Broom Jumping Bliss!
Most brides look forward to the planning aspect of getting married — well minus the stresses of budgets, deadlines and family pressures. Now that the wedding industry has embraced a do-it-yourself approach to all things bridal, brides are increasingly more likely to inject their personalities (and their spouse’s) into the big day. It is a unique opportunity for a couple to shine creatively.
Yet, one aspect of planning that can sometimes be a bit of a stumbling block is whether or not to uphold tradition. Take the age old tradition of “jumping the broom.” By now, most people are familiar with the T.D. Jakes produced film of the uptown meets downtown family story where a couple who rushes to get married faces a few familial dilemmas; most problematic being Sabrina Watson, the bride, refusing to adhere to her mother-in-law’s desire to see the newlyweds “jump the broom.” Sabrina thinks she deserves her idea of having a modern, simplistic-styled ceremony. But for her mother-in-law and for many others, weddings aren’t about style as much as they are about tradition.
The act of an African-American man and woman jumping over a wooden broom during the marital ceremony holds great significance in African-American community. Its roots stem from the days of slavery in the US, where African-American couples were not legally permitted to marry. However many non-American couples of the African Diaspora like Nadine and Sean have adopted the beloved tradition as well. As a public announcement and a statement of their love and commitment, the man and woman jumped over a broom pronouncing their entrance into matrimony. It also symbolizes sweeping the past behind and “jumping” into a new life together. So here at Triple B, we’re giving those who are into upholding this tradition, a little info. We’re spotlighting one West-coast based vendor who takes decorating brooms for weddings very seriously. Meet Marayah Lane’s Gift Creations (see below pic). Located in Fresno, California, creator Marayah Lane is a Certified Event/Wedding Consultant and Craft Designer. Lane offers couples three special types of brooms with prices ranging from a low of $14 to a high of $198.
One of Marayah's Custom Creations
Her highest priced and most favored broom called “Timeless Beauty,” is embroidered with genuine Swarovski pearls, silk flowers, crystals and beads. Couples are also given the option of using as many or as few colors as they choose. Ms. Lane prides her company on producing limited edition designs.
Interested in taking a more personal approach to your jumping broom? Consider purchasing an affordable broom at your local craft store like Michael’s or even Target. Then, decorate it yourself or delegate the responsibility to your bridal party, nieces/nephews/godchildren or invite your mom and future mother-in-law to engage in the activity together. This ensures that your broom is one of a kind and your loved ones will surely have a story to tell! For more information on her brooms click here.
Are you planning to or did you jump the broom on your wedding day? Why/why not?
[Top image courtesy of The Bride's Cafe and available here.]
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I think broom-jumping is a nice nod to the past. It’s especially nice if you have parents/family who were involved in the struggle.
I had the honor of making brooms for 3 of my girlfriends for their weddings. It was a wonderful chance to give them a gift at a time when I had little disposable income.