Good evening, dear friends! -

Today I stand here with great joy, excitement... And frankly, I can hardly hold back my tears, because my beloved friend, my Yulek, is getting married. On this momentous day, Yulia, you are linking your life with Bram - about whom I have heard so much, and whom I was finally pleased to meet in person.

For those who don't know me - my name is Masha. Yulia and I have known each other for over 25 years.

Yulia is not just my best friend. She's like a sister to me. We grew up together, studied together, shared the most important moments of life, supported each other in everything. And you know what the most amazing thing is? For all this time she has not changed in the most important things - in her kindness, sensitivity and ability to be there when you really need it.

I remember when Julia first told me about Bram back in 2019, about their meeting. And I'm very glad that this unexpected meeting led to today.

Bram, you've probably already realized how lucky you are. But I'll still say this: with Yulia around, it's always cozy. She knows how to warm you up just by her presence. It's easy to be silent with her, to laugh, to share the most intimate things. She creates a space around her, in which you want to be.

We're here today to live this moment with you. To meet new relatives, friends, to feel the warmth of your hearts. And I really hope that in years to come, when we gather again and remember this day, we will all have a smile on our faces again.

Maybe a little more wrinkles, but still the same joy.

I wish that you will always be in harmony with each other. That in your one and only world, which you will build day by day, you are not afraid to be yourselves.

That you know how to listen to each other - even in silence.

So that even in arguments, you don't lose respect.

And that you don't forget why you chose each other.

Marriage isn't about perfection. It's about honesty, support, patience, respect and faith.

And I believe that's exactly what you're going to have.

Let's raise a glass to Yulia and Bram - to my incredible friend and her wonderful husband!

To love, to the art of being together.

Gorko ("Bitter")!