Soviet wedding ritual in the 1950-1980's: traditions and innovations

The article deals with establishment and development of the Soviet wedding traditions. The author shows how the Soviet wedding transformed from a formalized procedure to a celebration, a holiday for a young family in honor of its initiation. The important role in strengthening of the celebrating tradition played the external component: a variety of holiday rituals, wedding gowns, wedding rings exchange, gifts and greetings from friends and family. The research notes the legislative aspect and its impact on the ritual establishment. The examples of urban and rural weddings are given.