ELEGANT MILITARY WEDDING IN DOWNTOWN FREDERICK’S HISTORIC UNION MILLS
There’s something magical about a fall wedding in downtown Frederick, Maryland, where historic charm meets military tradition. Alex and Gabe’s wedding at Union Mills Public House captured this perfect blend, with naval dress whites contrasting against autumn leaves and centuries-old brick buildings.
While this Naval officer and his bride now call California home, Gabe’s roots in Frederick made it the perfect location for their elegant black-tie wedding. The day began with intimate moments at the groom’s family home, where Alex’s bridesmaids had each contributed a meaningful pin to her bouquet. These sentimental touches were beautifully paired with elements of Gabe’s naval career – his flight wings and mission pins as a helicopter pilot telling their unique love story through carefully curated details.
The historic streets of downtown Frederick created the perfect backdrop for their first looks. Alex shared a touching first look with her father before he walked her across the street for her first look with Gabe in a neighbor’s garden. The neighbors were good friends of Gabe’s parents and watched their first look from the window. Grace United Church of Christ, just three blocks away, hosted their ceremony where Gabe’s father, serving as their officiant, moved everyone to tears while joining his son in marriage.
What followed was one of my favorite military wedding traditions – the sword arch. Navy officers in their dress whites lined the church steps, creating that iconic moment as the newlyweds passed through. But this couple added their own twist to tradition! In a surprise move, the groomsmen “kidnapped” the bride for a celebratory toast at a nearby bar, officially welcoming her into their naval family.
The walk to Union Mills Public House perfectly showcased Frederick’s charm. We strolled along the Carroll Creek Linear Park, where fall colors created a stunning backdrop for portraits. This historic venue, with its red brick walls and old Hollywood glamour, set the stage for an unforgettable reception. Modern gold fixtures and a statement chandelier complemented the timeless elegance of their décor, while the venue’s outdoor patio offered guests scenic views of the waterway during cocktail hour.
As night fell, the party truly began. Navy officers traded their formal blues for Hawaiian shirts, keeping the dance floor packed. Heartfelt toasts from fellow service members spoke of the couple’s devotion to each other, while both fathers shared a special moment with Gabe at the bar, celebrating their newly united families. Even dessert was personalized with an ice cream bar that delighted guests of all ages.
We couldn’t resist stepping out for nighttime portraits, capturing the newlyweds against the backdrop of Union Mills and the reflecting river. The evening concluded with a time-honored tradition – guests forming a tunnel of bubbles to send off the happy couple.
This wedding beautifully demonstrated how military traditions can blend seamlessly with personal touches in a historic setting. Alex and Gabe’s celebration wasn’t just a wedding – it was a perfect union of naval heritage and Frederick’s historic charm.
Vendor Team
Photography | Silver Orchard Creative
Reception Venue | Union Mills Public House
Planner | Sleeping Bee Designs
Church | Grace United Church of Christ
Hair Artist | Glam Bridal Beauty
Officiant | Father of the Groom
DJ | The Dapper DJs
Ice Cream Bar | Rock Point Creamery
Stationary | Someday Paper Co
Bridal Dress | Luv Bridal
Bridesmaid Dresses | Baltic Born Clothing
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