Pageant-Info

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I have never competed in a pageant. Do I need to have pageant experience?

Absolutely not! In fact, most of our contestants are competing for the first time and many will compete again after their wonderful experience.

All registered contestants are encouraged to attend the free Pageant Training Workshops where we will answer all of your questions and offer helpful tips and suggestions to ensure that you are ready for the competition.

What are the areas of competition and what kind of wardrobe will I need?

There are three categories in which each contestant will be judged: Personal Interview, Swimsuit, and Evening Gown. Each category counts equally. There is no talent competition.

Interview -- Each contestant will meet with the judges one-on-one. The judges will try to get an idea of who you are as an individual. They will be looking for a young woman capable of expressing herself clearly, intelligently and confidently. You will wear a stylish outfit that would be appropriate for a television interview or a luncheon given in your honor.

Swimsuit -- Both Miss and Miss Teen contestants may choose to wear either a one-piece or two-piece swimsuit of your choice. (No thongs or Brazilian cut bottoms.) Judges will focus on overall fitness and health -- there are no height or weight requirements and physical measurements are not considered. Confidence is the key!

Evening Gown -- Judges will focus on poise, overall appearance, and a sense of fashion and personal style. Remember, style does not have a price tag -- the only requirement is that the dress be full length.

Do I need a special outfit for the Opening Number? Will we be dancing?

All contestants will wear short, black cocktail dresses and black shoes that reflect each young woman’s personal style. You do not need to know how to dance to compete in this pageant. You will work with a choreographer during rehearsals to learn walking patterns and to practice walking up and down stairs while wearing heels. During the Opening Number, you will give a brief self-introduction which will include your name and contestant number.

I have a tattoo/body piercing. Is that okay?

We will not prohibit you from entering the pageant because we feel that tattoos and piercings are a statement of your individuality. If you are uncomfortable showing your tattoo, you may want to make sure it is covered by your swimsuit and evening gown or with body makeup.

What if I can't make all the rehearsals or photo shoots?

The last scheduled date for Headshot Photo Sessions for the Pageant Program Book will be July 29th. There are no sitting fees for the photo sessions for registered contestants. If you register after July 29th, we will schedule a time convenient for both you and our photographer.

On Location Shoots are not mandatory. We will be taking photos and video of contestants at various venues around Westchester County for a Pageant Highlights video to be shown during the Pageant Production. These photos will also be on the Pageant Photo Highlights CD.

There will be one rehearsal in August that is optional. This will be an opportunity to practice your walking, turning and posing as well as your self-introduction for the opening number. You will have a chance to practice your make-up for the stage and participate in mock interviews.

The August 26th rehearsal is mandatory and will last approximately three hours. You will learn the Opening Number choreography and walking patterns for the Swimsuit and Evening Gown Competitions.

If I am crowned Miss Westchester, Miss Westchester Teen, Miss Hudson Valley or Miss Hudson Valley Teen will I be making appearances?

Absolutely, yes! Our titleholders will have the opportunity to appear at charity and civic fundraisers and events. In addition, each titleholder will be asked to focus on her platform and develop ways to make a difference for that cause or charity.

If I win, how much time will it require?

We realize that your education and family are your top priorities. Almost all appearances will take place during the weekends and will be scheduled in advance. We will spend some time preparing you for the State Pageant which will be coordinated with your school/work/family schedule. The 2013 State Pageant will take place during Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend in Westchester County.

What does it cost to participate in the pageant?

The $595 Contestant Entry Fee includes a quarter-page listing with color photo in the Program Book, an 8x10 B&W photo headshot, a complimentary copy of the Program Book, a Miss Westchester & Miss Hudson Valley Pageants t-shirt, and all meals and snacks on Pageant Day. Although the entry fee can be paid by you or your family, you are encouraged to seek Sponsors to cover your costs. You may thank up to three Sponsors in your quarter-page listing and all Sponsorship is fully tax-deductible for businesses as an advertising/promotional expense.

What does the entry fee cover?

The entry fees are used to pay for the Pageant Production (White Plains Performing Arts Center theater rental, staging and stage crew, lighting and sound crew, music, etc.) as well as the Marketing and Promotion for the event. All checks should be made out to “Miss Westchester Pageants.” Entry fees are not refundable for any reason.

What if I raise more Sponsorship money than the required entry fee?

If you collect over the required amount, please send the full amount to the Pageant Office and the excess money will be credited towards tickets for your family and friends.

Am I required to sell advertising or tickets?

Contestants are not required to sell ad pages or tickets. Advertising sales will cover the cost of printing the Pageant Program Book and we will offer incentives to contestants who wish to sell ads to Sponsors, family and friends. Tickets will be sold through the White Plains Performing Arts Center Box Office and will be sold on a first come first served basis.

What if I miss the Entry Deadline? Can I still be in the pageant?

The Program Book printing deadline determines the cut off date for applications. Call the Pageant Office: 914-834-3550.

Saturday, July 30

Sunday, July 29

Friday, August 3

Saturday, August 4

Sunday, August 5

Sunday, August 26

Saturday, September 1

Sunday, September 2

On Location Photo Shoot:

Entry Fee Due: