The jumping the broom ceremony can be traced back to many diverse cultures.
The “Jumping the Broom” is a ceremony in which the bride and groom, signify their entrance into a new life and their creation of a new family by symbolically “sweeping away” their former single lives, former problems and concerns, and jumping over the broom to enter upon a new adventure as wife and husband.
The straws of the broom represent family; the handle represents the Almighty; the ribbon represents the tie that binds the couple together. At the conclusion of the ceremony, a family member or friend places the broom in the path of the wedding couple. They then jump over the broom on their way to the recessional. This element is a closing to the ceremony and is done after the pronouncement.
Example 1
_____ and ___ have chosen to conclude their ceremony with the tradition of jumping the broom Today we honor and celebrate the transition from two separate lives into one life united by love. We place a broom for jumping, which symbolizes the entrance of the couple into a new life together. (broom is laid in front of couple) Sharing a life with another person requires many “leaps of faith.” The leap they take together over the broom is also symbolic. By taking the leap, they make a gesture of dedication to working together through the tough times ahead, as well as the easy times. They leave behind the past and jump into the future together secure in their love. I ask everyone to please count to three with me and as we do so, shout with joy as they perform their first act of working together as husband and wife. 1, 2, 3, jump! Ladies and gentlemen it is my privilege to present Mr. and Mrs.______!” (Couple kisses again and exits to greet their guests)!
Example 2
___ and _____ have chosen to conclude their ceremony with the jumping the broom ceremony. As our bride and groom jump, they physically and spiritually cross the threshold into matrimony. It marks the beginning of their making a home together. It symbolizes the sweeping away of the old and the welcoming of the new. It is also a call of support for the marriage from the entire community of family and friends. The bride and groom will now begin their new life together with a clean sweep! (broom is laid in front of couple) Everyone please count with me 1, 2, 3… Jump! (Couple jump) Ladies and gentlemen it is my privilege to present Mr. and Mrs.______!” (Couple kisses again and exits to greet their guests)!
