Pageant 101: Vital Tips for First-time Contestants

About to make your grand entrance into the pageant world? Tiza knows the ropes. Tiza has created numerous award-winning gown ensembles--from 2007 Miss USA..... Now, we're ready to share our pageant secrets to get you crowned and showered in petals, no matter what stage you choose to walk across.

Pre-pageant Prep

A pageant is more than what you'll wear. Do your research. Find the pageant that fits you. Look at pageant requirements to make sure your talents compliment. Research previous winners to see what responsibilities are.

Take care of yourself. No diet pills, crash diets or over-exercising. This only drains you of natural energy and won't make you lose weight. Talk to a nutritionist for real nutrition advice, and a personal trainer for a regimen that's detailed to your body.

You don't have to be a tan, 5'9" blonde to win. Accentuate your natural colors and shape with your dress. Tiza offers pageant gowns in all shapes, sizes, and colors.

Finally, don't change anything the week before--dress, talent, hair color or otherwise.

Day Of Duties

Be on time. That means don't stay out late the night before. Get enough sleep. No carbonated beverages to avoid bloating. Stay stress free by surrounding yourself with positive, calm people who won't freak you out. Soothing music and candles are vital de-stressors. They will help you focus on your fact sheet and possible interview questions. Be friendly backstage.

Show Down

Breathe in through your nose, and out through your mouth. Think of something funny before walking on stage to get a real smile and avoid looking plastic. Even if you trip, keep your head held high and a proud smile on your face. Walk slowly with shoulders back, like you've already won. Lastly, have fun. Hey, you just put in a ton of work. You're already royalty.