Rituals

African American Wedding Rituals

Posted on | Author Loretta Jay

Some marriage rituals and traditions are based on African American heritage. In the United States, the devastation of slavery oftentimes denied legally sanctioned marriages. Consequently, Black people performed ceremonies to recognize and celebrate their unions. African American wedding rituals have been passed down through generations. The customs, rich with history, tradition, and cultural significance, are a meaningful way to honor one’s history Jumping the Broom One of the most well-known African American wedding traditions is jumping the broom. This custom dates back to the time of slavery when enslaved people were not allowed to marry legally. Consequently, they would jump […]

Continue Reading »

Jumping the Broom

Posted on | Author Loretta Jay

Jumping the Broom ritual

Incorporating family or cultural rituals into a wedding ceremony connects the past with the future. While there are many different traditions to choose from, one in particular has significant meaning for African American heritage: Jumping the Broom. It is a noun, identifying the practice. In addition, it has also taken on meaning as a phrase signifying marriage. For instance, We’re going to jump the broom! This is similar to, We’re going to tie the knot! History The jumping the broom lore varies. Some suggest it is a ritual from the British Isles, others say it is from Ghana.  Similarly, some […]

Continue Reading »

Religious Symbols in a Secular Wedding Ceremony

Posted on | Author Cynthia Dumont

A beautifully written ceremony can feel like poetry, often using familiar symbols to evoke a romantic and celebratory mood. We’re accustomed to wedding rings symbolizing the love and commitment the couple has for each other; they have no beginning and no end. Other symbols represent meaning as well. At this time of year, you may see symbols being used to celebrate holidays associated with various religions such as crosses, menorahs, and lanterns. Religious symbols have deep meaning and can add another layer of poetry to your ceremony. October’s blog talks about holiday-inspired ceremonies. Religious symbols can inspire too! Let’s explore […]

Continue Reading »

Planning a Service for those who Serve

Posted on | Author Cynthia Dumont

Military wedding with couple under arch of swords

Updated November 7, 2022 During this month when we commemorate Veteran’s Day, I thought I’d look at the ways we can bring military customs into the wedding ceremonies of men and women who serve our country. If you are an active service member planning a wedding, or if you know someone who is, consider these time-honored rituals for a unique and inspiring wedding. Ceremony Space Active military are allowed to have their ceremony performed in the chapel on the base where they are stationed. In that case, the chaplain will officiate the ceremony. But a military chapel is not required […]

Continue Reading »

A Fresh Take on Old Traditions

Posted on | Author Cynthia Dumont

Updated traditions in your ceremony

“I like the idea of using the traditions that my mother and grandmother used in their weddings, but I also want to keep my ceremony fresh and a little unexpected.” Each of the elements in your ceremony, readings, rituals, and vows for example, plays an important role in defining your day. Like instruments in a symphony orchestra, when joined together in concert they should swell your heart. The officiant is the conductor. Be sure to have a conversation with him or her about what’s important to you so that it can be included in the score. To get the conversation […]

Continue Reading »

A Unity Ceremony can make your Wedding Unique

Posted on | Author Barbara Jay

Is your heart set on a wedding ceremony that is unique?  Are you searching for the perfect signature elements that will capture the intensity of your commitment to one another or the bonds of the new family you are creating together?   If so, here are three of the most popular trends in “ceremonies within the ceremony” that might be just the thing you are looking for. A longtime favorite is the Unity Candle Lighting ceremony, in which the couple lights a candle to solemnize their joining.  Today Justices of the Peace are seeing more and more variations of this symbolic […]

Continue Reading »

Get New Posts?

Recent Post

Categories