Many couples have gone to the trouble to find the perfect ketubah - Jewish wedding contract - for their wedding. Now that it’s here…HOW do we sign it?

Rabbi LeighAnn, a rabbi for Jewish and interfaith weddings, walks you through the things to consider when planning your ketubah signing ceremony.

Many couples are moved by the fact that, simply by signing a ketubah, they are contributing to a long unbroken chain of Jewish history, and future Jews’ ability to learn about our lives and remember us after we have gone.

As an interfaith wedding rabbi, I have seen this argument affect Jews and non-Jews alike very powerfully.

Now - even though you like the idea of a ketubah, you may not like what’s in a traditional version. It may feel old and antiquated - that’s because it is. I love to work with couples to figure out how we can reconstruct the language of a ketubah while keeping to its original spirit.

Choosing a ketubah will be one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning for many Jewish and interfaith couples. As a wedding rabbi who has seen dozens of ketubot and checked them for errors, I’m here to tell you that no two are exactly alike, but they’re all equally emotional.

These days, there are diverse viewpoints within the Jewish communityon interfaith marriage, and each one is worth acknowledging. My goal isn't to convince or persuade; it's all about understanding, inclusion, and connection. This is the case for every rabbi and Jewish professional with an opinion to share on the subject, by the way - we are universally concerned with the continuation of Jewish life in the world.

Premarital counseling is a valuable resource that can enhance your relationship by providing tools, communication skills, and a safe space to address potential challenges. It's not a guarantee against problems, but it's a proactive step towards building a strong foundation for your marriage. Remember, it's about going in together as a team, just like you're about to embark on your married life together. So, consider it, explore your options, and ensure you're both on board with the process.

Premarital counseling is one of the most common questions I receive from couples planning their weddings, especially those who are hesitant about the idea. I understand; wedding planning is a whirlwind of cake tastings, venue tours, meetings with vendors, and family gatherings. The thought of adding more to the mix can be overwhelming. But let's unpack this topic and address your questions and concerns.

First and foremost, do I require premarital counseling from my couples? The answer is a straightforward "No." I do not require premarital counseling, nor do I offer it as part of my wedding officiant services. However, I do recommend it in certain cases, and here's where it gets a bit more nuanced—it depends.

It's completely valid to voice your reservations about religious aspects, such as not believing in G-d or that you haven’t felt like setting foot in synagogue since your bar mitzvah. I hear you. While I won't remain neutral – after all, I host a podcast dedicated to Jewish weddings – I'm here to provide information that will hopefully help you feel secure in whatever decision you end up making.

From Google to Jewish Geography, there are so many ways to find a rabbi for your Jewish or Interfaith Wedding. Your wedding professionals, even if they're not Jewish, can be a treasure trove of recommendations. And don't hesitate to ask your wedding planner, vendors, or even acquaintances for their insights.

Don’t be afraid to start along the “Trail of Rabbis.” Each step brings you closer to finding the rabbi who'll create a heartfelt and unforgettable ceremony, one that's perfect for you and your partner. Happy hunting, and warm wishes on your wedding planning journey!

So, you’ve decided to look for a rabbi to officiate your Jewish or interfaith wedding. Congratulations! Let’s get started.

Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as punching some things into Google and sending some emails. You need to do a little work on your end before you can even articulate what you’re looking for in a rabbi.