Writing 9 your american friend is coming with you to a special family occasion. write him/her an email to tell him/her what to expect.  tell him/her when and where it is and explain who is going to be there.  explain what the occasion is and say what he/she should/should not bring.  mention one other custom or tradition that he/she should be aware of.  invite your friend to stay the night and recommend something to do the next day.

Hi Dan,
You are going to visit Russia, aren't you? My mother is having a birthday.
We live in city called Kryzhopol. I will explain where it is going to be, wheb you will come. There will be my bald father and my hairy son, it will be great!
As I said, it will be my mother's birthday. Bring money with you, much money.
Than, we will go to the basement, it is very interesting there!
I hope you will come to Russia, beacause people are very cool there.
With love,
Sergey