Faq's ~ Ketubah ~ Help

The Modern Ketubah document traces its roots back to the period of the Babylonian exile. Elders formulated it to safeguard the legal rights of women to property and other necessities in the event that their husbands were no longer present due to a circumstances such as divorce, death, or desertion. Their goal was to ensure that Jewish families would survive any eventuality, including a divorce, when they stated the husband’s obligations to his wife in the Ketubah document. The original Ketubah contract is still in use with just minor changes that have been implemented over the past centuries. This wording is referred to as the Traditional Aramaic. It is the standard text used by the Orthodox community, though couples of all styles of observance also choose this text because it is accepted universally and is legal in the State of Israel.

In light of the unfortunate fact that the divorce rate has been on the rise, the Conservative movement took the step to modify the Traditional Aramaic Text by incorporating the Lieberman Clause. This Clause states that if a couple decides to divorce, they will fully accept the ruling of the Rabbinic Assembly regarding the Jewish divorce. If either husband or wife refuses to comply, then he/she can be taken to the civil court and be forced to abide by the outcome. This Clause was meant to provide the wife with a civil solution in case the husband refused to grant her a Jewish divorce, commonly referred to as a ‘gett.’ Without a ‘gett,’ a woman is prevented from marrying again.

Other couples who are members of the Reform, Humanist and Reconstructionist movements, as well as unaffiliated members of the Jewish Community, prefer choosing the wording of their marriage vows that they personally relate to. Ketubah texts contain beautiful and poetic expressions of the couple’s hopes and responsibilities in their marriage. It is exciting that modern ketubot are available with texts for all couples including Interfaith, All Faith, Same-Gender and Anniversary, to name a few. Couples can even write their own wording.

The Ketubah document has rich history that spans centuries, from almost all the cities that Jews have ever lived in. This traditional art that reflected the the culture and time period of its creation, suffered a major setback when Jews were greatly persecuted in Europe. However, over the past few decades the custom has steadily been revived. This has greatly inspired modern Judaica artists to create amazing designs that embellish and honor the Ketubah text. There is such a wide array of Ketubah artwork, ranging from traditional borders to abstract paintings, that couples today will be sure to find a beautiful ketubah that not only suits their tastes, but one they can comfortably afford, whatever the budget. For most couples, the ketubah is usually the very first work of art they choose together. Selecting a ketubah is definitely a process but, when you finally agree on one that you both love, you will feel great that you worked together, listened to each other, and made a joint decision. Those are the ingredients for a happy life together. You’re off to a terrific start!

 

 

Giclee (pronounced as jee-clay) is a French word that translates as ‘sprayed ink.’ It is one of the most popular methods that artists use for fine art reproduction. This fine technology involves spraying over four million droplets of ink per second onto a canvas or paper which captures all the fine details of the original painting. Giclee reproductions are very similar to ‘painted’ works mainly because of the numerous layer of ink applied on the surface. The acid free papers and ultra-chrome inks can last for over 120 years.

This method of reproduction is also very beneficial to artists since they do not have to print an entire edition at once. Each piece is printed individually. The text is written in digital calligraphy and the end result is magnificent. Artists who use this method generally provide a digital text proof for you to review before printing your ketubah so you can be sure the final document is error-free.

This is another time-tested and unique method of fine art reproduction used by artists who make limited edition works. This means that the number of a particular design and text to be produced is determined before-hand and, once all the copies are sold out, that design is no longer available. Lithographs are printed on art papers chosen by the artist. The text that was written in hand-calligraphy is made into a print plate before being reproduced as a lithograph, which gives the final document the feeling of a hand-written document. For those who choose to have their ketubah personalized, the artist will fill in their information by hand.

Before sending the information to the artist, we provide you with the exact copy of the personalizing information page so you and your clergy can review it before the artist inks the actual document. Since it is not a digital text, we cannot send a full text proof. It is rare but, in case the artist makes an error on the final document when personalizing, he/she will either correct or redo the ketubah in time for your wedding.

 

What you are viewing on our website are high-quality, digital reproductions of each ketubah. The colors may vary depending on the settings of your particular monitor and, as such, the ketubah print that you receive may appear slightly different from your screen. Happily, the majority of our customers have reported that the ketubah they received was even nicer than what they had seen online.

For the Hebrew/English texts, there are usually five signature lines. One is for the groom, the other for the bride, then two witnesses, and finally one for an officiant. The Orthodox (Traditional Aramaic) and Conservative Lieberman Clause texts normally have only two witness signature lines under the Aramaic, and if there is an English text after that, the five lines listed above are usually included. You can always ask us if you don’t see the signature lines in the View Text page.

The pen used to sign the ketubah should be archival, fade-proof and dry quickly so it doesn’t smear. We recommend an old-fashioned ball point pen, a Pigma Micron pen, or a Gelly Roll pen. (No felt-tip or fountain pens)

In many cases we can add and/or customize the signature lines on the ketubah. It is definitely worth asking us about any special signature line requests.

If you or someone you know is an artist and has offered to do the artwork for your ketubah, say yes. We offer a Text Only option that is printed on beautiful art paper. Search under the ‘Styles’ option and select ‘Text Only - No Artwork’ then click on the Search button at the end of the line. You will see several choices that each show a different lettering style.

The choice of the frame for your ketubah depends on your personal taste. Some couples prefer a modern look while others would go for a more elaborate traditional frame. If you take your ketubah to a frame store, you can try various mat and frame styles and see what you like. Framers are experts and can help you make the best choice to suit your needs. Be sure to use UV protected glass or plexiglass when framing your Ketubah.

The Ketubah is both a piece of fine art and an important document so here are some guidelines to caring for it:

1) Avoid hanging your ketubah in a position where it would be exposed to direct sunlight.

2) The best lighting for your ketubah is incandescent light.

3) Always ensure that your hands are clean and dry before handling your ketubah. Before filling in or signing the document, put a piece of clean paper under your hand. Oil from your skin can leave a stain and cause ink to bleed.

4) Ask your framer to use UV protected glass or plexiglass when framing your ketubah.

5) Keep the Ketubah away from excessive humidity to avoid damage from mildew. For example, if you are not going to frame the ketubah right away, don’t leave it in a damp basement.

Finally, enjoy your beautiful marriage document as it hangs in your home for many years to come. Let it remind you each day of your wedding day and your love for each other.

 

The first thing you need to do when deciding on text for your ketubah is to ask your officiating clergy if he or she has special requirements. This will ensure your ketubah conforms with the type of ceremony you have planned together.

We have compiled various descriptions of a different text choices below to help clarify the text options available.

Orthodox (Commonly referred to as Traditional Aramaic)
This text traces its origin back to the period of the Babylonian exile. It basically defines the husband’s obligation to his wife. It was made to safeguard a woman’s property and status in marriage in case the husband died, divorced, or deserted her. This text is recognized as a legal contractual agreement. If you intend to use this text, first select the Ketubah that you like and then present that artist’s Aramaic text to your rabbi for him to approve. There are normally a number of variations in spellings and its always important to ensure they concur with the preferences of your rabbi.

A point you need to note is that the English text after the Orthodox text is actually not a direct translation. This means that the English wording will vary from one artist to the other. As such, it is important to read each one and be sure it is also approved by your rabbi.

The Conservative with Lieberman Clause

This text is very similar to the Orthodox text, the main difference being the addition of the Lieberman Clause. The Clause is a legally binding agreement that states that, in the event of a divorce, the couple agrees to accept the decision reached by the Rabbinic Assembly concerning their Jewish divorce (gett). The majority of the Conservative clergy insist that this clause should be in the ketubah. The purpose of this clause is to prevent either of the spouses from using the divorce as a bargaining tool against the other. For instance, not receiving a ‘gett’ would prevent a woman from remarrying.

It is also important to note that the English text which may accompany this text is not a direct translation. As such, it is advisable to read the English vows from different artists to ensure you like the wording.

The Reform - (also referred to as Egalitarian)
These vows vary from artist to artist so you should read the text that accompanies each ketubah that you are considering. They are often beautifully written expressions of love, devotion and commitment. The Hebrew is usually a direct translation of the English. Be sure your officiant approves your text choice!

Interfaith
There are a wide variety of interfaith texts available. Their wording varies from one artist to the next. Many of them have complete Hebrew translations of the English text. Others feature a Hebrew heading, a few lines that contain the Hebrew date, the names of the two spouses and the place of marriage. This is followed by the vows in English. There are those officiants who would allow you to choose freely the wording that you like while others have specific wordings that they approve. Be sure you consult with them before ordering.

Commitment Vows
Commitment vows are written in a manner that makes them suitable for same-sex marriages. The majority are suitable for all marriages but don’t include gender-specific language, like “Bride” and “Groom.” Instead, it may say “Beloveds.” Their wording varies depending on the artist and, as such, you should read each text before making your choice. With so many gay marriages being celebrated, we are happy to offer the LGBT community a large selection of ketubah artwork.

Anniversary
Anniversary texts commemorate the years that married couples have been together. Our artists offer beautiful and meaningful texts that honor couples as they reflect on their past as well as plan their future together. This is one of the best gifts friends and family members can give to a couple as they mark their wedding anniversaries.

The Secular Humanistic
The Association of Humanistic Rabbis together with the Leadership conference of Secular and Humanistic Jews offer two texts: Humanist 1 has a full Hebrew translation and Humanist 2 is all English. We offer a Hebrew translation of Humanist 2 on our Studio Collection designs, as well, so just let us know and we will include the full Hebrew. These texts are available in the work of many artists and you can do a search by Text to find out who offers the Humanist texts. Other artists have secular style text which may be labeled as Humanist but is not associated with the organization stated above.

Sephardic
The rabbis of the Sephardic Jewish communities, which trace their origins back to Spain and the Mediterranean regions, normally have special requirements for ketubah texts. Most communities have their own preferences when it comes to the wording of the ketubah text. As such, it is always important to show your rabbi the texts offered by artists in order to determine which ones are acceptable. You can also order a custom text on your Ketubah if your rabbi has a specific text for your community that is not offered on the ketubah of your choice.

All Faith / English Vows
We are happy to offer texts that are non-denominational and suitable for couples of all faiths. There is no Hebrew nor are there references to Jewish tradition. They are beautiful vows expressing love and devotion for all betrothed couples.

 

  On the ______day of the week, the _________day of the month ______ in the year five thousand seven hundred and ______ since the creation of the world, the era according to which we reckon here in the city of _________________ that ________ son of _________ said to this (virgin) _________daughter of _____.

   "Be my wife according to the practice of Moses and Israel, and I will cherish, honor, support and maintain you in accordance with the custom of Jewish husbands who cherish, honor, support and maintain their wives faithfully. And I here present you with the marriage gift of (virgins), (two hundred) silver zuzim, which belongs to you, according the the law of Moses and Israel; and I will also give you your food, clothing and necessities, and live with you as husband and wife according to universal custom." And Miss_____, this (virgin) consented and became his wife. The trousseau that she brought to him from her (father's) house in silver, gold, valuables, clothing, furniture and bedclothes, all this ________, the said bridegroom accepted in the sum of (one hundred ) silver pieces, and ______ the bridegroom, consented to increase this amount from his own property with the sum of (one hundred) silver pieces, making in all (two hundred) silver pieces. And thus said __________, the bridegroom: "The responsibility of this marriage contract, of this trousseau, and of this additional sum, I take upon myself and my heirs after me, so that they shall be paid from the best part of my property and possession that I have beneath the whole heaven, that which I now possess or may hereafter acquire. All my property, real and personal, even the shirt from my back, shall be mortgaged to secure the payment of this marriage contract, of the trousseau, and of the addition made to it, during my lifetime and after my death, from the present day and forever." _______, the bridegroom, has taken upon himself the responsibility of this marriage contract, of the trousseau and the addition made to it, according to the restrictive usages of all marriage contracts and the additions to them made for the daughters of Israel, according to the institution of our sages of blessed memory. It is not to be regarded as a mere forfeiture without consideration or as a mere formula of a document. We have followed the legal formality of symbolic delivery (kinyan) between ______the son of _______, the bridegroom and _______ the daughter of _______ this (virgin), and we have used a garment legally fit for the purpose, to strengthen all that is stated above, and everything is valid and confirmed.

Attested to________________________ Witness

Attested to________________________ Witness

This paragraph, the Lieberman Clause, is added near the end of the Traditional Aramaic text and is referred to as the Conservative with Lieberman Clause Text.

And both together agreed that if this marriage shall ever be dissolved under civil law, then either husband or wife may invoke the authority of the Beth Din of the Rabbinical Assembly and the Jewish Theological Seminary of America or its duly authorized representatives, to decide what action by either spouse is then appropriate under Jewish matrimonial law; and if either spouse shall fail to honor the demand of the other or to carry out the decision of the Beth Din or its representative, then the other spouse may invoke any and all remedies available in civil law and equity to enforce compliance with the Beth Din's decision and this solemn obligation.

It could happen that you may fall in love with a given ketubah design but not the text offered by the artist or your rabbi has a specific requirement. In such instances, you can request to have your own custom text added on the ketubah. There are two main methods of adding the custom text:

When it is a lithograph print, the custom wording would be written in hand-calligraphy. The cost of hand-written, custom wording depends on the number of words and the particular artist who will be doing it. This option may be rather costly and can significantly raise the cost of your ketubah. On the other hand, their is nothing more beautiful than elegant calligraphy written by hand. Very special!

Some lithograph prints can now have a custom text printed on it with a giclee printer. It costs less than hand-calligraphy so ask us about it if this sounds interesting to you.

The second option involves giclee prints. In this instance, a custom text can be added using calligraphic lettering fonts. The end result is terrific and the overall cost of adding your own text is significantly lower than with hand-calligraphy.

 

In the case where you wrote your text in English and you want it translated to Hebrew for your ketubah, just let us know. We have Israeli translators who are fluent in English and can not only translate your vows but use beautiful Hebrew that captures the essence of your wording.

Many of our artist can add custom texts in a number of languages besides English and Hebrew. We offer Spanish ketubah texts on all of our Studio Collection designs at no extra charge. (Ofrecemos ketubah Español textos en todos nuestros diseños de la Colección Studio.)

Many couples like to see all of the artwork options before selecting their ketubah. Easy! Just click on 'Shop Our Ketubahs' near the top of the page and all of the artwork will be displayed. You can choose how many images you would like to view on a page including 'All.'

Then, as you scroll down, click on any of the images to get more information about that ketubah.

If you know for sure that you don't like flowers or that you do want an image of Jerusalem, you can narrow your search using our multi-option search. You can choose from as many search categories as you like and then click 'Search.' The images that are displayed will fit your criteria.

It is a great idea to do a search of the text that you are using so you can be sure that the ketubah that you fall in love with is available in your text.

You will definitely want to create a Favorites List so you can easily return to any ketubah that you might like to take another look at. When you come across a ketubah that you find interesting, just add it to your Favorites page for future consideration. It's much easier that writing a list or printing out each design.

To create a Favorites list, there is a link at the top right of the home page. Follow the simple directions. Then, You can return to it at any time and add to or delete from it, show it to family and friends, and narrow the choices down until you make your final selection.

Sometimes the final choice is the first ketubah you were interested in. Sometimes you really like several designs and you are wondering how to decide. Our best advise is to close your eyes and picture the ketubah on the wall of your home. Usually an image appears that will provide your answer.

Now all you have to do is add the ketubah to the Shopping Cart and place your order.

You can place your order in whichever way you feel most comfortable:

ONLINE

We have a convenient, easy and SECURE online order form. Begin on the page of the ketubah design that you like, choose your text, personalizing and shipping options, then add it to the cart and follow the directions to complete your order.

PHONE

You can call us toll-free at 1-888-920-3636 and place your order via telephone. You will always be greeted by a friendly person who is happy to take your order, answer your questions, address your concerns and even offer advice on making a selection based on your taste and needs.

FAX

If you would rather fill out the forms by hand and fax it to us, you can download and print out the Ketubah Order/Personalizing Form

After you have filled it out you can fax it to us 24/7 at 1-954-489-3908.

At the end of the SECURE online Order Form you can enter your credit card information. For your convenience we accept VISA, MasterCard and American Express.

You can send us a check or money order if you prefer to:
Judaic Connection
5201 NE 17th Terrace
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334

Orders paid for by check will not be processed until the check has cleared.

Whatever method of ordering you choose, you will always receive an Order Confirmation via email that you can print for your records and review to be sure your order information is accurate.

DOMESTIC
Within the continental United States:

• Standard Shipping - $15.00*
• Second Day Air - $30.00* (or more depending on destination)
• Overnight - $50.00* (or more depending on destination)

FREE STANDARD SHIPPING TO FLORIDA
(enter discount code - FLfree - at checkout)

*Some ketubot require specific shipping priorities or special packaging resulting in different shipping charges. This will be indicated in the shipping options.

INTERNATIONAL RATES

These are determined by the Postal Code of the destination and the time frame required for delivery. We will let you know the exact charges after receiving your order.
(We cannot anticipate any taxes or duties that may be assessed by customs of the destination country. All taxes and duties are the responsibility of the recipient.)

PERSONALIZED KETUBOT:
3-6 weeks after approval of personalizing information page.

NOT PERSONALIZED KETUBOT:
Lithograph Print - Ships right out.
Giclee Print - Each one is printed per order but still generally ships within the week.

RUSH:
If you have waited to the eleventh hour to order your ketubah, (don’t feel bad - you have plenty of company) we will go to great lengths to be sure it arrives on time. Call us so we can work out the details together.

Lithograph Print / Not Personalized - This gets shipped right out. It should arrive within seven to ten days of ordering. If you would like it to arrive sooner, you can indicate that in the Comments box on your order and choose the appropriate shipping priority.

Giclee Print - Since giclee ketubot are printed per order it could take just a little longer than a lithograph to be shipped, even if it is not personalized. You should let us know if it is a rush situation. We and the artists all want you to be able to have the ketubah that you have chosen in time for your wedding and we will make it happen.

If your ketubah is being personalized, it usually takes 3-6 weeks from the time we receive your approved Personalization Form.

Rush - If you have waited to the eleventh hour to order your ketubah (don't feel bad, you have plenty of company) we will go to great lengths to be sure it arrives on time. Call us so we can work out the details together.

First of all, don't worry. If your ketubah arrives damaged, we will replace it at no cost to you. Please notify us immediately and save the damaged original packaging and artwork so we can make the appropriate insurance claims with the shipper.

Check the package as soon as it arrives because there is a time limit from the date of delivery for us to make a damage claim.

Please rest assured that the information that you provide to us will be used to process your order only. Our company never has and never will share your information with any other individuals or companies.

We will not send you solicitations or emails not related to the order that you placed with us. We, too, do not like to receive unsolicited emails so we would never subject our customers to that annoyance.

We will refund or exchange any undamaged, non-custom or non-personalized Ketubah lithograph within 14 days of receipt on the condition that it is resalable. Please be aware that a ketubah that is rolled, unrolled and then rolled and unrolled again is rarely in resalable condition. Though the ketubah that you receive is perfect for framing, the returned ketubah is not usually suitable to send out to another couple. So please choose carefully with the intention of keeping the ketubah.

Giclee ketubot may not be returned since they are printed per order and cannot be resold.

Call for a return authorization.

For your own protection, return items using a trackable shipping method and insure for the full value of artwork. Shipping will not be refunded for a return but in some instances may be applied to an exchange. If for any reason you need to return the ketubah, it must be returned in the original packaging.

On custom, original or personalized ketubot:

All sales are final and refunds, exchanges and cancellations are not available if work has already begun.

Damages:

In any instance that the ketubah arrives damaged, we will replace it at no cost to you. Please save the damaged original packaging and artwork so we can make the appropriate insurance claims with the shipper.

ShopKetubah makes every effort to provide current and accurate information on our websites regarding descriptions, pricing and availability of products. However, on occasion, an error can occur. Judaic Connection will not be required to sell a product based on incorrect information on our websites. You will be notified of the error as soon as it comes to light and you, or we, will have the option of canceling the order. Should your order be cancelled before work has begun, you will receive a full refund if your credit card has already been charged.

ShopKetubah reserves the right to change its prices for products and services sold on our websites, effective immediately upon posting the changes on the site. If you have already placed an order, the price that appeared at the time of your order will be honored.

ShopKetubah is not responsible for, and cannot guarantee, the timely delivery of a product once it is in the possession of a shipping vendor. On occasion, shippers misroute packages and they are not delivered in the time specified for a particular shipping priority. This is beyond our control. Incorrect or incomplete addresses also cause delays and incur extra charges. These charges are your responsibility.

Packages are insured for damage and loss. Please keep original packaging if your item arrives damaged so the shipper can process the claim.

ShopKetubah is not responsible for damage done to a product once it has been delivered including, but not limited to, paper damage due to environmental conditions, damage by calligraphers or other individuals who fill in the ketubah or framers.

ShopKetubah is not responsible for any damages incurred due to products not being delivered on time, due to shippers' errors or your failure to follow up on your order. Judaic Connection diligently completes and ships orders in a timely manner but, on occasion, an order placed via the shopping cart, fax or mail does not reach us. If you have not heard from us it is your responsibility to check on your order.

ShopKetubah is not liable for damages to your computer system or loss of data should any virus be transmitted while using our site or receiving emails from us.

On custom, original or personalized ketubot:

All sales are final and refunds, exchanges and cancellations are not available if work has already begun.

Damages:

In any instance that the ketubah arrives damaged, we will replace it at no cost to you. Please save the damaged original packaging and artwork so we can make the appropriate insurance claims with the shipper.

Hello and Welcome!

When Cindy was still in her teens, she designed her first ketubah for a family member. The intricate, 3-D decoupage decoration made quite an impression resulting in a steady flow of requests for one-of-a-kind ketubot over the years. Raymond’s was intrigued and thought that it would be wonderful to make Cindy’s work and that of of her talented colleagues accessible to more people.

The vision remains to perpetuate the custom of using beautiful ritual objects in the celebration of Jewish lifecycle events – Hiddur Mitzvah. The artists were excited to showcase their work on the new JudaicConnection.com website while they continued the creative process in their studios. It was a match made in heaven – artists representing artists, all with the same goal of providing Jewish couples with a gorgeous selection of ketubot to adorn their homes throughout their married lives.

Our couples frequently attest to the fact that working with us is much more than business-as-usual. We have a deep knowledge of the laws and traditions related to every couple’s ketubah needs and preferences. We are proud to be an American business that treats you like family.

The artist can fill in the blank spaces in the ketubah text with your name, date, and wedding venue in Hebrew and English. The artist will complete this in corresponding calligraphy using freehand if the print is a lithograph. In case the artist is not available, a calligrapher that can imitate the artist’s lettering style will fill in the ketubah.

Personalizing on giclee prints is integrated harmoniously into the digital text. There are a few artists that print the ketubah using the giclee method before personalizing it, given that the text was imprinted from their calligraphy, and then fill it in by hand.

Usually, it costs extra to personalize a ketubah although some artists include this cost in their overall price. If you want the fill-in to be done by your rabbi or cantor, you need to ask them in advance if they would be willing to do so. Some clergy prefer having the ketubah filled in at the wedding by hand, while others will prefer not to write on the artwork..

PLEASE NOTE: Personalizing your ketubah is a service offered by our artists. The ketubah can be printed on a wide range of papers and each of our artists has the experience to select the pen and ink type that best suits their artwork. If you asked someone else to do the filling in of the blank spaces, a ball point pen is ideal for that purpose. If you’re going to use your own calligrapher, you assume any responsibility for possible damage to the artwork.

 

A lot of couples choose to have the blank spaces on the ketubah filled in by the artist in corresponding calligraphy both for purposes of aesthetic uniformity as well as having the reassurance that there will not be any errors in the final work.

Other couples find it charming to have the rabbi’s own handwriting when filling in the ketubah as part of the marriage contract. You need to be sure that your clergy is agreeable to the task since writing on the artwork always carries a risk of damage or error. Or, you may arrive at a decision based on your budget.

There’s really no single right answer since we get many orders both with and without personalizing. What is right for you is what we consider the right answer.

The Personalizing form is accessible on each page of the website via a tab at the top. You can also access the form via the link that appears after you’ve submitted your order online using the shopping cart.

Submission for the order and the Personalizing Form occurs separately, thus allowing you extra time, if necessary, to collect all the details to complete the form. Don’t worry – we monitor calendar dates and we will send you periodic reminders that you need to submit your information.

Proofread your form for accuracy before submitting it. However, you shouldn’t feel intimidated because we’re here to provide assistance. We understand that you may sometimes have to look up names and other details and, when that is the case, we can offer advice on where to search. Your family’s Jewish names are held in this document as a record to be used by future generations so we are committed to gathering correct information.

Prior to ketubah completion by the artist, we will always confirm the information.

Date:
We can look up the Hebrew date for you. We need to know if your ceremony will take place before or after sundown because a new day in Hebrew begins at sundown of the previous day. For instance, the first day of the week begins Saturday night after sundown. You should find out from your rabbi how your day will be calculated if your wedding is to take place at dusk.

You should also ask your rabbi whether your day should be noted as the last day of the week (Shabbat) or the first day of the week if your wedding falls on a Saturday evening before sundown.

Place:
The city and the state of the wedding is included in the text. If you haven’t provided a Hebrew spelling, we will transliterate it from English, though this is subjective. You can ask your rabbi about any spelling preference for the location. (The name of the hall or synagogue is not needed).

Names:
Most commonly, you’ll have your first, middle, and last names in the section written in English. Since the ketubah is a document, legal given names are usually used. A previously married bride may provide her maiden name or, alternatively, the name she is entering the marriage with. When filling in the form you should write the names the way you would like them to appear. Titles (such as Dr.) are generally not included.
The majority of artists will use the names of the parents in the English section, but some do not. You should provide the first names of your parents so we will have them if needed.

Jewish tradition identifies you as: “_______ the son or daughter of _______ and _______.” Thus, we request you to provide your own Hebrew names as well as your parents’ Hebrew names. When looking for the names, a good way to start is by asking your parents. You can ask them whether they have their ketubah where their names will likely appear. Your name might be on a naming or circumcision certificate. When you send any of these documents to us, we can help in the quest. You can also ask grandparents, uncles, aunts, siblings and synagogues.

We feel that there should be accurate documentation of the Hebrew names so that it’s easy for any person to reference your Jewish marriage contract when looking for your Jewish names.

If you don’t know how to write your names in Hebrew, you can write them in English and we will change them to Hebrew. Your name may be uncommon or it may have a unique spelling, particularly Yiddish names, so we always check with you first. If you feel it’s better for you to give us the Hebrew spelling, simply use the online form to spell out the letters (alef, bet, gimmel, and so on). Alternatively, you can use the printable version and email or fax it to us. (You cannot write in Hebrew characters on the online form - it will not come to us in a usable format.)

As for partners or parents without Hebrew names, we use Hebrew letters to write their English names.

Last names are generally not written in the Hebrew text so please let us know if your rabbi requires it. In this case, you should provide any unique spelling of your last name in Hebrew.

The Orthodox tradition is to only use the fathers’ names on the ketubah. If your ceremony is going to be an Orthodox one and you’d like your mothers’ names to be included on the ketubah, consult with your rabbi first. To keep things simple, your mothers’ Hebrew names shouldn’t be provided on the form if they are not going to be used. (Mothers’ names are used in other places in Orthodox tradition, just in case you were wondering.) Both parents’ names are used in all other text.

Brides' Status:
This set of inquiries applies only to the Orthodox and Conservative Lieberman texts. There are variations on the way the text is filled in depending on the answers to these questions.

Signatures:
Typically, at the bottom of the Ketubah text, there are five signature lines: the bride, the groom (or ‘beloveds’ on a same gender marriage text), the two witnesses, and the rabbi or officiant. Many ketubot can have customized signature lines so definitely ask us about any special requests.

For the Conservative or Orthodox Aramaic texts, two witnesses are required to sign below the Aramaic. Any vows made in English must go under these signatures. According to some rabbis, these witness signatures must be placed one above the other. The majority of Aramaic texts without English have this kind of setup. However, for Aramaic text that includes English, the witness signatures may sometimes be put side by side. Again, you must confirm this requirement with your rabbi.

For partners or parents without Hebrew names, we spell their English names in Hebrew letters.

The majority of artists that utilize the giclee printing method offer a digital proof of the personalized text before your ketubah is printed. This way, you can check for accuracy before it is completed. We send the proof to you via email, as well as to your rabbi/cantor if you included his or her email address. The ketubah is printed after your approval and it’s comforting to know that your ketubah has been approved by the time it gets to you.

For lithograph prints, you may not receive a proof of the full text because the artists work directly on the artwork. What you will get is a proof of the personalizing information page in the exact way that it will be sent to the artist. This allows you and your officiant to review the spellings.

As soon as you receive the package, please open it up to look at the ketubah.