Katie Lanier

Cum Laude 2001 Graduate of Loyola University in Marketing & Finance

• Mrs. Jefferson Parish 2002
• Mrs. Louisiana State 2002
• Mrs. Louisiana Iris 2002
• Mrs. New Orleans 2003
• 1st Runner up Treasure Chest Miss Mermaid 2002
• 2nd Runner Up Mrs. Louisiana America 2003
  

Pageantry has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life so far. It has led the introduction of many people and opportunities. Deciding to enter a pageant should be about one thing: wanting to better yourself. By fully preparing for a pageant and giving it your all, you will no doubt emerge from the pageant with more self-esteem and feeling good about yourself, win or loose.

Your first step is deciding which pageant to enter. Whether this is your first pageant or your tenth, you can enter a small or large pageant as long as you PREPARE!!! Preparation is everything. Whether you practice by yourself or with a coach, you must put everything into practicing.

The old cliché "you don't get a second chance to make a first impression" really applies to pageantry. The judges will first see you when you walk in for an interview. You must walk in with absolute confidence: shoulders back, smile on your face; you must own the room. Practice walking into a room, greeting the judges, and having a seat (wait for the judges to tell you to sit). Your attire is extremely important. All judges are different, but here is my best advice: where a color and style that works for you, make sure it fits, and be comfortable in it. Taupe heels are the best, as they go with almost every suit and look sophisticated. Make sure you can walk in them.

PRACTICE! When preparing for interview, remember this: be yourself. There are many questions that you can review and have "base" answers for, but never, ever memorize. You need to get to a point where you will be comfortable answering any question a judge poses to you. Know that judges know you are human and do not expect you to know everything. Just answer all questions honestly and let your personality show through. Tell a story with your answers, and end all answers on a positive, confident note. And be sure to be up to speed on current events. Also, know what type of interview you will be going into, whether panel judges, round robin, and/or on stage.

Depending on the size and type of pageant, you may have to do an opening number, which will involve introducing yourself onstage. Be energetic and confident (without sounding fake) when you do this. While this part is usually not judged, it is important to remain in the same mind set as if you were being judged.

When it comes to competing in Sports Wear, Swimsuit, Evening Gown, or any other runway competition, just remember to remain centered with your body. Stand up tall with your shoulders back. Be sure to make eye contact with the judges, and work on your smile being genuine. And don't forget your audience; they are there to see you. Practice your turns and where on the runway you will do them. For attire, be sure the style is category/age appropriate, the color compliments your skin tones, and fits you perfectly. Always get a second and third opinion on your wardrobe; take a coach, and a mother, and a friend, or whoever will give you their honest thoughts.

Whether you choose to work alone or with a coach, remember two things; be yourself and practice, practice, practice! It will definitely help to talk to people who have participated in the pageant to help get a feel for the expectations. And remember this: "If a man does his best, what else is there?" said by George Smith Patton, Jr., WWII American General. With that, always do your best and you will be a winner.

Good luck!
~Katie