Arranged Marriage

In the traditional Kuwaiti marriage, a boy expresses his wish to get married to his family. His close female relatives check out the available young ladies at different social events like weddings, receptions, friends from school, neighbors, etc. then come back to the boy with their field report. The boy tries to get a glimpse of the different candidates somewhere public and if he likes what he sees, an informal visit or two get started by the boy's family. Later on things might progress to a formal engagement and if all goes well, a big wedding.

Things in the Caucasus area to the South of Russia are a little different, if a boy happens to see a girl he likes, he gets together with the stronger members of his family and friends and arranges to kidnap her. The abducted girl is taken to a secret hiding place and the boy's the womenfolk are sent to pressure and convince the girl to marry their son. When she eventually breaks down, a quick marriage is held.

Here is an example of a modern day bride kidnapping.




Quick, simple and a convenient way to avoid rejection and social awkwardness.