Here in Port Gamble, located only a few miles from three military bases, we are lucky enough to see beautiful, traditional military weddings every so often.
There is something so stunning about seeing a Bride and Groom exiting St. Paul's Church under an archway of un-sheathed swords, glinting in the summer sunshine.
Time just seems to stop.
{Photo courtesy of Calima Portraits}
So, if you are planning a military wedding, here are a few traditions you should know:
- If the woman is in the service, she may wear either her white wedding dress or her dress uniform. If the Groom is in the service it is customary for him to wear his dress uniform with any medals taking the place of boutonnieres.
- Navy and Coast Guard members also wear white gloves and carry swords while Army and Marine Corps members carry sabers.
- "Arch of Swords" (Navy) or "Arch of Sabers" (Army) is the term used for commissioned officers, while non-commissioned officers use the term "Arch of Rifles" obviously distinguished by the ceremonial weapon used in the display for the couple exiting the chapel.
- It is tradition to use the sword or saber in the cake-cutting.
Happy Planning!
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