This ritual is found in my different cultures, but is particularly associated with European and African heritages. The debate as to where jumping the broom originated rages on and will likely never come to an end. The Romani Gypsies in Wales and England are often cited as the source of the custom as is West Africa, although there isn't any documented evidence of its use in West and Central African weddings. Many Americans assume the custom is popular among African Americans because of its connection to traditions during the era of slavery, but this isn't necessarily the case. It fell out of favor because of its association with the horrors of slavery and then made a come back in the 1970s following the publication of Alex Haley's novel, Roots.
Some couples conclude their ceremony with this ritual while others do it at the reception. The custom is a symbolic jumping over the threshold of a doorway from a carefree single life into the responsibilities of domestic life and not necessarily a leap of faith into the future. There is no right way or wrong way do to this ritual and the officiant and couple are certainly free to word the ceremony to capture the symbolism they find most meaningful.
Here is a version I wrote for a couple as a concluding ritual in their wedding ceremony. After they kissed, I had the maid of honor hand the bouquet back to the bride, the couple linked arms and turned to face their guests.
Officiant: (Bride and Groom) have just pledged themselves to one another recognizing their union comes with responsibilities to be diligent and responsible householders. They understand a marriage is not just a uniting of two hearts and souls as one, but the creation of a new family with obligations and responsibilities to one another, their families and the community.
At this time I would like to invite (Name) and (Name) to come forward to represent (Bride and Groom's) families. Will you each please hold one end of this broom as a gesture of support for your children's marriage? By serving as anchors, these two families provide ((Bride and Groom) with the security of unconditional love and a source of tradition, heritage and history.
The broom is an instrument of labor reminding us a successful marriage entails hard work as well as effortless passion. As a broom sweeps away all that is unwanted in our homes, may you endeavor to sweep away any strife threatening your union. This broom represents the strength, love, togetherness, loyalty and respect essential for a successful marriage.
<Family representatives place the broom on the ground in front of the couple.>
(Bride) and (Groom) may this broom always remind you of your new life and commitment to each other. Display it proudly in your home. Whenever you see it, may it be a joyous reminder of the way you felt today, your wedding day. May it inspire a sense of honor and respect for your family and a legacy you now share and create anew today. You may now leap into your new life as husband and wife.
<Bride and Groom jump the broom.>
Ladies and gentlemen, it is a joy and an honor to present to you for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. (Names)!
A decorative broom used for the occasion makes a lovely keepsake the couple can display in their home. Its presence will bring back memories of their wedding and how they felt that day.
Some couples conclude their ceremony with this ritual while others do it at the reception. The custom is a symbolic jumping over the threshold of a doorway from a carefree single life into the responsibilities of domestic life and not necessarily a leap of faith into the future. There is no right way or wrong way do to this ritual and the officiant and couple are certainly free to word the ceremony to capture the symbolism they find most meaningful.
Here is a version I wrote for a couple as a concluding ritual in their wedding ceremony. After they kissed, I had the maid of honor hand the bouquet back to the bride, the couple linked arms and turned to face their guests.
Officiant: (Bride and Groom) have just pledged themselves to one another recognizing their union comes with responsibilities to be diligent and responsible householders. They understand a marriage is not just a uniting of two hearts and souls as one, but the creation of a new family with obligations and responsibilities to one another, their families and the community.
At this time I would like to invite (Name) and (Name) to come forward to represent (Bride and Groom's) families. Will you each please hold one end of this broom as a gesture of support for your children's marriage? By serving as anchors, these two families provide ((Bride and Groom) with the security of unconditional love and a source of tradition, heritage and history.
The broom is an instrument of labor reminding us a successful marriage entails hard work as well as effortless passion. As a broom sweeps away all that is unwanted in our homes, may you endeavor to sweep away any strife threatening your union. This broom represents the strength, love, togetherness, loyalty and respect essential for a successful marriage.
<Family representatives place the broom on the ground in front of the couple.>
(Bride) and (Groom) may this broom always remind you of your new life and commitment to each other. Display it proudly in your home. Whenever you see it, may it be a joyous reminder of the way you felt today, your wedding day. May it inspire a sense of honor and respect for your family and a legacy you now share and create anew today. You may now leap into your new life as husband and wife.
<Bride and Groom jump the broom.>
Ladies and gentlemen, it is a joy and an honor to present to you for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. (Names)!
A decorative broom used for the occasion makes a lovely keepsake the couple can display in their home. Its presence will bring back memories of their wedding and how they felt that day.
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