A Ketubah reflects the love and vows made by the bride and groom, and the desires for their new life. It is a reflection of their commitment, religious traditions that will be observed, the hope of children and the joy of family.

The modern Ketubah text has been modified to define marriage as a union based on love and commitment, not legality. Modern Ketubahs are personalized artworks, including both the text of the marriage contract and images in the margins. Some couples include how they will share responsibilities and resolve conflicts in the Ketubah text, while others include both the traditional text of the date, place and parties to the Ketubah, as well as personalized vows in English.

The Ketubah is a major focal point in a Jewish wedding and in the life of the couple, for which the Ketubah text should be chosen very carefully. Here is how a couple should choose the text for their Ketubah:

#1 They should first talk to the rabbi regarding the Ketubah. If they are not sure of what they exactly want, they should express the general sentiment they wish to convey. The text on every Ketubah will vary, depending on whether they are conservative, orthodox, reform, interfaith, or otherwise.

#2 Next, they should go through samples of Ketubah text and identify the variation between wordings and styles. A traditional orthodox Ketubah will include conventional language which sounds like a pre-nuptial agreement rather than a marriage license. Modern Ketubahs might include English translations and read close to marriage vows. Your rabbi can advise you based on previous weddings he has solemnized.

#3 Visit Judaic shops. It will be helpful to see completed documents.

#4 Search for Ketubah samples online. They will find a wide range traditional and custom Ketubah text options.

#5 Determine which text best conveys the couple’s feelings towards each other and about marriage. Within each broad category of text, there are several variations.

#6 Before filling in the final copy, the couple should make a draft of their personal information to ensure that they make the correct entries.

#7 Lastly, they should go over their choice with their rabbi. He can verify that the Hebrew or Aramaic text included in the Ketubah is correct and give an official sign-off to the Ketubah provider, which is sometimes required.

After the text of the Ketubah has been decided, the couple can choose from a wide range of personalized Ketubah designs online designed by the most gifted Ketubah artists with extreme attention to detail and keen eye for aesthetics.