Russian romance in the Far East

“We had been going out and dining a lot, but this was the first time he behaved so officially. I was all excited about the special day, and thought it was because it was our first anniversary,” said Fatykhova.

It’s still warm in October in Shanghai, but on that day, Komarov held a jacket in his hand, looking a bit strange. He explained that he took the jacket in case of rain. “But later I realized it was where he hid the ring,” she recalled.

“It was a big decision. And I didn’t expect it so soon. But I said yes as he is the right person for me.”

As for the wedding, they both wanted to hold the ceremony in Shanghai. Their parents and friends live in different cities and even countries, therefore Shanghai seemed liked the perfect place to gather this highly diverse crowd.

The big day fell on June 6. Everything started around noon. Following the Russian tradition, Komarov came home to pick up Fatykhova. Being met at the door by the bride’s friends and parents, he had to buy her out. After intense negotiations the “deal” was done, the “ransom’’ was paid, and bride and groom met.

They headed out to have some drinks, hang out with friends, sign the official documents and have their photos taken. They visited the amazing terrace at Otto Mezzo, the Russian consulate, the Bund and Tianzifang.

The main party started at 7 pm at a cozy Italian bistro with a patio. It was a truly international event with guests from Russia, China, England, France, Italy, America and Brazil. 40 People ate, mingled, had drinks, caught the bride’s bouquet and garter, danced to jazzy tunes played by a live band — it was a very warm and familial celebration.

About the couple

Date: June 6, 2014

Venue: Vita Bistro, Yongjia Road 557 永嘉路557號

Groom: Nikolay Komarov, 30, lead designer at a global executive search firm (Spencer Stuart)

Bride: Julia Fatykhova, 27, customer executive at a hotel reservation platform