How to Make Your Ketubah Signing Meaningful
- Rachelle Tchiprout
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
The ketubah signing is one of the most intimate and symbolic moments of a Jewish wedding – but how and when it happens can vary widely. Some couples keep it private and traditional, while others turn it into a shared, emotional highlight of the day.
Who signs the ketubah? In Orthodox weddings, the ketubah is signed by two male, Shabbat-observant witnesses. The groom is usually present and may also sign, depending on the custom of the community or officiating rabbi. The bride does not participate in the signing in Orthodox settings.
In Reform, interfaith, or more flexible ceremonies, it’s common for both partners to sign, along with two witnesses, and sometimes also the rabbi or officiant. This offers more opportunity for personalization and inclusivity.
To help couples plan a ketubah signing that feels meaningful and true to them, I asked my Instagram audience to share how they did theirs. Their answers were personal, creative, and full of inspiration – and I’ve grouped them below to guide you.
Traditional & Orthodox Ceremonies
In halachic or Orthodox weddings, the ketubah is typically signed in a private room before the chuppah, in the presence of a rabbi and kosher witnesses. Despite its formality, couples still found ways to make the moment feel personal and special.
📍Private & Intentional
“We signed in a separate room surrounded by family and a few close friends.”
“Before the chuppah, in a separate room with the rabbis, witnesses, and both parents.”
“We had a separate ceremony for only family/bridal party. It was right before the chuppah!”
🖊 Personal Touches
“Signed in a closed room with rabbi, signers, and parents. My husband gave my parents a pen 😂”
👨👩👧 Including Family
“Our rabbi allowed each of our three siblings to be witnesses.”
These stories show that even in more structured settings, there are beautiful ways to include loved ones and add personal meaning.
Flexible, Reform, and Mixed-Tradition Ceremonies
For couples with more freedom around structure and tradition, the ketubah signing often became a heartfelt and creative part of the celebration.
🍸 Integrated Into the Day
“We did it in the corner of our cocktail hour and I regret not making more of a thing of it!”“We signed directly after the ceremony.”
🎉 Shared with Community
“At a joint tisch with our family and camp friends! ❤️🏕”
🕍 Quiet, Simple Moments
“We signed in the rabbi’s study with our parents and witnesses.”
🌍 Regional Customs
“In France, it’s separate and usually not a public event.”
Whether private or public, casual or ceremonial, these moments became meaningful milestones in each couple’s wedding.
Creative Variations for Flexible Weddings
If you're planning a Reform, interfaith, queer, or non-traditional wedding, there are so many beautiful ways to make the ketubah signing reflect you:
More than two witnesses – Invite close friends or family to co-sign.
Multiple rabbis or officiants – Include everyone who’s played a role in your journey.
Non-binary or gender-neutral titles – Use terms like “Beloved,” “Partner,” or your own wording instead of “Bride” and “Groom.”
Guestbook-style signing – Have guests sign the mat around your ketubah artwork.
Incorporate ritual – Light candles, say a blessing, or add a moment of stillness.
Unique settings – Sign under the chuppah in front of all your guests, in a separate private event, on the beach: wherever speaks to you!
Your ketubah isn’t just a document – it’s a reflection of your relationship, your values, and your story. Let the signing feel just as intentional as the rest of your day.
Tips for a Meaningful Ketubah Signing
Choose a location that feels right – quiet and tucked away, or part of the buzz.
Invite people intentionally – whether it’s just witnesses or your whole bridal party.
Add ritual or symbolism – music, a toast, or a quiet pause.
Capture the moment – photographer or no photographer, don’t rush through it.
Make it feel like you – traditional, spiritual, playful, or emotional.
💡 Your ketubah signing is the religious heart of your marriage. However you do it, it deserves thought and space.
Need help finding or customizing a ketubah that reflects your love and values? I’ve created 900 ketubahs for couples of all backgrounds and am happy to help.
Explore the options or get in touch at www.thedelicatebrush.com
and via email at rachelle@thedelicatebrush.com
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