As this is my first article, I feel I should give you a bit of background on myself. I, Le Pageantista herself, am no slouch when it comes to saving at pageants. My first at-large national pageant (which was only my second pageant ever!) I competed with an International-Level pageant gown, veneers, hair +makeup lessons, a publicist sending press releases at my every turn and all the pageant fixins- an estimated value of $19,000 bucks (!) and I spent less than $2500. Total. That's less than some pageant gowns alone! Oh yeah, and I made top 5.

 

So naturally, the biggest question I get asked is how? Well, I'm here to give y'all the million-dollar secret in pageantry. Well, it's no secret, as everyone knows it- but few realize it's value. So here goes:

 

PLAN. AHEAD.

 

Yep, that's it. Plan ahead- FAR ahead. The most money in pageantry is spent within the last three months leading up to the event. Imagine how much you will save if you double that time, or triple it! Heres a simple plan:

 

1) Begin 8-12 months in advance. Apply early, as many pageants have early-bird specials!

2) If you have your pageant scores, see what areas you did excellent in. Then, go through your wardrobe/accessories. Pick out what worked and what did not. Keep what worked, sell or donate the rest.

3) From there, make out a budget, listing everything you need. Be SURE to include rehearsal wear, photos, gifts, etc (people tend to forget this stuff). Adjust if needed, but STICK TO IT.

4) Go to your usual shopping places and check to see what thing off your list is on sale (ESPECIALLY the incidentals! Toiletries are expensive!). Whatever isn't- wait. You have time!

 

It is shocking how many girls do not know how much they spent until someone asks them and they do the math! The most common reason? No one wants to look at a number that large! But stick with me, and together we are going to get than number to shrink. TTYL!!