Whether you come from a long line of service or are new to the armed forces, plenty of options exist to maintain the military wedding traditions of the past. Here are five rituals – both old and new – to consider when planning for the big day.
Arch of Sabers
Perhaps the most popular (and most photoworthy) of military wedding traditions is the Arch of Sabers, also known as the Arch of Swords.
This moment takes place immediately after the ceremony when the couple walks back down the aisle. For indoor ceremonies, it is often held right outside the venue. Six to eight service members in uniform will line up across from each other in pairs and create an arch for the couple to walk through.
Once the bride and groom reach the final pair of sabers, the service members will drop their sabers and ask the couple to kiss. After this, one of them will give a gentle “swat” on the bride’s behind and say, “Welcome to the Army,” or the respective service branch.
Cake cutting with a sword
Continuing with sword or saber traditions, the newlyweds will often use one of the swords to cut the cake. The military member presents the sword, but both will place their hands on it and gently slice the cake together.
Bonus points for a mini cake (also referred to as a bride or groom’s cake) that reflects the service branch!
Military chapel venues
Many service members opt for a military chapel to host their ceremony. Whether it’s on base or at a service academy, they can be beautiful settings.
For example, the Cadet Chapel at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is considered among the most beautiful works of modern academic architecture. The venue is in high demand, requiring reservations many months in advance. It hosts more than 100 weddings annually for graduates, active-duty airmen in Colorado, as well as Purple Heart and Silver Star recipients.
Serenades & first dances
When it’s time to get the party started, music always does the trick.
At many Navy weddings (especially aviators), the bride is serenaded by the groom and his fellow Navy buddies. The song of choice for this is usually The Righteous Brothers classic, “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” made popular in the original “Top Gun” movie.
Some couples also include a nod to service in either their first dance or the traditional dances with their parents. For example, Lt. Kellie Hall Sbrocchi danced with her father, a Navy captain, to “In The Navy” by Village People. Not only was it a crowd favorite at the reception, but video of the dance also went viral.
Name tape incorporation
Name tape is an important part of any military uniform, but can be used in several ways during a wedding.
Many brides choose to sew the name tape of their soon-to-be spouse into the under layers of their wedding dress. However, don’t be afraid to break from tradition and incorporate it for other reasons. For example, brides who are serving may use their own name tape with their new last name.
This can also be a special way to honor a parent or loved one who served and has passed away by having a piece of them with you.
How did you incorporate military traditions in your wedding venue? Tag us in your photos on Instagram.
