Make sure that you date your letter - this will help you keep track of when it was written, how long it took for the letter to reach destination, as well as keep track of correspondence order (in case you are writing several letters). Small cultural difference is that in Russia and former USSR countries the date is written differently than in the Western countries: day is listed first, then month, and finally year. You might consider spelling the date out to avoid confusion.
Especially in the first letters, your greeting can and should be simple - "Hello,.." will be sufficient. Starting your letter with "Dear…" can be perceived as awkward by some people (especially in Russia, as it not only means that you know the person, whom you are addressing, very well, but also that you share a certain level of affection towards him/her). You can use this type of greeting after you have corresponded for a while and feel comfortable with each other.
It is important to pay attention to the language you use - make sure that it is simple and accurate. If you are not certain of the English level your lady has, make sure that your letter is grammatically correct and does not have any slang words in it. Short sentences and concise writing will make your letter easy to understand and will eliminate chances for misunderstanding.
Typing your letter might be a great idea, especially if you are not certain of your handwriting. While seemingly impersonal, it will help you avoid frustration and misunderstanding. As an alternative, you can include a handwritten note at the end of the letter - this will give your message a personal touch, as well as help your Russian bride know if she will be able to read your handwriting. Even if you are sending the same introductory letter to several women, make sure that you do not confuse their names and that you customize each letter.
Sending a photograph with your first letter is a great idea. It will definitely increase your chances of getting the reply from the lady of your choice because it will help establish a better connection than a faceless message, but will also make your letter more memorable. When selecting a photo to send, make sure that it shows your face well, that it is a photo you like and in which you are exhibiting positive emotions, that it is not a picture taken from very far distance, etc - in other words, make sure it is a photograph that will be enjoyable to see for someone who has never met you.
Letter content is a problem for many people and, indeed, it is hard to know what to say to a person you know hardly anything about. However, whatever you decide to include in it, make sure it is something positive and pleasant. Naturally, share the basic information about yourself (where you live, age, family, job, etc), mention your hobbies or things that make you interesting and unique (hint: writing about things that excite you will make your letter more vibrant simply because you will sound positive and excited. Make sure that you ask questions about her life, her family, but be weary of going overboard - too many questions at once can sound intimidating. Whatever you choose to ask, it has to be enough to express interest in this woman's life, her culture, and her interests. Make sure you compliment her (whether it is her looks, something about her that stood out to you, her interests, etc) - but once again, moderation is the key.
Your closing does not need to be elaborate, a simple "Sincerely yours..." or "Hope to hear from you soon" will be enough. It is best not to sign your first letters with "Love," it is best to wait until you have developed a relationship and know your intentions for each other.
While the essence of the first messages can rarely be extraordinary, there are a few simple things you can do to make your letter stand out. Use unusual writing material: a nice stationery, colored paper, unique postcard, etc. If you can draw, include some graphics with the letter. You can spray your letter with perfume (but make sure the smell is not too potent and something fairly neutral, that will not cause irritation). Use a different size envelope, or registered mail services - receiving a letter of an unusual name/packaging will certainly stick in your lady's memory.
One other thing of importance to know is that Russian postal system is not nearly as reliable, as post services in US or Europe, but there are a few things you can do to ensure you letter gets to the addressee. First, send it by airmail: it will reach your Russian woman faster (normally within 10-12 days), snail mail will take between 4-6 weeks! Second, it is best to write your lady's address in Russian - it will ensure that there is no confusion. Finally, make sure you have enough postage, so your lady does not have to pay extra when receiving it. You might want to keep copies of all letters you send, in case it does not reach the addressee, you will have all information on hand.
Whatever you do, be genuine in your writing and expressions, and you are guaranteed to find the woman of your dreams!
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