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 .

 

At the suggestion of one of her college professors, Ellen Bryan competed in her first pageant when she was a sophomore in college. He thought the Miss America system would be good experience for the telecommunications major. With her eyes set on the goal of becoming a news anchor, this future TV broadcaster began her three year journey to the Miss America stage.

In preparation for the 2008 Miss Lake Festival preliminary, she selected “When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors- Promoting Lightning Awareness” as her personal platform. Twelve years ago, Ellen’s sister Christina was struck by lightning while working at a golf course leaving Christina without the ability to speak or move. To this day Christina remains in a wheelchair.

Through her partnership with NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) and the National Weather Service, Ellen has spoken to over 3000 students, 100 businesses and service organizations, and has traveled to Washington D.C., Chicago, Maryland, Florida, Tennessee, Ohio and Indiana to promote lightning safety. Last year, Ellen created the Lightning Safety and Awareness Fund at the Mercer County Civic Foundation. To date, she has raised nearly $5000 for this fund.

In recognition of the depth and significant impact she has had with her platform and community service, Ellen was one of eight Miss America Quality of Life award finalists at the 2012 Miss America pageant. She also received the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Medal Award. Ellen’s scholarship earnings from the Miss America Organization total more than $25,000.

With Ellen being 4th Runner Up her first year, 3rd Runner Up her second year , and winning the title her third year competing on the Miss Ohio stage, I asked if she could share how her focus had evolved over the past 3 years.

The first year, she focused on developing her platform. With her confidence level growing, Ellen began working with a personal trainer for her second year of competition. In addition, she bumped up her wardrobe and went even deeper into her platform. The third year was when she really focused on her talent and prepared for “the job” of Miss Ohio. Ellen said that when she stopped worrying about what other people thought and created a detailed action plan of what she would do as Miss Ohio, a deep sense of confidence and belief came over her.

“My journey to Miss Ohio was more like a ‘soul searching’ adventure. When I figured out who I was, what I wanted, and what was important in my life, I knew I was ready for the job; and I feel that came across to the judges.”

When I asked her what the hardest part about preparing for the Miss America pageant was, she told me it was balancing her appearance schedule at Miss Ohio with the preparation for Miss America. After her crowning, she successfully juggled making 3-4 appearances a week, working out with her personal trainer twice a week, and studying with her vocal teacher every other week. Since Miss America, Ellen has had an appearance almost daily and put 23,000 miles on her car as Miss Ohio. That’s a lot of appearances.

 

I asked her to relate a couple of highlights from her year. Without hesitation she cited two of her favorites: the 10 days at Miss America and her Ohio bike tour this summer where she pedaled 850 miles to 45 cities across the state in 27 days. Raising over $2000 for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, she rode to every CMNH in Ohio and made appearances along the way. Ellen says every women she met at nationals, the people she meets at her appearances, and the celebrities she has encountered have all been incredible.

She has three more months as Miss Ohio and has no plans of slowing down. Ellen is a wonderful example of “paying it forward” and “walking the talk.” Congratulations Ellen on all you have accomplished thus far and I know we will be seeing you on the television soon.

For the full details on her tour and to learn more about Ellen, visit her websites at http://www.missohiobiketour.com and http://www.ellenbryan.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.

 

INTERVIEW CARD

The ability to answer questions about you, your purpose, current events, and controversial topics in a clear way is an important life skill. The more you practice, the better you will get. This handy interview card is a great way to practice with a partner or to use by yourself.

The Beginning 10 Questions are the staple interview questions everyone must know the answers in an interview. Now preparing for your interview is easy and for a limited time FREE.

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 Trustees for the Ohio Virtual Academy. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music. For more information on Rhonda, visit www.WinningThroughPageantry.com.

 

Festival Pageants

For your first pageant, start small. Pageantry is no different than sports. A high school coach would never consider putting one of his players in the Super Bowl game for their first time on the field. Same thing goes for pageantry. Before you start investing in all the equipment for this hobby sport, you need to find out if you like the environment.

For beginners, look for pageants that are free or have a small entry fee such as festival pageants. My mom borrowed everything I wore in my first festival pageant from my older cousin. It didn’t cost us a penny.

Smaller festival pageants usually last a few hours because they are just one of the many events included in the community celebration. Up dos and prom style hair is what you will see at festivals along with ball gown. There’s no overnight hotel expense or event tickets you need to purchase. For most festival pageants, you’ll arrive at the festival wearing your gown. When you check in, you’ll receive your contestant number.

If interview is part of the pageant, you will have it shortly after all the contestants have arrived. After interview, they will have the contestants introduce themselves onstage (usually on an outdoor stage so everyone at the festival can watch), do a short little modeling walk and possibly answer one more question in front of the crowd. Then the queen and her court are crowned. End of the event.

The one thing you will want to check out is how many parades the festival queen and her court are required to ride in for the year. In festivals, the entire court makes appearances, not just the queen. Festivals take place on weekends. If your family has many activities on the weekend, a better option would be to find a small pageant that doesn’t require any appearances after the crowning moment.

To find festival pageants, search the internet using the words “festivals in (insert your state)” For example, here in Ohio we have the Ohio Festivals and Events Association. When you go to this website, it has all the information listed for about fifty plus festivals around Ohio. The Department of Tourism for your state would also be a good place to find listing of the festivals. The best way to find out about smaller pageants is to go to a larger pageant and ask the contestants and their families what other pageants they can recommend.

Paperwork Review Session

If you want a different set of eyes to look over your paperwork, I’ve created a Paperwork Review Session. Consider this a “second opinion” session. It is not a detailed development session. It consists of two private mini-coaching sessions over the phone. This is perfect for the experienced contestant who wants a professional eye to look things over.

On the first call, I will share with you my first impressions about your paperwork; conduct a 5-minute mock interview based on the paperwork you have provided to me; tips on how to improve your paperwork; and a second mini-call after you have made corrections from our first call.

This will be a great investment to strengthening your first impression and to building a solid foundation for your interview. To get the most from our time together, have the exact forms your pageant system uses filled out to the best you can. Then,click here to purchase your session. Once payment has been received, you will receive an email to schedule your private telephone session with me.

 

Pageant Preparation Special for the Pageant Princess or Queen in your life for $59 (+$12 S&H). Only 45 left at this price!

To celebrate the launch of my new 60 minute training DVD, Take The Stage, I am offering the 60 minute training DVD, the Pageant Planner and a set of 12 interview cards for $59 (+$12 S&H). Individually, these items would 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),
• 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. She has helped her clients win local, state, national and international titles.

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.

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:

• 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)
45 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.

 

Miss Wisconsin Laura Kaeppeler from Kenosha, Wisconsin was crowned Miss America 2012 at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. The final night of the 2012 Miss America Pageant was broadcast live from Las Vegas on ABC.

Laura's triumphant walk across the stage was just the beginning of a journey that will take her to every corner of the country during her year of service as Miss America 2012. Miss America 2012 will spend her year touring the country to encourage all young women to pursue a college education, and will focus on driving interest in the arts, as well as science, technology, engineering and math (also known as STEM) education. The Miss America Organization will work with national and community partners to create an unconventional approach to driving young women’s interest in STEM. Their efforts coincide with the national momentum to target female students who are currently underrepresented in STEM professions.

 

In addition, she will travel approximately 20,000 miles each month speaking to audiences about her platform Circles of Support - Mentoring Children of Incarcerated Parents and acting as the official National Goodwill Ambassador for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, a non-profit organization dedicated to saving and improving the lives of children by raising funds for children's hospitals, is the national platform partner of the Miss America Organization.

Laura is a graduate of Carthage College. Her scholastic ambition is to obtain a Master's degree in Speech and Language Pathology and she ultimately hopes to become a speech therapist. Along with the title of Miss America 2012, Laura won a $50,000 scholarship to continue her education. For the talent portion of the competition, Laura performed an operatic rendition of "Il Bacio."

The first runner-up was Miss Oklahoma Betty Thompson who earned a $25,000 scholarship. For her talent, she performed an Irish Step Dance to "Warriors" and her personal platform is MILK, It Really Does a Body Good! Betty was also the winner of ABC's America's Choice an online competition where viewers got the opportunity to vote for their favorite Miss America contestant. The contestant was announced at the beginning of the Miss America broadcast and became the 1st finalist to compete in the live finale.

Second runner-up honors and a $20,000 scholarship were awarded to Miss New York Kaitlin Monte. Her talent was a vocal performance of "Disneyland," and her personal platform is "That's Enough! Coming Together to End Bullying."

Miss America 2012

• Miss Wisconsin, Laura Kaeppeler

Top 5

• Miss Oklahoma, Betty Thompson
• Miss New York, Kaitlin Monte
• Miss Arizona, Jennifer Sedler
• Miss California, Noelle Freeman

Top 10 (In Random Order)

• Miss Arizona, Jennifer Sedler
• Miss Illinois, Hannah Smith
• Miss Oklahoma, Betty Thompson
• Miss Texas, Kendall Morris
• Miss Wisconsin, Laura Kaeppeler
• Miss New York, Kaitlin Monte
• Miss Louisiana, Hope Anderson
• Miss Tennessee, Erin Hatley
• Miss Iowa, Jessica Pray
• Miss California, Noelle Freeman

Top 13 (In Random Order)

• Miss Louisiana, Hope Anderson
• Miss Iowa, Jessica Pray
• Miss Illinois, Hannah Smith
• Miss South Carolina, Bree Boyce
• Miss New York, Kaitlin Monte
• Miss Wisconsin, Laura Kaeppeler
• Miss Florida, Kristina Janolo
• Miss Tennessee, Erin Hatley
• Miss Arizona, Jennifer Sedler
• Miss Texas, Kendall Morris
• Miss California, Noelle Freeman
• Miss Oklahoma, Betty Thompson
• Miss Alabama, Courtney Porter

Semi Finalists (In Random Order)

• Miss Oklahoma, Betty Thompson
• Miss South Carolina, Bree Boyce
• Miss Florida, Kristina Janolo
• Miss New York, Kaitlin Monte
• Miss Iowa, Jessica Pray
• Miss Texas, Kendall Morris
• Miss Virginia, Elizabeth Crot
• Miss Illinois, Hannah Smith
• Miss Arizona, Jennifer Sedler
• Miss Alabama, Courtney Porter
• Miss Tennessee, Erin Hatley
• Miss Wisconsin, Laura Kaeppeler
• Miss North Carolina, Hailey Best
• Miss California, Noelle Freeman
• Miss Louisiana, Hope Anderson

From left: 2012 Quality of Life Award Winners:
Miss Michigan Elizabeth Wertenberger,
Miss New Hampshire Regan Hartley,
Miss Kentucky Ann Blair Thornton

This year's Quality of Life Award winner is Miss Kentucky Ann Blair Thornton. Ann Blair was recognized for her work on her platform, "Alzheimer's Awareness and Research" and she will receive a $6,000 scholarship. The announcement was made at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino during Friday's Miss America press conference and marks the last day of preliminary competition for the 2012 Miss America Pageant.

Ann Blair has had the opportunity to call to action tens of thousands of Kentuckians this year with her platform work. As a teenager, in 2006 struggling with a beloved grandfather suffering from the disease, she discovered the need for Alzheimer's support groups for a younger generation and founded a teenage support group: ALZ Teens. In 2009, Ann Blair established a memorial fund honoring her grandfather, with an online donation component. She has lobbied Kentucky State Legislature to pass multiple bills promoting the Alzheimer's Association's efforts, teamed up with college students to raise over $25,000 for research, and organized her hometown Alzheimer's Memory Walk, which raised over $172,000 for the Alzheimer's Association. As Miss Kentucky, she has gathered the names of people she has met this year who are currently battling the disease and those who have already lost the fight. One by one, she has sewn them to the back of her sash so that she will be continually reminded of her purpose.

The first-runner up is Miss New Hampshire Regan Hartley whose personal platform issue is "Stand Up: Bullying Awareness in Our Community." During the past three years, Regan has spent more than 2,000 hours working to combat bullying: by educating others on the subject of bullying, encouraging open discussion between educators, parents and children, and serving as the spokesperson for numerous anti-bullying efforts. She has lobbied for passage of New Hampshire's first modern bullying law, House Bill 1523 in June of 2010. She has also spoken to children about the importance of treating yourself and others with respect.

The second runner-up is Miss Michigan Elizabeth Wertenberger, whose personal platform is "Continue to Dream - Giving Hope to Children with Chronic Illness. Being diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis inspired Elizabeth to make her platform a life-long mission to inspire other children dealing with the disease. Elizabeth has encouraged people to join her at the Annual Arthritis Walk, bringing over 100 people to walk with her. She has spoken to the Juvenile Arthritis Association, telling her personal story to groups, so that children who suffer from the disease do not feel that it defines how they should grow up or develop.

The Quality of Life Awards were introduced in 1988 to recognize contestants who excel in their commitment to community service. The awards are available to each of the 53 contestants competing for the title of Miss America 2012. In order to be considered for the Quality of Life Award, contestants must have submitted an application describing their involvement with Children's Miracle Network, the national platform of the Miss America Organization, and their own personal platform issue.

An honorable mention goes to the remaining five finalists: Miss Arkansas Kristen Glover, whose platform is "Second Chances Through Mentoring;" Miss Hawaii Lauren Cheape, whose platform is "C.A.R.E.: Collegiate Athletes Reaching Everyone;" Miss Minnesota Natalie Davis, whose platform is "Autism Awareness: The Missing Piece;" Miss New York Kaitlin Monte, whose platform is "Anti-Bullying Through Youth Leadership;" and Miss Ohio Ellen Bryan, whose platform is When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors: Promoting Lightning Awareness."

fourpoints Scholarship Award winner,
Miss Idaho Genevieve Nutting
and MAO President and CEO Art McMaster

The fourpoints Scholarship Award is a $2,000 award offered to all of the 53 contestants. Each of the contestants had to write an essay describing how THEY represent the Four Points of the Crown which are Service, Scholarship, Success and Style. The winner of this award is Miss Idaho Genevieve Nutting.

Below is the list of the what the 53 contestants did for talent.

Miss Wisconsin Laura Kaeppeler was named Tuesday night's preliminary Talent winner for her Operatic Vocal performance of "Il Bacio," during the first night of competition of the 2012 Miss America Pageant at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. Laura will receive a $2,000 scholarship. Also in the spotlight was Miss Utah Danica Olsen, who was the preliminary Lifestyle and Fitness winner in a Deaville Kompliqué swimsuit with 18K gold and Swarovski crystal accents. Danica will receive a $1,000 scholarship.

Laura started singing in the 4th grade. Once she got into high school and college, she decided it was something she wanted to pursue as a career. She studied music in college as an undergraduate and currently teaches private piano and voice lessons.
When asked what was the most important thing Danica did to prepare herself to be up on stage in a swimsuit and to promote a healthy lifestyle, she said it is all about discipline, getting up early in the morning and pushing yourself further than you think you can go. Eating right is important and knowing that presentation is everything when you walk into a room.

Miss Oklahoma Betty Thompson was named Wednesday night's preliminary Talent winner for her Irish Step Dance performance to "Warriors," during the second night of competition. Betty will receive a $2,000 scholarship. Betty has been dancing Irish Step Dance for 12 years.

Also in the spotlight was Miss Texas Kendall Morris, who was the preliminary Lifestyle and Fitness winner in a Monte Carlo Kompliqué swimsuit. Kendall will receive a $1,000 scholarship.

Kendall stated this was the first time has won a swimsuit award and she really had to work for it. She encouraged girls to go with your body type and be the best you can be. Her healthy diet consists of high protein and low carbs, which is very typical of the Miss America contestants. Every day she does some form of exercise

 

Miss Hawaii Lauren Cheape was named Thursday night's preliminary Talent winner for her jump rope routine performance to "Hawaii Five-O," during the third night of competition of the 2012 Miss America Pageant at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. Lauren will receive a $2,000 scholarship. Also in the spotlight was Miss New York Kaitlin Monte, who was the preliminary Lifestyle and Fitness winner in a Monte Carlo Kompliqué swimsuit. Kaitlin will receive a $1,000 scholarship.
In an interview with Chairman of the Board, Sam Haskell, Kaitlin shared that a year ago she found out she had a gluten allergy and this led to a major lifestyle change. She didn’t work with a trainer for the Miss America pageant. She did her fitness herself because she wanted to develop a lifestyle program she could do year after year for long term results.
Lauren has been jumping rope since age 5. A demonstration team from the American Heart Association came to her school and she wanted to be just like them. For Miss America, Lauren worked with René Bibaud, a 5 time World Rope Jumping Champion and works for Cirque Du Soleil, to develop her routine.
All photos and information is courtesy of the Miss America Organization. To see videos from the awards ceremony and behind-the-scenes visit www.facebook.com/missamericaorganization.
http://missamerica.org
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLA74E3DBA6164388F&feature=plcp

Pageant Preparation Special for the Pageant Princess or Queen in your life for $59 (+$12 S&H). Only 55 left at this price!

To celebrate the launch of my new 60 minute training DVD, Take The Stage, I am offering the 60 minute training DVD, the Pageant Planner and a set of 12 interview cards for $59 (+$12 S&H). Individually, these items would 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),
• 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. She has helped her clients win local, state, national and international titles.

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.

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)
while supplies last

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.

2011 Christmas Special for the Pageant Princess or Queen in your life for $59 (+$12 S&H). A $89 value when purchased separately

In the spirit of Christmas and to celebrate the launch of my new 60 minute training DVD, Take The Stage, I am offering the 60 minute training DVD, the Pageant Planner and a set of 12 interview cards for $59 (+$12 S&H) until December 31. Individually, these items would cost $89.

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

 

The 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.

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. She has helped her clients win local, state, national and international titles.

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.

 

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) until
December 31st or
while supplies last

This week I chose to feature a new pageant system that will be debuting May 3-5, 2013 at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Dublin, Ohio. I interviewed pageant director, Theresa Bucklew about her new system.

Age Divisions based on the age
as of January 1, 2013:

• Princess 3-5 yrs.
• Sweetheart 6-8 yrs.
• Pre-Teen 9-12 yrs.
• Jr. Teen 13-15 yrs.
• Teen 16-18 yrs.
• Miss 19-24 yrs. (Married or unmarried)
• Ms. 25 & Up (Married or unmarried)

Scoring:
http://americanroyalbeauties.com/american-royal-beauties-scoring.html

• Escorted* Formal Eveningwear competition 30%
• Interview with Judges 30%
• Personal Introduction 30%
• Community Service 10%
• Optional competitions will be scored on a range from 1-10
• The contestants will not be re-ranked at the finale unless there is a tie.
• The highest score will win the pageant.

*If you don’t have an escort for the competition please let one of the staff members know during rehearsal and we will provide you with an escort for the competition
*Every contestant will receive a beautiful participation trophy on stage

Tell me about your pageant background and experience?

I have been a heavily involved member of the pageant community for over 22 years now. My daughter competed in her first natural pageant at 18 months. We have been hooked since our very first pageant! Over the years, I have gained experience as a judge, director, and my favorite experience was being a “Pageant Mom” and making my own set of pageant friends!

What made you decide to start your own pageant system?

I love everything pageantry stands for, and truly believe it can change young women and girls’ lives. I am reminded of this every day I see my daughter, and remember what a shy little girl she was growing up. Now, she is outspoken, and a leader in her community. Of course, I would like to take all the credit ? - but I do know a lot of that is a result of what she learned through pageants. I have wanted to start my own system for over five years now. With my youngest son preparing to graduate from high school, I now have the proper time to dedicate to American Royal Beauties. I wanted to make sure my system, its queens, and my contestants got as much time, detail and attention put into them as possible, so everyone involved will leave with a great experience after pageant weekend.

What qualities are you looking for in your queens?

An American Royal Beauties Queen needs be a positive young woman who will excel in academics, be active in their communities through service events, and an excellent future leader of tomorrow. She will carry herself with grace, have positive morals, and overall, be a glamorous girl that others can look to as a role model. Our Queens, throughout their reign will promote our Motto “Pass It On,” which asks our ladies to do a good deed, in turn, inspiring others around them to also do a good deed for another, and continuing to, “Pass it on”. Our Queens will be asked to do at least six parades or community service projects together, and they will be asked to promote American Royal Beauties as much as they can. We do not have “no compete” restriction, so our queens may also compete and hold titles with other pageant systems.

What is your long term vision for your pageant system?

I hope that girls will enjoy my system, and long term, hope to witness my efforts unfold into a national pageant.

What sets your pageant apart from the other pageants out there?

We are looking to build not only individual skills for these girls to use the rest of their lives, but also are looking to create lasting friendships! We hope that by focusing a little more on community involvement, we can get youth interested in giving back to the communities or organizations that mean something to them. We also hope to bring class and glamour back into style. American Royal Beauties want our girls to feel as beautiful on the inside as they all are on the outside.

Is your first pageant just for Ohio residents, or can contestants from other states compete?

Our first pageant will be for Ohio residents only. Contestants who live out of state, but have proof on an Ohio residence may also compete.

What do you want people to know about you or the pageant system?

We are working hard to make sure the American Royal Beauties Pageant will be a fun and exciting experience for all of our girls! We are offering more optional competitions, as well as keeping the entry fee and other costs as low as possible! Pageant weekend will take place at the beautiful Embassy Suites Hotel in Dublin, Ohio, that has suites for everyone discounted. Everyone staying at the hotel will get a full service breakfast every morning, and cocktails and hors d'oeuvres every evening. I am allowing everyone to make payments up until three weeks before pageant weekend. Our official American Royal Beauties’ crowns are very distinct, and our sashes are stylish silver, accented with hot pink trim.

Vendors will be present in the atrium during pageant weekend also. All of the vendors will be affiliated with pageantry. Our first pageant will be held in 2013! Giving our contestants plenty of time to prepare, get involved in the communities, gather potential sponsors to compete, and will also allow us more time to come up with even more exciting events to hold during or around pageant weekend! We hope to see you on our stage May 3-5, 2013!

http://americanroyalbeauties.com

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.

 

Your expectations lay the groundwork for how positive your national pageant experience will be. Today I share 5 tips that will help you at your national pageant.

• Get plenty of rest before you leave for the pageant. The schedule is packed and you will get very little sleep at the pageant. Any FUN events should be done either before or after the actual competition. Once the competition schedule begins, it’s WORK time. If the whole family goes, get them their own room or have something for them to do off site so you can get ready in your own space. Pageants are VERY stressful. When there are too many people under foot, drama will happen.

• The most positive and ideal situation is to have only ONE of your children compete at a time. All three of my daughters competed at the MAC national pageant last week and I will never do all three at the same time again. It’s too overwhelming and not enjoyable. I’ve now done all combinations at all levels of competition and I can firmly say that one at a time is the best way to go.

• You will need support a team. Surround yourself with people who work well under pressure, keep you in a positive state of mind, and who are punctual, detail oriented and organized. Know your weaknesses and enlist the help of those who have the strengths you need to keep things moving in the right direction. Avoid situations and people who push your buttons. The more self reliant you are, the better; but you can’t do everything alone.

• Expect the unexpected. Expect to be surprised by people’s behavior and who shows up at the national competition. If you know ahead of time that someone or something will catch you off guard, you’ll be expecting it.

• Expect to feel every human emotion possible during pageant week. The key is not to let the feelings define who you are or paralyze you. If an emotion is taking you to a negative place, you need to have a plan as to how you can flip the situation quickly. This might mean physically leaving the situation or mentally escaping to your “happy” place.

To all of you who have worked with me one-on-one, attended my boot camps, received my interview cards and used the abundant information I freely give in my newsletters, I congratulate each and every one of you on your accomplishments this past week at the national MAC and NAM pageants.

My focus has and always will be on the positive growth process leading up to the pageant. What you have learned in that process is applied not only to the pageant; but in your life after the crowning moment.

It takes a whole team of people to help you succeed; but at the end of the pageant, it is YOU who has won the honor—not your stylist nor one of your many coaches. YOU.

But remember to give proper credit where credit is due, be humble in your attitude, and be respectful in your words and actions. Forget no one who has helped you along the way.

 

“The more credit you give away, the more will come back to you. The more you help others, the more they will want to help you.” Brian Tracy

 

 

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.

INTERVIEW CARD

The ability to answer questions about you, your purpose, current events, and controversial topics in a clear way is an important life skill. The more you practice, the better you will get. This handy interview card is a great way to practice with a partner or to use by yourself.
The Beginning 10 Questions are the staple interview questions everyone must know the answers in an interview. Now preparing for your interview is easy and for a limited time FREE.

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 .

 

As a pageant coach and judge, I am more often asked how do I pick the photogenic winner than how do I pick the queen. The most important thing you have to remember is the photogenic award is completely subjective. It is based on one person opinion.

I’m a very decisive person. Over the years, I’ve trained my eye to quickly pick okay photos from great ones. When I judge, the first question I ask the director is, “what are you looking for?”

A well prepared director will use very specific adjectives to give me insight into the image of their pageant system. If they use words like glamorous, red carpet, and high fashion, I’m looking for a model. But if a director tells me whoever you think is the most photogenic, then my decision is going to be based on my personal taste and opinions.

I’m going to use photographs from my last photo session with my friend and expert photographer, Rick Martinez,www.studiormphotography.com to illustrate my points. First, and foremost, you need a photographer who has an eye for lighting and makes you feel comfortable. A great photo happens when you feel comfortable in the moment and the photographer captures it at the perfect time. It is a combination of composition, background, lighting, and timing. The photographer either gets it or misses it. Your hair, makeup, wardrobe, and accessories must all harmonize with each other to create a feeling.

Having a professional stylist help you with these details will greatly enhance your photo. You could have all these components in place, but as a judge, if I feel nothing when I look into your eyes and face, it’s not a winning photograph. The picture needs to speak the moment to me.

Look at this great moment Rick captured of me and my daughters during our session. In my opinion, next to understanding lighting, timing is what makes the difference between an average photographer and an artist. This photograph captures the relationship and daily joy I experience in being the mom of my three totally diverse and precious daughters. The photo MUST speak to me.

Entering more photos is not going to improve your chances of winning the award, especially when your facial expression and the angle is exactly the same in every picture. You’re looking for the one magical moment captured on film. If you’re lucky, you might get two. When I’m judging, if I see more than two photos from a contestant, I’m turned off to that person. Sorry if that hurts your feelings but I am not alone on my thoughts on this subject. Only submit the very best. If you’re torn between two, submit them both.

I’m not talking about a modeling portfolio or a photogenic competition where you are required to submit three to five different pictures. I am talking about the regular photogenic competition at 90% of the pageants you will be competing in. If you submit more than two photos, you’re just wasting your money unless the shots are completely different, all are totally fabulous and there is an award for the most photos submitted.

When a pageant judge looks at the photo, it should elicit an immediate emotional reaction. The emotion should be appropriate for the age of the contestant being photographed and the capture the image the pageant system is promoting. Consult with the director of the pageant system if you’re unclear about the image the pageant represents or the awards being presented.

Listen closely to the words the directors use. If they’re saying wholesome, energetic, and happy, don’t submit a headshot of your 14 year old daughter with a sexy seductive look on her face.

When it comes right down to it, it is the opinion of one person choosing the photogenic winner. Hopefully, the person in charge of judge selection will get a judge who understands the pageant system and what they are looking for. You can’t always count on that though. A judge could no show at the last minute leaving the director to get anyone who is available to judge.

All you can do is submit the best photo that is in alignment with the pageant system’s ideals, and if you win, celebrate. Plain and simple, there are no standards. It is all based on one person’s opinion.

Have fun capturing the moment with your photographer.

---

INTERVIEW CARD

The ability to answer questions about you, your purpose, current events, and controversial topics in a clear way is an important life skill. The more you practice, the better you will get. This handy interview card is a great way to practice with a partner or to use by yourself.
The Beginning 10 Questions are the staple interview questions everyone must know the answers in an interview. Now preparing for your interview is easy and for a limited time FREE.

WTP Pageant Boot camp In
Columbus, Ohio

This two-hour boot camp is for you if you're preparing for a pageant and you want to take your skills to the next level. I will provide face-to-face training to strengthen your abilities in the following areas:

• Interview
• Modeling Technique
• Personal Introduction
• Answering Onstage Questions
• Mental Attitude

By working in a small group, you’ll benefit by listening and watching each other; expanding your knowledge of pageantry; mastering your own skills; and receiving personal feedback at an affordable price. Space is limited so reserve your time now.

Sunday, October 30, 2011
Location:
Hilton Garden Inn | 3928 Jackpot Road |Grove City, OH 43123 |
614-539-8944
Directions to Hotel: Take Exit 100 off Interstate 71South of downtown Columbus. Turn left onto Stringtown if you're coming from the north, right if coming from the south. Turn left onto Thistlewood (it’s the first big intersection with a stop light). Turn left onto Killdeer at the stop sign - (there's a Home Depot on your right- Putt Putt on your left). Turn right onto Jackpot road. The Hilton Garden is on the right behind the LaQuinta Hotel.

Session 1
Sun, October 30

1:00pm - 3:00pm

$139

Take this opportunity to Register NOW!

• You can participate in one session, or all of them. It’s up to you. The more you practice these skills, the more natural they’ll become. In each session you’ll be actually practicing your interview, modeling, personal introduction, onstage question and mental attitude skills.

• I’ll be giving you immediate feedback the entire time so it doesn’t matter if this is your first pageant or you’re a seasoned professional wanting some extra polish. I’ll meet you exactly where you are and take you to the next level.

• For boot camp contestants, I’m offering an optional 45 minute private coaching session the same day of the boot camp. This individual time is to help tailor the material to fit your specific needs. These are scheduled on a “first come” basis so schedule now to get your choice of time. Time slots will be before and after the boot camp.

All fees are nonrefundable and must be paid in full prior to the boot camp or coaching session. If you prefer to pay with a check, please contact me through info@winningthroughpageantry.com. Checks must be received at least one week prior to the date of your session. Your date is officially confirmed once payment has been received.

Once payment has been received, you will be contacted to schedule your private 45-minute coaching session.

There are only eight private sessions available each day.

Private sessions will begin at

10:00am through 12:45pm

and

3:15pm through 7:15pm

Click Here to Register

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and a member of the International Coach Federation. 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 .

 

You’ve just had your crowning moment. Suddenly, you dream of being a celebrity, going to glamorous events, and making countless appearances. Great! How are you going to make that happen? Yes, I said YOU. Your primary responsibility is to get the word out about your accomplishments and set up appearances. The director may have a couple of sponsor related events for you to attend; but for the rest of the year, what happens as a titleholder is all up to you and your marketing efforts.

To market yourself, you’ll want to create a press kit. For your press kit, you’ll want to assemble a press release, a headshot, one-page bio, an introductory letter from the director on official pageant letterhead, and any other supporting materials in a clean new folder.

 

Have your press kit available in both electronic and hard copy forms. You will mostly use the electronic format but always have at least one hard copy folder with you as a contingency. Success comes when preparation meets opportunity. Always be prepared.This way you can book an appearance from an appearance. If you’re networking the event right, there will always be someone who will approach you about appearing at their upcoming event.

Press Release

A press release is a one page document that is sent out to local news papers which includes the following information:

• Facts about you: Name, age, parents (if you are a minor), city, your new title, and brief information about your platform or service cause you will be support during your year.
• What did you do to earn the title, and what you won as a result of competing.
• Information about the pageant system and the next level of competition in which you will be compete. For example, if you will be competing at the national pageant, include the dates, locations and what’s involved at that event.
• Pageant history, mission statement, goals, and contact information for both you and your director so that you can be reached to schedule appearances. Word of caution about your personal contact information, for your personal privacy and safety, set up a separate email address to be used only during your year of reign. You never want to give out your home address, phone number, or personal information for mass distribution.

 

Headshot

• Make sure your headshot, and any other photos are high-resolution images so if the organization chooses to reproduce them, the photos will be crystal clear. I burn a couple images onto a CD and include one 4x6 photo in my folder so they have choices.

Bio

• One page bio spotlighting your education, honors, accomplishments, community service, talent, hobbies, and career ambitions.

 

Introductory Letter on Official Letterhead

• The letter from your director will lend credibility and acknowledgment to your title. It should include your name, title and information about the pageant system.

 

Other Supporting Materials

• If you produce a newsletter with your platform, or if there is a brochure about the pageant system you are representing, include those as well.

 

Then you need to figure out what type of appearances you want to focus on. Do you want to do parades? Do you want to model in fashion shows? How about speaking to service organizations or in schools? Maybe you want to travel to other pageants and be visiting royalty. You’ll quickly need to decide. It could take several weeks, or months, of planning for you to be able to participate in certain events.
How many appearances do you want to make a month? How far do you want to travel? How many appearances will be “just for fun” and how many will be networking events where you can build relationships with people who will guide you to successful paths you may walk after you crown the next queen?

Get your calendar and mark out the dates you already have commitments. Then start surfing the web and contacting people for the activities that fit your plan. You have been given an opportunity that has a expiration date; but the connections and friendships you make during your year, will not.

 

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

Now's The Time to Brush Up On Your Interview Skills

INTERVIEW CARD

The ability to answer questions about you, your purpose, current events, and controversial topics in a clear way is an important life skill that everyone can benefit from. The more you practice, the better you will get. These handy interview cards are a great way to practice with a partner or use by yourself to get you thinking about the topic.
The Beginning 10 Questions are the staple interview questions everyone must know the answers in an interview situation. Then each month you will receive a new card in the mail with fresh questions.

Now preparing for your interview is easy and for a limited time FREE.

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and a member of the International Coach Federation. 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. Their music CD entitled Cana. For more information on Rhonda, visit  www.WinningThroughPageantry.com .

Your appearance and performance during pageant preliminaries are very important to your chances of winning the overall title. Preliminaries serve as the “weeding out” process. Usually, preliminary competitions take place a day or two before finals. All of the contestants receive scores during preliminaries; however only the Top 5 are watched, ranked or scored during finals.

What is so important to remember is that you can’t hold anything back during the preliminary competitions. Your hair, makeup, gown, suit, interview and overall energy level must be at its best during preliminaries. The first impression judges get of you is very difficult to change and you might not be given a second chance.

Most of the time, the judges have already chosen their favorite contestant before finals begins. If you haven’t got ten their attention before then, having your hair and makeup styled to perfection on the night of finals only, or saving your show stopping gown to wear during finals, isn’t going to make a difference. If you didn’t make the list of semi-finalists, you’re not going to be scored on finals night, no matter how flawlessly you perform or look.

Here’s how it typically works. There are basically three ways to score a pageant:

• Numeric Scoring. Each pageant system has their own numeric scale but each contestant receives a number somewhere on the scale.

• Ranking. In ranking, no numeric score is given. The judges are asked to put the contestant number of their favorite contestant on line #1, their second favorite on #2, and so one.

 

• Mentions. On the ballot are the state names or contestant numbers. The judges are asked to simply circle a set number of their favorite contestants in the pageant. During preliminary judging, they may be asked to circle their top 15 names; but on finals night told to only circle their favorite 3 contestants and finally the top one.

There is a fourth way of scoring that isn’t used much and it is by consensus.Consensus is where the judges talk among themselves after they’ve seen all the contestants and they must all agree on the winner. Oh yes, you can see how difficult consensus scoring would be.

The scores from the preliminary competitions are used to get the semi-finalists.The only names or numbers on the judge’s ballot on the night of finals is typically the top five. Usually the final ballot cast is a ranking ballot. Now, once you’re a semi-finalist, you need to continuing being spot on. At that point, the judges are looking for the girl who is a “stand out”.

So the moral of the story is this, you must be at your very best each and every time you are in front of the judges. Preliminaries are not to be treated as “warm up”. They are the deal breaker. The very first time the judges see you, is THE MOST IMPORTANT, because first impressions are hard to change.

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

Pageant Season Is Here!

Now's The Time to Brush Up On Your Interview Skills

INTERVIEW CARD

The ability to answer questions about you, your purpose, current events, and controversial topics in a clear way is an important life skill that everyone can benefit from. The more you practice, the better you will get. These handy interview cards are a great way to practice with a partner or use by yourself to get you thinking about the topic.
The Beginning 10 Questions are the staple interview questions everyone must know the answers in an interview situation. Then each month you will receive a new card in the mail with fresh questions.

Now preparing for your interview is easy and for a limited time FREE.

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and a member of the International Coach Federation.

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 .