Planning a Military Wedding

Planning a military wedding is very similar to planning a traditional wedding, in many ways. The ceremony itself is still a religious ceremony, not a military ceremony. However, there are some traditions that are unique to a military wedding, and military uniforms are worn.

Members of the bridal party who are also officers or enlisted persons will wear uniforms during a military wedding. A bride who is also an officer may select to wear a uniform or a traditional wedding gown. The most formal military uniform that would be worn at a wedding is the evening dress uniform. They may also wear dinner or mess dress uniforms. For informal weddings, Army green uniforms or mess blues can be worn. Guests who are not in the wedding party are not obligated to wear their uniforms.

If you are planning a military wedding, you may ask a military chaplain to perform the wedding. Although a military chaplain will not require a fee, you are required by military custom to issue a formal invitation to the chaplain and his/her spouse.

The bride's parents and groom's parents should still be seated in the front pew. However, if the parents are not present, you may offer that seat to the bride/groom's commanding officer and spouse. Otherwise, the commanding officer can sit with the family or another close pew. It is customary for flag and general officers to sit behind the family.

You may want to consider sword or saber bearers if you are planning a military wedding. Swords are used by the Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and the Navy. Sabers are used by the Air Force, and the Army. Swords have two-sided blades while sabers only have one sharp edge.

When you are planning a military wedding, you may plan to leave the chapel beneath the traditional arch of swords (or sabers). Usually, there are a minimum of six uniformed ushers holding the swords (or sabers). Alternatively, rifles may be used. Make sure you obtain the correct number of swords, sabers, or rifles prior to the wedding.

Whether you are having a traditional wedding, or planning a military wedding, ensure the day is perfect through careful planning and budgeting.