While a military wedding is like any other wedding, there are some traditions in military weddings that are not found in civilian weddings. These traditions add pomp, pageantry, and patriotism, creating out-of-the-ordinary weddings that are truly gorgeous and meaningful.
ATTIRE
An enlisted man or woman can marry in uniform, symbolizing pride and honor of country. A female officer can choose either a traditional bridal gown or uniform. The specific uniform worn depends on the branch of the military and the formality of the event. For officers, evening dress uniform conforms to civilian white tie and tails. Dinner or mess dress uniform is in accordance with black tie. For non-commissioned officers, dress blues or Army green uniforms may be worn at formal or informal weddings.
All active duty members of the wedding party should wear proper dress uniforms and accessories. Military decorations replace boutonnieres on uniforms. A boutonniere is never worn with a uniform.
SPECIAL ITEMS
If you’re a graduate of West Point, The Naval Academy, or the Air Force Academy, you may present your fiancée with a miniature of your own class ring. Traditionally, it is set with either a small stone similar to yours or a diamond.
WHO TO INVITE
Military weddings often have a guest list that includes many fellow service members, commanding officers, and military colleagues, reflecting the couple’s shared community and support network. Invitations may feature military insignia or elements, adding a formal and distinctive touch.
If your bride lives at the military post, you should invite all officers and their wives to both the ceremony and reception. However, if your fiancée lives off base, you can invite just your commanding officer, post commander, and their wives.
CEREMONY PROTOCOL
Adherence to military protocol is a hallmark of military weddings. This includes salutes, formal entrances, and the presence of military flags and symbols. The level of formality and adherence to protocol underscores the respect for military tradition and the couple’s commitment to their service.
At the ceremony, rank should be carefully observed when seating guests. High-ranking officers should receive seats of honor. The bride stands to the RIGHT of her groom, unlike a civilian ceremony. All ushers stand to the left side of the bridesmaids in the processional.
Outside the church, officers in military dress form an arch with their swords or sabers (Army) with the cutting edge facing up. The bride and groom pause under the arch, kiss, and then walk through. It’s a tradition for the two end guards to use their sabers/swords to tap the bride and groom on their backsides as a sign of good luck. White gloves are required for all saber/sword bearers. Enlisted men should stand at attention during this event. There are a few differences in protocol between the Army’s Arch of Sabers, the Navy & Marine Corps’ Arch of Swords, and the Air Force’s Arch of Sabers, so it is best to check with a commanding officer for specific details.
RECEPTION DETAILS
At the reception, in the receiving line, the groom (if he is in uniform) precedes the bride in the receiving line.
The cutting of the cake also follows a fun ceremony based on certain protocols. Once again, the bride and groom pass beneath the arch and use a sword/saber to cut the cake. Each branch has traditions that vary slightly.
CONCLUSION
Military weddings and traditional weddings both celebrate the union of two people, yet they do so through distinct lenses shaped by service, tradition, and personal preference. Military weddings stand out for their unique rituals, formal attire, and adherence to military protocol, reflecting the couple’s dedication to their country and their comrades. In contrast, traditional weddings offer a broader canvas for personalization, guided by cultural, religious, and familial influences. Both types of weddings are beautiful expressions of love and commitment, each with its own set of cherished customs and memorable moments.
Be sure to check out our other Wedding Planning Tips and Inspiration:
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.