Why Jump the Broom?

Jumping the broom is a traditional act performed at some Black weddings. After vows are exchanged, the newlyweds hold hands and jump over a broom to seal the union. ... In Pagan ceremonies, it is said that the broom handle represents the male phallus and the bristles represent female energy.

Who started jumping the broom?

Some believe the practice originated in the early 1700s in Wales, when broomstick weddings served as a Welsh marriage rite for Roma communities who were not permitted to marry in churches. In this execution, the broom was placed at the threshold of a door, and the groom jumped first, followed by his bride.

Should I jump the broom at my wedding?

Brooms were (are) waved over the heads of marrying couples to ward off spirits. The couple would often but not always jump over the broom at the end of the ceremony. Jumping over the broom symbolized the wife's commitment or willingness to clean the courtyard of the new home she had joined.