What divisions do you carry?

Pageant, Prom, Social Occasion, Bridal, MOB, Suits, Swimsuits, Shoes, Jewelry, Casual, and High Fashion Daywear.

Do you offer custom design services?

We design competition gowns in-house to showcase the pageant contestant. Also international designers work with us to design unique gowns for competition in Miss America, Miss America’s Outstanding Teen, Miss USA, and Miss Teen USA. In 2006, The Encounter designed gowns and wardrobed contestants who placed in the Top 5 at Miss America, Miss America’s Outstanding Teen, and Miss Teen USA.

Do you offer gown registry?

We have an in-house national and international gown registry program to insure exclusivity on the big pageant stage.

What are some of the unique services offered at your store?

The Encounter is a leader in full service for the pageant contestant. A large inventory of designer competition gowns, opening number outfits, swimsuits, and stylish footwear allows the contestant to fulfill her dream of finding the perfect gown and wardrobe. Hands-on is the name of our game. In order that each gown is fitted perfectly, alterations by a professional seamstress are done in a timely and efficient manner. The Encounter provides a full concept pageant world. The pageant training program available at The Encounter includes modeling, public speaking, interview, fitness evaluation, and community service encouragement. The highest compliments go to The Encounter staff for their expertise in profiling, understanding, and meeting the needs of the pageant contestant. A nationally known photographer is also on staff. Additionally the Smawley agency for models and talent offers modeling opportunities for women of all ages.

How do you reach your customers and grow your relationship with them?

Since opening in 1976, The Encounter has served a growing list of contestants who have sought out our pageant expertise. Referrals are sent to us daily. Our outreach program includes television, print media, and specialized magazine advertising like Pageantry magazine, as well as our web site and e-mail service.

Where do you see your business and industry trends heading?

Looking to the future is most exciting. Pageant interest is at an all-time high and the fashion industry is at the forefront. Most states have large increases in their contestant base. Self-expression in encouraged by both national and local pageants, thus allowing contestants to be themselves completely. This leads to real growth as contestants, pageants, and the fashion industry come together for success. We expect quality pageants will double their numbers in the next three-to-five years.

Why do you love what you do?

We’re often asked why we still love this business so much after 30 years, and we’re always excited to answer. Years ago, a girl bought a pretty dress, headed out to the pageant on Saturday night, and brought home a crown. Today intelligent, inspiring, hard-working motivators wear a crown to highlight a deeply held belief that life can be better because of their position as a role model. We are encouraged for the future of our world each time we see a pageant contestant compete for her dream, and congratulate whoever is selected to wear the crown. We love working with designers and manufacturers, discovering new and unique fabrics from all over the world, the challenge of high-fashion photography, and sharing camaraderie with the pageant families. But most of all, we love the smile on the face of the girl who finally understands that she alone holds the key to achieving her dreams. It’s a wonderful life!

The Encounter
established 1976
120 Jack White Drive
Kingsport, TN 37664

Ethel Smawley
Tom Smawley

www.theenc.com
423-247-4806