Military Weddings

Officers and enlisted personnel in the bridal party wear formal dress uniforms in accordance with seasonal regulations of the services. White gloves are required for all saber or sword bearers, who are normally officers or NCOs. Military guests usually have the option to wear their military uniform or appropriate civilian attire.

On the command, the saber team raises their sabers into a high arch, with tips nearly touching and the blades facing up and away from the bride and groom. As the newly married couple exits the building, the senior usher announces, "Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my honor to present to you (Rank) and Mr/s. (insert name)" This is modified when both parties are in the military.

The tradition varies slightly among the different branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and is considered a privilege according to members of the service. Usually, officers or NCOs form the arch with sabers or swords respectively. The Saber Arch originated with the Royal Navy.

The bride and groom proceed into the arch, and as the couple passes through, the last two saber bearers usually lower the sabers in front of the couple, detaining them momentarily. Before releasing the couple, the saber bearer to the couple's left gives the bride a gentle swat on her backside with his saber, announcing "Welcome to the (insert branch of service)!"

If the bride herself is in the military, this step is omitted. After the couple leaves the arch, the saber team recovers on command and dissolves formation. Only the bride and groom pass under the arch. It is also traditional at the wedding reception for the wedding cake to be cut with a saber or sword.

Wedding Unity Ceremonies

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