The bizzare union in Russia Photo: Courtesy

This couple had a BEAR-Y special guest at their wedding - as a giant furry friend turned up.

Denis and Nelya, both 30, from Moscow, invited brown bear Stepan along to their very special ceremony.

Stepan Photo: Courtesy

As well as witnessing the couple exchange vows, the bear also played the role of registrar at one point.

Denis said: "We both knew Stepan is a very kind bear but still it is a huge, unpredictable animal so we were a bit scared, but still happy to be able to make our dream come true.

The couple's wedding photo shoot Photo: Courtesy

"It was a fantastic experience to have this photoshoot with Stepan.

"It is such a special feeling to hug a real, huge bear, and you cannot compare it to anything else.

 "We will absolutely remember this day forever."

The wedding was captured by Russian photographer Olga Barantseva.