After arriving at the reception, Matthew & Nina took part in the Russian Bread and Salt tradition, which is where the bride’s mother offers a beautifully baked bread for the couple to share, symbolizing that they’ll always have wealth and the necessities in life.

Another Russian wedding tradition was the guests yelling “Gorko” which was a signal for Matthew and Nina to kiss. Gorko translates to “bitter”and refers to the bitter taste of Vodka, which is plentiful during Russian events. When guests chant and the couple kiss, it is supposed to make the bitter taste of the Vodka sweeter. :)

While usually during American weddings, there are only a few toasts, at Russian wedding, everyone is invited to toast the bride and groom, and must follow with a shot of Russian vodka! A lot of fun stories were told and guests were able to learn a lot of fun tidbits about the couple.

Matthew & Nina prepared an absolutely stunning choreographed first dance. I was blown away at their grace and poise!

Now this is something I definitely haven’t seen at a wedding! A Russian wedding tradition that is called “Paying the Ransom” where the Bride’s family pretends to kidnap the bride until the groom pays a ransom. In her place, a man is brought out in women’s clothing to “replace” her until the ransom is paid. Of course she hasn’t actually been stolen, and this is enacted for the guest’s entertainment, but she can’t come back until the groom finds her!

Many games were played throughout the evening, including some for the couple, the wedding party, and even the bride and groom’s mothers.

I love this dance between Nina and her son “Little Matt”