How_to_Become_a_Contestant_files/2016 Miss Austin Handbook

2016 Miss Austin texas & miss austin texas teen
CONTESTANT Handbook
“Luck Happens When Preparation Meets Opportunity”
Miss Austin Texas Pageant
Independently Produced by Strr Productions
Official Recruiter for MISS TEXAS USA® & MISS TEXAS TEEN USA® Pageant
PO Box 756
Hutto, Texas 78634
Phone: (512) 759-4303
E-mail: [email protected]
www.MissAustinTexas.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Welcome Letter …………….…………………...……………..………....….1
Starr Productions…………………………….. ………………………..….....2
A. PAPERWORK, PHOTOS AND OPTIONAL PROGRAM ADS.................3
1. Documents
2. Required Photos
3. Program Book – Roster & Contestant Page and Full Page Ad
B. PAGEANT RULES………………………………………….…...…..…….4
C. IF YOU WIN………………………………………………….……..…….4
D. JUDGING PROCESS………….…………………………………………..5
1. Interview
2. Swimsuit
3. Evening Gown
4. Special Awards
E. Host Hotel ……………….…………………………….….…….………….5
F. Hutto Performing Arts Center........................................ ………………......5
G. PAGEANT EVENTS............……...…………,…………………..…….....6
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1. Orientation ! !
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2. Workshops
3. Rehearsals
4. Mock Interviews
5. Swimsuit Preview
6. Personal Interviews
7. Dress Rehearsal
8. PAGEANT
9. TICKETS
H. WARDROBE………………….…………...…………………………..…..7
1. Rehearsals
2. Personal Interview
3. Opening Production
4. Swimsuit
5. Evening Gown
6. Sequined Top Pictures …………..………………………...................8
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I. HAIR AND MAKE-UP………………………………..………………...…8
F. PAGEANT CHAPERONS………………...........…………………...…..…8
J. KEEPING EXPENSES DOWN…………………………….……...............9
K. ANOTHER WAY TO RAISE MONEY FOR EXPENSES……….............10
L. HOW DO I OBTAIN SPONSORS………….....……………….……... ....11
M. DIRECTORY OF EXPERTS……………….......…………………….......12
N. TEN WAYS TO BE A GREAT TITLE HOLDER......................................13
O. PAGEANT CHECKLIST……………………………………....………...14
P. CONTESTANT SCHEDULE……………………………..…………...... .15
MISS AUSTIN Texas
Miss Austin Texas Teen
Miss Austin Texas Pageant is produced by St★rr
Productions
An Official Recruiter for Miss Texas USA® and Miss Texas Teen USA®
WELCOME TO THE MISS AUSTIN TEXAS & MISS AUSTIN TEXAS TEEN PAGEANT
On behalf of Starr Productions, it is a pleasure to greet you as you begin your journey into a wonderful
world, sending many young women on an amazing adventure.
The young women participating in the Miss Austin Texas and Miss Austin Texas Teen pageant put
themselves on a memorable track to becoming the best. The discipline, confidence and skills learned by
participating in this competition are qualities that will serve you well as you face the challenges of the future.
This experience promises to leave you with great memories, strong friendships and a defining self
accomplishment.
Please read everything in this handbook thoroughly. It is designed to provide needed information to help
you prepare for the Miss Austin Texas/Miss Austin Texas Teen Pageant. We have a lot to learn so please be
patient, cooperative and on time. I know there is a lot of paperwork, but it is necessary. Please keep up with
your paperwork and turn it in on time. I promise, once you have turned in everything, you will really begin to
have fun!! The workshops and rehearsals are for YOU and will help you learn what to do in front of the
judges and the audience. The more you practice, the more comfortable and self confident you will become,
but, it is up to you!
The next few weeks promise to be fun and rewarding for all of us. We look forward to working closely with
each contestant. Together we will work to secure and continue helping you be the best you can be. We look
forward to watching you shine!!!!.
If you have any problems with dates, times or etc., or if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call me at
759-4303 or e-mail me at [email protected]. I am also on Facebook.
Best of Luck, USA
Betty Warner
PS: “LUCK HAPPENS WHEN PREPARATION MEETS OPPORTUNITY”
IT IS UP TO YOU TO BE PREPARED!!
PO Box 756 ✰ Hutto, Texas 78634 ✰ (512) 759-4303 ✰
Betty Warner - Director ✰ E-Mail: [email protected] ✰ www.MissAustinTexas.com
St✰rr Productions Who are we??
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Betty Warner is the director of the Miss Austin Texas/Miss Austin Texas Teen Pageant which is produced by Starr
Productions. She has been directing pageants since 1981, beginning with the Miss Round Rock Pageant, then the Miss
Round Rock USA/Miss Round Rock Teen USA, Miss Williamson County USA/Miss Williamson County Teen USA,
Miss Austin USA/Miss Austin Teen USA Pageants and now Miss Austin Texas and Miss Austin Texas Teen. She is
affiliated with the Miss Universe system and has been for 20+ years with numerous contestants making semi-finals and
runners up at Miss Texas Teen USA and Miss Texas USA. In July 2000 Austin produced it’s first Miss Texas USA,
Kandace Krueger! Kandace had been a runner up in the Miss Round Rock USA pageant, a runner up and winner of
the Miss Williamson County USA pageant, and the winner of the 2000 Miss Austin USA Pageant. Kandace made us
all very proud when she won the title of Miss USA and was second runner up to MISS UNIVERSE!! November 27,
2005, Austin produced another winner!!! Miss Austin Teen USA, Raevan Valadez became our first Miss Texas Teen
USA winner!! Austin has a right to be proud!
The Miss Austin Texas Pageant committee is made up of over 25 volunteers all of whom have pageant experience.
Ninety-five percent of the committee have been contestants in the pageants produced by Starr Productions and at least
50% have been on the committee for 10 - 25 years. This committee takes great pride in producing one of the most
entertaining and beautiful local pageants in Texas! The Miss Austin Texas Pageant continuously has outstanding sets,
production numbers, prizes and prepared contestants thanks to the proud, caring committee. The pageant program
book has also won numerous awards for the Best Program Book in the state.
Our Current Titleholders are:
Miss Austin Texas 2015 - Allison Drake, 19, of Austin
Miss Austin Teen Texas 2015 - Allie Eklund 18 of Austin
Both of these young women have been outstanding representatives for our Central Texas Area and the Miss Austin
Texas Pageant. Because of the valuable learning experiences they have received as participants and winners, they are
becoming dynamic young women and fulfilling their goals. Whoever wins Miss Austin or Miss Austin Teen 2016 will
have some big shoes to fill.....these two young women have been outstanding ambassadors for Austin, Central Texas
and the Miss Austin pageant and loved by everyone they meet!!!
Allison and Allie will be at most of the rehearsals, so be sure to visit with them. They are looking forward to meeting
you and will be happy to answer any of your questions.
Betty Warner, Starr Productions and the Miss Austin Texas Pageant Committee strive to motivate young
women to be their best and occupy their time working towards a goal. We are dedicated to providing opportunities,
personal training and growth and to promote positive attitudes in the young women who participate in the Miss Austin
Texas and Miss Austin Teen Pageants.
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MISS AUSTIN TEXAS 2016
It is important for each contestant to fully understand that all of the necessary papers, documents, photos, forms,
and fees be submitted to the Miss Austin Texas Pageant office before admission as a bona fide contestant in the
Miss Austin Texas Pageant.
A. PAPERWORK, PHOTOS AND OPTIONAL PROGRAM ADS
1. DOCUMENTS - All paperwork mailed and/or information posted on the website are for contestants’
information and use.
Do not wait until the deadline to turn in your paperwork. Please read and follow all instructions
carefully. Failure to execute the documents properly will result in their being returned to you to be redone.
2. REQUIRED PHOTO's One, 5x7, color print of your favorite head shot or head & shoulder shot (without hat
or crown) vertically printed. This should be professional quality print and not from a home ink jet or laser printer. (This photo will
appear in our program book, on our website and on your bio form that we provide to the judges.)
(The following is not required but is helpful if you can provide your photo electronically…
If possible, please email your 5x7 headshot to [email protected], in jpg format. It must be at a resolution of at least 300
dpi. If you choose to do this it must be in addition to and not instead of the required color print.)
3. PROGRAM BOOK – There is a mandatory program roster/half page ad fee of $300. Each contestant will
receive a half-page ad in the program book, which will include your photo, name and up to 10 sponsor acknowledgments. (You
will have the option of purchasing additional full-page ad(s) in the program book for $350 if electronically ready for print, or
$400 if we do the layout for you. The photo(s) to be used on this additional page may be photo(s) of your choice. (subject to
pageant approval) No swimsuit photos, please! Ad pages can be valuable tools to help you recruit sponsors. For example, if
you get 20 sponsors to donate $200 each, you would have $4,000. You could list all 20 sponsors on one full ad page. So, after
paying $350 to purchase the ad page, you would have $3,700 to use for other expenses, such as your gown, other wardrobe items
or any services you use to prepare for the pageant. These pages may be laid out however you like within the designated
specifications. They should include the photo(s) of your choice - headshot, full length - whatever pose(s) you like (subject to
pageant approval). Also included on optional page(s) should be your name, title, and as many sponsors and/or logos or special
wording as you wish. (For each ad that is not camera-ready, please send $50 fee and we will do the layout.)
Extra ad page Specifications Image Area: Page size is 8.5 x 11 inches, the image area is 8 inches x 10.5 inches. All text
should be within this dimension (even ads where the photo extends off the page). Ads that will cover the entire page, ads that
bleed, need to be extended 1/8 of an inch beyond the page dimensions on all sides, so the dimension of the background photo will
be 8.75 inches x 11.24 inches on ads that bleed of the page.
Acceptable Programs: Please submit ads in tif (tiff), pdf, or jpeg (jpg), pdf or tif (tiff) format.
Note: Please do not use disk compression! (Please include a printout of your ad so we know how it must look.) Feel free to
submit ad on CD or by email. All received emails will be acknowledged.
Scans: Scan photos at 300 dpi at printing size (do not enlarge photo in page layout). All copy should be black and white.
ALL FEES MUST BE PAID IN FULL BY MAY 22, 2016 !!!
All late fees must be paid in cash. No Exceptions!
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B. PAGEANT RULES
To run a smooth and enjoyable event, we ask contestants to observe a few simple rules. We thank you in advance for
your cooperation.
1. Contestants must be on time to all scheduled events. This includes but is not limited to rehearsals, workshops,
reporting to the dressing rooms at the required times, meeting, etc.
2. Courtesy, respect and proper language is required when dealing with other contestants, pageant staff and production
staff. Abusive language or behavior will not be tolerated. You will always conduct yourself in a respectful and well
mannered way.
3. NO ONE IS ALLOWED ON STAGE AFTER THE PAGEANT EXCEPT CONTESTANTS, JUDGES AND
PAGEANT STAFF. All Contestants remain on stage for pictures
4. Outside of the competition, contestants, parents, friends, relatives, etc. should not approach the judges, the judges’
hostess, or auditors at any time for any reason!!!
5. With the exception of snacks and drinks in the Dressing Room, there will be no food or drinks in the auditorium, or
backstage.
6. No interviews for radio, television or newspaper are to be granted without prior consent of Starr Productions.
7. Security is provided, however we cannot be responsible for the safety of contestants who disregard the rules. We are
not responsible for valuables. Do not bring expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash.
8. Contestants will stay in designated areas after 1PM Saturday, June 11th. The Lobby is off limits.
9. No cell phones or pagers are allowed at rehearsals or in dressing room during shows.
10. Contestants and their family will be responsible for any medical expenses incurred during the pageant. If you have
any medical problems, advise us prior to the pageant.
11. Contestants will remain a participant in the Pageant except in case of serious illness, accident or death of a family
member.
12. No Public Display of Affection with boyfriends. This includes, kissing, constant prolonged hugging, walking arm
in arm, handholding, etc. If in doubt, choose caution. You never know when you may set an example. Make sure it is a
good one.
13. Contestants will cooperate in full with the Pageant Director, Choreographer, Chaperons and Pageant Staff.
14. You must let us know if you will not be attending a workshop or rehearsal. Please be on time.
The following rules, if broken, constitute grounds for disqualification:
1. There will be no consumption of alcoholic beverages or any other drugs, regardless of age.
2. Contestants may NOT leave the performing art center at any time from 1PM until the completion of the Miss
Austin Texas pageant on Saturday, June 11th. This includes leaving with family, friends or others and includes
going to the hotel and the PAC parking lot
3. No member of your family, friends, coaches, personal helpers, hairdressers, make-up artists, etc. will be allowed in
the dressing rooms or backstage at any time. Likewise, contestants will not be allowed to meet with anyone other than
contestants or official pageant chaperones during the afternoon of the Pageant. There will be a designated table for
items to be dropped off for contestants.
4. Contestants may not receive the services of hair/make-up artists during the pageant weekend. There will be no
accommodations or opportunity for hair and make-up artists, so please do not hire them. It is necessary and required
that you do your own hair and make-up for all pageant activities, events and competitions, without assistance.
5. All contestants must meet the requirements set forth by the 2014 Miss Austin Texas Contract
6. Remember: If you witness any of these rules being broken, you must report the infraction to your chaperone or
security. Failing to do so makes you guilty by association.
YOU MUST understand that any misconduct, non-observance of rules or disrespect by a contestant is grounds for
immediate dismissal from the Miss Austin Texas Pageant as determined by Pageant Officials. All rulings are final.
C. IF YOU WIN.
It's sure to be a tremendous experience with the highlight of representing Austin and vying for the title of Miss Texas
USA or Miss Texas Teen USA. You will be asked to make personal appearances as Miss Austin Texas or Miss Austin
Texas Teen. However, no appearances will be scheduled without clearance through you and your parents. You may have
personal appearances causes you want to represent, but let the director know all the details before accepting.
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D. JUDGING PROCESS
The judges are looking for an all-around winner. She may not be the most outstanding in any one category, but she will
score highly in all categories. The winner will have everything - poise, personality, intelligence and beauty.
The judging is divided into three categories:
1. Interview: The format will be panel style. The judges will be divided into 2 panels and each contestant will stand
before each panel for about 3 minutes. The judges will seek a young woman capable of expressing herself clearly,
intelligently, and confidently. This is your opportunity to impress the judges with your opinions, ability to
communicate, and overall sense of self. They are not looking for rehearsed answers. Questions will come primarily
from the information you provide but be prepared for anything.
2. Swimsuit: You should be healthy, natural, fit and confident about physical appearance. Physical measurements are
not considered by the judges.
3. Evening Gown: Judges focus on poise, overall appearance, sense of fashion and style. No single detail of the gown,
hair or make-up should garner attention. The overall effect should be elegant and sophisticated.
4. Special Awards: In addition to choosing the new Miss Texas Teen USA, other awards to be presented:
a. Miss Photogenic (to be selected from photos in the program book and in-person judging and announced
during the Pageant.)
b. Best in Swimsuit (to be selected by judges and announced during the Pageant)
c. Miss Congeniality (to be voted for by the contestants and announced during Pageant.)
d. People’s Choice (to be selected by the public by one dollar for one vote. Winner to be announced at Pageant.)
e. Butterfly Award- (to be selected by the pageant committee and announced during pageant)
E. HOST HOTEL
The Official Miss Austin Texas Pageant Host Hotel is the
Holiday Inn Express
323 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, Texas 78634
(512) 846-1168
The Holiday Inn Express Hotel is offering a special pageant rate for family and friends as follows: $99 for a Double
Queen subject to a 13% tax. (Regular Price is $127) Check in is after 3PM and check out is 12 noon. Be certain to tell
your families and friends to make their reservations no later than Friday, May 27, 2016! The rate will go up after the 27th.
Let the reservations clerk know you are with the Miss Austin Texas pageant to get the discounted rate. To make your
reservations call 512-846-1168.
The hotel is across Hwy 79 from the Hutto Performing Arts Center behind Lowe’s. Less than half a mile!
It is advisable for all contestants to stay at the hotel on Friday night, June 10th as the Swimsuit Preview and
Personal Interviews will be held in the Holiday Inn Meeting Room on Saturday at 8AM, June 11th. This will give
you a place to change from swimsuit to interview outfit and not have to worry about traffic.
F. HUTTO PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
101 FM 685 ( SE Corner of Hwy 79 and Ed Schmidt Blvd.)
Hutto, Texas
(512) 759-4700
The Pageant is here June 11th at 6:30PM Doors will open at 5:30PM. Tickets will also be sold at the door.
Dress rehearsals will be held here on Friday, June 12th beginning at 5PM, ending about 10:30PM
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G. PAGEANT EVENTS
1. PAGEANT ORIENTATION
Sunday, April 17th. Contestants are to arrive at the Residence Inn, Marriott – 2505 South IH -35, Round Rock, Texas at
1:30 pm. You will meet Miss Austin and Miss Austin Teen and our fantastic committee. It will be an opportunity to find
out about the 2016 pageant and ask questions.
2. MEET OUR SPONSORS AND LEARN FROM OUR COACHES -WORKSHOP
April 24th from 1-5PM Residence Inn, Marriott – 2505 South IH -35, Round Rock, Texas You will be introduced to the
Miss Austin sponsors and coaches plus there will be prizes and a drawing for everyone in attendance. You will be divided
into small groups with mini sessions with the coaches and sponsors.
3. REHEARSALS - Every Sunday afternoon from 1-6PM, except May 8th Mother’s Day,
Star Dancers Dance Studio, 300 N. Bagdad Road, Leander, Tx 78641
Rehearsals are the key to a truly successful show and pageant weekend. Rehearsals take a great deal of time and
hard work. Be prepared for this.
LISTEN! BE COOPERATIVE!
FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS! BE ON TIME!
Rehearsals are for contestants only and will be closed to the public.
4. MOCK INTERVIEWS - Saturday, May 28th from 1-5PM, 2505 South IH -35, Round Rock, Texas You will
make an appointment (form with paperwork) There will be mock judges to interview you. Questions will be taken
from your Judge’s Form with current event questions. Please fill out 5 forms neatly. The judges will write notes and
critiques on your form. You will be able to take these forms home & fill out your judges form for the real judges.
Tickets go on sale to contestants at the mock interviews
5. SWIM SUIT PREVIEW - held at the Holiday Inn Hotel, Saturday morning at 8AM, June 11th before the
interviews begin. Bring your swimsuit, a cover up and your interview attire. It is very advisable to stay at the hotel Friday,
June 11th since rehearsals will run late that night and you need to be completely together ready for swimsuit preview and
your interview, Saturday morning.
6. INTERVIEWS - will be held at the Holiday Inn Hotel. All contestants will be interviewed by 5 official judges
on Saturday morning from 8:30AM -11:30AM June 11th.
7. DRESS REHEARSAL - A full run through and dress rehearsal at the Hutto PAC, 1PM-5PM, Saturday,
June 11th. Bring everything you will need for the pageant. You will have costume changes. This means bring shoes,
jewelry, makeup, hair supplies, outfits. You may not leave the PAC after Dress Rehearsal!!
Be prepared to stay at the PAC. No one is allowed to leave the PAC, so bring snacks and a cooler for drinks.
8. THE PAGEANT
The show will begin with the Opening Production and the introduction of each contestant to the audience. All Contestants
will be judged in Swimsuit and Gown, leading to the announcement of the Top 5, a press conference and then the
announcement of the Runners-up and Winners. The Announcement of Special Awards Winners – Photogenic, Swimsuit,
Butterfly and Miss Congeniality Awards - Then the announcement of Miss Austin Texas Teen and Miss Austin Texas 2016
9. TICKETS WILL GO ON SALE AT THE MOCK INTERVIEWS SATURDAY, May 28, 2016
Ticket cost will be $25; $20; Tickets will not be held without payment.
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H. WARDROBE
1. Rehearsals
♛ Comfortable, ie jeans, shorts, warm ups, tennis shoes. Bring heels to every rehearsal.
2. Personal Interview
3. Opening Production Number
Attire - Contestant Choice
♛ No specific guidelines other than daytime attire
♛ Find an outfit that suits your taste and personality
♛ Choose something appropriate to wear to church or to a press conference or TV interview
♛ Opening Number outfits will be announced at Orientation. We will have pictures! Opening Shoes
♛ Skin color heels you can dance in.
Jewelry
♛ Big dangling earrings
4. Swimsuit
5. Evening Gown
♛ Two-piece bikini or one piece swimsuit
♛ Color SOLID BRIGHT COLOR- Red, orange, hot pink, yellow, blue, green!!!
♛ No metallic, sequin or, velvet materials/fabrics
♛ Metal type fasteners are acceptable (no rhinestones)
Swimsuit Shoes
♛ Skin color heels (keep it simple)
♛ 4 inch maximum height
♛ No platforms
Swimsuit Jewelry
♛ Silver hoop earrings (plain or crystal)
Gown - Contestant Choice
♛ All types of gowns are permitted for evening wear competition
♛ Find a dress that fits your personality and figure and you feel beautiful in it!!
♛ Remember - the gown should reflect your age, personality and style
♛ We need to know the color of your gown by MAY 1st for evening gown production number.
Gown Shoes
♛ 4 inch maximum height (must be able to move up and down stairs quickly / advanced
modeling)
Gown Jewelry
♛ Accessorize as needed, but do not over use.......Less is Best!!!!!
Remember: The will to win is worth nothing, unless you have the will to prepare!
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I. HAIR AND MAKE-UP:
All contestants will be on their own for hair and make-up during the pageant weekend.
No one will be allowed outside help at the PAC. Learn to help each other OR to do it yourself!!
Contestants will not have the accommodations or opportunity to hire help as they must stay in designated
areas and will not be allowed to visit hotel rooms after 1PM Saturday, June 11th.
Violation of this policy is grounds for disqualification from the pageant.
This is also a Miss Texas USA and Miss Texas Teen USA Rule, so get used to it.
If you are not proficient in doing your own hair and make-up, we recommend that you take lessons ahead of
time to feel confident and look your best for the competitions. In the end, you will get more rest, save
money, and gain skills that will be with you long after the pageant is over.
J. PAGEANT CHAPERONES
There will be 2-4 chaperons who will help you in the dressing rooms and backstage. They will answer questions, keep
you informed of the show’s progress and assist you. They will NOT do your make up or hair, you must do that
yourself.
ABSOLUTELY NO mothers, make up artists or hairdressers are allowed in the dressing rooms,
restrooms, backstage or hall leading to dressing room.....and NO CELL PHONES OR PAGERS
BACKSTAGE OR IN DRESSING ROOM!!!! You better learn how to do your own hair and makeup!!
You can be disqualified for breaking these rules.
Remember, the chaperons are volunteering their free time to help you, so please be courteous to them and treat
them with respect. Tell your moms, sisters, and friends to sit in the audience and enjoy the show; you will have help
in the dressing room and backstage
QBIC
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KEEPING EXPENSES DOWN
Providing services and goods for pageant contestants is a growing industry. While many of these people can
be helpful, a number of them will try to sell you items you do not need or charge you exorbitant fees for their
services. For example, if you are told you must have “certain outfits for rehearsals” other than what is
specified by the pageant, is wrong! You are expected to wear the clothing described in your handbook. An
expensive outfit is not only a waste of your money, but it is inappropriate for rehearsals. If in doubt, you will
find that this contestant handbook describes everything that you will need for the pageant.
Be informed, be prepared and beware and your entire pageant experience will be more enjoyable and
memorable.
The following are fixed expenses:
Pageant entry fee and ad page
These items are necessary, but the cost is variable:
1. Competition wardrobe
a. Evening gown
b. Interview outfit
c. Swimsuit
d. Opening number outfit
e. Shoes & accessories
2. Clothing for non-competition activities (rehearsals) 3. Photos
Other optional expenses:
1. Show tickets, preliminary and final, for family and friends
2. Hair & nail care
3. Make up
4. Coaching/training
Something you should always keep in mind is that as nice as it would be to have special outfits for all
activities, the judges see you only in your interview outfit, evening gown, swimsuit and opening number
costume. You are not judged based on all the cute clothes you wear when you arrive and rehearse. It is not a
contest of who has the best wardrobe.
Now, to get a little more specific on the areas where you can economize:
1. Evening gown. There is no arguing that multi-thousand dollar evening gowns are gorgeous.
However, a fantastic gown in itself does not win a pageant. Quite often, the winner is not wearing the most
exquisite or most expensive gown, but she looks great in the gown she is wearing. It is the overall picture
that counts. We have had state winners in borrowed dresses and in dresses that their mothers have made. You
can purchase a used gown for a fraction of the cost of buying the same gown new. Or, find a sponsor to
provide, loan, or sell you a gown at cost. (This can be tax-deductible for a sponsor.)
2. Interview outfit. You need not purchase a designer suit to wear for personal interviews. Just as
with the evening gown, your interview outfit should be one that flatters you and one in which you feel
comfortable and look attractive. The judges are looking at the overall picture, not at which designer you are
wearing. You may already have a dress or a suit in your closet that would be suitable, or you could borrow it.
3. Shoes & accessories. Make your shoes do double- or triple-duty. The same pair of neutral or clear
shoes could be worn with swimsuit, interview outfit, cocktail dress, and/or evening gown. Also, check your
closet and see what you already have that could work for part of the competition. Your jewelry need not be
costly; watch for sales, check the discount stores, borrow from a friend.
4. Clothing for rehearsals. More than likely, this clothing can already be found in your wardrobe.
You do not need any expensive new special rehearsal clothing.
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5. Photos. We have included information to you about our photographers who provides excellent
pictures for our winners for their state competitions. Plus, there are many good photographers around. So,
keep in mind you may use the photographer of your choice. Feel free to shop around for the best price!
6. *Optional Ad Page. This can be an excellent tool to help you get sponsors. You can list as many
sponsors on your page as you would like to. You may purchase as many pages as you would like.
7. *Pageant Tickets - There is a range of prices for tickets for each show. Tickets will go on sale to
contestants and their families only on Saturday, May 30, 2016 at the Mock Interviews. You can get the
best seats available . Tickets will go on sale to the public beginning June 2, 2016.
8. Hair and Nail Care. See if your salon will provide these services free in exchange for a mention on
your ad page in the program book. And, learn to do your hair and nails yourself. This year you are required
to do your own hair at the pageant. We do not provide time or facilities for hairdressers or make-up artists,
nor are they allowed to set up in the public areas of the hotel.
9. Make-up. You will be on your own for make-up at the pageant. (Do not hire anyone to do this
service at the pageant. There will be no opportunity or accommodations for them.) If you do want a make-up
lesson as you prepare for the pageant, you may be able to get this service free in exchange for a mention on
your ad page, or you may receive a free lesson when you purchase needed cosmetic products.
10. Coaching/Training. Private sessions with a pageant trainer can be expensive and are not for
everyone. This does not mean that you should be unprepared and just “wing it”! You may know someone
who will assist and advise you at no charge. Perhaps you can attend a seminar at a cost much less than
private sessions. We have several past winners who are coaches and charge reasonable prices for their time.
11. Incidentals. This includes phone calls, food, gas and etc. How much you spend on these items is
entirely in your control and can cost almost nothing if you plan ahead and do not spend money unnecessarily.
In Summary:
1. Know which expenses are unavoidable and which costs can be minimized or eliminated altogether.
2. Avail yourself of free or reduced-cost services, provided in exchange for a place on your ad page.
3. Find sponsors to help cover your costs. We provide you with a sponsor letter and tips on finding sponsors.
Sponsors may provide services, wardrobe, and/or financial support.
4. Shop sales and discounts.
5. Borrow, rent and/or use items you already have.
6. Get advice and help from friends, relatives, someone with pageant experience.
7. Prepare yourself. Be as physically fit as possible. Practice doing your own hair and make-up. Keep up
with current events—read the newspaper.
ANOTHER WAY TO RAISE MONEY FOR EXPENSES
We offer contestants an opportunity to raise extra money to cover some of their expenses.
You may sell program business ads for the 2016 Miss Austin Texas program book. The full page business
ad sells for $400, for each full page ad you sell you will receive $100. These ads can be sold as a strictly
business ad, a business ad with your picture and/or a message wishing you good luck or an ad from a
group of friends with your picture and/or wishing you good luck. You will be required to collect the check
and the ad copy. There is a form included with your paperwork that you will need to fill out for each ad
you sell. They must be camera ready. You will need to make copies. You can get friends and family to
help you and some of the money they help you raise could pay for their tickets. If you wish to sell ads to
help you off set expenses and have any questions, call me. This is a great opportunity to help all
contestants pay for some of their expenses. All ads are due May 15, 2016
10
HOW DO I OBTAIN SPONSORS?
The sponsor involvement is most easily obtained via personal relationships and business contacts. Basically, if a
sponsor believes in you and your “mission”—he will sponsor you! Often, one sponsor may pay the total amount.
However, if this isn’t the case, graciously accept their sponsorship because every little bit helps. Follow with a
thank you note. It is your job to keep them interested and informed.
It is difficult to obtain a sponsor over the phone. A personal interview will work best. You have to “sell yourself”,
just as you would in a job interview or the judge’s interview at the pageant. This is great preparation for the
pageant interview! Look nice when you call on potential sponsors—dress up and look the part of a beauty pageant
contestant.
Tell the sponsor about yourself, why you want to participate, and why they should sponsor you.
Be sure to pick the right time of day (not during peak business hours), to talk to the decision-maker, be original,
friendly, prompt, and have the right answers. Read all of your information and have a full understanding of the
pageant. You never know what a potential sponsor may ask. Answer questions sincerely and intelligently. Show
them ad pages from last year’s program book.
Very important: If the sponsor asks when you need the money, the answer is “now”. You may think that you have a
commitment only to have the sponsor back out at the last minute, leaving you no time to find a replacement.
Most importantly…Never give up! Many have been discouraged for one reason or another but continued to seek
sponsorship, and it paid off. You even want to obtain a few more sponsors than needed to meet your obligations to
the pageant in order to help with you wardrobe, etc. You may have as many sponsors as you need. If you have a
number of sponsors, you may want to purchase a program ad page where you can list them and give them
recognition.
What does the sponsor get? Sponsorship is a form of advertising and/or promotion for a business or organization.
You may offer modeling or promotional services in return for sponsorship which aids you in participating in the
pageant. All arrangements are strictly between you and the sponsor. There is no form from the pageant for the
sponsor to complete.
Whom do I start with? Some contestants are sponsored by companies where they or their family members work.
Personal connection is one of the easiest ways to generate sponsorship and support. Remember that you can be
sponsored by your family, employers, your school, civic/social organizations, friends, or yourself. You may have the
best success with businesses you and your family patronize.
Suggested businesses to contact: Grocery store, doctor, dentist, cleaners, gas station, beauty salon, boutique, photo
studio, hotel, resort, bank, your church, PR firm, dance studio, shopping center, sports team, advertising firm, auto
dealer, amusement park, chamber of commerce, cosmetics shop, modeling agency, health studio, restaurant,
sorority, fraternity, construction company, real estate office, insurance firm, accounting firm, law firm, Jaycees,
Elks Club, Kiwanis Club, Lions Club, Rotary Club, other civic clubs and organizations. The list is endless—be
creative!
Why everyone benefits: The sponsor should get more than his money’s worth in services and promotion from the
contestant, and at the same time he/she is doing her a favor and performing a public service. Moreover, any
donation provided by a business or organization is considered a form of advertising and/or promotion and may be
considered tax deductible. The entrant, on the other hand, receives the necessary financial backing and is able to
take part in this worthwhile and spectacular event. And who knows—you could be the next one to win the state and
national title!
11
Sponsors and Coaches for the Miss Austin Texas Pageant
AUSTIN SPONSORS
AUSTIN SPONSORS
HOUSTON SPONSORS
DENTAL
Rose Dental-512-795-9643
www.rosedental.net
PHOTOGRAPHY
Krystal Malloy Photography
ALTERATIONS
Rupa Kandial - 281-277-0829
15307 Marden Ct
Sugarland, Tex
HAIR & MAKE UP
Leigh Moon
Make Up Artist with
Mark Guerra Photography
512-585-7588
Make Up By Marie-Lynn
203-500-5609
www.MXMLbeauty.com
[email protected]
IMAGE CONSULTANT
French Turn Consulting
Amber Calderon
(210) 789-2664
[email protected]
www.krystal-malloy.com
832-457-7629
Mark Guerra
512-669-0087
[email protected]
www.markguerra.com
Zac Grimaldo
214-274-3435
[email protected]
Dallas, TX
PHYSICAL FITNESS
CoreFit Training
Ryan Nail-512-516-4888
[email protected]
www.traincorefit.com
INTERVIEW COACHES
Julia Salmon
512-626-0241
[email protected]
TANNING
Lucy's Natural Spray Tan
Lucy Guinn
[email protected]
JEWELRY
Designs by Cooties
Custom Made
512-585-4852
www.designsbycooties.com
WARDROBE
Signature Bridal Salon
Ashley Schwaegel
12717 Shops Parkway, Ste 200
Bee Caves, TX
512-892-5000
LASHES
Mesmer Eyez Me Lashes
Kimberly Schieferstein
512-948-6083
www.mesmer-eyez-me.com
MODELING/STAGE
PRESENCE
Allison Seal Mack
512-921-2219
[email protected]
Z Couture
Kristen Zreet
www.zcoutureaustin.com
1601 W. 38th St. Ste 3
Austin, Texas
512-380-9884
Two Chic Chicks
Kim & Kay-210-414-2189
www.two-chic-chicks.com
HAIR & MAKE UP
The Perfect Face
WWW.TPFCOSMWTICS.COM
INTERVIEWS
Baker Communications
Don Baker - cell 404-434-6452
678-494-2407
[email protected]
Talking Points
Elise Ghebremichael
713-523-0997
[email protected]
www.talkingpointscoach.com
INTERVIEWS ON CAMERA
Authentic Communication
Eleese Lester -713-502-8120
RUNWAY MODELING
Command the Runway
Mariah Chaney
[email protected]
PHYSICAL FITNESS
Soldiers of Fitness
Arnold Vasquez-713-302-8638
WARDROBE
Elizabeth Anthony Collection
713-467-4646
1180 Uptown Park, Suite 8
MZ Couture
Lynn Redd- 281-686-9772
Spring, TX
PHOTOGRAPHER
Select Studios
Arthur Garcia-713-961-2840
[email protected]
10 Ways to Be a Great Titleholder.
1) Set Expectations
Discuss with your director what is expected of you. This usually happens early in your year during your first official
meeting, contract signing, etc. All directors are different and may have a certain set of rules or guidelines that have
worked for them over the years. It may range from explaining standard procedure for appearances to suggestions on
managing boyfriends, parents, social media, etc. Simply meeting these expectations is 99% of being a great titleholder.
2) Communication
Learn it. Do it. Consistently. Promptly. Not 5 days later. Instagram likes are not considered communication.
3) Commitment
Commitment is crucial. If you commit to something you must do it. It doesn’t matter if your bff has backstage tickets to
Bieber or Timberlake, you must fulfill your commitments. Just remember that it’s not only your director that you are
letting down, instead it’s all the people that have committed their time and made sacrifices for such event. Breaking a
commitment is the #1 way for your director to lose confidence in you.
4) Punctuality
Never be late. If you are on time you are late. Arrive at least 5 minutes early. “Fashionably late” are excuse words are for
divas. You are not a diva…you are a titleholder.
5) Closure
You have 365 days to make your time as a titleholder one of the most life changing, impactful, and unforgettable years of
your life. Get the most out of each day, because your year will pass by quicker than you’ll realize. And remember — win
or lose — always complete your reign. Your reign does not end after the completion of your next pageant. Especially if
you didn’t win. Don’t let the bitterness of a pageant loss prevent you from enjoying the opportunities of being a titleholder
for the remainder of the year.
6) Sponsors
Work with sponsors. They may be incredible. They may be terrible. But give them respect for sponsoring the pageant you
now represent. Understand that pageants are a business.
7) Humbleness
Stay grounded. Remember how stoked you were when you barely cracked the Top 15? Keep that humble spirit as a
titleholder at appearances, in competition, in everyday life. The crown may now be on your head, but remember to keep
your feet on the ground.
8) Gratefulness
Personally, I think the most attractive quality in a lady is gratefulness. Genuine appreciation is a rare commodity these
days. The word “title” is present in both titleholder and entitlement, however they are remotely far from having similar
meanings. As a titleholder, be grateful everyday for your opportunity, express gratitude to your team, and leave any sense
of entitlement for those wishing to be in your shoes.
9) Do work
Some titleholders may only have one opportunity to compete at the next level. So in preparations, do not be outworked.
Either by your competition, sponsors, your mom, and especially your director. If you truly want to win, be prepared to
make personal sacrifices, adhere strictly to your team’s game plan, and most importantly, be passionate about reaching
your goals. Nothing will ever substitute a passion for winning. It will show in your preparations…and on stage.
10) Win
Winning your next pageant doesn’t automatically make you a great titleholder. In fact, you can win and still be an awful
titleholder. Of course, winning plus being a great titleholder will help secure a permanent place in the memory of your
pageant peers. But if you want to be remembered, if you want to be great, if you want to be legendary — to those that
actually matter — you don’t always have to win. Just be a great titleholder.
The Pageant Guy
13
PAGEANT CHECKLIST
The following checklist has been prepared as a reminder of some of the articles you may need for the
Pageant. Add your own specific needs to the list and be sure to check over everything before you come to
the Pageant. If you are staying at the hotel, you may need a longer check list!!
____________Outfit, Jewelry and Shoes for Opening Number
____________Competition Evening Gown, Jewelry and Shoes
____________Interview Outfit, Jewelry and Shoes
____________Swimsuit, Shoes and Silver hoop earrings
____________Taupe/skin tone or clear high-heeled shoes for swimsuit competition
____________Comfortable rehearsal clothes and shoes
____________ Jacket (the auditorium could be cold)
ACCESSORIES AND SUPPLIES YOU MAY NEED
_____ Jewelry & accessories!!
!
!
!
_____ Extension cord
_____ Cosmetics!
!
!
!
!
!
_____ Hand Mirror
_____ Hair Spray !
!
!
!
!
!
_____ Clear finger nail polish
!
!
!
_____ Manicure tools (file, glue, small scissors)
_____ Bobby pins, clips, barrettes ! !
!
!
_____ Band aids
_____ Cleansing Cream !
!
!
!
!
_____ Safety pins and straight pins
_____ Tissues!!
!
!
!
!
!
_____ Bottled water & small cooler
_____ Deodorant !
!
!
!
!
!
_____ Lotion
_____ Toothbrush & toothpaste !
!
!
!
_____ Camera
_____ Talcum powder !
!
!
!
_____ Snacks
_____ Curling iron/ hot curlers !
!
The dressing rooms have vanities, make up mirrors and dress racks. There will be full length mirrors
Keep the room clean and keep up with your things. The chaperons are not your mothers or your maids!!!!
There is a large room you may wait in once you are dressed and ready for the competition to keep the dressing
rooms from becoming too crowded
And, most importantly bring your smile and remember to have fun!!!
You may bring snacks, soft drinks, water and supper in a cooler to keep in the dressing room,
but do not bring it in the auditorium or stage area!!!!
Contestants are free to go to lunch after their interviews, but must be back and ready for dress
rehearsal at 12:45PM!!!!!
THOSE WHO WIN ARE NOT NECESSARILY THE ONE WITH THE CROWN!!!
THE TRUE WINNERS ARE THOSE WHO THINK THEY CAN AND TRY!!!
14
CONTESTANT DEADLINES AND SCHEDULE
(Put all these dates on your calendar)
SUNDAY, APRIL 17, 2016 (Residence Inn, Marriott – 2505 South IH -35, Round Rock, Texas)
1:30PM - 5PM - ORIENTATION
SUNDAY, APRIL 24, 2016 (Residence Inn, Marriott – 2505 South IH -35, Round Rock, Texas)
1:00PM - 5PM - ATX-PO WORKSHOP
Due - Paperwork,
SUNDAY, MAY 1, 2016 (Star Dancers Studio, 300 Bagdad Road: Leander, Tx 78641)
1PM -3PM – Modeling and Stage Presentation
$150 ad page fee due!
2:30PM – 6:30PM – Opening Number Try Out
SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 (Star Dancers Studio, 300 Bagdad Road: Leander, Tx 78641 2016)
1PM-6:30PM – Opening Number
Due - Program Picture and Ads due!!
SUNDAY, MAY 22, 2016 (Star Dancers Studio, 300 Bagdad Road: Leander, Tx 78641)
1PM-6:30PM – Evening Gown Rehearsal
$125 DUE....................ALL FEES MUST BE PAID !!!!!
SATURDAY, MAY 28, 2016 (Residence Inn, Marriott – 2505 South IH -35, Round Rock, Texas)
1PM-5PM – MOCK INTERVIEWS by appointment
PAGEANT TICKETS GO ON SALE DURING MOCK INTERVIEWS
SUNDAY, May 29, 2016 (Star Dancers Studio, 300 Bagdad Road: Leander, Tx 78641)
1PM-6:30PM – Evening Gown Rehearsal, Number Contestants, Press Conference, Staging
ALL FEES MUST BE PAID !!!!!
TICKETS ON SALE
SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2016 (Star Dancers Studio, 300 Bagdad Road: Leander, Tx 78641)
MANDATORY - MANDATORY - MANDATORY - MANDATORY
1PM-6:30PM – Opening number, evening gown number, introductions of contestants & press conference
TICKETS ON SALE
5 JUDGE’S FORMS WITH PICTURES & CONTESTANT PROFILE MUST BE TURNED IN TODAY!
MANDATORY - MANDATORY - MANDATORY - MANDATORY
FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 2016 Hutto Performing Art Center
5PM-10PM – On Stage Rehearsal
TICKETS ON SALE TONIGHT ONLY THEY WILL BE SOLD AT THE DOOR SATURDAY AT 5:30
SATURDAY, June 11, 2016
8-11:30AM - Interviews - Hotel
1-5PM – Complete Dress Rehearsal - Hutto PAC
6:30-9PM - PAGEANT - AFTER PAGEANT REMAIN ON STAGE FOR PICTURES!!!
PLEASE ALWAYS BE ON TIME AND DO NOT LEAVE EARLY IT MAKES IT HARD ON EVERYONE!
15
2016
SUNDAY
MISS AUSTIN TEXAS CALENDAR
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
APRIL 17TH
PAGEANT ORIENTATION
1:30-5PM
MARRIOTT - ROUND ROCK
APRIL 24TH
LUCK HAPPENS WHEN PREPARATION MEETS OPPORTUNITY
APRIL 25TH APRIL 26TH APRIL 27TH
LEARN FROM THE
COACHES
MARRIOTT - ROUND ROCK
Opening number try out
$150 & Paperwork Due
MAY 8TH
MAY 4TH
MAY 5TH
MAY 6TH
MAY 7TH
YOU ONLY
GET
ONE
CHANCE
TO
MAKE A
GOOD FIRST IMPRESSION
MAY 9TH
MAY 10TH
MAY 11TH
MAY 12TH
MAY 13TH
MAY 14TH
AND
CONFIDENCE
HAVE AND
A
GREAT
ATTITUDE
MAY 16TH
MAY 17TH
BEAUTY
LASTS
MAY 23TH
WALKING WORKSHOP 1-3PM
LEARN EVENING GOWN #
3-6PM
$150 Due
MAY 18TH May 19TH
FOR
AFTER THAT
ABOUT 5
MINUTES,
MAY 20TH
A BAD ATTITUDE IS LIKE
A
SMILE
FLAT TIRE......YOU CAN’T GO
ANYWHERE UNTIL YOU
CHANGE IT!!!
MAY 21ST
YOU BETTER
KNOW
SOMETHING
THERE IS NO ELEVATOR TO
SUCCESS...............YOU HAVE
TO TAKE THE ELEVATOR
MAY 28TH
MAY 25TH
MAY 26TH
MAY 27TH
ALL FEES &
PAPERWORK
Must be
turned in
TO
PARTICIPATE
IN THE
PAGEANT
JUNE 2ND
JUNE 3RD
JUNE 4TH
PEOPLE
NEVER QUIT!!!!!
MAY 30TH
MAY 31ST
JUNE 1ST
REHEARSE BOTH #’s
PRESS CONFERENCE &
STAGING
1-6PM
WINNERS
ARE NOT
PEOPLE
WHO
NEVER
FAIL,
BUT
JUNE 5TH
JUNE 6TH
JUNE 7TH
JUNE 8TH
JUNE 9TH
SMILE !!!!
SMILE !!!!
SMILE!!!!!
HAVE
FUN!!!
FUN!!!
FUN!!!
MUST BE TURNED IN
TODAY!!!!!
AND
SMILE
MAY 24TH
MAY 29TH
MANDATORY
REHEARSAL 1-6:30PM
All Fees, Judge's Forms &
Profile!
FAILURE IS A DRESS
REHEARSAL FOR SUCCESS!!!
MAY 3RD
REHEARSAL OPENING #
1-6PM Program ads &
pictures due TODAY
MAY 22ND
SPARKLE
APRIL 30TH
MAY 2ND
MOTHER’S DAY
MAY 15TH
DULL YOUR
APRIL 29TH
DONT
EVER LET
ANYONE
1-5PM
MAY 1ST
APRIL 28TH
Committee
Move
sets to
PAC
Color Key:
Blue- Workshops
Yellow- Rehearsal
Green - Rehearsal & Fees Due
Red - Mandatory
Gold - Committee Info
MOCK INTERVIEWS
1-5PM
MARRIOTT RR
TICKETS GO ON SALE
WHO
JUNE 10TH
ON STAGE
REHEARSAL
5PM - 10PM
HUTTO PAC
JUNE 11TH
INTERVIEWS
8:30-11:30AM
REHEARSALS 12:30-5PM
PAGEANT 6:30PM