What is a handfasting?
Jumping the broom is a symbolic wedding ritual that marks the beginning of a new chapter.
Simple in action but rich in meaning, it represents the moment a couple steps forward together — leaving the past behind and entering married life as one.
WHAT IS JUMPING THE BROOM?
During a jumping the broom ceremony, a broom is placed on the ground and the couple jumps over it together.
Traditionally performed at the end of the ceremony, it marks a symbolic crossing point — a visual moment of transition into the next stage of life together.
The ritual itself is simple, but the moment feels unmistakable — a clear step into the next part of life together.
ORIGINS
Jumping the broom has roots in several cultural traditions, most notably within African American wedding customs, where it holds deep historical and cultural significance.
It has also appeared in other parts of the world, often associated with marking transitions and new beginnings.
Today, it is included in ceremonies in a variety of ways — sometimes as a nod to heritage, and sometimes for its symbolism.
HOW CAN IT BE PERSONALISED?
There are many ways to make this ritual feel personal to you.
Some couples decorate the broom with ribbons, flowers, or colours that hold meaning, while others include family members or combine the ritual with other symbolic moments within the ceremony.
The simplicity of jumping the broom makes it easy to adapt — whether you want the moment to feel celebratory, reflective, or somewhere in between.
JUMPING THE BROOM AT OUR VENUE
If you're looking for a wedding venue where ceremonies like this are genuinely welcomed, you can explore our alternative wedding venue in Lancashire and see how we help couples create something that's completely their own.
We’re always happy to support you in shaping your ceremony, so everything comes together in a way that feels natural and right for you.
READY TO PLAN?
If you’re thinking of holding an alternative ceremony, we’d love to help you explore how it could come together at The Olde England Kiosk.
Whether you already have a clear idea, or are just beginning to consider something a little different, we’re here to support you in creating a ceremony that feels natural, meaningful, and entirely your own.