Jumping the Broom?

DrDarkwingDuck

Ok, so my fiance is African-American and I am Polish. I know Polish traditions really well but he wants to jump the broom. I am ok with that I just don't know what I need and how to set it up. Do I use any broom, soecial broom? How do I jump in my dress? Any advice from anyone who knows about this tradition? Is it during the ceremony or reception? His family is far away so I can't really ask them...

MISSCOURTNEY20

Jumping the broom at the reception.

*Honoring and respect of our ancestors, their legacy, and our rich African and African         American heritage. * Coming together of both families, and commitment to each other as husband and wife. * It represents strength, love, togetherness, loyalty, and respect which is essential for a successful marriage. I made the broom for my sister's wedding. I just bought a broom from Micheal's and then took the colors of her WP and tied them around the bottom of the broom. It is placed a few feet behind you at the front of the church and after the minister has announced the 2 of you, you jump over it with both feet. Just pull your dress up above your feet and JUMP!!

bbyckes

Yes, they have special brooms or decorative brooms that they sell specifically for this.  But it is totally possible to go to Michael's buy a broom and decorate it yourself. 

Please don't let the "pagan" word scare you, Black Americans who particpate in the tradition do so as an homage to their African ancestors who were slaves.  Because slaves were denied the right to marry, as a way to solidify their unions, they would "jump the broom."  It is a symbol of unity, homekeeping and commitment.

Please google "jumping the broom."  You will find many explanations about the practice and search the images as well, you are definitely likely to get lots of inspiration.

Good luck!

DrDarkwingDuck

Thanks to all for the great advice. I want to be respectful to his traditions since there is already so many of mine in the wedding. But I will also have to talk to the prist since our wedding is in the Catholic Church. Thanks!

MeegePVchick

I somehow doubt that a Catholic Priest will let you do this- especially if you are having a Mass! There would be no place for it in the ceremony.  After you go through the rite of marriage you go directly into the liturgy of the Eucharist- bride and groom don't exit until the end of mass. 
Catholic priests aren't to keen for having other displays invade the mass- like the Protestant tradition of the unity candle. 

miah_23_ncb

I suggest be prepared for the worst case scenario of the priest not allowing you to do it in the ceremon. If the priest does not allow it, you could do it  at the begining of the reception ceremonylike right when you guys walk in the door.