Jumping The Broom

Wow...how BEAUTIFUL! There is nothing more special than tailoring your wedding day to fit your specific culture. One way of doing so in the African American culture is by 'Jumping The Broom.' The tradition of 'Jumping The Broom' originated in Africa, and was brought to the Americas by slaves that were not legally allowed to marry. Slaves were not privy to having large ornate ceremonies or sometimes not even an ordained officiant, thus they would decorate a sweeping broom with flowers, place it on the ground, hold hands, and jump over it at the same time. The broom would then be placed in the cabin of the couple as a reminder of their bond. This was special, because it was their very own 'I now pronounce you'...moment straight from the motherland.
The jumping of the broom is said to symbolize the sweeping away of all former things, and starting love anew with your spouse. I think this is AMAZING and ORGANIC.
Today, many couples pay homage to their ancestors by jumping over the broom after the wedding ceremony or as they walk into the reception and are introduced to their guests. Regardless, what place you choose to put it into your ceremony, it will surely add for a delightful addition.