Return to flip book view

NAM Magazine 2025

Page 1

namstatepageant.com

Page 2

• National American Miss is a program based on the foundational principle of fostering positive self- image by enhancing natural beauty within. • National American Miss is a program designed for today’s girl and women. We celebrate America’s greatness and the individuality of American girls and women. • National American Miss is a program centered around helping young ladies grow and expand their ideas about who they are and what they want to achieve. We want everyone to realize that she truly can take hold of her dreams and make them real! • National American Miss has friendly staff members who will guide you throughout your pageant experience. Each and every team member is committed to opening doors of opportunity for girls that aren’t available anywhere else. • National American Miss is a program that teaches valuable skills that will give you a competitive edge to succeed in whatever fields you may choose. • National American Miss is a program that reminds today’s girls and women that there is a special plan for their life. You have been created for a unique purpose! • National American Miss has concert-level sound and lighting. You will be proud to invite your family and friends to rally around and support you on pageant weekend. • National American Miss is part of the The iam Powerhouse Family. The iam Powerhouse offers award- winning, top level competitions, along with amazing opportunities for all levels of experience, shapes, sizes, and walks of life. PO Box 7561 Athens, GA 30604 770.375.8610 namstatepageant.com © National American Miss, Inc. 2002-2025Welcome to the National American Miss Pageant! Our goals at National American Miss are for you to share quality time with your family, make new friends, and gain valuable self- confidence. We are delighted that you have taken the first step toward one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences of your life as we celebrate you! Your pageant weekend will be a spectacular event, filled with fun and excitement for your entire family and memories you will cherish for a lifetime. We are honored to have you as part of our pageant family and thrilled to have you join us at your State Pageant! To begin preparing for pageant weekend, sit down with your family and look through this magazine. We want to make sure all of your questions are answered. Our team is here to help you every step of the way! So please, do not hesitate to give us a call. Today is the day to start preparing for your pageant weekend! Best Wishes,Scotty and Rebecca Williams State Directors namstatepageant.com

Page 3

Our Mission To encourage America’s future leaders and equip them with valuable life skills. Our Vision To be the country’s premier youth pageant system. Our Commitment Service We exist to serve you, the contestant, and your family. Excellence We are committed to excellence in all that we do. Integrity We challenge and hold each other accountable to the highest standards of conduct. Value We focus on creating a value-packed, fun family weekend. Completion We have an unwavering commitment to empower each contestant, enabling her to reach her full potential!3NAM girls and women can conquer it all, from the pageant stage to the operating room! Check out Talia Stewart, a former Miss New York who is studying to be-come a surgeon at Dartmouth Medical School.NAM is the perfect way to gain public speaking skills. The moment you hit the stage you are growing life skills that will help you prepare for a successful future. Check out NAM girl, Alexandra Curtis, a Public Affairs Officer in the Army. She says, “NAM helped me develop my confidence and public speaking skills, and I attribute much of my success to NAM!”Public speaking ability is a key ingredient to success in any profession and with NAM, you can become a polished and confident communicator. Check out NAM girl, Mackenzie Maynard, a former Miss Massachusetts Jr. Teen who is now an Emmy-nominated newscaster. 4 Official State Pageant Prize Package and Awards 5 Sneak Peek at Nationals 6 All About Required Outfits & the Competitions 7 Formal Wear Required Competition 8 Personal Introduction Required Competition 9 Interview Required Competition 10 Community Service Required Competition & Sponsorship Information 11 How Do I Get Sponsorships? 12 Fun Ways to Raise Sponsorship Fees 13 Frequently Asked Questions 14 Optional Contests 16 FREE Optional Contests 17 Pink Party 18 International Prize Sponsor Highlights

Page 4

4At your State Pageant, you will be competing for your share of more than $20,000 in prizes, awards, and exciting opportunities! Plus, our state queens go on to compete at Nationals in Orlando, Florida where more than $500,000 in cash and prizes are awarded. Each and every contestant is a winner at National American Miss. If you qualify to be in the pageant, you’ll become a contestant, and every contestant will be presented onstage and will also receive a beautiful Official Award during pageant weekend. Every National American Miss state winner in each age division receives*:• The Official Custom NAM State Queen Crown and Banner • The Official Custom NAM State Queen Crystal Award • A beautiful bouquet • State Queen’s $950 National Sponsor Fee paid IN FULL for NAM Nationals to compete for the National Title of National American Miss • The opportunity to participate in The iam Convention and be scouted by world-renowned modeling and talent agencies • Access to exclusive NAM Royalty app to communicate with sister queens and State Director • Series of "Crown Convos" to prepare State Queens for Nationals • National Welcome Bag filled with prize sponsor swag and goodies • Complimentary Hotel Night at the State Pageant’s Host Hotel to Crown Successor • Complimentary State Yearbook at State Farewell Weekend • VIP Seats and Complimentary Family Tickets to State Farewell Pageant • Discounts at The iam POWERHOUSE State Boutique • Travel and appearance opportunities throughout the year • Invitation to attend the Annual International Cruise with The iam POWERHOUSE and receive the NAM Group Rate Discount • Access to exclusive NAM State Queen "perks" from our National Sponsors* * National American Miss, Inc. (and NAM State Directors) are not responsible for any sponsored prizes or awards that are not fulfilled by sponsors. THE STATE QUEEN’S TITLE The National American Miss State title opens doors during your year of service. As the State Pageant winner you will represent your state for the following year and will return to next year’s pageant, with your hotel room provided for the night of the final show to crown your successor. Take a day to visit your state’s Governor, make an appearance with your local sports teams, be an honored speaker at the state fair, and participate in parades - these are just some of the opportunities you will have with National American Miss! TOP 5 - QUEEN'S COURT The four runners-up to the Queen’s title will each receive a custom-designed award and an invitation to the National Pageant where they will compete in a separate competition for the National All-American Miss Title. Take competition to the next level with top finishers from all across the country. COVER GIRL CONTEST The State Cover Girl will receive a crown, banner, trophy, roses and the opportunity to compete in the National Pageant in Orlando, Florida! She will also return to next year’s pageant to crown her successor. The Cover Girl program is a contest where you have the opportunity to sell Feature Pages for your state’s beautiful pageant yearbook.

Page 5

52024 National Queen Prize List appears below. All prizes are subject to change.This year, our national queens will be receiving many priceless opportunities and experiences as they travel both nationally and internationally to not only learn life skills and grow their confidence but also to expand on their philanthropy and make a difference worldwide. $5,000 cash at crowning, courtesy of National American Miss The Official NAM Custom-designed Rhinestone Crown The Official NAM Custom-designed Rhinestone Banner The Official NAM Custom-designed Crystal National Award Elegant presentation of floral bouquet at her coronation and during her farewell Custom Doll featuring a replica gown of her crowning look presented at her farewell, courtesy of You’re A Doll Customized Sash Sleeve to protect her banner, courtesy of The Blingy Bobbin All-Access Passes for her and her immediate family during the State and National Pageants (4) Additional Finale Show Tickets for her friends and family during her finale at NAM Nationals Travel allowance (up to $350) to attend the Official National American Miss National Photo Shoot Official National Queens Welcome Party at the National Photo Shoot Complimentary meals for her and one travel companion while attending the National Photo Shoot An additional rhinestone banner embroidered with her name is to be received at the National Photo Shoot Customized crown box with foldable travel handle, courtesy of Crown Couture Collection Customized carry-on luggage, courtesy of Crown Couture Collection Small Black Dream Duffel customized with NAM Logo, courtesy of Dream Duffel Long Omnia Garment Bag customized with NAM Logo, courtesy of Dream Duffel $100 Activity Day Award Voucher for use during NAM Nationals 2025 2-Park 1-Day Ticket to Universal Studios Orlando for use during NAM Nationals 2025 A paid appearance fee to at least one NAM State Pageant outside of her home state event during the 2025 NAM Summer Tour The opportunity to be featured at State Pageants throughout the country during the 2025 NAM Summer Tour Invitation to attend, at her expense, The iam Powerhouse International Cruise Travel allowance (up to $350) to attend NAM Nationals 2025, where she will crown her successor Hotel room comped for her and her family, to include eight nights in a luxurious double Queen or King room at the Hyatt Regency Orlando throughout NAM Nationals 2025 Complimentary Thanksgiving Banquet tickets (up to 4 total tickets) National Photo Shoot Gown selected exclusively for you, courtesy of Ashley Rene’s Pair of Diverse Style by Sydni Dion shoes selected exclusively for YOU by Sydni Dion herself received at the National Photoshoot A pair of Stefani Somers earrings selected exclusively for YOU by Stefanie herself received at the National Photoshoot Embroidered titleholder zip-up, courtesy of Caitlyn Kent Designs Embroidered titleholder waffle robe, courtesy of Caitlyn Kent Designs 2025 NAM State Souvenir Shirt 2025 NAM National Souvenir Shirt 30% off all NAM State Boutiques throughout her reign Summer Tour Wardrobe Piece (Cocktail, Jumpsuit, or Gown) selected exclusively for you, courtesy of Muzzie’s A pair of earrings selected exclusively for you, courtesy of Muzzie’s ASHLEYlauren Cocktail Dress to be worn during NAM Nationals 2025 selected exclusively for YOU by Ashley Lauren and her team of stylists shipped to your home by November 1 Custom Upgraded Production Number Dress for Nationals 2025 from ASHLEYlauren, courtesy of Ashley Rene’s Custom Production Number Shoes for Nationals 2025, courtesy of Diverse Style by Sydni Dion National Crowning Gown of her choice (up to $500), courtesy of Ashley Rene’s A pair of Stefanie Somers earrings designed exclusively to match your crowning gown, courtesy of Stefanie Somers 30% Off Discount site-wide for StefanieSomers.com Additional sponsorships on select wardrobe purchases throughout your reign, courtesy of Ashley Rene’s As the FACE of National American Miss, enjoy copies of all your high-resolution digital photos from the National Photo Shoot Official National American Miss custom autograph cards, double-sided, full-color, courtesy of National American Miss Access to the Official NAM Titleholder influencer account throughout her reign Highlight feature in The iam DREAM Digital Magazine Custom-designed magnetic car decal for events and appearances, courtesy of National American Miss 2-Look On-Location Photo Shoot in Granger, Indiana with Hair & Makeup, courtesy of Meagan Gilbert Photography + Ashley Urban Artistry Serve as a featured model during the Ashley Rene’s Fashion Show during NAM Nationals 2025 2-page, Full-Color Feature Spread in the 2025 NAM National Yearbook Complimentary Farewell Video produced for her finale at NAM Nationals 2025, compliments of Pageants 2 Go 8x10 Souvenir Group Photo, NAM Nationals Class of 2025 8x10 Universal Studios Orlando Group Photo, NAM Nationals Class of 2025 Oversized foam board of the Class of 2025 Titleholders to take home after NAM Nationals 2025 Rhinestone Banner Titleholder Ears, courtesy of EllieCakes Custom Ears Custom ‘NAM’ Chunky Yarn Sweatshirt, courtesy of The Blingy Bobbin NAM ‘Pageant Persona Pennant’, courtesy of The Blingy Bobbin Customized Sash Replica Titleholder Tote Bag, courtesy of Pageant Gotcha Covered T-shirt, Makeup Brush Set, Popsocket, and swag, courtesy of Ashley Rene’s Swag Bag, courtesy of Muzzie’s $250 Visa Gift card for any royal essentials, received at the National Photoshoot National Queen and Queen Mom Rhinestone Magnetic Photo Brooch, courtesy of The Regal Runway Complete ‘Sash Secure’ System, courtesy of The Regal Runway Custom Lasercut Keychain, courtesy of The Regal Runway Lighted Teeth Whitening Session (ages 8+) during Nationals 2025, courtesy of Enlightened Expressions Gwinnett Teeth Whitening Pen, courtesy of Enlightened Expressions Gwinnett Customized Tanning Experience during Nationals 2025, courtesy of SJM Artistry Replenishing Skin Moisturizer received at Nationals 2025, courtesy of SJM Artistry (3) Professional Sash Cleanings throughout her reign, courtesy of Elite Custom Cleaning Company Complimentary styling from our Elite HMUA Teams during at least one NAM State Pageant during the 2025 NAM Summer Tour Discounted styling services from our Approved HMUA Teams throughout her reign Full Valet Wardrobe Cleaning Package, valued at over $2500, courtesy of Elite Custom Cleaning Company. Complimentary participation in The International Acting and Modeling (iam) Convention during NAM Nationals 2025, with the opportunity to be scouted by National and International agencies, including call-backs for acting and print work A digital copy of The Crowning Planner, as well as digital Content Calendars for the duration of her reign, courtesy of The Crowning Planner ‘Social Media Development + Presence’ Training Session, courtesy of The Crowning Planner Copy of “The Queen Machine” book and plushie, courtesy of former NAM All-American Miss and author, Serene Singh Queen’s Development Conference in Kansas City, Missouri – March 2025, courtesy of Confidence & Poises, Pageant Coaching & Designs, and Queenies & Crowns And much more!

Page 6

6Elite 25-39 Miss 19-24 Teen 16-18 Jr. Teen 13-15 Pre-Teen* 10-12 Jr. Pre-Teen* 7-9 Princess* 4-6 Age groups are assigned by the contestant’s obtained age as of January 1 of the year of the competition. See namiss.com for more details. ** No noticeable makeup for these three age groups during the Required Competitions. • Formal Dress • Interview Outfit • Pageant Production Number T-Shirt The following pages have examples of these outfits that are required.qLook for a type of dress you like and one you would feel confident wearing. qWhether you are purchasing, borrowing, or renting a dress, find an age-appropriate style that will allow you to move gracefully across the stage. qWhen looking for that perfect dress, remember that there is a fine line between something that is elegant and age-appropriate, and something that is too sophisticated and mature. The line doesn’t fall in the same place for all ladies, so be careful not to look too old for your age and be true to yourself. Don't try to be something that you are not. Whether you are athletic or fancy, choose a dress that will reflect who you are. qOnce you have acquired your dress and shoes, practice walking in them to prepare for pageant weekend. If you’ve never worn fancy shoes and formal dresses, then you will need some time to get used to them. Break them in a little. qYour Formal Wear dress should follow the rules on page 7 and make you feel like a winner!qDuring the pageant finale, every contestant will take part in a fun opening number, which you will learn during a rehearsal on pageant weekend. Every contestant will wear the same production number shirt. The official T-shirt color and design vary from year to year. qThe official T-shirt will be available for purchase on pageant weekend for a total of $35. qYou will need to bring your own blue jeans. qYou will need to bring your own white tennis shoes if you are a Princess, Jr. Pre-Teen, or Pre-Teen contestant. If you are a Jr. Teen, Teen, Miss, or Elite contestant, you can wear any style shoe of your choice. No flip flops. qChoose a dress, pants, or suit that will showcase your personality in a color that expresses your style. qYour shoes should complement your interview outfit. Please make sure that you can comfortably walk in them. Shoes that are not comfortable can affect your poise and posture. qNatural enthusiasm makes a great first impression. Select the outfit and shoes that you feel confident in – the one that puts a smile on your face.Reminder: No noticeable makeup for the Princess, Jr. Pre-Teen, and Pre-Teen age divisions.

Page 7

ABOUT You will be introduced, by the pageant emcee on stage in the formal dress of your choosing. There is no admission charge for audience members attending this competition. During pageant weekend, contestants will attend a rehearsal prior to the competitions so they may practice walking. Escorts will be used during this competition for all age groups, EXCEPT Miss and Elite. Escorts are encouraged to attend this rehearsal, but it is not required. Attire rules Princess, Jr. Pre-Teen, and Pre-Teen • Choose a dress that is appropriate for your age and shows your personality. • Your dress may be any length and any style. • Bare midriffs are not allowed. • Jewelry, if worn, should complement the outfit and be age appropriate. • Shoes should be small heels or flats that you can comfortably walk in. Jr. Teen, Teen, Miss and Elite • Choose a formal dress that is appropriate for your age and shows your personality. • Your dress may by any length and any style. • Jewelry, if worn, should complement the outfit. • Shoes that are comfortable to walk in. Format • You will be provided the exact walking pattern prior to the competition. Scoring • Scoring is based on the selection committee’s overall impression, and the finalist’s ability to command attention with her poise and personality. • The selection committee is looking for a representative who is wearing appropriate attire and is confident and comfortable on stage. you bring • Formal wear dress of your choice • Complementing shoes • Complementing jewelry, if you choose • Emcee Card (located in your pageant paperwork), will be submitted at Pageant Check-In and used later by our staff during this competition. all about escorts • Princess, Jr. Pre-Teen, Pre-Teen, Jr. Teen, and Teen contestants will need an escort for the Formal Wear Competition. Escorts may be any family member or friend. Miss and Elite contestants will not be escorted. • Escorts are only needed during the Formal Wear Competition. During the Final Show, the contestant is presented on stage alone, and at that time, your escort would be part of the audience. So, your escort will need a ticket if they wish to attend the Final Show. • Attire for Escorts: Something that complements the contestant’s formal dress. T-shirts, jeans, and shorts would NOT be considered appropriate attire.7Our experienced selection committee scores each contestant’s ability to showcase: Involvement in Community Service Project 10% Public Speaking During Personal Introduction 30% Poise and Presentation in Formal Wear 30% Personality During an Interview 30%Hair & Makeup at National American Miss At National American Miss, emphasis is placed on a delegate’s ability to communicate comfortably and confidently, verbally and non-verbally. While we allow age-appropriate makeup for our Senior Divisions (Jr. Teen, Teen, Miss, and Elite), we do not believe it should be worn by our Junior Division contestants (Princess, Jr. Pre-Teen, and Pre-Teen delegates). We do instruct our judges that, if they notice makeup on our Junior Division contestants, they may take that into account during their scoring.

Page 8

ABOUT You will introduce yourself with the microphone, on stage, in front of the audience. You will wear a professional outfit of your choosing. There is no admission charge for audience members attending Personal Introduction. During Pageant Weekend, there will be a rehearsal prior to the competition. Please carefully review the rules of the competition that are listed below. Attire rules Princess, Jr. Pre-Teen, and Pre-Teen • You will wear the same outfit for BOTH the Personal Introduction Competition and the Interview Competition. • Shoes should be comfortable to walk in. • Hats, gloves, and purses are not allowed. • Jewelry can be worn for all age groups, as long as it is age-appropriate. • Noticeable makeup is not permitted. Jr. Teen, Teen, Miss and Elite • You will wear the same outfit for BOTH the Personal Introduction Competition and the Interview Competition. • Pick an outfit you would wear to a professional job interview. • Shoes should complement your outfit and be age-appropriate. • Hats, gloves, and purses are not allowed. • Jewelry, if worn, should be age appropriate. Format • You will walk onto the stage, the current queen will then hand you the microphone, and you will introduce yourself to the selection committee and the audience by delivering your Personal Introduction. • When you are finished with your introduction, you will hand the microphone back to the state queen and then exit the stage. Scoring • The selection committee is looking for a representative who naturally conveys her unique personality through engaging public speaking skills, confidence, and stage presence. • Following attire rules, as well as presentation rules, will be a factor. you bring • Personal Introduction/Interview outfit • Comfortable shoes • Complementing jewelry, if you choose presentation rules Three things you must say: • Name • Hometown • Something interesting about yourself Your personal introduction must be memorized. In addition to the three required things you must say, you are encouraged to add additional information in your Personal Introduction. However, there is a TIME LIMIT OF 30 SECONDS!8

Page 9

ABOUT This is a closed competition, which means no audience is allowed in the interview room. You will wear a professional outfit of your choosing. Questions asked will not have right or wrong answers. You know all the answers because all the questions are about you and your personal experiences. Attire rules Princess, Jr. Pre-Teen, and Pre-Teen • You will wear the same outfit for BOTH the Personal Introduction Competition and the Interview Competition. Jr. Teen, Teen, Miss, and Elite • You will wear the same outfit for BOTH the Personal Introduction Competition and the Interview Competition. Format • Your resume, available to download from your State Pageant website, is required to be completed prior to the pageant and submitted at Pageant Check-In. • You will meet with approximately five selection committee members, individually. Each interview with each individual selection committee member lasts approximately one minute. Once your interview is over with the first selection committee member, the bell will ding and you walk to the second selection committee member’s table, take a seat, and begin your interview. You will repeat this process until you have interviewed with all selection committee members. Scoring • The selection committee is looking for a naturally-enthusiastic, confident, and effective communicator. • The selection committee wants to know more about you. Maintain eye contact and sit forward on your chair with your back straight. • Answer each question in complete sentences. You are interviewing for the job of state queen and this is the perfect time to talk about yourself. • Following attire rules will be a factor. you bring • Personal Introduction/Interview outfit • Complementing shoes • Complementing jewelry, if you choose • Resume (located in your Pageant Paperwork), which will be submitted at Pageant Check-In and returned to you by our staff prior to the competition. SAMPLE INTERVIEW QUESTIONS *These may or may not be asked during interview. They are intended to be used for practice. Princess, Jr. Pre-Teen, and Pre-Teen • What to do you want to be when you grow up? • What is your favorite color/tv show/ book/food/etc.? • What do you like to do with your family? • If you could have one wish, what would it be? • Why do you want to be your State Queen? • I see from your resume you like to….can you tell me about it? • Which Disney princess/character is your favorite? Jr. Teen, Teen, Miss, and Elite • Whom do you most admire, and why? • What do you look for in a friend? • What three words best describe you? • What is your biggest strength? • What is the most significant problem facing your generation? • If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? • Do you need the crown, or does the crown need you?9

Page 10

ABOUT A full 10% of your overall pageant score will automatically be awarded to you when you do one or more of the following things to serve your community. • Donate a children's book(s) to your local library, school library, or organization of your choice. • Donate school supplies to your school or organization of your choice. • Donate at least one hour to help others in need in your community. Each year more than 20,000 children's books, countless school supplies and thousands of hours are donated nationwide through the amazing NAM contestants involvement in the Community Service Project. Again, this is a required competition worth 10% of your overall score. We hope that through this competition you will fall in love with serving others in your community and make this a lifelong quest. Format • Donations are to be made and volunteer hours are to be served prior to pageant weekend. • If making a donation, only one item is required to receive full credit. If volunteering, there is a minimum of at least one hour to receive full credit. • You are required to submit your completed Community Service Form, available for download from your State Pageant website, at Pageant Check-In. This form will act as verification of your participation. • While it is NOT required, we encourage you to submit a photo of yourself making your donation. • National American Miss will adhere to the honor system in regard to your donation of volunteer hours. Scoring • You will receive a full 10% of your required competition score automatically when you submit your Community Service form at Pageant Check-In. you bring • The Community Service Project Form (downloaded from your state pageant website) will be submitted at Pageant Check-In and used as verification of your participation in this competition. Remember, volunteer hours and/or donations are to be made prior to the State Pageant.10The following explains all of the expenses required to participate in the competitions. Read below about what a sponsorship fee is, why you need one, and how to find your personal sponsor(s).The sponsorship fee is the entry fee required to be in the pageant. Sponsors can be family members or businesses… ANYONE can sponsor a contestant! All sponsorship fees are tax-deductible for businesses as an advertising expense. Most family members, community businesses and organizations are thrilled to sponsor those who are a positive reflection on their community! All payments are non-refundable.Sponsorship fees help offset the cost of producing the pageant. Sponsorship fees pay pageant expenses, which include prizes, awards, trophies, selection committees’ expenses, staff expenses, ballroom rental, staging, lighting, national pageant expenses, and the winner’s trip to Nationals. Think of sports teams, professional athletes, and various community activities; these events are able to take place and these people are able to compete because they have the support of their sponsors.Contestants have no other required fees!$325 First Payment $325 Second Payment $35 Production Shirt

Page 11

1234567Make a list of prospective sponsors. Anyone can be a sponsor! Family, friends, local businesses, etc. Think about stores where you shop and local businesses that you and your family support. Ask them to return the favor and support you as one of your sponsors. That's a great place to start! Dress up! Look your best! It shows that you are motivated and prepared. Visit the sponsor in person! Phone calls, e-mails, and letters are not as effective as a personal visit. Try to visit your sponsor in person if possible. Even visiting over FaceTime or Zoom is a terrific option! Share your excitement and your goal! • Tell the prospective sponsor the good news about being accepted as a contestant. • Let them know about the family focus of the pageant. • Share your goals! For example: “To do my best to represent my community well, to make new friends, to gain life skills, and to have a great time with my family.” Ask for their support. For example: “The fee to be in the pageant is a total of $650. I’m asking ten people to contribute $65 each. It’s tax-deductible for businesses. Would you help me with your $65 contribution today?” Thank them with a smile! Whether they give you $5, $50, or nothing at all, always thank them with a smile for their time. No matter what the outcome, you’ll gain strength and character and have the respect of the prospective sponsor. . Thank them with a note! Within a week of the contribution, send a “thank you” card or note to your sponsors. Writing a note is not as hard as it might seem, and if you can develop this habit, it will make a big difference throughout your life!What do I say to a prospective sponsor? Introduce yourself. Explain that you have been accepted as a contestant in the National American Miss Pageant for your state. Show the prospective sponsor the information you can access on the next page by scanning the QR code. Tell the prospective sponsor that you are trying to raise the fees necessary to attend the pageant for your state. Explain the goals of the pageant. Remind the prospective sponsor that their donations are tax-deductible as an advertising expense for business owners. All sponsors will be listed in the State Yearbook.* Tell the prospective sponsor that you can have as many or as few sponsors as necessary to reach your minimum goal of $650. Thank the prospective sponsor for their time, whether they choose to sponsor you or not. * Each contestant’s total sponsorship list is limited to 195 characters including spaces. What if a prospective sponsor tells me “no”? If a prospective sponsor says, “No,” say “Thank you for your time” with a smile. Remember, the only difference between success and failure is that successful people keep trying. Quick, simple, and done! To lock in your place in the pageant, you can scan the QR code to go online to your state pageant website and make a secure payment online with any major credit card. It’s fast and easy. For payments by check, make payable to “NAM” with the contestant’s name on memo line.1234567811

Page 12

SPONSORSHIP IDEAS The key to success is to visit in person, if possible, and ask for sponsorship from locally-owned businesses or individuals. Keep in mind when visiting a business that it is important to speak with the actual business owner, agent, or manager. Many sponsors are small businesses, local service organizations, and the countless family members and friends of our participants. Here are some general categories of sponsors: • Family members: mom, dad, grandparents, aunts, uncles, anyone in your family, friends, and neighbors • Insurance (car, home, life, etc.) & Real Estate Agents • Local businesses: doctor, dentist, optometrist, chiropractor, and more! • Auto repair shops, car dealerships, tire shops, wrecker services • Hardware stores, plumbers, electricians, HVAC repair, pest control, carpenters • Hair and nail salons • Locally-owned restaurants • Social and fraternal organizations: American Legion, Rotary Club, Knights of Columbus, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Girl Scouts, Shriner's Club, etc. DIVIDE THE SPONSOR FEE UP! Make a goal of how much money you would like to raise. You don’t have to ask only one person for the full sponsorship fee. You are not limited to how many sponsors you can have. Remember, any donation that a business gives you is tax deductible for them as an advertising expense. We will print your sponsors' names (up to 195 spaces) next to your name and picture in the State Yearbook. Sponsors fees are non-refundable. Other sponsorship tips HAVE A CAR WASH - Ask neighborhood businesses, or organizations such as a church, community center, local grocery store, etc., if you can use their parking area and water. Get a group of your friends to help wash and dry the cars. HAVE A BAKE SALE - Maybe some of the same businesses will allow a bake sale. Bake up a storm and sell the goodies! HAVE A GARAGE SALE - Collect items from neighbors on your block and then use the profits for your sponsorship fee. People will love supporting you. DOWNLOAD EXTRA TOOLS AT namstatepageant.com • Sponsor Brochures - to give to potential sponsors when you meet with them • Contributor Receipts - to give to sponsors if they need a receipt for their donation • Potential Sponsor Letter - another way to reach out to possible sponsors to introduce yourself, the pageant and your goal! 12

Page 13

Remember, sponsorship contributions can cover any pageant related costs, such as: ...so don’t stop at $650! • Sponsorship Fees • Production Number T-Shirt • Final Show Tickets • Optional Contests • Hotel Room • OutfitsWhat are the benefits of entering National American Miss? This is an opportunity of a lifetime. In addition to trophies, prizes, scholarships, cash, and awards, you will gain self-confidence, communication skills, and valuable experience from interviewing and appearing on stage in front of an audience! You will make friendships that you will cherish for years to come and memories that will last a lifetime. In short, you will have a great time while building important real-life skills. What makes NAM different than other pageants? Our program is all about celebrating you for your unique qual-ities. (and then keep the rest about scoring). You are scored 30% on your Personal Introduction, 30% on Poise and Presenta-tion in Formal Wear, 30% on Communication Skills and Person-ality in Interview, and 10% on Participating in our Community Service Project at your State Pageant. Is previous pageant experience required? Absolutely not! Anyone is quite capable of doing well and even winning in our system regardless of prior pageant experience. We will provide you with all the information and help you need. We are looking for enthusiastic young ladies who can proudly represent their state. First time participants make terrific contestants and can make wonderful winners! Do I have to get coaching or other formal training? No! This magazine, along with the training from our staff, will provide you with a solid foundation to create your own style and learn the stage techniques required for competition. Do I have to stay at the pageant host hotel? You are not required to stay at the pageant host hotel. Ho-wever, the pageant does set up a special discounted block for the contestants and their families. It is often well worth tak-ing advantage of the low rate and being right there in the heart of it all. Spend your time having fun and making new friends rather than commuting. If I do not enter any Optional Contests, will it affect my chances of winning the overall pageant? Absolutely not! Scores from the optional contests (talent, photogenic, etc.) have no effect on the outcome of the overall pageant. Optional contests are scored by a separate selection committee. Each optional contest is an opportunity for you to shine and be recognized in your area of interest. What is a Sponsorship Fee? The sponsorship fee pays for the cost of producing the pageant: awards, trophies, choreogra-phers, emcees, lighting, sound, staging, selection committees’ expenses, staff, florists, hotel ballroom rental, printed materials, scholarships, office support, and all of the many other things that come together to make the pageant the best program for you and your family. The sponsorship fee is $650 and can be divided up into separate payments. You may have as many or as few sponsors as you wish contrib-uting to make up your total sponsorship fee of $650. Businesses, family, friends, or fundraising activities are all great ideas for earning your sponsorship fee. Sponsorship fees are non-refundable. Remember sponsorship contributions can cover any pageant related costs, such as Sponsorship Fee, Production Number T-Shirt, Final Show Tickets, Optional Contests, Hotel Room, and more. So don’t stop at $650! Do I have to raise my sponsorship fee, or can we just pay it? It is up to you. You can either raise your sponsorship fee or pay it yourself–or even a combination of the two–whichever works best for you and your family. Remember that the total sponsor-ship fee is $650. I would like to be in the pageant, but how do I get sponsors? The best place to begin is where your family does business. Examples are cleaners, insurance companies, banks, doctors, dentists, local stores, etc. Call ahead to make an appointment, and dress up when you visit them. Visiting potential sponsors is good practice for your interview. Most sponsors will want to ask you questions about the pageant. They will receive recognition in your state yearbook. Should I write my sponsor a thank you note? It is very important to write each of your sponsors a note of thanks; it is an essential part of good manners. Be sure to thank them for making your dream of being in the pageant a reality! 13

Page 14

Optional ContestsThe winner from each age division will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the National competition in Orlando, FL, an award, as well as her entry fee to compete in this year’s National Photogenic Optional Contest ($175 value). The four runners-up will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the national competition in Orlando, FL. • Available to all age divisions. • Photos must be uploaded by your State Pageant deadline. Do not mail them in. • Unlimited entries may be submitted. 1 photo is 1 entry. • Entries can be any size but higher resolution photos usually score higher. • The photo(s) may be black & white or color. • $100 fee per photo entry. Enter at least four photos and automatically receive the Portfolio award!The winner from each age division will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the National competition in Orlando, FL, an award, as well as her entry fee to compete in this year’s National Casual Wear Optional Contest ($175 value). The four runners-up will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the national competition in Orlando, FL. • Available to all age divisions. • You may submit up to 2 Casual Wear ModelingSM entries. • Each contestant will model one age-appropriate outfit per entry. • This is your chance to show your own personality and style. • This contest has the excitement and energy of a live fashion show! • $100 fee per Casual Wear ModelingSM entry.The winner from each age division will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the National competition in Orlando, FL, an award, as well as her entry fee to compete in this year’s National Talent Optional Contest ($175 value). The four runners-up will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the national competition in Orlando, FL. • Available to all age divisions. • Talent performances must be a live solo performance. • You may submit up to 2 Talent entries. • There is a two-minute time limit on all entries. • $150 entry fee per Talent entry.TalentphotogenicCasual Wear modelingThe winner will receive a feature in The iam Dream Magazine, a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the National Competition in Orlando, FL, and an award. The first runner-up will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the national competition in Orlando, FL. • Available to all age divisions. • The contestant with the highest combined score in the Photogenic and Casual Wear optional contest who also paid the $50 entry fee will become the Dream Model. • Must also enter both Photogenic and Casual Wear Modeling Optional Contests. • $50 entry fee dream model14To take part in the National American Miss Pageant, there are the four required elements in which every contestant will participate–Formal Wear (30%), Personal Introduction (30%), Personal Interview (30%) and Community Service Project (10%). The State Representative is chosen from these four categories only. National American Miss also offers a variety of OPTIONAL Contests; however, they are NOT required to participate in the pageant. They are offered for those contestants that have developed an interest in the performing arts another chance to be recognized. Below you will find some of the optional contests offered; again, you are in no way required to participate in any of these optional contests. Please note our events may contain fog and/or bright, strobing, and flashing lights.

Page 15

spokesmodelThe winner from each age division will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the National competition in Orlando, FL, an award, as well as her entry fee to compete in this year’s National Spokesmodel Optional Contest ($175 value). The four runners-up will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the national competition in Orlando, FL. • Available to all age divisions. • You may submit up to 2 SpokesmodelSM entries. • Contestants will wear interview outfits. • Choose from a list of topics, write a short speech and deliver it on stage. • There is a 1½-minute time limit on all entries. • $100 entry fee per SpokesmodelSM entry.The winner from each age division will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the National competition in Orlando, FL, an award, as well as her entry fee to compete in this year’s National Actress Optional Contest ($175 value). The four runners-up will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the national competition in Orlando, FL. • Available to all age divisions. • You may submit up to 2 Actress entries. • Contestants will choose lines from a provided list. • Actress entries are self-recorded (you can use your cell phone!) and uploaded for judging prior to pageant weekend. • $100 fee per Actress entry.actressThe winner from each age division will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the National competition in Orlando, FL, an award, as well as her entry fee to compete in this year’s National Top Model Optional Contest ($175 value). The four runners-up will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the national competition in Orlando, FL. • Available to all age divisions. • This super fun contest puts you on the set of a real live photo shoot. • You may enter this Optional Contest twice. • $150 fee per Top Model Search entry. • You will receive all photos from your photo shoot!Top Model SearchThe winner from each age division will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the National competition in Orlando, FL, an award, as well as her entry fee to compete in this year’s National Runway Model Search Optional Contest ($175 value). The four runners-up will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the national competition in Orlando, FL. • Available to all age divisions. • Each contestant will model a fashion-forward outfit of her choice, competing in front of a selection committee as she walks the runway! • You may enter this Optional Contest twice. • $150 fee per Runway Model Search entry.runway model searchThe winner from each age division will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the National competition in Orlando, FL, an award, as well as her entry fee to compete in this year’s National Fun Fitness Optional Contest ($175 value). The four runners-up will be awarded a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the national competition in Orlando, FL. •This exciting event is a high-energy contest that not only shows off your modeling skills, but also promotes health and fitness. You will model an age-appropriate athletic outfit. •Available to all age divisions. •You may enter this Optional Contest twice. • $100 fee per Fun Fitness entry.FUN FITNESS15Optional ContestsPLUS: RED CARPET MEDIA CORRESPONDENT AND YOUNG AUTHOR CONTESTS!

Page 16

• Available to all age divisions; no entry fee. • Each contestant will vote for the contestant they feel has been the friendliest and the most helpful during pageant weekend. HWinner and 1st Runner-up receive awards and a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the National pageant in Orlando, FL! • Available to all age divisions; no entry fee. • The pageant choreographers will select the contestant who shows the most uplifting spirit throughout pageant weekend. HWinner and 1st Runner-up receive awards and a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the National pageant in Orlando, FL! • Available to Jr. Teen, Teen, Miss, and Elite age divisions; no entry fee. • Contestants will bring copies of their official school transcripts. A selection committee will look at a combination of grade-point average and course load. HWinner and 1st Runner-up receive awards and a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the National pageant in Orlando, FL! • Available to all age divisions; no entry fee. • Contestants will bring records of their volunteer service, as well as letters of verification. HWinner and 1st Runner-up receive awards and a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the National pageant in Orlando, FL! • Available to Princess, Jr. Pre-Teen, and Pre-Teen age divisions; no entry fee. • Contestants will receive a picture to color or decorate as they wish. HWinner and 1st Runner-up receive awards and a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the National pageant in Orlando, FL! • Available to all age divisions, no entry fee. • Recommend friends for the pageant through the online link at namstatepageant.com. • For every ten recommendations, you will receive one entry into a drawing for $1,000 which will be awarded on pageant weekend! HWinner also receives a Golden Ticket invitation to participate at the national pageant in Orlando, FL. • Available to all age divisions; no entry fee. • Contestants will be given a resume to fill out and turn in at pageant Check-In. • A selection committee will look at a combination of the contestants’ activities, honors, academics, and neatness. HWinner and 1st Runner-up receive awards and a Golden Ticket invitation to participate in the National pageant in Orlando, FL! Check out all of these additional fun and exciting Optional Contests! These contests are a great way to earn A TRIP TO NATIONALS, awards, and highlight your individual interests at no additional cost!This is your time to shine!16Miss PersonalityMiss Spiritacademic achievementHeart of serviceSMbest resumeart contestmost recommendations

Page 17

It’s a fun, free, and fabulous way to kick-off pageant weekend! Join us for the legendary Pink Party where you’ll have a chance to meet the other contestants, make new friends, and have a blast! Wear your favorite pink outfit, or even just some pink accessories – and have fun taking photos at the NAM backdrop. This is not a formal affair, so no long dresses or formal gowns – just wear something pink that expresses your style. No judges at this event, it’s just your sister contestants and super fun NAM staff. We can’t wait to see you there!17

Page 18

Page 19

Available to all age divisions, no entry fee.

Page 20