Jumping the broom tradition

Jumping the broom is an historical ritual with Celtic roots. Like many traditions, exactly how and where it started is brought into question. Some say it started with the Romani Gypsy people living in Wales and others say it originated with the Welsh people themselves. Today variations of this ritual are practiced by Welsh, Celtics and Druids as well as the nomadic Romani. In fact, the earliest mention of this tradition is tied to the Romani and dates back to the 18th century. Today, common-law broomstick weddings are still practiced in some parts of Wales as a centuries-old custom called priodas coes ysgub.

 

Along with this heritage, some say jumping the broom comes from an African marriage ritual which was practiced in the U.S. during the days of slavery when blacks weren't allowed to marry. However, others attribute this as a practice taken from the whites. Either way, secret ceremonies were held as black couples committed themselves to each other by stepping over a broomstick in front of family and friends.

Now the tradition is practiced as a folk tradition in various parts of the world from Eastern Europe to the Americas. 

 

Besom broom used for broom jumping

The type of broom used in these ceremonies was besom brooms constructed by tying twigs or straw together against a strong rod or stick. Back in the 18th century, brooms were found just inside the door to every home with bristles up to ward off evil spirits and to protect the home and all who lived there. Sometimes it was hung over the door with the bristles facing opening of the door for good luck. It was considered one of the first lines of defense for the homemaker.

Today, jumping the broom is thought to represent the couple entering a new life together, and sweeping away their single lives including former problems and concerns.

4 jumping the broom variations

 

While we can dispute where and how jumping the broom started, I'd rather focus on variations of the practice as wedding planners have started to include the custom today. Jumping the broom can take place at the church, the reception, the couples' new home, and is often included in neo-pagan unions, too.

1. Place the broom at an angle by the rear door of the church.
2. Groom jumps first, followed by the bride.
3. Broom laid on floor and couple jumps over it hand-in-hand as high as they can.
4. Broom laid in the entryway to the new home with bride and groom taking turns jumping over it. (Another variation of this one is for the groom to carry his bride over the broom into their new home.)

Another old custom involves the couple jumping over a crossed broom and sword held by the best man and the maid of honor. This practice represents cutting of ties to parents and the ties being swept away as the couple crosses a new threshold to start a new life together.

Today couples jumping the broom often design their own broom and decorate them to complement wedding colors, or they can be purchased already-decorated.

Tajiri 36" Jump Broom for Wedding

Some who want to eliminate the broom because of its Wiccan associations may choose to step over a sword instead of a broom. 

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The Nurnberg Bridal Cup: A German Wedding Tradition of Love and Luck

(Updated December 2025)

For centuries, the German Bridal Cup has been a powerful symbol of unity, devotion, and good fortune. Couples all over the world still use this charming two-part chalice in their ceremonies or receptions, but the tradition began with a love story that is just as captivating today as it was hundreds of years ago.

Before sharing how the cup works and how you can incorporate it into your wedding, here’s the legend that gave rise to the tradition.

 

   

The Legend of the Nürnberg Bridal Cup

Long ago in Nürnberg, Germany, a wealthy nobleman lived with his daughter, the beautiful and strong-willed Mistress Kunigunde. She fell deeply in love with a young goldsmith — a talented, ambitious craftsman with little wealth but a great deal of heart.

Her father, however, had already envisioned a more “suitable” match. One wealthy suitor after another came to ask for her hand, and one after another she refused them, holding firmly to her love for the goldsmith.

Enraged by her defiance, the nobleman ordered the young goldsmith to be thrown into the darkest dungeon in the city. Kunigunde wept endlessly, but her father remained unmoved. As the days passed, her heartbreak began to show; her complexion grew pale, her spirit dimmed, and the nobleman could no longer ignore her grief.

Finally, at his wits’ end, he offered a challenge he believed to be impossible:

"If your goldsmith can create a chalice from which two people can drink at the same time without spilling a drop, I will set him free — and you may marry him."

The Goldsmith’s Masterpiece

Driven by love and hope, the goldsmith poured all his skill into the task. What he created was nothing short of extraordinary:

• A beautifully sculpted young maiden — her smile said to resemble Kunigunde’s.

• Her skirt formed a hollow cup.

• Above her head she held a small, swiveling bucket, crafted so that it moved freely as she was lifted.

The design allowed two people to drink at once, each from a different cup, without spilling a single drop.

Against all expectations, the goldsmith triumphed. The nobleman kept his word, the young couple married, and they were said to have toasted their union with the ingenious chalice now celebrated as the German Bridal Cup.

Handcrafted bridal cups can still be purchased today.

The Bridal Cup as a Modern Wedding Tradition

Today, the Bridal Cup remains a cherished symbol of:

• Love

• Good luck

• Faithfulness

• Unity between partners

Using it during your wedding adds a touch of Old-World romance and often becomes one of the most memorable moments of the celebration. Couples typically drink simultaneously, one from the skirt cup and one from the smaller bucket cup, making for a wonderful photo opportunity and a delightful shared laugh.

Handcrafted bridal cups are still made today, often by artisans who honor the traditional Nürnberg design. They make beautiful keepsakes and can be displayed proudly long after the wedding day.

Tips for Using the German Bridal Cup

Drinking from a Bridal Cup does take a bit of practice! Consider:

• Doing a quick test-run before the ceremony or reception

• Letting your officiant explain the tradition to your guests

• Having your photographer ready — the moment is always camera-worthy

If you love the idea of incorporating a meaningful drinking vessel but want something slightly easier to manage, the Scottish quaich is a lovely alternative. It also carries a rich history and symbolizes hospitality, friendship, and unity.

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