Jumping the broom adds an element of great fun. It’s immensely visually appealing in photos. It’s very different and charming and can be a marvellous traditional aspect to any wedding.

It can be included in the ceremony very easily as part of the main service combined with a handfasting. Or it can be done later at the reception with a rip-roaring toast. This is the beauty of a celebrant led wedding. We can work it out together to make it perfect for you.

There are many theories on the origins of jumping the Broom, and many cultures take credit for the tradition. In pre-Christian Wales, couples who wished to commit to each other followed the pagan tradition. A broom was placed across a home's doorway and, like jumping a hurdle, the groom leapt over it, and then the bride followed. If neither one of them made the broom fall -- or took a face-plant on the floor -- the marriage was meant to be.

Black American slaves, before the emancipation, had no legal rights whatsoever. Including that of marriage and it has been documented that Jumping the broom was their distinctive ritual for committing to each other in a common law marriage. A resurgence in the symbolic ritual jumping the broom has occurred amongst many African Americans marrying in our modern-day era. This is both a respectful nod to continuity of the past, and, as a sign of respect in honour of their ancestors.  A fitting tribute to their ancestors, who didn’t have the privilege of a lawful marriage.

According to Celtic Jewelry, Jumping the broom is a tradition that has been embraced by the Welsh as a sort of common-law marriage symbolic act. The symbolic role of the broom or besom in the home is rich and varied in Celtic culture. Perhaps its greatest role is that of setting the boundary between the home and the wild. The act of sweeping the floor was not only a way of cleaning, but also demarcated the boundaries of the home. In ancient times, dirt floors were common and often to keep them clean enough to live on they had to be swept several times every day.

Today, jumping the broom is also enjoying resurgence in popular neo-pagan cultures such as some Wicca groups and adherents along with those who follow a more eclectic brand of spirituality.

Whatever the history. The symbolism behind the act is one of taking a joint “Leap of faith” with the one that you love the most. The broom also represents the Newlyweds fresh start in life. Lets sweep out the old negativity and bring in the new, united, loving energy of two people in love making a commitment. I can for a fee engrave your initials on my bespoke besoms.  With the date of your wedding day. They make a stunning keepsake of your special day.  #jumpingthebroom #shonagoldencelebrant #handfastingincornwall