Jumping the Broom, an African Wedding Tradition
You'll Just Be Swept Away
HISTORY
This is a long-held tradition that dates back to the 1600's from Africa. Because marriages were not recognized in African culture, this tradition of jumping over the broom was symbolic of their union. It has also been tied to the Celtic heritage involving Welsh, Druids and Gypsies.
SIGNIFICANCE OF BROOM
The straws of the broom represent family. The handle signifies God Almighty. The ribbon means the binding together of two people as a couple.
MODERN DAY CEREMONY
It is a brief ceremony that takes place after the pronouncement of the couple as husband and wife. Some prefer to do it at the beginning of the wedding reception. It represents the beginning of a new family where the woman is "swept away" into a new relationship with her husband.
The broom is placed on the floor and jumped over by the bride and groom.
IT IS DONE TO
Honor your ancestry and heritage
Acknowledge the joining of two families
Represent love, togetherness, unity and respect for each other
DO IT YOURSELF
While you could purchase a broom from several online sites, you can just as easily make your own. You will at least need a broom, ribbons, fancy beads or sequins. Your results are limited only by your imagination. Sometimes wedding guests are invited to place a ribbon with good wishes written on it and tied to the broom.
So before you get "swept away" with all your planning, this might be a consideration.
SOURCE:
http://www.celebrateintimateweddings.com/ceremonybroom.html
http://www.do-it-yourself-weddings.com/wedding-broom.html
Personal observation
Published by Lee Hansen
I am a woman who enjoys the simple things in life. My parents raised 10 children. I have an Associate Degree in Medical Office Assisting as well as a Bachelor's Degree in Biblical Education. View profile
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- Jumping over the Broom goes back to the 1600's and was a part of African culture.
- It was a way that slaves recognized their union in marriage.
- Many couples perform this at their wedding today.
32 Comments
Post a CommentI often wondered about jumping the broom.
Great article! I must admit, I never really understood what it was all about. i didn't jump the broom at my own wedding. :)
Well done.
I love this idea Lee, how cute! Also what a useful gift for future housecleaning too!!! Too much fun Lee!!
I always wondered about the meaning behind this custom. Love it!
Well done.
A beautiful tradition, have seen it used at many weddings.
I did a series of articles on wedding customs for a client. I found this one and the history quite compelling. I can understand why it's making its way back into weddings today.
Jumping the broom always seemed like a good idea because it is a very simple way of getting married.
cute story...never heard of this!