Embracing Time-Honored Military Wedding Traditions

Rachel & Ryan’s wedding was captured by Simply Love Co.

Military weddings have a long and cherished history of tradition, adding a touch of grandeur to the special occasion. Each branch of the military has its own unique variations and protocols related to wedding traditions. If you're contemplating incorporating military traditions into your wedding, consider the role that military service has played in your lives and the lives of your families.

Some of you may have experienced only a glimpse of military life, just entering the tight-knit community of military families and experiencing the cycle of separation and reunion. On the other hand, some of you might have grown up in a military household, familiar with the customary practices for special occasions. Regardless of your military experience, here are some beloved and time-honored military wedding traditions to consider for your big day.

The Arch of Sabers:

 This symbolic tradition involves commissioned officers standing on either side of the aisle as the couple exits the ceremony location. They raise their sabers or swords (depending on the branch) to create an arch, symbolizing the military's welcome into the couple's new life together. The last two officers lower their swords in front of the couple, with the one on the right playfully tapping the bride and saying, "Welcome to the Army" or the respective branch. If the bride is in the military, this part of the tradition is omitted. Men participating in the arch should wear white gloves and be in uniform.

Attire:

Both officers and enlisted military personnel should wear uniforms that match the formality of the occasion, adhering to seasonal regulations. For black-tie events, Dinner or Mess Dress is appropriate, and guests may be invited to arrive in designated uniforms mentioned on the invitation. Dress blues or greens are suitable for formal events for non-commissioned officers. The bride may choose to wear a traditional wedding gown or dress in uniform. Boutonnieres are not allowed to be worn on military uniforms.

Seating:

During the ceremony, high-ranking officers and commanding officers should be seated directly behind the family. If the parents of either the bride or groom are not present, the commanding officer of the service member is often asked to take their place. Officers should be seated near the family at the front of the ceremony.

Cake Cutting: 

In some traditions, the arch of sabers is repeated before the cake cutting ceremony. The couple pauses for a kiss before reaching the cake. The groom unsheathes his saber and hands it to the bride, who then cuts the cake with her husband's hand resting over hers. The saber used for cutting the cake must be plain and undecorated, and it is recommended to clean the blade thoroughly before sheathing it to prevent damage.

Ideas to Make Your Military Wedding Unforgettable:

Bridesmaid Dresses: If men in the bridal party will be in uniform, consider choosing bridesmaid dresses that match or complement their uniforms, or go for colors related to your unit.

Honeymoon Plans: Look for resorts and destinations that offer discounts for military personnel, allowing you to save on the honeymoon and spend more on other aspects of the celebration.

Memories and Special Moments: Share significant moments of your relationship, such as photos or videos of first meetings, homecomings, deployments, graduations, or cherished moments while separated, with your guests during the dinner or cocktail hour.

Patriotic Touches: Add patriotic elements to your decor, favors, guestbook, etc. Incorporate military designs for your cake topper, flags around the reception area, and use red, white, and blue in lighting, linens, or flowers.

Remember to research the unique traditions of your individual branch, and feel free to tailor the wedding to your preferences while preserving the essence of military honor and tradition.

If you're planning a military wedding and want to ensure every detail is flawlessly executed while incorporating cherished traditions, don't hesitate to reach out to our experienced wedding planner, Wanda.