It has been 30 years since China initiated its reforms and opening-up. Chinese people have cast off the yoke of old systems and thinking and gained more freedom in marriage during these years.

1970s - Writing to show love was popular

A couple married in the 1970's [File photo]

In 1975, the 20-year Zhang Yumei fell in love with a young man named Li Jude, who was working at the same factory as her.

"We did not think about kissing or hugging when we fell in love, and we were also too shy to exchange any personal words," says Zhang, recalling how love developed with her husband. Watching a movie together was a happy experience for them.

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Zhao Yongfu, a native Beijinger who went to Hainan Province to join the army in 1972, met his girl friend through his sister-in-law.

"She and I got engaged immediately after meeting for the first time," said Zhao, who wrote to his girl friend every month to show his love.

In the 1980s, it was very popular for young people to write to each other to show their love.