I get a lot of emails from my viewers asking about the wording I use on "Whose Wedding Is It Anyway?" when those happy brides & grooms are just about to "cross over" into their new lives. So by popular request, here it is!!"It is believed that during the era of slavery in America, newlywed couples would use the ritual of broom jumping as a way to give some sort of legitimacy to their unions, since they were unable to wed under legal circumstances. The broom symbolizes the setting up of a new household as well as the sweeping away of negative thoughts, actions and spirits which can break the bonds of a happy marriage.
In the motherland, the "village" represents not only the actual inhabitants, but the sense of family and community. And as members of this couple's "village", we need to support and encourage their union. Love them enough to give them the benefit of your wisdom - but at the same time, know when to walk away and let them tend the fires of their marriage.
There is a saying "Make a joyful noise - so that the rocks don't cry out!". As we all celebrate this wonderful occasion, let's all get up on our feet and shout our joy to the heavens..so the world will know that this couple have become one...with each other. As (insert bride & groom's names here) "leap into da' land of matrimony", we wish the very best of love, health & happiness!!"
Now if you've watched the show - you've noticed that the audience really gets into this, and that's the point. It's about celebration and jubilation - such a wonderful thing has happened and we ALL want to revel in it. So, go ahead and clap your hands, stomp your feet, whistle and catcall..it's all good!!!!!
(Nalini & Issac Conner courtesy of Garrett Photography - Baltimore, MD.)
