A Russian Bride Guide

This is our first issue of Free Russian Women Advice, a bi-monthly post offering a short bit of free advice when it comes to Russian Brides, Russian culture and how-to’ s having to do with dating Russian Women.

Russian Customs and Traditions:

Giving Flowers:

Gift giving is a very major custom in Russia. People will judge you not based on the value of your gift (although some may) but rather on whether you have the courtesy to give a gift at all. When it comes to flowers you should seriously consider giving flowers to your Russian Woman as well as to other adult ladies of her household such as mother, grandmother etc. When giving or sending flowers it is important to know that you always give an odd number of flowers as opposed to the common half-dozen or dozen roses given in the West. The reason for this is because even numbers of flowers are given at funerals. Definitely not the first impression that you want to make!

Kissing on the Cheek…

Since our last tradition finished with the topic of funerals, we will start from there. Never kiss someone on the forehead as this form of kiss is reserved for kissing the dead on the forehead at their funeral. Try to avoid this! It is Russian tradition to kiss three times alternating cheeks when greeting friends and relatives. This is not necessarily expected of strangers of course or those whom we just met but once you get to know someone in a familiar relationship it is acceptable.

Shaking Hands:

Men will always shake hands upon meeting each other for the first time that day (excluding those with whom you are staying as a guest perhaps). Also remember that it is considered bad etiquette to shake hands with a glove on -the glove should always be removed. Shaking hands (giving things or greetings also) across a threshold is considered in bad taste -sort of a superstition.

Russian culture holds a lot of superstitions in general. Some other such things are:

1. Sitting on cold surfaces is believed to be hazardous to women’s or girl’s health.
2. Whistling indoors is considered bad luck.
3. Before a long trip people will often sit for a moment while still at home. This is thought to bring good luck for the journey.
4. Birthday parties should only be celebrated on or after the birthday.
5. Baby showers before the baby is born would be considered very bad luck. Things purchased for a baby should only be purchased after the birth.
6. Returning home for something is also considered to be bad luck.

Several other manners for good etiquette:

1. Always bring a gift when going to visit someone’s home ie. chocolates, cognac, wine or some other small gift would be appropriate.
2. Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home.
3. Pointing with one finger is considered rude. Use an outstretched hand to point if you must.

This list, of course, is not intended to be all inclusive. Just a few items to note and remember while you are searching for a wife in Russia. These things should get you enough notice that you are considerate of Russian traditions and culture that you will earn many points with your hosts any time you visit. This will open the way for you to be more accepted by Russians and a Russian family. Please be sure to visit our Russian Bride Forum for free Russian Woman advice on a regular basis. Post your questions about Russian women seeking men, Russian culture, Russian scammers and all things related to your Russian Bride search.