right—it’s about creating a welcoming space where neighbors can learn, talk, and connect. If that sounds like you, you’ll make a great host.

I don’t know if I have time for this.

It’s not as time consuming as you think. Think of it like a book club without a book!

But, seriously, the time commitment is pretty minimal. You should probably set aside an hour per month to plan the gathering and then the time for the event itself. If that feels like a lot some months, email us! Salonette can help you brainstorm topics for discussion, connect you with speakers suited for that topic, or connect you with other salonettes facing similar issues in their towns.

You want me to host people in my house once a month? Eek.

Share the load! Have everyone in your group take turns hosting.

But, more importantly, remember that your goal is to get people to learn about and engage with their community - not channel Martha Stewart. It really doesn't matter how big your house is or how tidy it is. Bring over some chairs from the kitchen table, open a bag of popcorn, pour something to drink, and you're 90% of the way there.

How many people do I need for a salonette?

Start with about six. Keeps things easy to schedule, yet still lively if a couple of people can’t make it. That said, some salonettes hum along with four members; others flourish with twenty or more. Numbers matter less than commitment: a great salonette is simply a group that shows up consistently, ready to learn and engage. You can always begin small, find your rhythm, and then allow each member to bring a friend to the next gathering—let the circle grow organically from there.

I feel like I may need some help getting started…and keeping things going, too.

We’ve got you covered! When you sign up to host, you’ll get a starter-pack that provides a detailed summary of how your town’s government works and guidance on how to structure and manage the discussion. This will give you more than enough to get the conversation going. And whenever you need help keeping the train on the track, shoot us a note. We can help draft emails, find speakers, brainstorm solutions to complicated dynamics — help you solve whatever problem you’re up against.

What if we run out of things to talk about?

We promise you won't. But if you feel like you're getting to that place, email us! We'll jump on the phone with you to understand what you’ve talked about already and help you come up with other topic ideas.

What is the relationship between my salonette and Salonette, the non-profit entity operating this website?

We are here to facilitate your community conversations by connecting you with topics, materials, speakers, and opportunities to engage with other salonettes in your town and across the country. But, you are your own thing. Your salonette is legally distinct from the non-profit and the non-profit exercises no control over how your salonette operates, what you discuss, and who you invite to your events.

I'd be happy to attend one of these — can you help connect me with a host in my area?

Unfortunately, we can't. We aren't involved in matching attendees with hosts at this time.