We are Getting Married...!
ERIK - A. NAWROCKY
VITALINA MANTULA
Forever
Begins In:
Our Love Story
How It All Began
15.04.2023
Believe it or not, our story started during a time of war. While the world around us was in chaos, a simple message on social media became the first spark between Vitalina and Erik. What began as a conversation turned into a lifeline — a connection built on strength, support, and understanding.
We shared stories, fears, and hope long before we ever met in person. From late-night messages to morning check-ins, every word brought us closer. What started as mental support slowly blossomed into something deeper.
Our First Meet
16.06.2023
Our first meeting was a journey in itself — full of anticipation, kilometres, and cherries. Vitalina travelled over 2,000 kilometres from Klaukkala, Finland, to Cherkasy Ukraine on a minibus. Meanwhile, Erik drove to Uman, and that’s where they finally saw each other face to face for the very first time.
Nervous smiles turned into laughter, and from the very first hug, something felt right. Together, they drove toward Kyiv — and somewhere along the way, decided to stop and sell cherries and strawberries by the roadside to send a proof image to Vitalina’s friends, cause their date was a secret yet to be unveiled.
And just like that, the journey continued — hand in hand.
Finding Home in Each Other
15.08.2023
After his time in the military, Erik was emotionally exhausted — carrying the weight of war and memories no one should have to bear. Sensing his need for peace, Vitalina invited him to Finland, hoping the calm surroundings would help him heal.
It might have been fate, but the apartment she had planned to rent for him didn’t work out. Instead, she opened the door to her own home — and to her heart. From those very first days living under one roof, something special began to grow.
We didn’t just share space — we shared dreams, values, and quiet moments of understanding. We became a team, protecting one another and learning from each other day by day. It didn’t take long to realize: this wasn’t just a chapter. It was the beginning of a lifelong story.
The Proposal
23.11.2023
After finding home in each other, it didn’t take Erik long to realize — this woman, her wild heart, her big love, and her two amazing kids were exactly what he’d been missing all along. With Vitalina, Maks, and Beatrice, he finally had what he never really dared to dream of: a real family.
But before doing anything crazy he asked her dad, her mom, and even the kids for permission. Luckily, they all said yes and now it was just one yes missing, hers.
So, when her 31st birthday was around the corner, on November 23rd, 2023, Erik had a little surprise in mind. Somewhere between cake and happy tears, a wild car ride with tied eyes around town she came back to see him kneeing on the terrace barely able to speak out full sentences and asking the big question: Will you merry me? – She said yes and just like that, Manturocky were officially on the road to forever.
The Road to “I Do”
2024 – present
After the magical “Yes,” life didn’t slow down — it sped up. The time between the proposal and the wedding became its own wild adventure. One full of love, tough choices, and tough challenges.
Our love grew strong in Finland, but something still felt missing. Life was good, but not complete. When they started to help building an NGO to support Ukraine, they felt a strong pull — helping from afar wasn’t enough. They needed to be closer, to truly take part. So, both made the decision to go to Ukraine, to see how they could live the mission, together. And just like that, the decision was made: new country, new start.
There were ups, downs, a few meltdowns, and a lot of midnight hugs — but every challenge made them stronger. Together they built a cozy home, started an own business, and created a life where they get to chase dreams side by side.
They are living, loving, laughing, parenting, and planning — always as a team. And let’s be honest…They are probably the only couple who can miss each other even when they are curled up in the same bed.
When & Where
The Place We Say “I Do”
Wednesday, July 30th, 2025
12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location details will be provided separate
Kyiv Oblast - Ukraine
Let Us Know If You’re Coming!
Not attending our wedding may lead to minor but unforgettable consequences such as being haunted by the sound of wedding bells at random times, being judged by our cat Shirkahn, and randomly receiving “you missed it” messages at inconvenient moments — so just say “Yes” and come celebrate with us!