Photo credit to: www.african-weddings.com
By Guest Blogger Kadeshia Bennet, WPICC of Essence Occasions
Jumping the broom has been an African American tradition for more than a century. It is said to derive from the days of slavery where people were not allowed to get married. Jumping the broom was their way of exiting their old lives and entering a life of togetherness; to recognize their past and embrace their future together. But this mother land tradition turns out to be a part of more than one culture. Here are a few questions and answers to a timeless tradition!
1. What is the history of jumping the broom and where did it originate?
Jumping the broom was seen as a symbol of the union of African enslaved American couples whose marriages were not recognized in a civil ceremony during the days of slavery in the Nineteenth Century. Jumping a single broom also symbolizes the recognition of a couple’s union and commitment to each other as husband and wife. Although it is a part of the African tradition, the Welsh and Celtic people also used this tradition to symbolize fertility. It is said to have been a European tradition as well.
2. Do people of African heritage still carry on the tradition of jumping the broom?
Yes, the tradition of jumping the broom is still a tradition that is celebrated among those of African heritage and also world wide. However, some consider this to be an outdated tradition that they prefer not to partake of, due to its historical association with slavery.
3. At what point during my wedding should I jump the broom?
You can jump the broom any time after you say your “I dos”. One idea is to enter your reception by jumping the broom as you are being introduced for the first time as “Mr. and Mrs.” An idea might be to have your MC explain the history of the tradition and what it means to you both before introducing you.
4. What does jumping the broom signify?
As this tradition has been linked to many different cultures, the broom itself represents many aspects of many unions, including a “leap of faith” into marriage. It may also represent the honouring of ones family heritage, the essence of a happy and successful marriage filled with love, reverence and fidelity for on another, togetherness, and fertility. Also some believe that the person who jumps the highest will rule the house!
5. How can I decorate my broom?
The decision to decorate one’s broom is always on of personal choice and taste. To add a personal touch, consider decorating your broom with ribbons, silk or real flowers in your accent wedding colour. It is best if you use your theme and colour pallet as a guide. You can make your own broom, take it to your florist and ask if they can decorate it the same as your bridal bouquet.
6. What should be done with the broom after it has been jumped?
You have many options as to what you can do with your broom before and after you have made your leap. One suggestion is to place your broom on a decorated table with permanent markers and have your guests write personal messages on it to you. After your wedding you can have it framed or be placed in a glass container to be displayed in your home as a symbol of your commitment of togetherness. Another suggestion is to purchase mini 3D picture frames from your local craft store, take a bit of the straw from the broom, tie it with an accent colour ribbon and place it in the frame and send them to each guests as a token of your appreciation.
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