| Traditional Weddings Customs: Russian Brides |
| Written by Lera Cupidonova | |||
| Thursday, 17 June 2010 07:53 | |||
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The United States has many traditions when it comes to weddings. Knowing this it makes sense that other, older countries would have their own set of accepted occurrences when it comes to tying two people together. Traditional Russian weddings can be difficult to organize but for Russian brides the extra effort is worth every moment in the end.
The United States has many traditions when it comes to weddings. Knowing this it makes sense that other, older countries would have their own set of accepted occurrences when it comes to tying two people together. Traditional Russian weddings can be difficult to organize but for Russian brides the extra effort is worth every moment in the end. In a Russian wedding the titles of best man and maid of honor are changed slightly. Instead these people are called witnesses, or "svideteli". The celebration of a marital joining frequently lasts for at least two days but can go on for longer. One thing that remains the same is prep time. Preparation for a traditional Russian marriage can run anywhere from one month to six months. The registration happens in a public place. For Americans it is usually a courthouse. In Russia they call these departments of public service "Zags". A bride who is seeking a traditional Russian wedding should look forward to gifts of bread and salt. These edible blessings come from both parents. They are considered to be a symbol of health, prosperity, and longevity. When the couple is given these gifts they are expected to take as big a bite as they can. This is much like in America where we take the first bites of wedding cake. Only, with Russian tradition the individual who takes the biggest bite of this special bread is considered to be the head of the household. Toasts are an important part of American marriages. They are tools in which individuals who are close to the couple can share. In traditional Russian weddings this is no different. The speaker stands and once they are finished everyone takes a drink and cheers. There are many wedding traditions that require breaking or smashing glass. Russian traditions are no different. When a toast is complete it is expected for the drinkers to throw their glasses on the ground. If they break completely when they land this is believed to be good luck. If blood is drawn, however, the couple could be in for a bumpy road. One of the most interesting customs in a traditional Russian wedding is known as Krazha Nevesty. This means "stealing the bride" and it is exactly as it sounds. That's right; if the groom fails to watch his bride closely he may just end up without a wife. During the wedding celebrations friends and family members of the groom will often set up elaborate schemes in order to snatch his beloved. He has to stay on his toes! If he loses his bride he is then forced to pay a ransom for her return. Being one of these Russian brides can be just as nerve wrecking as being any other kind of bride. There are tons of things you have to remember, all the while taking one of the biggest steps towards your future. Still, it's important to remember that on your wedding day you're supposed to be happy. Smile, you're getting married!
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