Jumping the Broom… What is It Really All About?
By: Debbie Wallace
The West African tradition of Jumping the Broom dates back to 18th Century Ghana. It is said that couples practiced this ritual as a way to ward off evil spirits, pardon their pasts and jump into a new life. This tradition eventually stopped over time.
Incidently, Jumping the Broom was also an Ancient Celtic tradition that represented fertility. It is possible that the Celtic masters of African slaves may have suggested this ritural to be practiced as a sincere representation of marriage to the public since couples were not allowed to marry. The tradition fell out of practice once blacks were allowed to have European style weddings with rings.
Today, the resurgence of Jumping the Broom is a matter of personal choice for couples that want to pay tribute to tradition by reclaiming their heritage. The process usually occurs just at the end of the ceremony or upon entrance to the reception.
Many couples that choose to include this tradition in their wedding ceremony will invite the members of their bridal party and/or family to decorate the broom. Here are some considerations for preparation.
1. Visit this site to purchase ready-made brooms or the materials you will need to “DIY” do it yourself. http://african-weddings.com/do_it_yourself. I found this site to be filled with lots of Afrocentric Wedding Ideas and I am sure you will too.
2. At the wedding, ask your guests to attach bows to the broom. This will help them feel part of the ceremony.
This decorative traditional piece is often used a keepsake and décor for the couple’s new home.©
Debbie Wallace
Elegant Affairs, LLC
Wedding/Event Planning & DĂ©cor
(866) 424-0522
www.elegantaffairsbydee.com