Build a real relationship first. Don't rush into marriage. Spend time communicating, visiting each other, and understanding each other's cultures and values. This can help avoid misunderstandings later.
Do thorough research. Know the laws and regulations regarding international marriages in both the Philippines and the destination country. This will help prevent legal issues.
Some horror stories might involve brides being exploited. For example, there could be cases where they are brought to a foreign country under false pretenses. They might be promised a good life but end up in situations of abuse or forced labor. Also, cultural differences can be a big issue. Sometimes the family of the groom might have unrealistic expectations of the bride, leading to her being mistreated.
Do thorough research on the agency. Check for reviews and any signs of unethical behavior. If an agency seems too eager to just take your money without proper screening procedures, stay away.
Base your characters on real - life accounts. If you've found stories of actual mail - order brides during your research, use elements of their personalities and experiences. For example, if a woman was very brave to leave her home country for an unknown future, give that trait to your character. Also, consider the cultural background. A character from a collectivist culture might have different values compared to one from an individualist culture.
Good mail order bride novels often have strong character development. For example, the mail - order bride herself usually has a complex personality. She might be brave, yet vulnerable at the same time. This makes her a very relatable character.
You can start by looking into historical records. Many countries in the past had systems that resembled mail - order brides. For example, in the 19th - century America, there were women who traveled from the East to the West to marry settlers. Check local archives and historical societies' records for real - life stories. Another good place to start is with immigration records. They can show the patterns of women coming to a new country for marriage. You could also interview people who might have some family history related to this concept.
One horror story is about a man who ordered a mail - order bride. When she arrived, she was constantly being monitored by a so - called 'agency' that seemed more like a criminal organization. They demanded more and more money from the man, threatening to take the bride back if he didn't pay. It was a nightmare of financial extortion and the man felt trapped.
Typically, the female protagonist is the mail - order bride. She is often a young woman from a poor or difficult background, seeking a way out through marriage. The male protagonist is usually a bachelor, often a farmer or a man in need of a wife to help with domestic tasks and start a family. He may live in a rural area where there are fewer marriage prospects.
One common theme is the idea of new beginnings. The female character, often the mail - order bride, is leaving her old life behind in search of a better future. Another theme is cultural clash. Since she is usually from a different place, there are differences in traditions, values, and ways of life that create interesting storylines. Also, love against all odds is a theme. Despite the unorthodox way they meet, the characters often fall in love and have to overcome various obstacles to be together.
You can start by checking at your local bookstore. Ask the staff if they have any graphic novels related to the topic in their inventory.
These novels often portray female characters as being on a journey of self - growth. They start off in a vulnerable position as mail order brides but gradually develop into more confident and independent individuals. They are not just passive love interests but play an active role in the relationship. They might be the ones who initiate conversations about improving the relationship or bringing new ideas into the family. Their beauty, both inner and outer, is emphasized, and they are seen as the glue that holds the family together in many cases.