The bride and groom (or substitute the couple's names) will now begin their new life together with a clean sweep! They leave behind the past and jump into the future together secure in their love. The leap they take together over the broom is a gesture they take of dedication to working together through the tough times ahead, as well as the easy times. It is also a call of support for the marriage from the entire community of family and friends. It symbolizes the sweeping away of the old and the welcoming of the new the sweeping away all negative energy, making way for all things that are good to come into your lives. It marks the beginning of making a home together. Today it represents great joy and at the same time serves as a reminder of the past. We end this ceremony with the African American tradition of jumping of the broom.Īs our bride and groom (or substitute 'happy couple') jump, they physically and spiritually cross the threshold into the land of matrimony. The attendant hands the couple their rings, and they exchange rings.The officiant asks the attendant with the rings to step forward, or motions to them.(Partner A) and (Partner B) will now exchange rings as a symbol of their love and commitment. Partner B makes a statement of affirmation.Partner A makes a statement of affirmation.ĭo you, (Partner B), take this (woman/ man/ person), (Partner A), to be your lawfully wedded (wife/ husband/ spouse), to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and bad, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto (her/ him/ them) for as long as you both shall live?.Otherwise, the officiant will continue on to the next section.ĭo you, (Partner A), take this (woman/ man/ person), (Partner B), to be your lawfully wedded (wife/ husband/ spouse), to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and bad, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto (her/ him/ them) for as long as you both shall live? If the couple has written personal vows, this is when they will read them to each other.

(Partner A) and (Partner B) will now share their vows. Please remember that love, loyalty, and understanding are the foundations of a happy and enduring home. This contract is not to be entered into lightly but thoughtfully and seriously, and with a deep realization of its obligations and responsibilities. Good afternoon family, friends, and honored guests. We are gathered together here to join (Partner A) and (Partner B) in the spiritual union of marriage. Also, traditionally guest are asked to stand during the bride's entrance ( or substitute 'the couple's walk down the aisle'), but I would kindly ask that you remain seated. Hello Everyone! At the request of the bride and groom (or substitute 'partners' / etc.), I would like to kindly asked that you hold all photos and videos until the end of the ceremony.

Jumping a broom wedding