[madinmadtown]

My observations in Russia is that the wedding industry is flourishing as in the US, but the marriage institution is in serious trouble.

[RogerFGay]

The pimps are doing well. In the US, the pimps are politicians and judges - the system is more socialized than in Russia.

[informavoracious]

That's it. Weddings are now about the extravagant party, not about the comitment of marriage. I have heard so many young co-habitating couples say they 'can't afford to get married.' What they mean is they can't afford an obscenely expensive dream wedding and reception.

Simply getting married doesn't have to cost a lot. Some 'can't afford it' because the woman will lose welfare benefits, as a couple will be less likely to meet income restrictions.

It's a crazy mixed-up world where it is far more lucrative for lower income couples to have kids out of wedlock rather than within.