The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Ketubah You’ll Still Love in 50 Years {with Melanie Dankowicz} - Smashing the Glass

Photo by Owen Billcliffe

So much of wedding planning is about curating a perfect moment in time. Gorgeous flowers, delicious cake, music that gets everyone on the dance floor – it’s all so special, but at the same time so fleeting.

But your ketubah? That’s forever.

Your ketubah is more than just a formality – it’s one of the most meaningful parts of a Jewish wedding. It’s at the heart of your big day, a reflection of your values – and if you choose wisely, it’ll also be a piece of art you’ll delight in seeing on your wall every single day for years to come.

Elizabeth and Bernie‘s Jewish wedding | Photo by Maya Myers

To help you choose a ketubah that’ll still make your heart skip a beat on your 50th anniversary, we chatted with renowned papercut artist Melanie Dankowicz. With her decades of experience creating exquisite Judaica that blends tradition and contemporary elegance, Melanie knows exactly how to design a ketubah that will stand the test of time. Read on for her top tips on choosing one that’s just right for you.

Photo by Stevie Dee

Quality is Everything

You and your partner are in it for the long haul – and your ketubah should be, too. Your ketubah should last as long as your marriage (and then some). That’s why Melanie emphasizes choosing archival-quality materials. The paper, inks, and finishes should all be designed to last – no fading, yellowing, or crumbling allowed.

Pick a Design That Will Age Gracefully

Trends come and go, but a thoughtfully designed ketubah never goes out of style. This is a piece that will live on your walls long after your big day, so you want to make sure you pick something that reflects you and also feels timeless.

Melanie’s papercut designs are known for their clean lines, elegant details, and touch of modern flair. Whether you’re drawn to botanical motifs, intricate geometric patterns, or something more whimsical, the key is to choose a design that will feel just as perfect decades from now as it does today.

Add Personal Touches

Want to make your ketubah truly yours? Customizing the artwork is where the magic happens.

Many couples love including tiny, hidden details in their papercut design – like their pet dog or a symbol that represents a beloved shared hobby. If your ketubah design includes a tree, Melanie can cut your initials in a heart on the tree trunk.

Paige and Ross‘s Jewish wedding | Photo by Rebecca Love Photography

Choose the Right Text for You

The text is the heart of the ketubah. And luckily, there are plenty of options to suit your values and relationship. From Orthodox to Conservative to Reform, same-sex, and interfaith texts, there’s something for every couple. Melanie offers a curated selection to get you started – but she also encourages couples to personalize the English text to make it feel just right.

Think about what you want to be reminded of every day: your love, your shared values, or the way you intend to support each other through life’s adventures. Since your ketubah will hang on your wall for years to come, the words should feel meaningful and authentic to you.

Play with Color (or Keep It Classic)

Color is another way to make your ketubah feel timeless and personal. Melanie’s signature shimmery mother-of-pearl opal backing is a surefire choice for classic elegance – but if you’re drawn to something more vibrant, the sky’s the limit. Melanie can customize your ketubah with any colors you love. And for couples who want to add a touch of luxury, 23k gold leaf is a stunning way to elevate the design.

Why Couples Love Working with Melanie Dankowicz

Melanie isn’t just a ketubah artist – she’s passionate about helping couples tell their love stories through art, and she pours incredible care and craftsmanship into every piece. The result? Ketubot that are breathtaking on your wedding day and just as meaningful decades later.

Ready to Find Your Forever Ketubah?

Choosing your ketubah should be one of the most joyful parts of wedding planning – it’s where art, love, and tradition meet.

With Melanie’s expertise and your unique story, you can create a ketubah that you’ll be proud to display, cherish for a lifetime, and maybe even pass down through the generations.