
A traditional Russian wedding lasts for at least two days and some weddings
last as long as a week. Throughout the celebration there is dancing, singing,
long toasts, and food and drinks. The best man and maid of honor are called
witnesses, "svideteli" in Russian. The ceremony and the ring exchange
takes place on the first day of the wedding.
Throughout the years, Russian weddings have adopted many western customs,
including bridesmaids and flower girls. During the wedding feast any of
the guests can start chanting "Gor'ko" ("bitter") which
usually is immediately supported by the rest of the guests. In this case
bride and groom should kiss each other and the kiss should last for as long
as the chanting continues.