African-American Wedding Checklist

Commission Decorated Wedding Broom

Order or commission a decorated wedding broom with ribbons, flowers and cowrie shells in your wedding colors. Many Black artisans specialize in handmade wedding brooms, and their lead times vary, so it helps to find one early.

Source Kente Cloth or African Fabric

Look for authentic handwoven kente cloth, or another African textile that means something to you, for the wrapping ceremony. Choose patterns whose colors carry significance for your families. Ghanaian weavers and reputable importers are better sources than machine-printed imitations.

Book DJ Experienced with African-American Receptions

Book a DJ who has played African-American receptions before. They will know how to lead line dances and coordinate the Electric Slide, and how to mix gospel, R&B, hip-hop, soul and jazz across the evening.

Obtain Wedding Crowns

Buy or commission matching wedding crowns or headpieces for the crowning ceremony. Afrocentric designs often use kente cloth, cowrie shells, beading or gold-toned metalwork.

Prepare Libation Vessel and Ancestor List

Get a libation vessel, such as a carved wooden cup, a gourd or a ceramic pitcher. Then ask the elders of both families to help you put together the list of ancestors who will be called during the libation ceremony.

Arrange Praise Dance Team

Ask a church praise dance ministry to perform at your ceremony, or hire professional praise dancers. Confirm the music, the attire and the rehearsal schedule with them.

Prepare Tasting Elements

Gather the four tasting elements: lemon (sour), vinegar (bitter), cayenne pepper (hot) and honey (sweet). Prepare small cups or spoons for presenting them during the ceremony.

Book Stylists Experienced with Black Hair

Hire hair and makeup stylists who specialize in Black hair, including natural styles, locs, braids, protective styles and relaxed hair. Experienced stylists fill up quickly in wedding season, so book early.