In Russia, engagement usually lasts for about two weeks to one year before marriage. This is a very romantic period in the lives of the bride and the groom.
When your lady agrees to get married to you, ask her to introduce you to her family and friends if you have not seen them yet. Treat the members of the family with courtesy and respect. Do your best to be on friendly terms with them. It is better to take into account her parents’ advice and expectations about the wedding, although it is you and your future wife who should make the final decisions concerning all the arrangements and logistics. Most probably, you will also be introduced to other relatives, including the distant ones, before getting married or on the day of the wedding.
Wedding is a very important family occasion in Russia, which usually turns into a real feast at the party following the official ceremony of marriage registration. Traditionally, these parties can stretch from two to three days of unrestrained celebrations accompanied with unimaginable amount of food eaten and alcoholic beverages drunk by the guests. Be prepared that all those gathered will congratulate you and your wife: they will give you money, presents, and flowers, and hug and kiss you both. This is the way to demonstrate that you are accepted as a new family member.
Ask your fiancé about wedding traditions and rituals practiced in Russia not to be caught off guard at a certain moment. Russian wedding traditions can surprise you, but remember that the message that lies underneath is always benevolent and well-meaning for the new weds.
