When you are attending another pageant system as visiting royalty, there are a few key things to keep in mind.
Always check with the director of the pageant you are visiting to get their permission before you wear your crown and sash. Some systems will allow you to wear only your sash while others invite you to wear both. Some systems won’t allow visiting queens to wear either. I can’t stress enough the importance of communicating with the director FIRST. Assumptions can lead to many misunderstanding.
You also need to ask the director what his policy is about handing out marketing materials for the pageant system in which you are the queen. Many directors do not look favorably upon visiting queens handing out applications to their contestants for a different pageant system. Always ask for the director’s permission before handing out anything.
Be prepared to pay for your admission ticket. Don’t make the assumption you will be let in the pageant for free or shown preferential treatment. Some systems will comp your ticket, but this is not normal. Always have at least $50 cash with you when you attend the pageant to cover the cost of your ticket and your parking. The day of the pageant it is usually cash only.
Have a brief introduction already planned out if you are called to the microphone during the pageant to introduce yourself. Practice saying your title OUTLOUD beforehand so it flows smoothly from your mouth. I have to giggle when queens need to look down at their sashes to remember who they are. Again, this isn’t common for visiting queens to be given an opportunity to speak; but it’s better to always be prepared just in case.
Remember, you are a visitor. Be respectful to everyone you meet, be gracious in your actions, professional in your dress, and have a humble attitude. Wear your title with pride and enjoy every pageant you visit.
