Wedding transportation traditions: Russia, is the second in the series dedicated to the colorful history and customs of wedding day festivities from around the world. We hope you will find it as interesting and fascinating as we have.
According to Russian custom, groom picks up the bride at her parents’ home before heading to the ceremony. Groom arrives in a car procession with his closest relatives to pick up the bride. It is not as easy as it sounds, since bride’s family organizes “vikyp”. Vikyp consists of a series of questions, charades and competitions which groom and his best man must pass before they are allowed to reach the bride. If groom does not answer correctly, best man must pay, perform a dance or sing.
Once, groom reaches the bride, he presents her with the wedding bouquet. Then everybody heads to ZAGS but bride and groom travel in separate cars. Only best friends (“Svideteli”) and closest family members join the ride and groom since there is limited space.
Wedding procession cars are usually decorated with ribbons, flowers, oversized wedding rings or dolls. It is customary to honk the horn and shout out congratulations when you see a wedding car procession.
After the wedding ceremony, groom & bride and best man & maid of honor drive away to take photos. This may take up to three hours, so light snacks and drinks are packed. Meanwhile, parents and relatives head to the reception to oversee the last-minute preparations.
Newlyweds takes photos by the Fallen Soldier monument, main square and other city landmarks or favorite spots.
Later in the day, bridal party arrives at the reception where parents, friends and relatives greet them with “bread and salt”
Bride and groom are usually among the last to leave the reception.