FAQs

What is a ketubah?

ketubah
(k’TOO-buh), ketubot (pl.) (k’TOO-boat)

The “ketubah” (Jewish marriage contract, from the Hebrew word for “written”) is an ancient and beautiful element of the Jewish marriage ceremony.

Historically, the ketubah established a husband’s obligations to his wife; today, couples often write their own texts (personalized wedding vows), expressing their promises to one another and wishes for the future. Today we have not only the original Aramaic version, but also many reform texts, same sex and intermarriage adaptations expressing the couple’s mutual commitment. In its many styles, a ketubah is an instant heirloom.

Judaism has a precept which states that if an object is required for ritual purposes, it should be made as beautiful as possible. Ketubah Graphia celebrates the art of the handwritten letter and concentrates on the most important element of a ketubah—the essence of the text chosen to honor a couple’s commitment to one another. These ritual objects become an integral part of and significant symbol in people’s lives.
Neither of us is Jewish, but we love the idea of a ketubah. Can we still order one?

A marriage document is a beautiful tradition that anyone can enjoy. Each Ketubah Graphia design can be customized with your own vows, or any other words you wish, including signature lines for witnesses to your marriage. There are also English-only, non-denominational texts and other personalized wedding vows to choose from.
What information do you need from the couple?

For a custom designed ketubah there is a lot of input from the couple. We will be discuss colors, composition, design and text. In addition, couples will need to provide the following, depending on your particular ceremony:

If you choose to have your ketubah personalized, full English names, including middle names if you choose; full Hebrew names, which include those of your parents; (note: If someone doesn’t have a Hebrew name then I will transliterate their English first name using Hebrew letters); the date and time of the ceremony; the city and state where the ceremony is taking place; and how many people will be signing the ketubah as witnesses.

For Anniversary texts, the names of the couple and date and place of the original ceremony will need to be provided.

These details are all outlined on the Order & Personalization Form (also found on the Ordering page).
What is the ketubah ordering process?

Begin by going to the Ordering page. First choose the text most appropriate for your kind of ceremony or union. Then, proceed with the other choices available to you. Use the Order & Personalization Form (also found on the Ordering page) as you make your decisions. If at any time you have questions about the options or process, do not hesitate to contact Aliza by e-mail at aliza@ketubahgraphia.com or by phone at 646.812.0584.

You will then place your order by sending the order form via e-mail or mail to Ketubah Graphia. Mailing details can be found on the order form.
How long does the whole ketubah ordering process take?

From placing the order to delivery, custom ketubahs usually takes about 5 weeks. Most often, printed and original ketubahs are available for immediate shipping. Allow 7-10 days for delivery. Personalization (having your names, dates, and location of wedding filled in with calligraphy) adds a few extra days to all orders. Rush orders are also available for an extra charge, depending on time and location.
Do you do rush orders?

If you are ordering a custom ketubah less than 5 weeks from the date of the occasion, an additional $350.00 charge will apply. For rush orders on printed or original ketubahs (less than 10 days from the wedding), the charge for shipping will apply to your order.
How do I choose my text? What texts are available?

Please see the different texts available in the Texts section. There are several to choose from. Be sure to consult with your officiant to make sure you choose the text most appropriate to your ceremony if necessary. If you find another text you would like to use, a custom ketubah can be created using any text you provide.
Can we use our own text?

You are welcome to use your own text to be incorporated into the available custom designs. Please try not to exceed about 600 words total (English and Hebrew).
What is Personalization?

If you want the personalization details of your ketubah filled in by hand with calligraphy to match that of the rest of the ketubah text, you will need to include all your personal information on the Order & Personalization Form. Ask your officiant to help you fill in the form. You may also order a basic ketubah, in which case you can have a local calligrapher or your officiant do the personalization.
What about the signature lines?

Traditionally there are two (2) witnesses that sign the ketubah, often in addition to the couple and officiant signatures. You can request additional signature lines for no additional cost. Signature lines are added to all designs–custom, original or printed–after an order is placed.
Is there a printable order form?

You can download this PDF version of the Order & Personalization Form (also found on the Ordering page) and either e-mail or mail it to Aliza Boyer at Ketubah Graphia. Mailing details are on the order form.
What if I don’t know someone’s Hebrew name?

If you don’t know how to spell it in Hebrew, either check with your officiant or I can transliterate the English name for you.
Will I receive a text proof?

Once your order and deposit have been received a copy of the text will be sent to you to approve. (Note: If your ketubah includes Hebrew and you do not read Hebrew, please have someone like your rabbi look it over.)
What happens after the text is approved?

Once your ‘okay to proceed’ is received, the ketubah gets created and shipped. You will receive a confirmation and tracking number when that happens.
How is the ketubah shipped?

Ketubahs are shipped flat, wrapped in archival, acid free and sturdy materials. The delivery will require a signature so as to avoid being misplaced. Shipping is free within the US. If you would like to pick up your ketubah at the Ketubah Graphia studio in Brooklyn, NY, please contact me so that we can make those arrangements.
How is the ketubah paid for?

You can choose to pay by cash, check or money order. Once your order form has been received and an invoice has been sent to you, a deposit of 50% of the total cost must be sent in order for work on any custom ketubah to begin. The balance is due before your ketubah can be shipped. Original and printed ketubahs must be paid for in full before they are shipped.
I’m Jewish, but my partner is not. How should our names be written on the ketubah?

Most interfaith couples have questions about how to handle their names on the ketubah. Your names can be written however you’d like, as long as your officiant approves. Most people use their full names in English.

In the Hebrew there are several options. The standard formula is:
“[Hebrew name] son/daughter of [Father's Hebrew name] and [Mother's Hebrew name]”

When one of the couple doesn’t have a Hebrew name, the most common way to write the names in the Hebrew text is:
Eitan son of Haim and Chana and Julie daughter of Daniel and Linda (transliterated/translated)

Again, be sure to get your officiant’s approval and help with the Hebrew spelling.
Do you offer refunds?

For custom ketubahs: If no work has begun, the 50% deposit will be refunded to you up to 30 days before your occasion.

For original and printed ketubahs: There are no refunds unless the product shipped is not what you ordered.
What does “archival” mean?

This is a non-technical term that suggests that a material or product is permanent, durable, or chemically stable, and that it can therefore safely be used for preservation purposes.
Do you offer ketubah framing?

Ketubah Graphia does not offer framing but can recommend local framers for you to use and suggestions for framing. It is best to use museum quality glass or plexi to protect your ketubah from fading. Care instructions are provided with every ketubah order.
How can we best take care of our handmade ketubah?

Each custom ketubah, like the words you chose to represent your union, has been created with fine, archival materials (permanent, durable and chemically stable) meant to endure throughout your life together. When you receive your ketubah, care instructions regarding suggestions for transporting, handling, framing, storing, and hanging your ketubah will be provided. Feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns you have regarding care of the artwork prior to ordering or after receiving your ketubah.
Can you do other works besides ketubot?

Aliza Boyer has created many original works of art for marriage, birth, bar/bat mitzvah and other lifecycle events or occasions. please contact Aliza at the Ketubah Graphia studio for more information about commissioning an original work of art for your special occasion. The materials, calligraphy and style will be similar to those used for the ketubot seen in the Gallery. Please see the available Poetic Phrases, Home Blessing, Aishet Chayil (Woman of Valor) and Grand/Parents Blessing options as well.