Few traditions are as striking and grand as a Wedding Guard of Honour—a symbol of respect, unity, and tradition. Lydia and Josh’s iconic church wedding at Beverley Minster was nothing short of extraordinary, blending timeless elegance, military precision, and heartfelt romance.

With a regal sword arch, a confetti-filled exit, and a wedding cake cutting with a ceremonial sword, their celebration embodied the essence of military tradition and classic romance in a breathtaking setting.

The Elegance of a Wedding Guard of Honour

A Wedding Guard of Honour is a time-honoured tradition often seen at military weddings. It represents the couple’s transition into a new chapter of life, with uniformed officers standing in formation and raising swords in a symbolic salute. For Josh, a dedicated military officer, incorporating this tradition was a meaningful way to honour his service while celebrating love.

Getting Ready: The Morning of Honour & Tradition

The morning began at Thicket Priory, where Lydia and her bridal party prepared in a serene and luxurious setting. Lydia stepped into her Suzanne Neville gown, radiating timeless elegance.

Meanwhile, Josh and his guards of honour meticulously prepared for the day, ensuring that every uniform and sword was polished to perfection. A particularly sentimental moment was Josh sewing a button into his jacket, a subtle yet personal detail that made the day even more special.

A Grand Entrance at Beverley Minster

The historic Beverley Minster, known for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history, set the stage for their iconic church wedding. Guests gathered to greet Josh flanked by his Wedding Guard of Honour.

As Lydia arrived in a classic Land Rover, anticipation filled the air. Walking down the majestic aisle, she met Josh under the cathedral’s breathtaking stained-glass windows—a moment of pure romance.

A Ceremony Blending Military Tradition & Love

The ceremony was a heartfelt reflection of their heritage, love, and shared values. A special blessing by local vicar Mike Cottam added a deeply personal touch, followed by the exchange of vows in front of their honorary military guests.

As they sealed their marriage with a kiss, the grandeur of Beverley Minster made it a truly unforgettable moment.

A Spectacular Exit: Sword Arch & Confetti Cannons

One of the most anticipated moments was the couple’s exit beneath a breathtaking Wedding Guard of Honour Sword Arch. With swords raised high, the guards of honour formed a regal pathway, symbolizing protection and the couple’s new journey together.

The moment was made even more magical with confetti cannons filling the air, while the church bells rang in celebration. This picture-perfect military wedding tradition embodied grace, honour, and timeless beauty.

A Luxurious Reception at Thicket Priory

Guests were then transported to Thicket Priory, a stunning estate that served as the perfect venue for their sophisticated and elegant wedding reception. The newlyweds shared an intimate golden-hour portrait session, capturing their love amidst the estate’s stunning gardens.

Inside, the reception featured candlelit tablescapes, soft floral arrangements, and heartfelt speeches from the father of the bride, groom, and best man. Every element of the evening reflected their vision of timeless elegance.

A Wedding Cake Cutting Like No Other

Adding to the military splendour, Lydia and Josh cut their wedding cake with a ceremonial sword, an age-old military wedding tradition that added an unforgettable touch of grandeur to their celebration.

Surrounded by their guests, they made the first slice of their elegant tiered cake, symbolising their unity and the strength of their bond.

An Evening of Celebration & Dancing

As the night progressed, Lydia and Josh took to the dance floor for their first dance, a breathtaking moment set to Can’t Take My Eyes Off You. With a live band and an atmosphere filled with love and joy, their wedding was the perfect blend of formality and fun.

The celebration continued into the early hours, with a midnight feast and a final toast to the newlyweds, marking the end of an extraordinary day.

Final Thoughts

Lydia and Josh’s Wedding Guard of Honour at Beverley Minster was a stunning example of how military tradition and timeless romance can seamlessly intertwine. From the sword arch to the ceremonial cake cutting, every detail contributed to a wedding day filled with honour, love, and elegance.

Are you planning a Wedding Guard of Honour? Let’s capture your timeless love story with fine art wedding photography. Get in touch today!

View more of this beautiful wedding here.

Venue: Beverley Minster

Videographer: Moon & Back Co

Makeup Artist: Gasperas Studio

Florist: Willow and Bear Floral Design

Gown Designer: Suzanne Neville

Wedding Cake: Betty’s