From Seattle and Beyond: Making a One-of-a-Kind Ketubah

A hand-crafted ketubah takes special care to create. I work closely with each couple to create a ketubah that is meaningful and that reflects their unique bond and the love and commitment they have for one another.

 As one of my client couples wrote:

“… From the moment we began working with her (Joan), we were struck by her love for her work as seen by her genuine interest in getting to know us as a couple…. Months after our ceremony, we are still reflecting on how the process we went through with Joan was the most meaningful aspect of our wedding preparation…” Sharon B. and David S.

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What is my process?

I am happy to meet with couples for an initial (no charge) consultation if you are thinking about getting a ketubah. When meeting, we look at ketubah samples, the various styles that I have worked in, and design possibilities. I learn what is important to you. Some couples come to me already knowing what they want and that is fine, too. During this consultation we also discuss process and pricing.

If you decide to commission me, we meet next to choose the overall design direction of your ketubah for development. We brainstorm ideas, discuss what you like and look at various sources for inspiration. We consider calligraphy styles and media. We discuss what is meaningful to you for your ketubah.

The ketubot shown on my website are samples of different styles that have evolved over the years. Here you can see ketubot that are illustrated, or made in papercut, or in layered paper collage.

Next, I spend time “percolating” on our design meetings, and I make some rough sketches. We meet and go over these sketches, making changes as desired. Following this, I make a detailed, more finished drawing and we meet again to review. While developing this drawing, I am also researching archival papers and doing studies of the best medium for your ketubah. Once a final drawing is completed to your satisfaction, I begin making your ketubah. The main text will be written in Hebrew calligraphy with the option of adding text and poetry written in English calligraphy. I hand letter all text in calligraphy, both Hebrew and English.

During this time, I am in touch with your rabbi to ensure your ketubah is complete and accurate, as is necessary. I have worked with different ketubah texts and am comfortable working with rabbis from different Jewish movements.

I am grateful to the couples I have worked with over the years in this collaborative process. I have been told by clients that this process was enjoyable and meaningful to them.

While most of the couples have been Jewish, other couples have also discovered the beauty and specialness of the ketubah and have commissioned artful marriage and anniversary “contracts” that reflect their own relationships. I have been very happy to be a part of each of these collaborations.

Ketubah in Seattle and all over the US:

For couples living in Seattle, Washington (during “normal” times), meetings can be done in person. For couples from other locations and during the Covid pandemic, meetings can be done online (during normal times and hopefully after the Covid pandemic). Though I live in Seattle, I have made ketubot and wedding art for couples all over the US. This has worked out quite well over the years.

If you are interested in contacting me or scheduling a consultation (at no charge), please email me at joanlitemiller@gmail.com or click here. 

Thank you for your time and attention. I hope to hear from you!

Joan Lite Miller