So you’ve found yourself a handsome man in uniform and are ready to plan that Navy wedding. You have your date at the USNA chapel booked and you know all the traditions and etiquette from front to back. But before you dive head first into all the military themed décor you found on Pinterest remember that a little goes a long way. By sticking with only a few choice accents, your tip of the hat to the military will be subtle and put together.

Accessories are a great way to incorporate theme into a wedding and having them hidden is especially clever. Take the garter for instance, this little number is concealed under the pristine white gown until it’s removed and tossed to the male guests. Go crazy with this item and show some pride with an anchor or Navy pin. You could even have it in digi blue, which could count as your “something blue.”

Shannon Moffit Photography via Naval Academy Wedding

Another detail that can be hidden under the wedding dress is a nametag. Brides have been sewing in patches of shirts, wedding dates, and even their fiancé’s military nametags. When you walk down the aisle with his name tag sewn into your dress you can keep him close to your heart and be reminded of the new name you may be taking on.

One other feature you can carry with you down the aisle is the bouquet. Just like the garter, charms, lockets, buttons, pins, or any memento can be added to the ribbon at the base of the bouquet. When photographed these additions make great detail shots.

Love by Serena via Herrington on the Bay

Cakes are another great way to show off your creativity and interests. Consider cake toppers of the groom in uniform with the bride for the wedding cake. If you’re going to have a groom’s cake, go all out with the theme and pay tribute with N stars, Bill the Goat, sailboats, or simply, “Go Navy!”

The Main Ingredient | Liz & Ryan via Favorite Cakes & Desserts

Charm City Cakes | Krista A. Jones Photography

Lastly, have fun when it comes to music and choose music that sings your theme loud and clear through lyrics like Frank Sinatra’s “Somewhere Beyond the Sea.” If you want to have guests standing when the bride & groom enter, play “Anchors Aweigh.” And let’s not forget the famous scene from Top Gun, when the officers gather around and serenade Kelly McGillis with “You’ve Lost That Loving Feelin’.” If you really want to make a show, have the groom serenade the bride with backup from the groomsmen. It will provide for some great entertainment.

Abby Grace Photography via Naval Academy Wedding

When it comes to planning a Navy Wedding make sure you don’t go overboard with all the military DIY, ideas, and décor. Remember that the day is about the marriage between the two of you so use your theme carefully and showcase what really matters to you.

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On another note, have an amazing holiday weekend! Happy St. Patricks Day to all of the lovely Bayside Couples out there! Start Sunday off right with the Emerald Islander, a custom drink by Love by Serena!