The Chuppah: Meaning, Building and Decorating Ideas

A chuppah is a canopy used in Jewish weddings. It has four poles and is open on all sides. The openness symbolises the tent of Abraham and Sarah, who welcomed guests from every direction. It also represents the new home you are building together, one that is open to friends, family and community.

The chuppah is pronounced "KHOO-pah", with a soft "ch" sound from the back of the throat. It is spelled "chuppah" in English, though you may also see "huppah" or "chupa". The plural is "chuppot".

You can build a chuppah frame from wood, metal or PVC pipe. The key is stability, especially outdoors. Use four sturdy poles, each set into a heavy base. You can use plant pots filled with sand or concrete, or purpose-made metal bases. Make sure the poles are straight and evenly spaced.

For a square chuppah, place the poles in a square. The top can be a simple frame of four beams, or you can drape fabric over a crossbar. If you are handy, you can build the frame yourself. If not, consider hiring a local carpenter or event company. Always test the frame before the ceremony, and have a backup plan for wind or rain.

The simplest decoration is a beautiful piece of fabric draped over the top. Many couples use a tallit, or prayer shawl, that belongs to the family. You can also use fresh flowers, greenery, or ribbons tied to the poles. Some couples hang meaningful items from the top, such as photos of loved ones or small mementos.

Think about the season and your venue. For an outdoor wedding, wildflowers and linen look lovely. For an indoor wedding, you might choose rich velvet or silk. You can also add a garland of leaves or fairy lights. Keep the chuppah light enough to move if needed, and make sure decorations do not block the view of the couple.

Yes, you can rent a chuppah in the UK. Many wedding suppliers and Jewish event companies offer chuppah frames and draping. When renting, ask what is included: the frame, the fabric, the bases, and delivery and setup. Check whether the supplier can set up at your venue and how long they need.

Look for a company that has experience with Jewish weddings. Ask about the height of the chuppah, so that the couple and the officiant can stand comfortably. Confirm the weight of the bases, especially if you are on grass or a balcony. Also ask about weather contingencies. Some suppliers offer indoor and outdoor options. Read reviews and ask for photos of previous chuppot they have provided.

A ketubah is a Jewish marriage contract. It outlines the husband's responsibilities to his wife, including financial and emotional support. In modern weddings, the text can be egalitarian or personalised. The ketubah is signed before the ceremony, usually on the same day, in a small gathering of close family and friends. Two witnesses who are not related to the couple sign it. The ketubah is then read aloud during the ceremony.

The ketubah is not a legal document in the UK. It is a religious and cultural document. For your marriage to be legally recognised in England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you need a civil ceremony or a religious ceremony in a registered building. Many Jewish couples have a civil ceremony at the register office and a Jewish ceremony with a chuppah and ketubah. Check GOV.UK for the current rules.

A typical ketubah is about 20 by 30 inches, though sizes vary. The text is often written in Aramaic, Hebrew, or English. Traditional text includes the date, the names of the couple, and the groom's promises. Modern ketubot may include mutual promises, poetry, or vows. You can choose a design that matches your wedding style, from traditional to contemporary.

You can buy a ketubah from Jewish bookshops, online retailers, or commission an artist. When ordering, make sure you allow time for personalisation. Some couples frame the ketubah and display it in their home. The ketubah is usually signed by the couple and two witnesses, and it is often read aloud during the ceremony.

Ketubah is pronounced "keh-TOO-bah", with the stress on the second syllable. The "ch" in Hebrew is often transliterated as "kh", so you may see "ketubah" or "ketubbah". Both are correct.

Keturah is a different name. In the Bible, Keturah is the wife Abraham took after Sarah died. She is not the same as Hagar, Sarah's maidservant. The names sound similar but are distinct. In your wedding planning, you will mostly hear "ketubah", not "Keturah".