The War Memorial Launches Weddings for Warriors Giveaway Honoring Veterans and Active-Duty Military Couples

GROSSE POINTE FARMS, July 29, 2026 –  The War Memorial is proud to launch Weddings for Warriors, a new wedding giveaway honoring veterans and active-duty military couples. Made possible through the generosity of local businesses and community partners, the initiative will gift one deserving couple a fully planned wedding celebration valued at more than $85,000, recognizing the service, sacrifice, and commitment of those who have served our country and the loved ones who stand beside them. 

“Weddings for Warriors has been something we've envisioned for quite some time,” said Maria Miller, President & CEO of The War Memorial. “Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of local businesses and wedding professionals, that vision has become a reality. Together, we’re able to honor one deserving military couple with a celebration that reflects our community’s gratitude and The War Memorial's commitment to honoring those who have served in meaningful and memorable ways.” 

Made possible through the generosity of local wedding professionals, businesses, and community partners, Weddings for Warriors reflects The War Memorial's mission to honor military service by bringing the community together in celebration of the service, sacrifice, and commitment of veterans and active-duty military members, as well as the loved ones who stand beside them.  The chosen couple will receive an all-inclusive wedding package at The War Memorial, featuring an on-site wedding ceremony and plated dinner reception, expert wedding planning by Haley Makay Events, florals by Flowers for Dreams, a custom wedding cake from Josef's European Pastry Shop, and professional DJ and entertainment by Pro DJ Services. 

The all-inclusive wedding package is made possible through the generosity of local wedding professionals, businesses, and community partners, including Jets Pizza, Luxe Redux Bridal, Men's Wearhouse, Detroit Chiavari, Fabulous Events, Perfect Day Celebrations, Signature Social Company, Hampton Inn Detroit/Roseville, Alaina Miller Photography, and All Star Chauffeured Services. 

Nominations open Aug. 1, with the first 100 eligible applications accepted from couples in which at least one partner is a veteran or active-duty military service member. Applicants must provide proof of military service, be legally eligible to marry, and not have an existing wedding contract with The War Memorial.  Following the application period, an internal selection committee will choose three finalist couples. Each finalist will then be invited to share their story through a short video, and the public will have the opportunity to vote for the winning couple. 

Applications close Aug. 22 at 11:59 p.m., with the winning couple announced on Sept. 23. 

For complete eligibility requirements, application details, and official rules, visit warmemorial.org/weddings-for-warriors

About The War Memorial

The War Memorial, located on the shores of Lake St. Clair in Grosse Pointe Farms, is a nonprofit cultural and community center dedicated to honoring veterans, enriching lives, and bringing people together through meaningful experiences. For more than 75 years, The War Memorial has welcomed thousands of guests annually for arts and cultural programming, patriotic observances, educational opportunities, community events, and private gatherings across its historic lakefront property.  

As a dynamic and forward-thinking hub for southeast Michigan, The War Memorial remains committed to fostering community engagement through accessible programs that recognize the service and sacrifice of veterans and provide opportunities that spark connection, learning, creativity, and civic engagement. The organization proudly upholds this legacy of service while creating a sense of belonging for everyone from everywhere.  


CONTACT:

Alex Szwarc, The War Memorial
Patriotic Programming and Communications Administrator
313.881.7514, aszwarc@warmemorial.org

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