Have you entered Miss Plus Size UK 2016??

Applications for Miss Plus Size UK 2016 are closing soon, here's a little FAQ section to let you know what to expect;

Do I have to pay to apply?
Yes - there is an admin fee of £20, which covers all admin costs for the year. You will be asked for a contribution towards Boot Camp (last year this was £80 which covered their food, drink and accommodation for the 4 day break.)  You will also be expected to purchase a table for the finals (which is a Red Carpet & Black Tie event) each consisting of 12 seats at a reduced cost to what the general public are charged. You may purchase more if needed or you could pass on the cost to your sponsors but this will be explained in detail as all contestants are also given advice on raising money and sponsorship.

What can I win?
A 2 week Holiday for two to Miami which includes a 7 day Caribbean cruise. There are also many other prizes including modelling contract with Pose Plus Models amongst other things.

What titles are up for grabs at the finals?
There are 8 titles;
1) Winner - Miss Plus Size UK 2016
2) 1st Runner up 
3) 2nd Runner up 
4) 4th place 
5) 5th place 
6) Miss Photogenic 
7) Miss Personality 
8) Miss Congeniality

When & where are the finals?
They will take place on 24th September 2016, but the venue has not been confirmed yet. It will however be held in either Bournemouth or Brighton.

Are there different rounds in the pageant?
Yes, there are 3 sections; casual wear, beachwear and evening wear. You'll need a different outfit for each round.

What does the application process consist of?
After applying you will be required to attend an interview with the judges where the finalists will be asked to attend contestant Boot camp; including photo shoots, media and catwalk training and confidence building exercises.  Plus at Boot camp you will forge lasting new friendships and make fantastic memories. 

Last years' boot camp featured mentoring by plus size models; Sian Yapp & Cathryn Vallance along with the members of the team Emily Galvin, Ellis Guy, Christopher Wheatley & Kelly Arnold.  The catwalk training was given by world renowned plus size model; Sabine Gruchet and the weekend included motivational talks given by Mark Singh & international model; Bishamber Das. Media training by Linda Koch & Melanie Jarvis.  Amanda Attwood was in charge of catering and made sure that everyone was fed and watered with the help of Annaleigh Koch and Sara Avery.

There were many fun activities including a mini talent show, "The XL Factor." The winner; Jo Frost was given the opportunity to perform at The British Plus Size Awards 2015. Kim Ryan was chosen out of all the contestants to be crowned "Miss Boot Camp 2015" after dressing as Wonder Woman.

Kim said "The experience was amazing fun, I came away empowered about what we all wanted to achieve, met very inspiring women and I won miss boot camp!! Would do it all over again and again."

Nadine said, "It was a great experience, as it allowed me to meet everyone else that was apart of the pageant. Being in a room full of plus size, happy and confident women for the first time is something that cannot be described, as it's just... amazing. I would do it again, if I had the opportunity do. It's a great weekend, with a group of lovely women, and the catwalk training was also something that was very beneficial."

Helen said, "Was a amazing experience meeting so many woman that were in the comp for all different reasons , all helping and supporting each other , and now it's over I miss them all!"

Elizabeth said, "I had an amazing time at boot camp meeting all the other girls, the judges and the guys presenting the classes. I learnt loads when it comes to confidence and strutting what my momma gave me on the cat walk. It's great opportunity to get to know the other contestants and made some great friends for life from it. Defo a must do if given the opportunity again I'd do it tomorrow."

Sophie said, "I absolutely loved bootcamp such a fab experience and all within the grounds of luxury. I embraced all the tutorials we had, and loved every moment. I took part in everything and even had chance for a cheeky outdoor swim in the heated pool. I'd love to get invited back this year to mentor the new participants and help let it fulfil their dreams"

All Boot camp photos courtesy of BGP Magazine & Linda Koch.

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