What are the eligibility requirements for entering the pageant?
Click here to read the eligibility requirements.
Are there any height or weight requirements?
No. It is not about any particular body size, shape or frame. It is about maintaining good health and overall physical fitness. There is no perfect body type!
Is this pageant just about physical appearance?
No. This is called the American Spirit Pageant for a reason. Our country is a melting pot, made up of all kinds of people from different cultures, ethnic groups and belief systems. Physical beauty will certainly be considered and judged. But, so too will be the Contestants’ inner beauty, as reflected in their personality and resume. The American Spirit includes characteristics like ambition, fun and compassion. All of these traits, and more, will be considered.
When is the deadline to submit my application and fee in order to participate in the National Pageant?
The deadline is October 15th, 2010. This may be extended at the Director’s discretion in individual cases. In any event, vacant State and “At Large” spots shall be filled on a qualified first come, first served basis. So, candidates are encouraged to apply soon.
How can I know what States and “At Large” positions are still open for consideration?
Click here to see the list of potentially available delegations.
How many contestants will be in the pageant?
That answer can change right up until the deadline of October 15, 2010.
How do you decide who to invite to apply?
An invitation to apply is, in and of itself, an honor. We choose invitees after a review of sources and surveys that identify young women who have shown the most potential based upon a number of factors such as: prior pageantry experience, school related activities, cheer camps, community and/or charitable activities, work related activities, modeling agencies, etc.
Are all applicants allowed to participate in the National Pageant?
All applicants who have one an American Spirit State pageant automatically qualify to represent that state at the National Pageant. Any States that do not have a Pageant may be represented by a qualified candidate according to the “Application Criteria”. Once all States are represented there may be qualified candidates who are selected to participate in the National Pageant as an “At Large” Contestant. This may only occur during the inaugural year of the Pageant. However, not all applicants will automatically be allowed to participate. It will depend upon the number of States represented and the number of “At Large” candidates. In instances where all issues are considered equal candidates shall be chosen to participate on a first come, first served basis.
What happens after I submit my photo and application?
All entries are reviewed and selected entries are contacted for a brief telephone interview. After that a review committee reviews considers your application. If you seem to be a good candidate for the title you will be sent the final registration materials.
How much is the entry fee?
If you are selected to participate there is a non-refundable entry fee, which covers your participation in all events during the pageant. It totals $750, which, of course, can be raised by obtaining sponsors. Additionally, you would need to submit a mandatory ad page fee of $225 per page. You will be responsible for all of your other costs during the Pageant. If selected as a Contestant we will give you information on obtaining sponsors to help defray your costs.
What is the HAVLife Foundation?
The HAVLife Foundation is the focal charity for the American Spirit Pageants this year. It funds opportunities for underprivileged children to participate in academic, athletic and artistic programs.
Where can I get sponsors?
Sponsors can include, but are not limited to your friends, family, local businesses, fraternal organizations and clubs, schools, etc. If accepted, you will receive paperwork to help secure your sponsors. Sponsors can defray lodging, travel, wardrobe, registration fees and other costs.
Will the Pageant provide my wardrobe?
No. Each Contestant is responsible for providing her own wardrobe. See “Apparel and Wardrobe”.
Do I need to spend a lot of money on my wardrobe or purchase it from pageant sponsors?
No. It is most important that you choose clothes that make you feel confident and comfortable. Some Contestants will wear outfits that they already own. Some will purchases new outfits; some from pageant sponsors. But, the clothes shall not be judged, only the women wearing the clothes.
What is the judging criteria?
Click here to see “Judging Criteria”.
Can anyone assist me during the Pageant weekend with wardrobe, hair and make-up?
Personal stylists are allowed to be present at the Pageant. However, only Contestants and staff will be permitted in dressing rooms or backstage for security reasons. There will be a team of professional make-up artists and hair stylists present at the pageant. You will have the opportunity to meet them and discuss specific styles before the Pageant if you choose to use their services.
Which airport should I fly into?
The most convenient airport is the Quad City International Airport in Moline, Il. It is approximately ten or fifteen minutes away from the two venues and the hotels where the action will be taking place.
At which hotel should I stay?
You will not be forced to stay in one hotel or another. However, the first day’s events are held at the RiverCenter located in Davenport, Ia. An adjacent and convenient hotel is the Radisson Quad City Plaza. The second day’s events are five minutes away at the Waterfront Convention Center. Adjacent to that venue is the Isle of Capri Hotel and Casino. Both hotels will offer discounted room rates to our Contestants. In order to take advantage of those rates all reservations should be made through American Spirit Pageants.
Can/should I bring my family?
This competition is an opportunity for you to enjoy yourself. If you wish to bring your family – please do so! It’s your personal choice. Whatever makes you feel comfortable is what we encourage. There is a wide array of things to do in the area so feel free to make it a vacation, if you wish!
Are tattoos or body piercings allowed?
These are a statement of your taste and individuality. It is up to you whether you choose to show them. You may try to hide them if you wish, but judges are told not to look on someone negatively because of tattoos or piercings.
What do winners receive?
The biggest prize is the prestigious title of Miss Teen American Spirit, Miss American Spirit, Ms. American Spirit or Mrs. American Spirit. The total prize package will depend on sponsors that are obtained. But, click on “Prizes” to see an updated list.
If I win an American Spirit national Pageant may I compete in another Pageant?
The short answer is “maybe”. Contestant, if selected, agrees that she will continue to represent American Spirit Pageants in a positive manner. She also agrees that if she wins she will not compete in another pageant system until she crowns her successor, unless written authorization is obtained from American Spirit Pageants (such authorization not to be unreasonably withheld) or else she shall immediately forfeit her title, crown, banner and all prizes. American Spirit Pageants expects its royalty to be loyal spokeswomen to its mission for one year. However, the Pageant recognizes this is an inaugural year and does not want to make it difficult on Contestants that has already planned on participating in other Pageants. Therefore, permission will typically be generously granted.
What happens if I should win and how much time is involved?
American Spirit Pageants asks its royalty to make a minimum of eight (8) appearances at charitable events during your reign, at which you will promote the title and/or your platform. These events shall be coordinated through American Spirit Pageants so as to minimize interference with your routine life. American Spirit Pageants shall pay travel and lodging costs associated with such appearances. If an appearance fee is generated it shall be applied towards repayments of costs first, with any excess fee paid to you. Events may include speaking engagements, parades, charity events, galas, trade shows, etc. Education, career and family take priority and we will always attempt to accommodate your schedule.
