I love the history behind 'jumping the broom" as told by Ka- Veronica Braddy. This is what she shared:
"Jumping the Broom" is a symbol of sweeping away the old and welcoming the new, or a symbol of new beginnings. Jumping the broom has become very popular inAfrican traditions at weddings-traditional and African-centered. History tells us that the ancestral roots of this ritual began deep in the heart of Africa. It's original purpose and significance has been lost over the years because of the association with slavery. This broom ceremony represents the joining of two families, it's showing respect and pays homage to those who came before us and paved the way. Therefore it should be practiced with honor for your ancestors and the beauty of our rich heritage. During the slave "transitions" we were not allowed to practice many of the traditional rituals of our past therefore, much of our heritage was lost during this time. However, a few were considered harmless and allowed. Ttoday "Broom Jumping" is a ritual, handed down from generation to generation to remind us of a time when our vows were not legally sanctioned. During slavery, our ancestors sought the legitimacy of marriage by jumping over the broom and into the bonds of domesticity. For our ancestors, this small ritual was a legal and bonding act connecting them with the heritage of the home land and giving legitimacy,dignity and strength to their unions. In their eyes this union was now sanctioned by "the almighty". -Ka- Veronica Braddy"
Most of my couples do it for tradition. Usually one of both decide that this is very important to them. I have found that most couple of African-American descent choose to jump the broom, but most don't know that those who celebrate the Scottish wedding ceremony also jump the broom. My Bride incorporated this into their Celtic ceremony. They did so by using their Seanachaidh (tradition bearer). It is common for the Seanachaidh to make a couple a broom for jumping.
As a wedding professional I don’t see anything wrong with incorporating a tradition that means something to the couple or that’s being passed down and pays respect. Some people do sand, some do whiskey, and some jump the broom.
Here are some beautiful wedding videos shot by Unashamed Imaging featuring couple's that jumped the broom.: Carla & Stephen Crystal Ballroom at Veranda Wedding 'Jump the Broom' at 7:00 minutes (Timestamp)
at 12:33 minutes (Timestamp) Tishera & Danielle Crystal Ballroom at Veranda Wedding 'Jump the Broom'
Joshua + Ayawta Crystal Ballroom on the Lake Wedding 'Jump the Broom' at 20:27 minutes (Timestamp)
Irene & John Crystal Ballroom on the Lake Wedding My Bride incorporated this into their Celtic ceremony. They did so by using their Seanachaidh (tradition bearer). It is common for the Seanachaidh to make a couple a broom for jumping.
All Photography and Cinematography by Unashamed Imaging.
