Julia and I just had our national title photo shoot with Studio RM, Rick Martinez. I can’t wait to see the photos! After our session, I asked Rick to share a couple important tips with me about how to make the most of your photo session with a photographer; and how to increase your odds of capturing that “picture perfect” moment.

Here are a couple tips from Rick.

• Decide a head of time if you are going to do your own hair and makeup; or if you are going to hire a stylist.
• If you have to drive a distance, come with your hair in rollers. If you don’t wear rollers, come with your hair curled and pinned up to preserve the curl.
• Arrive photo ready with only touch ups to makeup and hair to be done.
• Double the amount of outfits you are asked to bring. So if you are asked to bring 5 changes of clothes, bring 10. The photographer may see something differently from you or be creatively inspired to try something new.
• Solid colors always photograph the best.
• Look for interesting necklines in your coats, tops and dresses.
• Bring a variety of jewelry and accessories- not just the bling and rhinestones.
• Don’t tan the day right before your photo shoot. You don’t want to look red.
• Make sure nails are clean and manicured in a neutral tone because your hands will be photographed. No designs or sparkle.
• Bring your makeup, face powder, lip gloss, hair brush, hair pick, and other touchup necessities.
• Allow 3-4 hours for your photo shoot.

 

Rick’s photographs regularly win the photogenic competitions at pageants. He is skilled in taking headshots for pageantry, fashion, modeling and actors. In addition to being a national award winning photographer, he is also the director of several pageant systems such as the National Captivating, Michigan & Ohio’s Perfect, Miss Lake City USA (Michigan), and Miss Heart of Ohio USA pageants. To find out more about his upcoming events, visit his website at http://www.studiormllc.com/

 

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

 

WTP Take The Stage Training DVD

The Winning Through Pageantry Take The Stage™ training DVD is a must have training tool for natural beauty pageants. The depth of information shared in this video will further polish your on stage presence.

Remember, the judges cast their final vote when you are on stage in your evening gown. Your overall stage presence and appearance will determine your final placement.

In this 60-minute DVD, you will learn:

• proper posture and alignment,
• foot positioning,
• timing of your turns,
• multiple walking patterns,
• stage presence,
• microphone etiquette,
• Numerous tips as Rhonda demonstrates all of these techniques.

The modeling style taught in this video will work for those contestants competing in the following natural pageant systems:

• Pure American Girl (PAG),
• Miss American Coed (MAC),
• National American Miss (NaMiss),
• Miss America,
• America's Outstanding Teen,
• Miss Teen USA,
• Miss USA,
• Mrs. America,
• Mrs. United States,
• Teen, Miss and Mrs. International,
• America's National Teenager (Antso),
• American Royal Beauties,
• Any of the numerous systems that follow the standards of a natural pageant.

Contestants who are brand new to pageantry or have done a couple pageants in the past; and those who do not have pageant preparation resources close to them will benefit most from this DVD. Even if you feel confident in your modeling skills, the numerous tips shared in this DVD will take your onstage presence to the next level.

Please allow up to 14 days to receive your DVD. This is being shipped from a separate vendor. The DVD is readable in all countries around the world but should you receive a defective DVD, a replacement one will be sent.

Rhonda Shappert, is both an iPEC and ICF certified expert pageant coach. In addition to holding multiple titles herself, her clients have won titles at local, state, national and internationals pageants. Her award winning newsletter is received weekly by thousands internationally.

With over 30 years experience in the pageant industry as a contestant, titleholder, judge, emcee, staff member, coach and mother of daughters who compete, there isn't an area of pageantry she doesn't fully understand.

$27 (+$7 S&H)

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) with the International Coach Federation (ICF).

She created Winning Through Pageantry®  to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete positive pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to succeed From The Inside Out®.

She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels. Rhonda is the reigning 2012 National Ms. Elegance Pure American Girl queen.

Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three daughters educates their children within the home and has been married 23 years to her husband Stephen. They are part of the music ministry at their church and have produced an original contemporary Christian music CD. She is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the Board of Trustees for two nonprofit organizations.  For more information on Rhonda, visit www.WinningThroughPageantry.com .

We are coming to the end of the summer pageant season, and one of the most frequently asked questions I am receiving in my email is should I compete again?

The answer will depend on the quality of the pageant experience you had, if you won the title you were seeking, your goals, and how much time laps between pageants. Here are some questions I ask to help decide whether or not to compete again.

• Are you physically, financially and emotionally ready to compete? Pageants are expensive and high maintenance. There is nothing wrong with choosing to do only one or two pageants a year. I actually advocate this for a number of reasons, which I will cover later.

 

• What are the benefits of competing? What are you hoping to gain from the experience? List what you want from the pageant experience or from "the big win."

 

• Do you have the available time to make appearances and to compete at the next level should you win the title? Directors expect titleholders to promote their pageant system by making numerous appearances and representing their state at the next level of competition. If you can't do this, this can create a problem. In my opinion, a good titleholder makes about one appearance a month. Great titleholders do more, average do less. Be very realistic and honest about your time. If you already hold a title, do you have enough time and resources in your schedule to properly promote each system? Can you make separate appearances at completely different events for each title? For example if you hold two titles, can you make two quality appearances a month? If not, don't compete. Let another contestant have the honor and experience of being a titleholder. If you can manage the obligations of the different systems, go ahead because many opportunities present themselves to active titleholders.

 

• Is this the right time and the right system for you? Time between pageants can be your best friend. It gives you time to develop other areas of your life and to become a well-round, balanced person. Life is very cyclical. Certain times are better than others to compete and hold a title. Plus, it may take you a while to find a system that is the right fit for you. But with as many choices available, there is a pageant for you!

 

If you enjoy competing in pageants, then continue to compete. When they stop being enjoyable, take a break. Then when you get bitten by the bug again, and you will, you'll be refreshed and have a new found energy.

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

WTP Take The Stage Training DVD

The Winning Through Pageantry Take The Stage™ training DVD is a must have training tool for natural beauty pageants. The depth of information shared in this video will further polish your on stage presence.

Remember, the judges cast their final vote when you are on stage in your evening gown. Your overall stage presence and appearance will determine your final placement.

In this 60-minute DVD, you will learn:

• proper posture and alignment,
• foot positioning,
• timing of your turns,
• multiple walking patterns,
• stage presence,
• microphone etiquette,
• Numerous tips as Rhonda demonstrates all of these techniques.

The modeling style taught in this video will work for those contestants competing in the following natural pageant systems:

• Pure American Girl (PAG),
• Miss American Coed (MAC),
• National American Miss (NaMiss),
• Miss America,
• America's Outstanding Teen,
• Miss Teen USA,
• Miss USA,
• Mrs. America,
• Mrs. United States,
• Teen, Miss and Mrs. International,
• America's National Teenager (Antso),
• American Royal Beauties,
• Any of the numerous systems that follow the standards of a natural pageant.

Contestants who are brand new to pageantry or have done a couple pageants in the past; and those who do not have pageant preparation resources close to them will benefit most from this DVD. Even if you feel confident in your modeling skills, the numerous tips shared in this DVD will take your onstage presence to the next level.

Please allow up to 14 days to receive your DVD. This is being shipped from a separate vendor. The DVD is readable in all countries around the world but should you receive a defective DVD, a replacement one will be sent.

Rhonda Shappert, is both an iPEC and ICF certified expert pageant coach. In addition to holding multiple titles herself, her clients have won titles at local, state, national and internationals pageants. Her award winning newsletter is received weekly by thousands internationally.

With over 30 years experience in the pageant industry as a contestant, titleholder, judge, emcee, staff member, coach and mother of daughters who compete, there isn't an area of pageantry she doesn't fully understand.

$27 (+$7 S&H)

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) with the International Coach Federation (ICF).

She created Winning Through Pageantry®  to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete positive pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to succeed From The Inside Out ®.

She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels. Rhonda is the reigning 2012 National Ms. Elegance Pure American Girl queen.

Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three daughters educates their children within the home and has been married 23 years to her husband Stephen. They are part of the music ministry at their church and have produced an original contemporary Christian music CD. She is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the Board of Trustees for two nonprofit organizations.  For more information on Rhonda, visit www.WinningThroughPageantry.com .

 

In natural pageants such as Pure American Girl (PAG), Miss American Coed (MAC), National American Miss (NAM), and other pageants similar in format, there is a required 20 or 30 second onstage personal introduction that you need to deliver to the judges.

The purpose of the introduction is to give the judges an instant snapshot into your personality.

For years I’ve been helping young girls write their introductions but it wasn’t until I had to write and memorize my own that I gained even more valuable insights. Honestly, memorizing the silly thing was creating stress I hadn’t felt in a long time. Ridiculous, right? Maybe. But I learned much by going through the process myself.

First, what looks good on paper doesn’t always come across well when spoken. You need to say your introduction out loud. Then say it to a couple different people. Ask them what they hear. Certain word combinations may not convey what you mean. Make necessary changes and say it out loud again.

Secondly, you have to believe in what you are saying. If it’s just a bunch of memorized words, it won’t stand out and will sound fake. People have to believe what you are saying.

Finally, focus on the meaning not the words. Your chances of getting tongue-tied are greater if you focus on each individual word instead of the whole meaning.

I probably had 10 different versions of my introduction before I decided on the final one. It developed over a couple weeks during the long hours of driving on the road.
So here are my final words of wisdom. Give yourself plenty of time to create it and say it out loud as often as you can. If it doesn’t feel right, change it. It must be 100% you. No one else.

On my training DVD, my daughter and I demonstrate how to deliver an on stage introduction along with numerous other modeling and training tips .

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

WTP Take The Stage Training DVD

The Winning Through Pageantry Take The Stage™ training DVD is a must have training tool for natural beauty pageants. The depth of information shared in this video will further polish your on stage presence.

Remember, the judges cast their final vote when you are on stage in your evening gown. Your overall stage presence and appearance will determine your final placement.

In this 60-minute DVD, you will learn:

• proper posture and alignment,
• foot positioning,
• timing of your turns,
• multiple walking patterns,
• stage presence,
• microphone etiquette,
• Numerous tips as Rhonda demonstrates all of these techniques.

The modeling style taught in this video will work for those contestants competing in the following natural pageant systems:

• Pure American Girl (PAG),
• Miss American Coed (MAC),
• National American Miss (NaMiss),
• Miss America,
• America's Outstanding Teen,
• Miss Teen USA,
• Miss USA,
• Mrs. America,
• Mrs. United States,
• Teen, Miss and Mrs. International,
• America's National Teenager (Antso),
• American Royal Beauties,
• Any of the numerous systems that follow the standards of a natural pageant.

Contestants who are brand new to pageantry or have done a couple pageants in the past; and those who do not have pageant preparation resources close to them will benefit most from this DVD. Even if you feel confident in your modeling skills, the numerous tips shared in this DVD will take your onstage presence to the next level.

Please allow up to 14 days to receive your DVD. This is being shipped from a separate vendor. The DVD is readable in all countries around the world but should you receive a defective DVD, a replacement one will be sent.

Rhonda Shappert, is both an iPEC and ICF certified expert pageant coach. In addition to holding multiple titles herself, her clients have won titles at local, state, national and internationals pageants. Her award winning newsletter is received weekly by thousands internationally.

With over 30 years experience in the pageant industry as a contestant, titleholder, judge, emcee, staff member, coach and mother of daughters who compete, there isn't an area of pageantry she doesn't fully understand.

$27 (+$7 S&H)

 

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) with the International Coach Federation (ICF).

She created Winning Through Pageantry®  to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete positive pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to succeed From The Inside Out ®.

She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels. Rhonda is the reigning 2012 National Ms. Elegance Pure American Girl queen.

Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three daughters educates their children within the home and has been married 23 years to her husband Stephen. They are part of the music ministry at their church and have produced an original contemporary Christian music CD. She is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the Board of Trustees for two nonprofit organizations.  For more information on Rhonda, visit www.WinningThroughPageantry.com .

 

One of the ways you can raise cash to pay for your pageant expenses to a state or national pageant is to host a local pageant in your community. There are many young girls and women who would like the experience of participating in a pageant; but they don't want to invest the time or expense into a larger established pageant system.

In order to host a successful pageant, keep it simple. The focus is to keep your expenses low and the logistics easy to manage so you make the most money you can and the contestants have an enjoyable experience.

• Find a location to have the pageant and set the date. School stages, churches, and community clubs will sometimes let you use their facilities for free or a low fee. Look for a Saturday morning time slot from 10am to noon. Give yourself at least three months to organize the event and get contestants.

• Have the contestants arrive with their hair and makeup completely done, and have just one outfit for the competition.

• Order your crown and sash from Allen's Crowns www.acrowns.com or a similar online company. Make sure you order these a month before your pageant so you have them.

• Collect donated products from local businesses and direct sales people to create gift bags for the contestants and prizes for the winner. You need to have gifts for all the contestants. I approached directors from the larger pageant systems in my state and asked them for a certificate of free registration or $100 off the entry fee into their state pageant to give to the queen of my pageant. I also collected tons of personal care and beauty items to fill a gift bag for each contestant.

• You will need a minimum of 6 people to help you run your fundraising pageant. You'll need an Emcee, someone at the registration/ticket table, a person with the judges, someone in the dressing room who stays with the contestants, a tabulator, and someone running the music/sound system. You'll also need a detailed oriented person who is good at organizing events to help you.

• Find three qualified judges who will volunteer their time, for sure show up and who don't know the contestants. They can be directors from other pageant systems, other queens, or people who have judging experience.

• Keep your admission charge to a couple dollars and take only cash the day of the pageant. Have your payment deadline at least three weeks before your pageant so all checks can clear for the pageant. Use PayPal for credit card payments. Collect all registration fees before the pageant. If you allow people to pay the day of the pageant, you will have “no shows” and you will make no money.

• Keep areas of competition limited to personal interview, one onstage question, and modeling their dress. All three of these can be done in one dress.

• Keep your registration fee around $75 and have a minimum of 10 prepaid contestants. Honestly, it's not worth your time if you have less than 10 contestants. That's why you want your deadline three weeks out so if you don't have the numbers, you can cancel the event. Don't assume that people will just show up the day of the pageant. It doesn't work that way.

• The pageant should be about 70 minutes in length with 10 contestants competing in three areas of competition.

• Find contestants at cheer gyms, dance recitals, other pageants, through social media, and schools. Getting the word out about your pageant is the key to your success. The more people you involve, the greater your income will be. If you hold your pageant during a crafts fair or local festival, you will get more people, too.

You'll have greater success hosting a fundraising pageant after you have competed in a couple pageants yourself. This way you are connecting with other pageant families (future contestants) and you are getting the feel of how a pageant should be run.

This is one way where you could raise several hundreds to a couple thousand dollars depending on how many people you have helping you and how much time you put into it.

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) with the International Coach Federation (ICF).
She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®.
She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.
Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 23 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the board of two non-profit organizations. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music. For more information on Rhonda, visit www.WinningThroughPageantry.com.

When you are attending another pageant system as visiting royalty, there are a few key things to keep in mind.

Always check with the director of the pageant you are visiting to get their permission before you wear your crown and sash. Some systems will allow you to wear only your sash while others invite you to wear both. Some systems won’t allow visiting queens to wear either. I can’t stress enough the importance of communicating with the director FIRST. Assumptions can lead to many misunderstanding.

You also need to ask the director what his policy is about handing out marketing materials for the pageant system in which you are the queen. Many directors do not look favorably upon visiting queens handing out applications to their contestants for a different pageant system. Always ask for the director’s permission before handing out anything.

Be prepared to pay for your admission ticket. Don’t make the assumption you will be let in the pageant for free or shown preferential treatment. Some systems will comp your ticket, but this is not normal. Always have at least $50 cash with you when you attend the pageant to cover the cost of your ticket and your parking. The day of the pageant it is usually cash only.

Have a brief introduction already planned out if you are called to the microphone during the pageant to introduce yourself. Practice saying your title OUTLOUD beforehand so it flows smoothly from your mouth. I have to giggle when queens need to look down at their sashes to remember who they are. Again, this isn’t common for visiting queens to be given an opportunity to speak; but it’s better to always be prepared just in case.

Remember, you are a visitor. Be respectful to everyone you meet, be gracious in your actions, professional in your dress, and have a humble attitude. Wear your title with pride and enjoy every pageant you visit.

WTP Take The Stage Training DVD

The Winning Through Pageantry Take The Stage™ training DVD is a must have training tool for natural beauty pageants. The depth of information shared in this video will further polish your on stage presence.

Remember, the judges cast their final vote when you are on stage in your evening gown. Your overall stage presence and appearance will determine your final placement.

In this 60-minute DVD, you will learn:

· proper posture and alignment,

· foot positioning,

· timing of your turns,

· multiple walking patterns,

· stage presence,

· microphone etiquette,

· Numerous tips as Rhonda demonstrates all of these techniques.

The modeling style taught in this video will work for those contestants competing in the following natural pageant systems:

· Miss American Coed (MAC),

· National American Miss (NaMiss),

· Miss America,

· America's Outstanding Teen,

· Miss Teen USA,

· Miss USA,

· Mrs. America,

· Mrs. United States,

· Teen, Miss and Mrs. International,

· America's National Teenager (Antso),

· Any of the numerous systems that follow the standards of a natural pageant.

Contestants who are brand new to pageantry or have done a couple pageants in the past; and those who do not have pageant preparation resources close to them will benefit most from this DVD. Even if you feel confident in your modeling skills, the numerous tips shared in this DVD will take your onstage presence to the next level.
Please allow up to 14 days to receive your DVD. This is being shipped from a separate vendor. The DVD is readable in all countries around the world but should you receive a defective DVD, a replacement one will be sent.

Rhonda Shappert, is both an iPEC and ICF certified expert pageant coach. In addition to holding multiple titles herself, her clients have won titles at local, state, national and internationals pageants. Her award winning newsletter is received weekly by thousands internationally.

With over 30 years experience in the pageant industry as a contestant, titleholder, judge, emcee, staff member, coach and mother of daughters who compete, there isn't an area of pageantry she doesn't fully understand.

$27 (+$7 S&H)

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) with the International Coach Federation (ICF).
She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®.
She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.
Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 23 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the board of two non-profit organizations. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music. For more information on Rhonda, visit www.WinningThroughPageantry.com.

 

As most of you know, my abilities in the kitchen are quite limited so I decided to take my daughters out to eat. Five minutes after we had been seated, a large man and his four children were seated at the table beside us. Within minutes, the father started chastising his son about the “C” he had received in band on his report card. In a very loud and aggressive voice, the man was going on and on about how this would affect his son’s overall GPA, eligibility to play sports, keep him out to the Jr. National Honors Society, etc.

He continued to talk about competition and how you’re either a winner or loser in this world; and being a loser is unacceptable. The father was being verbally disrespectful to his son, the teachers, and the other students his son was involved with at school; not to mention those of us in the restaurant who had to listen to his “stinkin thinkin.”

If this wasn’t already uncomfortable and awkward, when the father told his son to physically hit anyone who gets in his way or was distracting and annoying him, my blood started to boil. At this point the server approached him and the father shifted gears; but I was still upset inside.

I felt I needed to say something; but what could I say to an angry 300 pound bully? I was at a total loss. What struck me odd was that his children didn’t seem shaken by his actions. I grieved at the thought of what type of adults those four children would grow up to be being subjected to that type of behavior.

So I did the only thing within my power. I turned it into a teaching moment for my three daughters about little boys in men’s bodies, attitude, and how to view competition in life.

Competition can be viewed as either constructive or destruction. It’s entirely up to you as to which attitude you choose to adopt. Your attitude is formed through your association with coaches, family, friends, and the people with whom you compete. Notice I did not say “people you compete against.”

When you compete with people, the environment is positive, healthy, constructive and encourages cooperation. Friendly relationships are created and there is mutual respect. Care, empathy, and consideration are present. You are self-reflective and focused on learning and improving yourself. You are in competition only with yourself and are striving for individual excellence. Your success is not defined by the end result (who is crowned).

When you compete against others, you immediately start focusing on the other contestants. Your energy shifts to a negative, unhealthy, or destructive space. Taking out the competition either through mental games or verbal confrontations is typical. Fear, hostility, anger, jealousy, envy, and unethical behaviors are present in environments where the only focus is on winning the overall title. The lasting effects from a negative attitude of competition are a lack of respect for people and poor character development. The father we encountered in the restaurant is a perfect example of negative competition. Unfortunately, I see it all too often on sports fields, cheer and dance competitions, and in pageantry.

Competition, in and of itself, is neither good nor bad. It is a vehicle for potential growth and success. Everyone needs to learn how to handle success and failure. The younger, the better. As a matter of fact, we learn more from our “failures” than we do from when things are always going our way and we are “winning.”

It all starts with you. Every word that comes from your mouth; and every action you do or fail to do sets an example for everyone around you. Consciously make a decision to focus on constructive thoughts, words and action.

As a very goal oriented, competitive and driven person, I frequently “check in” with my attitude. I wish I could say it was perfect, but it is not. One great thing about aging is that it is easier for me to keep the big picture in mind and to focus on constructive ways of getting better. My key is I never stop growing and learning. I use competition to bring out the best in me; and I have a very good time doing it.

“Live daringly, boldly, fearlessly. Taste the relish to be found in competition - in having put forth the best within you”
Henry J. Kaiser

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) with the International Coach Federation (ICF).
She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®.
She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.
Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 23 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the board of two non-profit organizations. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music. For more information on Rhonda, visit www.WinningThroughPageantry.com.

 

Where are the reality TV crews when you need them, right? If the media really wanted the public to know why women participate in pageants and the true benefits of pageantry, they should follow me, or thousands of other pageant queens, around for a day when we are living our lives as titleholders.

You see, a pageant crown and sash isn't merely a label to be worn, but it's a daily lifestyle we live. Two of my favorite quotes from St. Francis of Assisi sum up my thoughts nicely. "The deeds you do may be the only sermon some persons will hear today" and "Preach the Gospel at all times, and when necessary use words."

Saturday embodied and exemplified what the pageant queens I associate with do. We shared our time, talents, and treasures with a community and the American Cancer Society.

For 10 hours, eight queens walked the track, raised over $2,800 for the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life, and performed their talent numbers to honor the cancer survivors at a special luncheon. The fun and fellowship shared by our team was an added bonus as to why we choose to be pageant queens.

Pageant contestants are talented, well rounded individuals who have diverse skills. We choose to use these skills to make a difference in our communities, countries and world. The glamorous onstage competition is only one day in our lifetime of service.

I don't expect anytime soon for the major networks or news outlets to spend time capturing the real story behind the pageant world. But who needs them when we are impacting the lives of thousands daily at the grassroots level.

Today, I honor each titleholder who is living a life of service; and encourage you to keep on doing it, even if others won't take the time to understand what pageantry is all about.

Enjoy the following photos from the event.

Singing the National Anthem.

Making a difference one step at a time.

Celebrating as a team after I announced the Queens Team together raised over $2,800.

Miss Sydney Copeland was crowned our Queens Team "Miss TVWMS Relay For Life" for individually raising over $360.

Over $12,000 was raised at this mini Relay for the American Cancer Society.

Water balloon toss between the seven teams. Oh yes, it was a hot day!

A little "Thriller" flash mob on the football field along with other line dances.

For the "Piggy Back" lap, our team decided to carry our lightest member around the track.

Three-legged race lap. The Queens Team rocked!

What an awesome 2012 Queens Team! Angela Escobar, Anna Shappert, Gracie Fusco, Maria Shappert, Julia Shappert, Megan Hunt, Rhonda Shappert, & Sydney Copeland. Other members and monetary contributors not pictured in the photo are Stephen Shappert, Joyce Escobar, Gina Fusco, Stacey Johnson, and Michaela Smith. Start saving those coins now and join us next year. Celebrate. Remember. Fight Back.

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

Special for the Pageant Princess or Queen in your life for $59 (+$12 S&H). An $89 value when purchased separately.

Only 1 left!

Receive my 60 minute training DVD Take The Stage, the Pageant Planner and a set of 12 interview cards for $59 (+$12 S&H). Individually, these items cost $89.

This is an affordable training kit for the pageant princess or queen in your life.

WTP Take The Stage Training DVD

The Winning Through Pageantry Take The Stage™ training DVD is a must have training tool for natural beauty pageants. The depth of information shared in this video will further polish your on stage presence.

Remember, the judges cast their final vote when you are on stage in your evening gown. Your overall stage presence and appearance will determine your final placement.

In this 60-minute DVD, you will learn:

• proper posture and alignment,
• foot positioning,
• timing of your turns,
• multiple walking patterns,
• stage presence,
• microphone etiquette,
• Numerous tips as Rhonda demonstrates all of these techniques.

The modeling style taught in this video will work for those contestants competing in the following natural pageant systems:

• Miss American Coed (MAC),
• National American Miss (NaMiss),
• Miss America,
• America's Outstanding Teen,
• Miss Teen USA,
• Miss USA,
• Mrs. America,
• Mrs. United States,
• Teen, Miss and Mrs. International,
• America's National Teenager (Antso),
• American Royal Beauties,
• Any of the numerous systems that follow the standards of a natural pageant.

Contestants who are brand new to pageantry or have done a couple pageants in the past; and those who do not have pageant preparation resources close to them will benefit most from this DVD. Even if you feel confident in your modeling skills, the numerous tips shared in this DVD will take your onstage presence to the next level.
Please allow up to 14 days to receive your DVD. This is being shipped from a separate vendor. The DVD is readable in all countries around the world but should you receive a defective DVD, a replacement one will be sent.

The WTP Pageant Planner

The Winning Through Pageantry Pageant Planner from Holdon contains organizational pages for logging and tracking 100 pageant related events. Each form records Event Details, Contact Info, Event Expenses, and Post-Event Info. There is also an Income Management Section to record payment details.
Now logging & tracking your pageant-related event details is easy!

• High-quality product
• 8.5" x 11"
• Finished coil-bound spine
• Vinyl front and back covers for durability

What's Inside...
Contact Page

• Your contact information
• Important pageant contacts (i.e. - coach, director, salon, etc.)
• Other contact information

Live Performance Forms

• Logging & tracking forms to track up to 100 pageant-related events (i.e. - consultations, media events, autograph signings, etc.)
• Log event requirements (i.e. - crown & banner, opening number wardrobe, script, etc.)
• Record all of your event expenses and mileage for tax purposes
• Post Event area (i.e. - what you wore, who you met, guests, etc.)

Income & Reimbursement Management
Record income & reimbursement details (Pageant/Event Name, Event Date, Payment, etc.)

Pageant Target List
Target Pageants, know special requirements, competition, categories, entry fees, etc.

Pageant Contacts
A section dedicated to Pageant Industry professionals you wish to keep in contact with

Notes Section

• Keep your notes handy and accessible
• Add any thoughts, suggestions or ideas

Calendar Section

• 12-month, day-by-day, fill-in calendar section (non-time sensitive, fill-in as you go)
• 24-month quick-view calendar section

Storage Pockets

• Promo Material Pocket to hold self-promotional material that you can pass around (i.e. - promo postcards, headshots, flyers, etc.)
• Notes Pocket to store any speeches, top-5 question notes, etc.

The WTP Interview Card Set

What kind of questions will the judges ask me in interview?
What if I don't have an answer?

The ability to answer questions about you, your family, platform, goals, community and pop culture in a clear way is an important life skill. The more practice you have in conversing with people, the better your speaking skills will become.

Over 1000 contestants from ages 7 to 80 around the world have used these cards and reported back to me that they were confident and prepared for their pageant interview. Many of my clients receive the highest interview scores.

As a contestant and judge, these are real questions that I have asked, been asked, or heard other judges ask in the interview room. I know they are effective and relevant because my clients and pageant family on Facebook have told me several times that they have experienced other pageant coaches and judges using my cards. By the way, I take this as a compliment, not a threat :).
Outstanding features of this 12 card set includes:</ p>

• Over 200 questions covering 12 diverse subjects. Each card has questions dedicated to one topic. For example, there are 56 questions on the "favorites" card.
• The back side is blank so you can jot down your ideas for answers.
• Being the size of a recipe card, they are easy to carry and you can practice anywhere.
  The DVD will arrive separately from the planner and the interview cards. With the holiday mail delivery, please allow up to 14 days for delivery.

$89 $59 (+$12 S&H)

Only 1 left

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) with the International Coach Federation (ICF).

She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®.

She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.

Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 23 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the board of two non-profit organizations. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music. For more information on Rhonda, visit www.WinningThroughPageantry.com.

 

We are a society who loves to watch the television. We watch to be entertained, inspired, educated and escape from the daily routine of our life. Maybe that’s why pageants and TV are a natural fit for each other.

With all the filming effects, camera angles, and editing, television can make events and people smaller or bigger than life. I totally understand contestants’ and parents’ apprehension when they first find out the pageant they are competing in is being filmed for television. After all, most of what the media focuses on is the isolated, over the top situation. It’s not representational of the pageant world as a whole.

There are a few keys points to keep in mind when the TV crew is around. They are going to follow and focus on events and contestants who will draw people into watching the show. The network doesn’t care about who wins the pageant. Their focus is to give their demographic audience a show worth watching.

If it’s drama they want, they will seek out the “drama queen.” If it is to inspire, they will find the person with the most compelling story. The television network has their focus, and the pageant system has theirs. The two are separate worlds.

So don’t think because the cameras, or the media, are following one contestant that she is the choice of the judges and going to win the pageant. Do not let the presence of the camera crew play with your head. Most of the time, the winner is completely off the media’s radar screen.

Always be yourself. If you start thinking you have to act a certain way or say certain things, you’re flirting with disaster. Stay focused on who you are, your message and show them the class act lady you are. It’s what you say and do when no one is watching that reveals your true character.

Hopefully, the camera will be filming at that moment, and finally the world can see the truth about what draws people to the pageant stage. It’s achievement, friendship, self expression, service to others, personal growth, and opportunity all wrapped up and topped with a pretty crown. The crown is just the bow to the meaningful gift wrapped underneath.

Be the change you want to see happen in the way pageants are portrayed on television. It starts one contestant at a time.

 

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

Special for the Pageant Princess or Queen in your life for $59 (+$12 S&H). An $89 value when purchased separately.

Only 3 left!

Receive my 60 minute training DVD Take The Stage, the Pageant Planner and a set of 12 interview cards for $59 (+$12 S&H). Individually, these items cost $89.

This is an affordable training kit for the pageant princess or queen in your life.

WTP Take The Stage Training DVD

The Winning Through Pageantry Take The Stage™ training DVD is a must have training tool for natural beauty pageants. The depth of information shared in this video will further polish your on stage presence.

Remember, the judges cast their final vote when you are on stage in your evening gown. Your overall stage presence and appearance will determine your final placement.

In this 60-minute DVD, you will learn:

• proper posture and alignment,
• foot positioning,
• timing of your turns,
• multiple walking patterns,
• stage presence,
• microphone etiquette,
• Numerous tips as Rhonda demonstrates all of these techniques.

The modeling style taught in this video will work for those contestants competing in the following natural pageant systems:

• Miss American Coed (MAC),
• National American Miss (NaMiss),
• Miss America,
• America's Outstanding Teen,
• Miss Teen USA,
• Miss USA,
• Mrs. America,
• Mrs. United States,
• Teen, Miss and Mrs. International,
• America's National Teenager (Antso),
• American Royal Beauties,
• Any of the numerous systems that follow the standards of a natural pageant.

Contestants who are brand new to pageantry or have done a couple pageants in the past; and those who do not have pageant preparation resources close to them will benefit most from this DVD. Even if you feel confident in your modeling skills, the numerous tips shared in this DVD will take your onstage presence to the next level.
Please allow up to 14 days to receive your DVD. This is being shipped from a separate vendor. The DVD is readable in all countries around the world but should you receive a defective DVD, a replacement one will be sent.

The WTP Pageant Planner

The Winning Through Pageantry Pageant Planner from Holdon contains organizational pages for logging and tracking 100 pageant related events. Each form records Event Details, Contact Info, Event Expenses, and Post-Event Info. There is also an Income Management Section to record payment details.
Now logging & tracking your pageant-related event details is easy!

• High-quality product
• 8.5" x 11"
• Finished coil-bound spine
• Vinyl front and back covers for durability

What's Inside...
Contact Page

• Your contact information
• Important pageant contacts (i.e. - coach, director, salon, etc.)
• Other contact information

Live Performance Forms

• Logging & tracking forms to track up to 100 pageant-related events (i.e. - consultations, media events, autograph signings, etc.)
• Log event requirements (i.e. - crown & banner, opening number wardrobe, script, etc.)
• Record all of your event expenses and mileage for tax purposes
• Post Event area (i.e. - what you wore, who you met, guests, etc.)

Income & Reimbursement Management
Record income & reimbursement details (Pageant/Event Name, Event Date, Payment, etc.)

Pageant Target List
Target Pageants, know special requirements, competition, categories, entry fees, etc.

Pageant Contacts
A section dedicated to Pageant Industry professionals you wish to keep in contact with

Notes Section

• Keep your notes handy and accessible
• Add any thoughts, suggestions or ideas

Calendar Section

• 12-month, day-by-day, fill-in calendar section (non-time sensitive, fill-in as you go)
• 24-month quick-view calendar section

Storage Pockets

• Promo Material Pocket to hold self-promotional material that you can pass around (i.e. - promo postcards, headshots, flyers, etc.)
• Notes Pocket to store any speeches, top-5 question notes, etc.

The WTP Interview Card Set

What kind of questions will the judges ask me in interview?
What if I don't have an answer?

The ability to answer questions about you, your family, platform, goals, community and pop culture in a clear way is an important life skill. The more practice you have in conversing with people, the better your speaking skills will become.

Over 1000 contestants from ages 7 to 80 around the world have used these cards and reported back to me that they were confident and prepared for their pageant interview. Many of my clients receive the highest interview scores.

As a contestant and judge, these are real questions that I have asked, been asked, or heard other judges ask in the interview room. I know they are effective and relevant because my clients and pageant family on Facebook have told me several times that they have experienced other pageant coaches and judges using my cards. By the way, I take this as a compliment, not a threat :).
Outstanding features of this 12 card set includes:</ p>

• Over 200 questions covering 12 diverse subjects. Each card has questions dedicated to one topic. For example, there are 56 questions on the "favorites" card.
• The back side is blank so you can jot down your ideas for answers.
• Being the size of a recipe card, they are easy to carry and you can practice anywhere.
  The DVD will arrive separately from the planner and the interview cards. With the holiday mail delivery, please allow up to 14 days for delivery.

$89 $59 (+$12 S&H)

Only 3 left

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) with the International Coach Federation (ICF).

She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®.

She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.

Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 23 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the board of two non-profit organizations. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music. For more information on Rhonda, visit www.WinningThroughPageantry.com.

 

A common pageant tradition at some state, national, and international competitions is for the contestants to exchange “friendship” gifts among themselves. Check with your director first to see if this done in the system you are competing.

Don’t stress out or spend a lot of time and money on the exchange gifts. For economy budgeting, allocate $1 per contestant. There are usually between 50-100 people, so about $100. In addition to the gift, you will need a business card, postcard, or sticker with your name, state, title and message printed on it to attach to each gift. You can either print these at home, or some contestants use Vista print to create business cards and postcards with their crowning photo or headshot on it. It’s up to you.

The purpose of the gift exchange is to provide a small token of best wishes to the contestants. It is so much fun to go through your goody bag in your room. I always felt like I was looking through my Christmas stocking on Christmas morning. Having gone through many of these exchanges over the years, here are some of my thoughts and suggestions.

Not only do you need to transport these gifts to the pageant, people have to transport them home. If you and many contestants are flying, this can be problematic. When selecting your gifts, think consumable, small, lightweight, and something you wouldn’t be offended by if it is thrown in the trash immediately upon receiving. Or you can wait until to get to your finally destination, buy a couple cases of bottled water, and attach your business cards there. Bottled water is consumable, highly appreciated by the families, and it’ll be used. That’s why food items are the most popular choice.
Here is list of other practical ideas:

• Book markers
• Pencils, pens, or erasers
• Fingernail files
• Box of crayons
• Blank thank you and note cards
• Small notebooks
• Individually wrapped cookies, candies, Pixie Sticks, Tic Tacs,
• Tubes of lip balm (lip smackers or Avon)
• Small individual bags/boxes of chips, cereal, goldfish crackers, microwave popcorn
• Votive candles
• Packs of flower seeds

 

My daughters and I have also received some very creative gifts over the years such as custom t-shirts, scrapbooks, jewelry, tote bags, stuffed toys, mirrors, cosmetics, Bath and Body Works items, socks, umbrellas, and picture frames.
Avoid gifts that are fragile, sensitive to temperate changes, and difficult to pack. Have fun bargain shopping at the craft stores and enjoy yourself at your next pageant.

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

Special for the Pageant Princess or Queen in your life for $59 (+$12 S&H). An $89 value when purchased separately.

Only 5 left!

Receive my 60 minute training DVD Take The Stage, the Pageant Planner and a set of 12 interview cards for $59 (+$12 S&H). Individually, these items cost $89.

This is an affordable training kit for the pageant princess or queen in your life.

WTP Take The Stage Training DVD

The Winning Through Pageantry Take The Stage™ training DVD is a must have training tool for natural beauty pageants. The depth of information shared in this video will further polish your on stage presence.

Remember, the judges cast their final vote when you are on stage in your evening gown. Your overall stage presence and appearance will determine your final placement.

In this 60-minute DVD, you will learn:

• proper posture and alignment,
• foot positioning,
• timing of your turns,
• multiple walking patterns,
• stage presence,
• microphone etiquette,
• Numerous tips as Rhonda demonstrates all of these techniques.

The modeling style taught in this video will work for those contestants competing in the following natural pageant systems:

• Miss American Coed (MAC),
• National American Miss (NaMiss),
• Miss America,
• America's Outstanding Teen,
• Miss Teen USA,
• Miss USA,
• Mrs. America,
• Mrs. United States,
• Teen, Miss and Mrs. International,
• America's National Teenager (Antso),
• American Royal Beauties,
• Any of the numerous systems that follow the standards of a natural pageant.

Contestants who are brand new to pageantry or have done a couple pageants in the past; and those who do not have pageant preparation resources close to them will benefit most from this DVD. Even if you feel confident in your modeling skills, the numerous tips shared in this DVD will take your onstage presence to the next level.
Please allow up to 14 days to receive your DVD. This is being shipped from a separate vendor. The DVD is readable in all countries around the world but should you receive a defective DVD, a replacement one will be sent.

The WTP Pageant Planner

The Winning Through Pageantry Pageant Planner from Holdon contains organizational pages for logging and tracking 100 pageant related events. Each form records Event Details, Contact Info, Event Expenses, and Post-Event Info. There is also an Income Management Section to record payment details.
Now logging & tracking your pageant-related event details is easy!

• High-quality product
• 8.5" x 11"
• Finished coil-bound spine
• Vinyl front and back covers for durability

What's Inside...
Contact Page

• Your contact information
• Important pageant contacts (i.e. - coach, director, salon, etc.)
• Other contact information

Live Performance Forms

• Logging & tracking forms to track up to 100 pageant-related events (i.e. - consultations, media events, autograph signings, etc.)
• Log event requirements (i.e. - crown & banner, opening number wardrobe, script, etc.)
• Record all of your event expenses and mileage for tax purposes
• Post Event area (i.e. - what you wore, who you met, guests, etc.)

Income & Reimbursement Management
Record income & reimbursement details (Pageant/Event Name, Event Date, Payment, etc.)

Pageant Target List
Target Pageants, know special requirements, competition, categories, entry fees, etc.

Pageant Contacts
A section dedicated to Pageant Industry professionals you wish to keep in contact with

Notes Section

• Keep your notes handy and accessible
• Add any thoughts, suggestions or ideas

Calendar Section

• 12-month, day-by-day, fill-in calendar section (non-time sensitive, fill-in as you go)
• 24-month quick-view calendar section

Storage Pockets

• Promo Material Pocket to hold self-promotional material that you can pass around (i.e. - promo postcards, headshots, flyers, etc.)
• Notes Pocket to store any speeches, top-5 question notes, etc.

The WTP Interview Card Set

What kind of questions will the judges ask me in interview?
What if I don't have an answer?

The ability to answer questions about you, your family, platform, goals, community and pop culture in a clear way is an important life skill. The more practice you have in conversing with people, the better your speaking skills will become.

Over 1000 contestants from ages 7 to 80 around the world have used these cards and reported back to me that they were confident and prepared for their pageant interview. Many of my clients receive the highest interview scores.

As a contestant and judge, these are real questions that I have asked, been asked, or heard other judges ask in the interview room. I know they are effective and relevant because my clients and pageant family on Facebook have told me several times that they have experienced other pageant coaches and judges using my cards. By the way, I take this as a compliment, not a threat :).
Outstanding features of this 12 card set includes:</ p>

• Over 200 questions covering 12 diverse subjects. Each card has questions dedicated to one topic. For example, there are 56 questions on the "favorites" card.
• The back side is blank so you can jot down your ideas for answers.
• Being the size of a recipe card, they are easy to carry and you can practice anywhere.
  The DVD will arrive separately from the planner and the interview cards. With the holiday mail delivery, please allow up to 14 days for delivery.

$89 $59 (+$12 S&H)

Only 5 left

 

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) with the International Coach Federation (ICF).
She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®.
She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.
Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 22 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the Board of Trustees for the Ohio Virtual Academy. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music. For more information on Rhonda, visit www.WinningThroughPageantry.com.

 

Every industry has certain lingo, terms and slang. The pageant world is no different. Below you will find some of the most common used pageant words and what they mean.

Pageant System-Each pageant is a privately owned business. Each “system” has its own set of rules, areas of competition, scoring system, focus, and look.

Director-The private business owner of a pageant. The director makes all the decisions surrounding the pageant.

Aging-Up and Aging-out: There are different age divisions within pageants. Aging-up refers to when you move up to the next age bracket, whereas aging out means you are too old for a division. For example, if a girl turns 10, she has “aged-out” of the 7-9 year old division and “aged-up” into the 10-12 year old division. At age 10, she is at the “bottom” of her age group where the 12 year old would be “at the top.” There is no standardized age categories in pageantry so check with the director for the cut off dates to determine which age group you or your child will be competing in.

Glitz-Refers to a type of pageant style. Generally speaking, dresses are highly stoned cupcake dresses, big hair, lots of makeup, spray tanning, enhancements, and Pro Am routines are used.

Cupcake dress- Short dress that is several inches above the knee with multiple layers of tulle, stones, and are generally custom-made. This is the standard dress in a glitz pageant.

Stoned- Clothing decorated with AB (AB stands for Aurora Borealis that shines with many colors) and clear rhinestones.

Pro Am- Elaborate modeling routines where turns and tricks, exaggerated head and hand gestures, and props are used.

Natural- Refers to a type of pageant style. G enerally speaking, the dress is more conservative but still glamorous. Hair and makeup are to enhance the natural beauty, not to become the focus point.

Flippers- Fake teeth. Flippers are an oral retainer that fits over the natural teeth to fill in missing teeth and enhance the appearance of a person’s teeth. These are used in glitz pageants.

Butt glue-Slang for roll-on or aerosol adhesive used to keep the swimsuit in place on your bottom.

H/M- Hair and Makeup Stylist

“OTR” or Off the Rack- Means an outfit bought at the store and has not been embellished.

Custom made or Customized- Handmade to fit the contestant. Usually OOAK.

“OOAK”- One of a kind, term used when referring to pageant wardrobe.

Titleholder- A contestant winning a crown and sash. In some pageant systems there are multiple titles, or queens, crowned within the same age division.

Court- The runners up.

Judge’s bio- This is a contestant’s resume that the judges receive. It is sometimes called a contestant application, fact sheet, or resume.

Optionals- Additional areas of competition judged by a separate panel of judges and have NO influence on the selection of the overall title.

Casual Wear -It is not blue jeans and a graphic t-shirt. It is a before 5pm outfit that is fashionable, fun, and trendy. It can either be OTR or custom-made.

At-Large Contestant- A contestant who did not compete at a preliminary competition but can compete for the state or national title.

Appointed Queen- The director selects a contestant to represent the state at the national pageant when a state pageant wasn’t held.

Cutlets-Silicone pads that look and feel like raw chicken breasts that contestants put in their swimsuit tops and bras to go up a cup size or two.

Prelim- Short word for Preliminary Pageant. Prelims are smaller local pageants that feed into a larger state competition. The queen is required to compete at the state pageant. State winners are required to compete at the national pageant.

Platform- Is a service project or non-profit organization that a contestant is heavily involved.

Special for the Pageant Princess or Queen in your life for $59 (+$12 S&H). An $89 value when purchased separately.

Only 10 left!

Receive my 60 minute training DVD Take The Stage, the Pageant Planner and a set of 12 interview cards for $59 (+$12 S&H). Individually, these items cost $89.

This is an affordable training kit for the pageant princess or queen in your life.

WTP Take The Stage Training DVD

The Winning Through Pageantry Take The Stage™ training DVD is a must have training tool for natural beauty pageants. The depth of information shared in this video will further polish your on stage presence.

Remember, the judges cast their final vote when you are on stage in your evening gown. Your overall stage presence and appearance will determine your final placement.

In this 60-minute DVD, you will learn:

• proper posture and alignment,
• foot positioning,
• timing of your turns,
• multiple walking patterns,
• stage presence,
• microphone etiquette,
• Numerous tips as Rhonda demonstrates all of these techniques.

The modeling style taught in this video will work for those contestants competing in the following natural pageant systems:

• Miss American Coed (MAC),
• National American Miss (NaMiss),
• Miss America,
• America's Outstanding Teen,
• Miss Teen USA,
• Miss USA,
• Mrs. America,
• Mrs. United States,
• Teen, Miss and Mrs. International,
• America's National Teenager (Antso),
• American Royal Beauties,
• Any of the numerous systems that follow the standards of a natural pageant.

Contestants who are brand new to pageantry or have done a couple pageants in the past; and those who do not have pageant preparation resources close to them will benefit most from this DVD. Even if you feel confident in your modeling skills, the numerous tips shared in this DVD will take your onstage presence to the next level.
Please allow up to 14 days to receive your DVD. This is being shipped from a separate vendor. The DVD is readable in all countries around the world but should you receive a defective DVD, a replacement one will be sent.

The WTP Pageant Planner

The Winning Through Pageantry Pageant Planner from Holdon contains organizational pages for logging and tracking 100 pageant related events. Each form records Event Details, Contact Info, Event Expenses, and Post-Event Info. There is also an Income Management Section to record payment details.
Now logging & tracking your pageant-related event details is easy!

• High-quality product
• 8.5" x 11"
• Finished coil-bound spine
• Vinyl front and back covers for durability

What's Inside...
Contact Page

• Your contact information
• Important pageant contacts (i.e. - coach, director, salon, etc.)
• Other contact information

Live Performance Forms

• Logging & tracking forms to track up to 100 pageant-related events (i.e. - consultations, media events, autograph signings, etc.)
• Log event requirements (i.e. - crown & banner, opening number wardrobe, script, etc.)
• Record all of your event expenses and mileage for tax purposes
• Post Event area (i.e. - what you wore, who you met, guests, etc.)

Income & Reimbursement Management
Record income & reimbursement details (Pageant/Event Name, Event Date, Payment, etc.)

Pageant Target List
Target Pageants, know special requirements, competition, categories, entry fees, etc.

Pageant Contacts
A section dedicated to Pageant Industry professionals you wish to keep in contact with

Notes Section

• Keep your notes handy and accessible
• Add any thoughts, suggestions or ideas

Calendar Section

• 12-month, day-by-day, fill-in calendar section (non-time sensitive, fill-in as you go)
• 24-month quick-view calendar section

Storage Pockets

• Promo Material Pocket to hold self-promotional material that you can pass around (i.e. - promo postcards, headshots, flyers, etc.)
• Notes Pocket to store any speeches, top-5 question notes, etc.

The WTP Interview Card Set

What kind of questions will the judges ask me in interview?
What if I don't have an answer?

The ability to answer questions about you, your family, platform, goals, community and pop culture in a clear way is an important life skill. The more practice you have in conversing with people, the better your speaking skills will become.

Over 1000 contestants from ages 7 to 80 around the world have used these cards and reported back to me that they were confident and prepared for their pageant interview. Many of my clients receive the highest interview scores.

As a contestant and judge, these are real questions that I have asked, been asked, or heard other judges ask in the interview room. I know they are effective and relevant because my clients and pageant family on Facebook have told me several times that they have experienced other pageant coaches and judges using my cards. By the way, I take this as a compliment, not a threat :).
Outstanding features of this 12 card set includes:</ p>

• Over 200 questions covering 12 diverse subjects. Each card has questions dedicated to one topic. For example, there are 56 questions on the "favorites" card.
• The back side is blank so you can jot down your ideas for answers.
• Being the size of a recipe card, they are easy to carry and you can practice anywhere.
  The DVD will arrive separately from the planner and the interview cards. With the holiday mail delivery, please allow up to 14 days for delivery.

$89 $59 (+$12 S&H)

10 left

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) with the International Coach Federation (ICF).
She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®.
She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.
Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 22 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the Board of Trustees for the Ohio Virtual Academy. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music. For more information on Rhonda, visit www.WinningThroughPageantry.com.