Photo Links

[philb]

I Just got back from Ukraine yesterday.  After about 1 3/4 years, 6 trips to Kiev, 1 trip by her to see me in the U.S. we got married on the 19th of February.  Actually, there were 2 services, the Orthodox wedding followed by the government sanctioned wedding on the 21st.  Here are a few links to some photos.

[Bruce]

None of the links work!:X

[catzenmouse]

Same for me. But a Hearty Congradulations on your Marriage!

[philb]

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[philb]

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[philb]

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[philb]

Sorry about the links.  I am not sure what was the problem.  Anyway I went ahead and uploaded a few.

[catzenmouse]

Nice Pics! Best wishes for a wonderful future together!

Ken

[Bruce]

Just phenomenal pictures!  Best of luck:D!!!

[Jack]

Congratulations Phil.
 
At your Orthodox wedding did you have a best man who held this large crown over your head?
How long did your ceremony last, around an hour?
And the party that followed the wedding, how looooong did that last?
Don't even think you can keep up with these Russian men and their vodka toast's.

[philb]

The best man was a sort of joint effort with my son and her son.  They are both 22 years old.  Yeah, the service lasted right at an hour.  After this we drove to various places around Kiev for photos Sts. Sophia's, Andrew's, Michael's, Marinskky Palace, etc.)

We had chartered a couple of 20 passenger busses that drove everyone around.  There was also an interpreter for my friends and family. 

Yeah, I know better then to try and keep up with these guys and their vodka toasts, although my son didn't (he does now). 

The Kiev Hotel was where we had our reception.  They did a great job.  My family and friends enjoyed themselves.  For all of them it was their first experience with the FSU.  My 73 year old mother had a great time.  I kept hearing comments from my friends and family such as "Are all of the weddings here like this?"  or "These people really know how to party". 

 

[jb]

Phil,

I'll come out of retirement long enough to say how much I enjoyed viewing your photos.  You and your wife look like an extraordinarily well matched couple, it gladdens my heart.

[Killer-B]

I kept hearing comments from my friends and family such as "Are all of the weddings here like this?"  or "These people really know how to party". 

 

First off Phil - Congrats...

I've often toyed with the thought (idea) of "doing it there" vs. here in America - but the thought of bringing family over (whilst a great idea!) had never entered my mind... :brightidea:

You must have nerves of steel to have kept everyone (your friends and family) in order for a 1st visit to the FSU and bus's and such - My mom is 71 and don't think I could subject her to such a trip (ordeal?? LOL!):hairraising:

I too looked at your wedding party - and said "Are they all like this?" - Glad you were able to have family with you there....

Can I be insensitive and kinda ask what the (ballpark) figure is for doing something as grandios as this?

Cheers -

Killer:crackthewhip:

[philb]

First I have to say that I would not recommend getting married in Ukraine for most people who are involved in this process.  I think that this is only a viable route for those who are willing to take the time to make multiple trips to see and get to know the woman they are marrying.  In addition to my 6 trips to see Alla she visited my on a tourist visa last summer.

In regards to the wedding arrangements I can not take any credit.  The buses, translators, menu, etc. were all her ideas and so I must give her most of the credit for my family and friends great experiences.

Cost wise it is cheaper than what an equivalent wedding would cost in the US.  I think we spent around $ 7000.00.  For the wedding, reception, photographers, busses, translator, etc..  This does not include any airfares or apartment rental fees.

Somethings are cheaper (and of better quality) in the US though.  We bought her wedding dress here. Also the invitations and rings were purchased here.

The US consular fees for getting married there and filling the I-130 petition were about  $300.00.  We will also have to pay another $380.00 when she goes to the interview.  There are some costs I am sure I am forgetting at the moment.

 

[WmGO]

PhilB,

One of the reasons I registered here (in addition to Dan's prompting)

was so I could say congratulations to you. I remember you from the PL

board -always a voice of wisdom and moderation.

Congratulations and best wishes!!

WmGO

 

[Jack]

WmGO is here?

The place is picking up a little class.

 

 

[UnitedNut]

Great pictures! Thanks for sharing. Congratulations!:D