A mail order bride is essentially a woman who lists herself on international dating websites to be chosen for marriage by men from different countries. These women come from various backgrounds and cultures, but they all have one thing in common – the desire to find love and create a family with a foreign man. The term “mail order” may give the impression that these women are being ordered like commodities to be delivered, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
So, what makes a bride a mail order bride? For most, it is the hope of finding a loving and supportive partner. In many cases, these women come from countries with limited dating prospects or cultural and economic challenges that make it difficult for them to find a suitable partner. They turn to international dating sites as a way to expand their options and increase their chances of finding true love.
The main differences between a mail order bride and a traditional bride is the mode of communication. In traditional dating, couples typically meet and get to know each other in person. However, for mail order brides, the initial communication often takes place online through messaging and video calls. This allows for building a connection and getting to know each other’s personalities before meeting in person.
Some may question the authenticity of relationships formed through mail order bride platforms. However, research has shown that these relationships have a higher success rate compared to traditional marriages. This is because, in a mail order bride relationship, both parties are looking for specific qualities in a partner, and thus the chances of compatibility are higher.
Factor that makes a bride a mail order bride is the willingness to embrace a new culture. Many women on international dating sites have a strong interest in foreign cultures and a desire to experience life outside of their own country. This cultural exchange is often seen as an exciting and enriching aspect of the relationship, as both partners learn from each other and grow together.
Furthermore, the motivation for a mail order bride to join a dating platform is often different from that of a traditional dating scene. While women in traditional dating may have various motives and play hard to get, mail order brides are upfront about their intentions. This open and honest communication can save time and effort for men who are looking for genuine connections.
How Much Does a Mail Order Bride Cost?
The initial step in finding a mail order bride is usually through online communication. This includes joining a dating site (which can be free or paid), creating a profile, and browsing through potential matches. Some dating sites offer free communication features, while others require a subscription fee. On average, a monthly subscription can range from $20 to $50.
You have found a potential bride, communication can continue through messaging, video calls, and emails. These forms of communication often require credits or tokens, which must be purchased on the dating site. The cost of credits varies from site to site, but it typically ranges from $0.50 to $1 per credit. Keep in mind that regular communication can quickly add up, as it may take a few months to get to know someone well enough to decide if you want to take the next step.
Travel Expenses
You have established a strong connection with a potential mail order bride, the next step would be to meet in person. This means traveling to her home country, which can add up to a significant expense. Depending on the location and the distance, airfare alone can cost anywhere from $500 to $2000. Additional expenses like accommodation, food, and transportation will also need to be factored in. It is recommended to visit the country for at least a week to spend quality time with your potential bride and get to know her family and culture.
Marriage Expenses
If all goes well during your visit, the next step would be to actually get married. Depending on the laws and regulations of the country where your bride resides, the cost of the marriage process can vary. In most cases, you will need to obtain a marriage license and pay a registration fee. If you plan to bring your bride back to your home country, you will also need to factor in the cost of obtaining a fiancée visa and any immigration fees.
Other Considerations
Aside from the direct costs of finding and marrying a mail order bride, there are other considerations to keep in mind. These may include language and cultural barriers, which may require additional expenses for language classes or cultural sensitivity training. It is also important to be financially prepared for any unexpected expenses that may arise, such as medical emergencies or unforeseen legal issues.
Are Mail Order Brides a Legitimate Option?
The Pros of Mail Order Brides:
1. Opportunity to Meet Women From Different Countries:
One of the biggest advantages of mail order brides is that it gives men the opportunity to meet and interact with women from different countries and cultures. This can be an enriching experience and can broaden your perspective on life and relationships.
2. A Chance to Build a Strong Relationship:
With mail order brides, the intention is clear from the beginning – both parties are looking for a serious and committed relationship. This provides a strong foundation for building a long-lasting and fulfilling relationship with your soulmate.
3. Ease of Communication:
With the advancements in technology, communication with a woman from another country has never been easier. Language barriers can be overcome with the help of translation tools, and video calls and messaging make it possible to stay connected even at a distance.
The Cons of Mail Order Brides:
Potential for Scams:
The concept of mail order brides has been tainted by a few bad actors who exploit the vulnerable situation of these women. It’s important to be aware of potential scams and choose reputable agencies or dating websites to avoid falling prey to fraudulent activities.
Cultural Differences:
While diversity can be a positive aspect of a relationship, it can also present challenges in the form of cultural differences. It’s important to have an open mind and be willing to learn and adapt to your partner’s culture in order to have a successful relationship.
Distance and Immigration Issues:
Marrying a woman from another country requires a lot of effort and patience. The process can be time-consuming and can involve immigration and visa procedures. Also, the distance can put a strain on the relationship and require a lot of planning and effort to physically be together.
How to Determine if Mail Order Brides are Right for You:
Be Realistic:
It’s important to be realistic about your expectations and approach to finding a soulmate through mail order brides. Understand the challenges and potential risks involved and make a well-informed decision.
Do Your Research:
Before jumping into the world of mail order brides, do your research and educate yourself about the industry. Look for reputable sources of information and read reviews of agencies or dating websites to ensure you are making the right choice.
Be Honest and Respectful:
Communication and honesty are key in any relationship, and it’s no different when it comes to mail order brides. Be respectful of your potential bride and her culture, and aim to establish a strong and genuine connection.