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Here's our take on "Jumping the Broom"  
 "Jumping the Broom" is a symbol of sweeping away the old and welcoming the new, or a symbol of new beginnings.

Jumping the broom has become one of the most popular African traditions at weddings-traditional and African-centered. History tells us that the ancestral roots of this ritual began deep in the heart of Africa. It's original purpose and significance has been lost over the years because of the association with slavery.

This broom ceremony represents the joining of two families, it's showing respect and pays homage to those who came before us and paved the way.  Therefore it should be practiced with honor for your ancestors and the beauty of our rich heritage. During the slave "transitions" we were not allowed to practice many of the traditional rituals of our past therefore, much of our heritage was lost during this time.  However, a few were considered harmless and allowed. 

Today "Broom Jumping" is a ritual, handed down from generation to generation to remind us of a time when our vows were not legally sanctioned. During slavery, our ancestors sought the legitimacy of marriage by jumping over the broom and into the bonds of domesticity. For our ancestors, this small ritual was a legal and bonding act connecting them with the heritage of the home land and giving legitimacy,dignity and strength to their unions. In their eyes this union was now sanctioned by "the almighty"  

It is said that broom jumping comes from an African Tribal Marriage Ritual of placing sticks on the ground representing the couple's new home together, I have also heard it said that the spray of the broom represents all of us scattered and the handle represents the almighty who holds us together...... You decide


Today's ceremony can be performed at the wedding, after the minister pronounces the couple man and wife or at the reception, just after the bridal party enters the reception area.
Should you decide to incorporate this wonderful tradition in you wedding remember to do it with the honor and dignity it represents.

-Ka- Veronica Braddy-                            

Simply... Because You Can!

READ MORE

Our Take on Cowry (cowrie) Shells 

The Meaning and History of the Cowrie Shell

The ever popular cowrie shell has many uses and meanings.  It has shown up in the form of money, jewelry, and even religious accessories in almost every part of the world. The cowrie shell soon gained popularity throughout much of ancient Africa.  Today excavations have found some of the money  in the form of brass and silver cowrie shells.   Wherever the cowrie shells were found, it seems as if they were thought of as wealth

Spiritually, according to African legend if you are attracted to cowrie shells you could be family to an ocean spirit of wealth and earth.  It also represents Goddess protection.  Throughout Africa, and South and North America, the cowrie symbolized the power of destiny and prosperity. 
However you interpret these tiny white shells they are a fascinating, unique addition to your wardrobe.  Whether in jewelry, or in crafts, or in any other use you can imagine these shells are sure to add an exotic feel of Africa and make an excellent, one of a kind, fashion statement.

Custom Designed Brooms  
Ceremonial Splendor
Custom Designed Brooms
Your broom should command as much respect as the history and tradition it represents.

Imagine having your broom designed specifically for your wedding, with your color choices and special adornments.You can pass it on to your children or keep it for years to come!
 
Simply provide us with your wedding colors and we will design a unique broom for your wedding. 
Please allow 2-3 weeks were possible for delivery. (Express orders are accepted but will be charged express charges)

We provided full color digital photos of your item before shipping! go to our FAQ's for more information.


Knowledge is Power  
Jumping the Broom: The African-American Wedding Planner

For more information on jumping the broom and adding culture to your wedding try this wonderful book......

It's available everywhere but if you prefer you can order through us......

Click here to view our book store

Cremonial Resources 
Broom Ceremony
Instead of just tossing down the old broom and jumping over it, why not incorporate a wonderful broom ceremony?  There are several ways to incorporate this wonderful tradition to your wedding.  Let us show you how to make "jumping the broom" one of the highlights of your wedding.
 

Our traditions are rich with respect and reverence for our ancestors and those who have passed on. The ancestral tribute is a wonderful way to pay homage to those who played a large part in our lives but are no longer with us.
African American Bridal provides dancers who can perform this tribute for you. Ask us how!

African American Wedding Readings

Description: They are tender promises that express your love for each other, precious vows that unite you forever. African American Wedding Readings brings together a unique collection of original and previously published poetry, prose, verse, songs, and love letters by African Americans that celebrate the joyous occasion of marriage.

By: Tamara Nikuradse
Type: Trade Paperback
Number of Pages: 192

Click here to order or visit our book store

Jumping the Broom Contest 

The winner will receive gifts and be our featured couple for 2018!

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