Pageant Season is in Full Swing! What you need to do NOW!

Hello!

Pageant season is almost here! Many competitors have been honing their skills and perfecting their presentation for months. If you're serious about competing, my best advice is to dedicate at least a year to preparation. As someone who's been on both sides of the stage, as a former titleholder and a pageant trainer, I know the value of a strategic approach. I love breaking down my delegates' strengths and weaknesses, creating a roadmap for a year-long development.

We're currently in the final stretch, polishing every detail for a flawless performance. But even if you're just starting to consider competing, don't worry! Here's what you can do today to kickstart your pageant journey.

1. Book your hair and makeup artist: Finding a Hair and Makeup Artist (HMUA) who aligns with your personal style and fits your budget is crucial for pageant success. Remember, not every HMUA can execute every look, so don't be afraid to explore your options. Scheduling a trial session allows you to assess compatibility and ensure your vision can be brought to life seamlessly. Plus, top HMUAs book up incredibly quickly, so starting your search and securing your preferred artist now will guarantee you're in the best hands on competition day.

   
   

2. Finalize your speeches, wardrobe, and talent: As the competition draws closer, it’s time to stop restructuring your speeches. What truly makes an impact isn’t how elaborate your speech is, but how confidently and powerfully you deliver it. Finalize your script now and focus on memorization and delivery so you can leave a lasting impression.

   Keep in mind that some wardrobe items, especially custom pieces, can take a minimum of a month to complete and arrive. Make sure everything is ordered and ready ahead of time so you aren’t scrambling at the last minute. Having your full outfits early on also allows you to practice performing in them. The same goes for your talent: master it now so you feel confident and prepared to perform at your absolute best.

   
   

3. Book an appointment at a local studio: Many local dance studios rent out space for individual practice. Training in a studio is very different from practicing at home; the larger, open area more closely mirrors the stage you’ll be performing on. It allows you to take full advantage of your choreography by using the entire floor, marking where your turns, poses, and transitions will go, and becoming confident moving across a space similar in size to the actual stage. Plus they will have large mirrors where you'll be able to see yourself directly and correct any mistakes you will see.

   
   

4. Run a full dress rehearsal: Wardrobe issues are one of the most common things that can go wrong on competition day, which is why it’s essential to practice in your chosen pieces before the event. If you're wearing an elaborate gown, you’ll want to rehearse walking in it with your heels to ensure it flows correctly and doesn’t cause you to trip or get caught. Protect yourself from avoidable mishaps by investing in a full dress rehearsal with your team ahead of time.

   
   

5. Plan a day to pamper yourself: Amid all the busy preparations, don’t forget to take time for yourself. Schedule a day for a manicure, pedicure, facial, or even a relaxing spa day at home. Give yourself space to unwind and recharge. Stress in the days leading up to competition can lead to anxiety, self-doubt, and distractions that throw you off your game. We want you to show up feeling like the best version of you, and that can only happen when you take care of your well-being first.

Remember to enjoy the journey, not just the destination. This experience is meant to grow you; not only as a performer, but as a person. As competition day approaches, stay intentional: lean into the areas where you know you need improvement, ask thoughtful questions, and use the support of your coordinators and trainers to sharpen your skills.

Trust your preparation, stay curious, and allow this experience to stretch you into your highest potential. You are capable, deserving, and ready.

Wishing all of our delegates the very best of luck!

Team Pachia 2023