Success: Wardrobe Sponsors

Let’s face it: pageant contestants need a lot of clothes. If you are preparing your contestant to compete at the state or national level, her wardrobe will include interview wear, her competition evening gown, talent costume, stage gowns, production number outfits, plus shoes and accessories. You can try to purchase all of those items, or even split the cost with the contestant, and you will probably end up breaking the bank. Another option is to find a wardrobe sponsor in your city or state that will help clothe your contestant. It’s easier than you think and can be a great asset to your program.

Regalia Magnificent Apparel of Orlando has been a major wardrobe sponsor for the Miss Florida pageant for nearly 20 years and, more recently, is the official wardrobe sponsor for the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Organization. According to David Lang, co-owner of Regalia Magnificent Apparel, the first step in finding a wardrobe sponsor is simply asking.

“Wherever you are, there is someone willing to help you out. Even if it is a small shop that only does bridal or prom, ask them. There are a lot of people out there willing to give the goods. Remember that stores can always order something for you. Give them a chance to help you. It’s all about seeking someone out and building that relationship,” says David.

However, David cautions that are better ways to ask for help than others.

“If I get an e-mail asking for help, I usually don’t have the time to respond to it,” says David. “It’s nice when volunteers and the young ladies take the time to call the store and make an appointment. That old-fashioned face to face meeting is important.”

Make an appointment with a local or regional vendor, and be sure to bring your titleholder along. Have her explain her platform and her community service, in addition to how much scholarship money she has won, etc. Some people may not understand the significance of competing in a Miss America pageant, so it is up to you to share that information with them.

A large part of creating a good relationship with a wardrobe sponsor is reciprocity. If you find a shop that is willing to dress your contestant, or even donate part of her wardrobe, it is important that you offer them something in return.

“Recognition is key,” says David. “In the program book, on stage, at events. That’s what stores are looking for.”

Be prepared to have a frank discussion with your potential sponsor about your needs and what you are able to give. You will undoubtedly be able to reach an agreement, particularly if you are willing to give your sponsor recognition in the program book, at the pageant, and more. Don’t be surprised if your wardrobe sponsor would like you to sign a contract. This is a great way for each of you to get exactly what has been outlined.

You may find that you are unable to secure one sponsor that can provide your contestant’s entire wardrobe. That’s okay, according to David.

“If you find someone willing to give you a suit, take it. Thank them. But also tell them that you will be going to other people to provide the rest of the wardrobe. It’s only fair,” says David. “Don’t play one store against another, even unintentionally. It’s disappointing to go to an event you have sponsored, only to realize that five stores have actually sponsored it.”

Above all, once you secure a sponsor, work on maintaining a good relationship with them. The work you do with one titleholder can actually benefit several titleholders to come, as is the case for Miss Florida and Regalia Magnificent Apparel. For almost twenty years, these two organizations have been able to help each other.

“It’s a great sense of pride for us to see our gowns on stage,” says David. “But more than that, it’s a good feeling to be a part of the pageant family.”

Sidebar:

The Take-Away:

1. Be Straight-Forward. If you need something, ask for it. In any given city or state, you will be able to find retailers willing to donate something to your contestant, if not her entire wardrobe.
2. Be Honest. If you are using more than wardrobe sponsor, it is your responsibility to be upfront with each retailer about that fact. Do not make a retailer regret being generous with you.
3. Be Thankful. If you secure a sponsor, be good to them. Put them in the limelight at the state pageant, put them in your program book, and invite them to your pageant events throughout the years. Give them the opportunity to become part of your pageant family. You will both benefit from this type of relationship