Welcome to the beginning of what I hope is a rewarding journey, full of positive life-long memories! But wait…Before the “lights, camera, action” begins there are a few steps I recommend. The following five steps will assist in beginning this journey in a positive and successful fashion. While other tasks may develop as a result of these five, the following steps will alleviate numerous “newbie” mishaps that might just stop the journey after the first event.

Step 1:
Contact a Coach/Consultant: Search the web for a coach that specializes in the type of system you selected from the three types, Professional Glitz, Hobby Glitz, and Natural. (See previous article, “Levels of Pageantry”) The very first question to ask is, “What type of pageants do you specialize in?” Be wary of anyone who says, “All types,” as very few coaches truly differentiate instruction to suit both glitz and natural pageants. Also, ask for a free consultation via telephone or at an upcoming event in order to set goals, and introduce your child to the potential coach. If the coach is unwilling to schedule an appointment, move onto the next one, as this is a good indication of the type of attention you will receive throughout your relationship.

• When you meet the person, a few questions to ask are – “How long have you been involved in pageantry? May I have a few references? What are your hourly rates? How often are you available for lessons? Are you available for questions between sessions? Are you available to attend events? What aspects of pageantry do you assist with besides on-stage events? (photographer selection, attire, etc) What is your competition philosophy? What will a typical lesson look like?”
• Some things to look for include - The coach’s willingness to talk and provide references beyond what is on their website, how your child reacts to the person, and particularly, is your interaction limited to paid time only? When I agree to work with a contestant I have open phone hours and an open e-mail policy. A client can ask me anything at any time because I would prefer we make decisions together to avoid mistakes that could potentially interfere with the fun and excitement of the journey, or our relationship. I never charge for calls during open phone times or e-mails. You want a situation similar to this to ensure that at no time you feel unprepared!
  
  

Step 2:
Attend a Pageant: Chances are you first became interested in pageantry when you saw a pageant on television or at the mall. However, I suggest you attend an event from beginning to end, in person, with your child. The most important reason for attending is to assess if your child is interested in being on stage, and maintains interest for the entire event. Though this might be difficult with younger children, remember that they too will have to sit through the competition and crowning. You’re a great parent, so trust your instincts…will your child actively participate, or will you be guiding the entire event? And be honest with yourself…Are you looking towards the exit with longing half-way through the pageant, or are you jumping at the bit to get started? You may decide that now is not the time to participate, and that is okay…pageants will always be here waiting for your family!

Step 3:
Select Five Events: This is the fun part when you really start to feel the journey in motion! I suggest that you start with five pageants you might like to try, and narrow it down to one through steps 4 & 5. You can ask a friend, the coach you contacted, or search the web. Try and select competitions close to home, which fit the category you selected, and have 1-3 areas of competition. Give yourself a minimum of 3 months to prepare to ensure you are not rushing photos and attire, and that you have time to meet with your coach a few times.  

Step 4:
Contact the Directors Personally: Once you have selected an event, call the director. Avoid saying, “I am new,” because directors are looking for entrants. This statement will open the door for directors to tell you what they think you want to hear to get your entry fees. The more entrants, the more popular their event looks, and the more money they make. You are looking for honest answers!

• Ask them a couple pointed questions: “Is your event professional glitz, hobby glitz, or natural? Does it lead to a national even? How many judges do you use? (3-5 is standard, with 5 being better) Where do you select judges from? (Previous winners, parents, and coaches/photographers serving as judges should be avoided due to potential bias.) Are score sheets available after the event? (Yes! You need them to learn from, and to guide your coach.) How long has the pageant been in existence? What time to the babies and small children compete? (Does this match your child’s happy time?) The conversation will lead itself, but get these answers before you end the call.

Step 5:
Obtain Paperwork: This final step will bring you right back to Step 1! After you speak with the directors, ask for paperwork to be mailed to you, or download it from their website. Contact your new coach and obtain their guidance regarding which event is best suited for YOUR child and goals. If they are not familiar with an event, they should offer to look into it and get back to you. (You can always request that they conduct the research!) Together, choose one and begin planning. Planning will be discussed in the next article, “I am Entered in…” Get your checklists ready!

See Kim Emery's other Articles:
A Pageant Story
3 Levels of Pageantry