Success Stories
As a special present to our former and existing members on Unona’s 10
th anniversary we publish interviews with some of our couples that got acquainted at
www.Unona.net We hope that you will find some answers you are looking for, smile and be happy for us. When you are ready to share your success story, please
contact_us, we would love to hear from you!
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Svetlana T. and Robert H., USA
Robert
Why did you decide to look for a soul mate abroad?
I wanted someone who was interested in being a partner not the boss.
How did you come across the Unona agency?
Sveta was registered there
What made you think that Svetlana is your destiny?
From the first letter I knew she could be the one for me.
How did you first meet?
On line
What are your impressions of Ukraine and Ukrainians?
Wonderful country and wonderful people.
How did you propose?
On my first trip to Kiev I asked her to marry me and she said yes.
Tell us about your wedding
We will be married in the court house here and have a big wedding in Kiev when we return.
How your friends and family have taken your new foreign wife?
They have been very supportive
Did you have any doubts or fears, if so, then what were they?
As with any new relationship, there will be a "getting used to" period.
I am sure everything will be fine.
How did you overcome the doubts and difficulties that came together with your partner’s decision to move to your country?
I just keep in my mind how I would feel if I moved to Kiev and had to deal with the language and cultural differences. I know everyone will adjust.
What did you expect and what came as a reality?
I expected things would be strange for both of us and they are but, we are adjusting to being with each other and everything is great.
What is your advice and wishes to our gentleman, who are still in search of a Ukrainian lady at our site?
Find the one who will share your live and be a partner and friend forever. I wish everyone good luck and I hope you will find happiness as I did.
Svetlana
Why did you decide to look for a soul mate abroad?
I was deeply disappointed in local men.
How did you come across the Unona agency?
I read an ad in the newspaper.
What made you think that Robert is your destiny?
I suppose it was my heart…and woman’s intuition.
How did you first meet?
We first met at the airport In Kiev, than we both went to apartments that we rented with
help of Unona agency.
How did he propose?
I was cooking Ukrainian borsch in the kitchen. Robert was sitting next to me and we were chatting every on his own language…I was in the cooking process and he was watching me.
And, than he unexpectedly asked me to be his wife. I understood those words though I did not know English at all.
I was expecting this because we were communicating for already long time. And from first letters it was clear to me that this man is close to me by spirit, character, interests, temper.
How did your family accept your new foreign wife?
My children were absolutely positive at once. It was a little shock for my parents. But as soon as they saw Robert, all their doubts and fears disappeared, as Robert is a good man, everybody liked him.
Did you have any doubts or fears, if so, then what were they?
I cannot say I had doubts. I trusted and believed that Robert is sincere and have serious intentions. And fears…if I am able to live far from my country and family. The fact that I was coming with my younger son calmed me. My daughter already had her won family.
How did you overcome the difficulties that came together with your decision to move to another country to your partner?
I had some difficulties when we were going to the USA. My English was poor and it was hard to communicate with airport stuff.
What are your impressions of the new country and the people?
I had the most vivid and unforgettable impressions. North Dakota is such a picturesque state.
Nature, beautiful views, and the air….I was reminded our Carpathian mountains in Ukraine.
Also mountains…. When we arrived, Robert’s neighbors came in to welcome us. People here are friendly, kind, and very smiling.
What did you expect and what came as a reality?
I expected that I would miss my homeland that it will be hard to get used to everything new, strange and different. It has been a months since we live in the USA. It is not time to say about
results. For now we are getting accustomed to each other and life will tell us what will be.
I think we will be all right.
What is your advice and wishes to our gentleman, who are still in search of a Ukrainian lady at our site?
What I can wish our girls who are in search? I wish them happiness and find their second half. And your heart will tell who he is. And you do not have to be afraid that this second half lives in the other part of eth world. If you have found each other you have to be together.
Luybov and Michael M., USA
Michael
Why did you decide to look for a soul mate abroad?
I noticed in my travels that women from other countries had stronger family values and traits that women in the USA do not.
How did you come across the Unona agency?
When I finally made the decision to try to find my soul mate using the internet, I came across UNONA via a search engine.
What made you think that Lyubov is your destiny?
I knew through the many letters that Lyuba had a wonderful heart. It only took our first meeting to see she was everything I ever imagined my future wife to be. After being married for 2 years I love her more as each day passes and could not imagine myself going through life with anyone else.
How did you first meet?
My first meeting with Lyuba was in Kherson. We spent time touring her city and her first instinct as she said to me was we should be “friends”. I knew in my heart that we could be much more and wouldn’t give up so easily. The rest is a fairytale as we are living happily ever after.
What are your impressions of Ukraine and Ukrainians?
The Ukraine is a very interesting country. The people are very friendly and proud. As I learn more and more about the customs and traditions people follow I can’t help being impressed each time I visit.
How did you propose?
Lyubov and I took a trip to Odessa, She had no idea that I had purchased an engagement ring in Saudi Arabia prior to arriving. We walked through the city and I wasn’t exactly sure of when and where I would propose until we passed a place called “The Love Café”. I suggested we go inside and have something to drink. We sat in a lovely heart shaped booth and I turned to her and told her how much I loved her. I opened the box with the ring and asked her if she would honor me by being my wife. She said YES!!!
Tell us about your wedding
Our wedding took place in Long Island New York. My sister has a beautiful home and asked us if we would like to get married there. The house was soon decorated and looked so wonderful. Our wedding took place in the presence of our family friends and was a truly memorable time.
How did your family accept your new foreign wife?
My family and friends were taken with Lyuba after meeting her only once! They love her and are so happy she is part of our family
Did you have any doubts or fears, if so, then what were they?
Early in our relationship when we were corresponding I kept reading about how people were scammed while trying to find their soul mate on the internet. To protect myself and my daughter I decided to hire someone to check and make sure everything was ok. This almost caused me to lose the woman of my dreams. The man gave me some bad information and if it wasn’t for your agency explaining the true facts I wouldn’t be writing this today.
How did you overcome the difficulties that came together with your partner’s decision to move to your country?
I would have to say this was the most difficult part of our journey. The key to alleviating fears and doubts is communication. This can be difficult with a language barrier but not impossible. Understanding how difficult it can be for a woman to leave everything she ever knew and loved is a MUST!!! Help her by showing her she can trust you to be there for her always.
What did you expect and what came as a reality?
My expectations were simple. I hoped that my wife would become comfortable with her new life and our love would continue to grow. It took some time for my daughter to accept her new stepmother and she now loves Lyuba very much. I think it’s important to not expect everything to be perfect. There will be some issues along the way for everyone. Time, patience, love, and understanding will make everything work out.
What is your advice and wishes to our gentleman, who are still in search of a Ukrainian lady at our site?
If I had to give any advice to the gentlemen searching for a Ukrainian lady it would be to take your time. Get to know your lady and her family via correspondence and through visits if possible. Seeing your lady and her family will speak volumes. When you find the woman of your dreams make sure she knows it. It doesn’t take money to let a woman know she means the world to you. I wish that all the ladies and gentlemen with Unona find that special someone and all the happiness that comes with it.
Aida and Kip W., USA
Aida
Why did you decide to look for a soul mate abroad?
Maybe because I have failed in finding “the one” in my homeland, or maybe I was not “the one”, who knows. I was always sure that western men are serious about creating family and have traditional values – man is a head of family and woman is the soul of the family, as well as being able to give their wives comfortable life. And this is what I really needed.
How did you come across the Unona agency?
I do not remember exactly, I applied to several agencies, but I have chosen Unona because I liked everything about it- office stuff, respectful attitude towards clients. It is great union of friendly and respectful attitude towards work. I like it.
What made you think that Kip is your destiny?
Nothing told me. No inner push or click, nothing like that. From two candidates I have chosen the one most attractive to me physically.
This is classical women’s feature and logic. And I was happy that I was not wrong.
How did you first meet?
First meeting took place in Odessa airport, where I was meeting Kip. I was very nervous that I will not recognize him, though I have seen many his photos and of his family. As it has appeared there was no purpose to worry. I liked him as soon as I saw him. He was strong man, interesting man, with kind face.
How did he propose?
It has happened already in Ewanstone, Wayoming, USA, where I and my daughter were Kip’s guests. Kip wanted to make everything traditionally. He invited us to restaurant and when dinner was coming to end he said to my daughter Toma that he wants to marry me. He asked me. What should I have answered to him if we had already great relationship? Of course, I agreed.
Tell us about your wedding
There was no traditional wedding. We just registered in Las-Vegas where Elvis Presley used to. It is also called King’s chapel. We spent ether two days, seeing the city, attending different shows, and Las –Vegas is so exciting city! And now, when two years have passed, we will choose moment to celebrate our anniversary. Maybe we can repeat the ceremony in interesting city. For example, in biker city Stargins. Why not?...
How did your family accept your new foreign husband?
Everybody liked Kip. He is positive and serious man. Because he is what he is.
Did you have any doubts or fears, if so, then what were they?
I had no fears, considering doubts…We are both people with formed characters and
habits. Kip has strong personality as he is a man. Kip is manly man. He is Taurus. Most of my life I have depended on myself, this influenced on my character. Sometimes we had conflicts because we are both strong personalities. Sometimes I had doubts if that I can live with this person.
How did you overcome the difficulties that came together with your decision to move to another country to your partner?
Being a woman, I should be gentle and easy to get along with. I tried to learn how. I was thinking a lot. If life has given me a chance to have better and happy life, why I search problems where there are none? I have wonderful husband and that is worth changing to better. Of course, it has not happened immediately. I am constantly working on my character. I think it is what needed for successful relationship. My husband likes seeing next to him fashionable, attractive, sexy, tender and caring woman. Why should I be another? It is no feint. I want and I try to be a woman, loving and beloved.
What are your impressions of the new country and the people?
The country is huge and the people are friendly and smiling. Everything is too much. Life is comfortable and interesting. These were first impressions. With time my first impression became wider and deeper. The country is big and very picturesque.
There are some nature spots, observing which you feel tears in your eyes, you are breathless from this beauty. And what is important these nature spots are not only beautiful and clean as well. People smile at you friendly and greet each other; it is in common in small cities from which United States is formed. I can only guess that life in megalopolises is different, there is more vanity and tough, there is no place for sentiments. We are lucky to live in small city, where all doors are opened during the day.
Life is easy and interesting for those, who work hard. As everywhere the work is paid fairly. Bureaucracy here is also present, but here law is greatly respected.
What did you expect and what came as a reality?
I was sure that in the USA in any case life will be better than here. And it has appeared even better. I am beloved woman and wife. I am a housewife with many interests, hobbies and plans. I am never bored. Husband is head of the family; I am so called gray cardinal and beautiful queen in one person. And I like it. We have great plans for future, for happy future.
What is your advice and wishes to our ladies, who are still in search of a partner at our site?
First of all, respect yourself, there are many men, and you are the only one.
You should be polite towards men you are corresponding with. You should know what you want, or you have danger to be caught in entrapment of “golden cage” and lose your personality or you can on contrary fall in love with the student and live an economy way of living, having in perspective cozy house and happy family.
You have to believe in success and fate, in yourself and listen to Unona agency advices.
Lyubov and George M., USA
Lyubov
Why did you decide to look for a soul mate abroad?
I have met my second half after three years search. I have applied to international dating agencies, but I have not limited myself with only man from abroad, there was a possibility that my future husband can be a local man. I was choosing a man, with whom I will live till the end of my life, not a country. But I have understood that t fid husband abroad is easier as western men have more needed qualities than our men. In the beginning of my search I have determined the most important qualities of man for me and I believed that such man exists.
How did you come across the Unona agency?
In summer 2005 I bought AVISO newspaper and on needed page I have paid attention to Unona ad. When I cam to Unona agency office, I was greeted by friendly stuff, I heard wide advices and received help in communicating with foreigners.
What made you think that George is your destiny?
I have understood that George is my destiny during tests our relationship has suffered. We were mature both when we met, we both had formed characters and experience of family life. It has influenced our relationship differently –from decision to break up till wish to be never parted. Once George said, that it is difficult to be together for us but harder to be without each other. Thus we have developed pour relationship and became closer.
How did you first meet?
In two month after our correspondence has started George came to Odessa. And our meeting has happened in reality. I have seen many his photos and have recognized George at once at the airport. Till we first met we communicated over the phone often and George was quick to understand my English. I met him at the airport without translator.
In spite long and intensive journey George has pleasantly surprised me with his neat look, confident manners and calmness of man with experience.
How did he propose?
On the fourth day, we were walking around Old Odessa, he proposed me to be his wife. As my feelings were already true and deep to him for a long time I said yes without any doubts. We went at once to choose an engagement ring and to celebrate we went to one of the best restaurants in Odessa.
Tell us about your wedding
Our wedding came in a year after proposal and after numerous tests our feeling went through. We were married on the 2 th of October in 2009 and our witnesses were my son and his girlfriend.
George insisted that we have done the tradition of standing on the embroidered towel. Now in our house in Hillsboro there is an embroidered towel hanging on the wall with lines “ Sovet da Luobov”, meaning agreement and love. We also did another tradition to live on the so –called mother-in-law bridge and left there a lock with wedding date and our names. And keys from the lock are in the bottom of the Black sea. And third key we will throw to the local lake when I return to the USA.
How did your friends and family accept your new foreign husband?
My friends and family have taken George positively as they have appreciated his best qualities. They did not try to influence on our relationship and let me to decide myself the outlet of the relationship.
Did you have any doubts or fears, if so, then what were they?
As every person that faces difficult choice from which your future life depends. I had fears and doubts. Till I have met George I have visited 15 European countries. But I have never communicated with Americans and my views on the USA were based on other peoples experience. I was visiting George by fiancée visa. My feelings were mixed. I was confused. My heart was longing to my beloved man, and my logic was telling to break up relations because of different mentalities and cultural differences. We did not know how to manage these difficulties.
How did you overcome the difficulties that came together with your decision to move to another country to your partner?
As our relationship has developed, our experience has given us answers to many questions. After 1 year of relationship we knew that we will end up friends again. More often we have found same views on life, in our likes, in our actions and in principles and habits.
I stopped being angry at George’s late calls because of time differences.
I changed my attitude to it. I understand that he wanted to be with me in permanent contact. I learned how to be soft in my requests.
I stopped criticizing him and making myself pity. And I learnt to smile in spite my mood.
Any move and even more – new life in strange country, is accompanied by difficulties. One of then is not enough language level or lack of the language at all. You do not have your own money, you do not know your rights clearly and mentality of the country you are going to.
Of course all this makes the situation more difficult. If a man lives with his parents or children from previous marriage, it can be another hidden problem. To overcome these problems women can only rely to man to whom she has come in this new country.
What are your impressions of the new country and the people?
My husband lives in the country side, in small town, Ohio state, 60 km from city with million population. This countryside is rich in civilization in all its ways.
One of first impression was how everything quality organized.
Farmer fields, roads, houses, cars. In everything I felt caring hand.
I never saw forgotten technique near the road or garbage.
Everything is neat and clean.
I was amazed by American patriotism. Americans love their country, are proud of it. In every house there is a flag hanging or country’s symbols.
Americans do not have in common to observe people attentively, if they notice you look at them, they say hi and continue their business.
I have to say that American products reminded me about Ukrainian food. We have better quality products.
What did you expect and what came as a reality?
After my six-weeks visit to the USA by fiancée visa I returned to Ukraine. The reality was not what I have expected and in my opinion was different to George’s promises. Maybe other women would have agreed to stay. But when heart talks, logic and reasons are silent.
With an average income and language level, without family and friends, I would have become dependent not only from my fiancé but from his position as well. I have returned to Ukraine, but he continued writing, calling and supported me financially, which he has taken when he proposed. In two months George came to Odessa again to marry me.
What is your advice and wishes to our ladies, who are still in search of a partner at our site?
As for me the most important when you search a partner from abroad is to know the language. And in your search the moment comes, when you are left without translator and you have to communicate somehow. If girl cannot express herself even on the lowest level, her chances reduce.
Second, is personal charm and attractive appearance of girl.
It is easier of course if you are young, and you are full of energy,
That is why after you have to look after yourself more carefully.
The best way is exercise. If you want to marry a man from abroad, you have to review your ways of having relationship, they should differ from the one you have with local man.
Do not think that man will guess your wishes and desires, learn to refuse softly. Do not be shy to discuss with everything that in our society is considered to be not comfortable topic. You should remember how you say something rather than what you say. He may not remember your dress, but he will cherish your smile and sparkle in your eyes. And last one-learn how to smile!
It will make your face inspiring!
Olga and David, New Zealand
Olga
Why did you decide to look for a soul mate abroad?
My goal was not to find a prince from abroad. I wanted to find a man, with whom I can fall
in love with. In Ukraine good man of my age are already married mostly.
How did you come across the Unona agency?
I found Unona agency in internet and I am grateful to them for their work.
What made you think that David is your destiny?
The best advisor in choosing your destiny is your heart. You should try to understand person as best as you can. Most difficult is when you actual move and you should win up this battle. And you can win if you have LOVE.
How did you first meet?
I have met my future husband at the airport, than in restaurant we were communicating through translator provided by the agency. This helped us to become closer. My English was poor.
Even if I have spoken well, I could not discuss all the details of our future common life together.
You do not have to be afraid to ask, you should ask everything till smallest details as you plan you life together and it should not hold any unexpected things.
Tell us about your wedding
I wanted a fairy tale. And I realised my dreams in wedding we had. There were 20 people guests.
But it was very beautiful and I have planned a restaurant on the river bay, for my husband it was surprise. And now we will be able to tell our grandchildren that such things can happen in real life.
How did your family accept your new foreign husband?
My parents loved David at the first sight They wanted me to be happy and without love woman cannot be happy. In my husband there is a rare union of man’s strength and kindness, that is why, looking into his eyes, I understand that he was worth waiting ten years during which I have been lonely. They were compensated.
Did you have any doubts or fears, if so, then what were they?
I did not have fears, as I trust my husband fully. There were difficulties though. I advise to read about immigrants’ depression, what happens to your organism, thus you will be prepared.
How did you overcome the difficulties that came together with your decision to move to another country to your partner?
First three month you are receiving pleasure from country’s beauty and new life and than you have long adaptation period. You have to get used to still strange to you country. Everything can help you sewing, knitting, and manicure. As I am a hair stylist it was easier for me.
What is your advice and wishes to our ladies, who are still in search of a partner at our site?
We build our destiny by ourselves and blaming somebody else in your misfortunes is wrong.
There is a saying that no song, no supper. And it is true. It is hard job to find your love, but
it is real. Girls, I wish you PATIENCE.
Tatyana and David B., Canada
Tatyana
Why did you decide to look for a soul mate abroad?
Why not? I had no luck in Ukraine.
How did you come across the Unona agency?
My best friend!
What made you think that David is your destiny?
There was something special in his letters, they were sincere and close to me. We had the same goals in life – to have a good family – it helped us to get closer to each other. I could see that we shared the same vision of a good relationship. After our first meeting I started to think that he could be someone really special for me.
How did you first meet?
Kiev, Ukraine…ten days together in spring!!!!
How did he propose?
Over the phone! And sent pictures of the rings by e-mailJ We were supposed to meet soon but something didn’t work out so he decided not to wait longerJ
Tell us about your wedding
It was a small but special wedding in presence of our friends. It was in Kiev. Later we had celebration with my family in my hometown. Nothing fancy!
How did your family accept your new foreign husband?
In general the attitude was good, though they did not like the fact that I would live so far away and we did not know how often we could see each other. So, my parents let me go just with one condition: to visit them every year!
Did you have any doubts or fears, if so, then what were they?
Of course I had fears: what if everything would be not as we wished? What would I do there? With whom would I communicate? People are different and I knew my husband through the letters mostly… living together could be different.
How did you overcome the difficulties that came together with your decision to move to another country to your partner?
It was quite easy to make a decision but what came later was difficult. I didn’t have any problems leaving Ukraine but I was not realizing what I would have to deal with: loneliness, depression at some point, desire to go back as you find yourself in a completely different place. It was hard. But I found some friends with whom I worked. Work helped a lot. Then I found some girls from Ukraine. Being apart from friends and family was very hard for me. With time I think I got used to living in Canada and now I enjoy it very much.
What are your impressions of the new country and the people?
In Ukraine people idealize Western countries. Everything is different here and at first I did not like it at all. But I should command people living here. They are very friendly and try to help you, maybe they will not become your best friends, but they will respect you. I love such attitude! I am lucky to have my husband’s family, who are very supportive and loving people. They truly became my second family.
What did you expect and what came as a reality?
Some expectation did not match the reality. I think it is normal. That is why you should be realistic and know what is waiting for you without any illusions! I thought it would be easier for me to find a good job, but in reality I have to work hard and to study extra. It is just a completely different world comparing to what we are used to. But I find that people here have more opportunities and support.
What is your advice and wishes to our ladies, who are still in search of a partner at our site?
-You should know what you want
-You should be realistic
-You should not idealize the person or relationship
-Language! It is a big myth that you will learn it late at place. In fact you will feel frustrated and lonely. You have to be able to express yourself.
-You should be prepared for challenges and it is important that the man by your side is the right one. I strongly believe that in order to make this journey successful you have to have someone really special by your side.
-listen to your instincts – most of the time they are right.
Elena and Alexader, Canada
Elena
Why did you decide to look for a soul mate abroad?
I got a feeling that I am ready for a serious relationship. I wanted to meet a man who could make our family full and happy. It didn’t matter whether he would live in Ukraine or abroad. I waited and He found me.
How did you come across the Unona agency?
I work at the agency. J
What made you think that Sasha (Alexander) is your destiny?
As if there was never anybody else.
How did you first meet?
We first saw each other at the Vienna airport. I saw an attractive man looking at the world through big glasses and carrying a teddy bear with a bouquet of roses. First I felt almost uncomfortable being seen with “a teenager” as my future husband-to-be looked so young. Arranging the first meeting in Vienna was really risky, it was exceptional, it was our fairy tale.
How did your family accept your new foreign husband?
My son accepted Sasha at once, unconditionally and without any doubts. I do not think there are that many sons who love their father that much. They have their own men’s language and they understand each other perfectly. Everybody loves Sasha;-)
Did you have any doubts or fears, if so, then what were they?
It seemed to me that documents took forever to be processed. When your fate is hanging in the air and your life depends on other people’s decisions, it can be very hard.
Of course it was hard to pack up our life in a few suitcases and move to another country in 10 000 kms from the parents, friends, work, life.
The first months of adaptation were challenging since we met as two adults with our own set ways of living: financial planning, decorating, driving, etc. If we were to add lack of understanding or even misunderstanding because of the language barrier, it could have been really difficult. But we really wanted to make it work and we were willing to compromise and keep each other happy.
How did you overcome the difficulties that came together with your decision to move to another country to your partner?
When my son and I arrived in Vancouver, in the airport we were met by his whole family – Sasha’ sisters, their husbands, Sasha’s mother. Now, when I know their lifestyles and intensive working schedules, I am so grateful for their heart-warming welcome and for their support. I consider myself very lucky – I not only just married to a beautiful person, but also have got two sisters and another brother!
Of course my son and I were lucky because we came to a person who was ready to take care of all the details of our new life.
Language learning has always been one of the most important priorities when I realized that my English is not good enough. So I kept learning. When I watch movies or read books, I still write out new words and continuously learn.
*Some tips for studying English in a fun and efficient way:
I advise to plan time to watch movies (start with TV shows) a few times over. First watch a movie with subtitles and a dictionary, and write out every unknown word. Go over the words. Watch the movie again without subtitles, trying to recognize every new word by ear. This way you will remember the words in a context, and it will be easier to learn them and to use them appropriately.
For me every new course in college starts with writing down new words and learning them.
And now, it seems that there are less and less new wordsJ.
What are your impressions of the new country and the people?
In a month after we arrived my son, whose English was quite poor at that time, told me that he feels “it is his country and his people”.
I love people in Ukraine, my family and my friends live in Ukraine, but people in Canada are also very friendly, kind, and open. I am proud to be Canadian.
What is your advice and wishes to our gentlemen and ladies, who are still in search of their soul mate?
Dating is for very brave people. Putting yourself out their with all your dreams and visions of your soul mate takes courage. You meet new people each time hoping that he could be the One, and then realize he actually is not and your have to start all over again.
In any case – never give up! Take some time for a break, and then, when you feel you are ready, start again with new experience. Your Lady is looking for you right now.
I wish you best of luck but most of all I wish you love!
Alexander
Why did you decide to look for a soul mate abroad?
I really didn’t like the kind of women that were available locally: mostly not very attractive and their profiles were just “me, me, me, me”. This clicked with my own recent dating experiences, and I just said “enough”.
How did you come across the Unona agency?
Quite a lot of Internet searching!
What made you think that Lena is your destiny?
I noticed that she was always very honest and upbeat. We started communicating as friends and we obviously had a lot in common. I held off making any serious judgment about her until after we had spent some time together personally, but we clicked the first moment we met. I gave her every chance in the world to not be “the one”, but things kept on working out between us. After a week together, it was obvious that she was the one.
How did you first meet?
In person, we spent a week together in Vienna. We met at the airport. It was exciting and strange after communicating so much and seeing all our pictures, to finally be together in person.
What are your impressions of Ukraine and Ukrainians?
They are decent and interesting people.
Tell us about your wedding
It was a traditional family wedding. We were on a tight budget but we arranged it so that we had everything that was really important for us. We limited the number of people to only those who were really close to us and our (small) immediate family, but we were able to have our wedding in the same church where my parents were married and we had the reception in one of Vancouver’s finest restaurants. We had a view of Vancouver (although it was raining, so no view that day), and our honeymoon was in a fabulous hotel on the water downtown, then back to our life and our family.
How have your friends and family reacted on your new foreign wife?
My parents are both immigrants, so if anything they understood completely and encouraged and helped us..
Did you have any doubts or fears, if so, then what were they?
Actually, the immigration took so long, that if anything, the thoughts we had were mostly about speeding things up, not slowing them down!
What did you expect and what came as a reality?
By and large, everything was about what I expected. We had both been single for a long time, so it took a while to adapt our lives to each other. I admire Lena for adapting so well and so quickly to such a different life in a different country. I think it’s easier for wives whose husbands who are not immigrants, because they have an “in” with the culture, and the learning is easier for them. Still, that learning can be frustrating for both of you. But in the end, you look back and forget those challenges.
What is your advice and wishes to our gentlemen and ladies, who are still in search of their soul mate?
Take your time, communicate with multiple ladies and keep it light, be selective, and be yourself. Keep your options open. Go to meet them in person, to Ukraine, relatively early on and take the stress off by using the agency (get met at the airport, go to the office, meet several ladies, use translation if you need it, etc.). Listen to your inner voice when deciding, and don’t settle. The most important thing is to find someone that’s right for you.