Jumping the broom is a time-honored wedding tradition in which the bride and groom jump over a broom, typically at the closing of the ceremony.
The act symbolizes a new beginning and a sweeping away of the past, and can also signify the joining of two families or offer a respectful nod to family ancestors.
For all of these reasons, jumping the broom is an increasingly popular part of many modern wedding ceremonies.
Today’s wedding brooms, however, are a far cry from those first used in jumping the broom ceremonies. They’re still made with a wooden handle and natural bristles, but they’re kept as treasured keepsakes and probably never actually used to sweep the floor.
You will find a good selection of rustic handmade brooms available in Halloween shops around September/October, or make your own from a collection of twigs bound tightly on a long piece of forest wood for a handle.
Embellish and decorate with ribbons, bells, flowers and anything of your choice for a lovely keepsake and memento of your special day.
Jumping the broom can also be performed at an anniversary or a renewal of vows ceremony.