The Ketubah
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Ketubah & Partnership Documents
There are many meaningful ways to mark your partnership through Jewish tradition—whether you’re having a traditional ceremony, a modern one, or something beautifully in between. Below you’ll find information about the ketubah and other traditional and alternative Jewish partnership documents. I’m here to support you in choosing or co-creating texts that reflect your values, relationship, and shared vision for the future.
Whether you’re blending traditions, celebrating an interfaith partnership, or creating a ceremony that reflects a more contemporary or personalized approach, having thoughtful guidance can make all the difference. These resources are here to support you in building a wedding experience that feels authentic, inclusive, and meaningful—for you and for everyone sharing in your celebration.
1. Ketubah (Marriage Contract)
The ketubah is the most widely used Jewish wedding document. Traditionally, it outlines the commitments between partners and serves as both a legal and spiritual agreement. Today, ketubot come in many artistic styles, languages, and text options, including traditional, egalitarian, LGBTQ+ inclusive, interfaith, and custom-written versions.
Recommended Ketubah Sites:
- ketubah.com – Choose from a variety of texts, or order the text only and add your own artwork.
- Inked With Intent – Offers modern, inclusive designs with LGBTQ+ and non-binary options.
- Ketubah Graphia – Fine art ketubot with creative design.
- Etsy – A great place to find independent artists and custom designs.
- Gallery Judaica – Includes helpful FAQs on choosing your text and witnesses.
Once you order your ketubah, you’ll be prompted to enter details like:
- Names (in Hebrew and English)
- Wedding location
- Gregorian and Hebrew dates
Please forward your digital proof to me before printing, so I can help confirm that all the information is correct.
2. Brit Ahuvim – Covenant of Lovers
The Brit Ahuvim is a beautiful, egalitarian alternative to the traditional ketubah, developed and revived by Rabbi Dr. Rachel Adler. It emphasizes mutuality and shared spiritual partnership. The ceremony may include symbolic actions like placing shared objects into a bag and lifting it together—representing the shared acquisition of the relationship, rather than one partner acquiring the other.
This document is especially meaningful for same-gender couples or anyone seeking a non-traditional, egalitarian wedding ritual. The text can be customized and translated into Hebrew.
Learn more:
Ketubah FAQs
Here are some common questions I receive from couples about ordering and preparing their ketubah. I’m here to make this process smooth, meaningful, and stress-free!
When should we order the ketubah?
Order your ketubah at least one month before the wedding—earlier if possible. Some artists offer rush options, but advance planning saves you stress. If ordering internationally or during a busy season, build in extra time.
One of us doesn’t have a Hebrew name (or we don’t know a parent’s Hebrew name). What should we use?
No problem! I can transliterate your English name into Hebrew letters, and we can talk through inclusive or alternative options if you’re unsure about a parent’s Hebrew name.
We’re not sure how to spell our Hebrew names. Can you help?
Yes. Hebrew and Yiddish spellings can vary, and I’m happy to guide you. If your parents have a ketubah, you might take a photo of it to see how names were spelled originally.
How should we frame the ketubah?
You can use a temporary frame (like one from Michaels or Target) for the ceremony—just make sure the front covering is removable for signing. If your ketubah arrives rolled, unroll it and lay it flat several weeks in advance. After the ceremony, professional framing is a great option.
What should we use to sign the ketubah?
A fine-tip Sharpie or any archival-quality pen in your preferred color works well. Some artists provide a pen with your ketubah. I recommend having a backup pen just in case!
Can we write our own ketubah text?
Absolutely. Many artists allow you to submit your own text. If you’d like it translated into Hebrew, just note that there may be an additional fee. I’m happy to help review and support the process.
Will we get a digital proof before it’s printed?
Yes, most artists and websites will send you a proof to review. Please share it with me before printing so I can double-check the names, date, and location.
Still have questions?
Reach out anytime—I’m here to help you create a ritual experience that’s meaningful, inclusive, and uniquely yours.
Connect With Rabbi Malka
Looking for a wedding officiant in Atlanta who will create a ceremony that truly reflects your story? Rabbi Malka Packer specializes in LGBTQIA+, Jewish, Interfaith, non-denominational and secular weddings—offering personalized, inclusive ceremonies for every couple.