SOVEREIGN MISS ROYAL GLOSSARY

ARISTOCRACY:  The distinguished winners of each age division.  Their achievements are celebrated as they ascend to royal status, inspiring others with their accomplishments and setting the standard for excellence within the pageant community.

BOOK OF SOVEREIGNS:  A private record passed from one Sovereign to the next, where appearances, achievements, tips, and secrets are documented. It remains in the Sovereign’s possession during her reign and is presented to the new Sovereign upon signing her contract.
CHAIN OF OFFICE:  A distinguished chain of honor, awarded exclusively to the outgoing Sovereign as a symbol of their noble service and unwavering loyalty.  It is worn on the shoulders.
COURTIER:  Esteemed contestants who participate in the Sovereign Miss competition but may have not yet achieved a specific title or appointment within the royal hierarchy. (State titleholders)

COURTIER'S COMPANION:  The official delegate handbook for the Sovereign Miss Pageant. It contains all the essential information delegates need, including rules, guidelines, expectations, marketing material and tips to prepare for the competition. Designed to guide and support each delegate, the handbook ensures they can confidently navigate their journey to the throne.
CROWN JEWELS:  The crown, the scepter, the orb, the robe, the banner, Additional tiaras and jewelry pieces to wear to various events by the Sovereign.
DIADEM:  A jeweled crown worn as a symbol of sovereignty by a monarch or a ruler.

HERALDS:  In historical and royal contexts, heralds were official messengers who delivered important news, proclamations, and announcements on behalf of the monarchy or nobility. They played a crucial role in spreading tidings, communicating decrees, and organizing ceremonies or events.

HH:  Abbreviation for "Her Highness" or "His Highness".  It is a formal title used to address or refer to members of the 'royal family' who are not in an immediate line to inherit the title of Sovereign.
HM: Abbreviation for "His Majesty" or "Her Majesty".  It is a formal title used to address or refer to reigning monarchs, such as kings and queens. The title denotes the sovereign's supreme authority and status.
HRH:  Abbreviation for "Her Royal Highness"  It is a formal title used to address or refer to certain members of a royal family, such as The Crown Princess, who is the Heir Presumptive.
HIERARCHY:  In the context of the Sovereign Miss pageant, a hierarchy helps define roles, duties, and levels of respect, ensuring that each person understands their place within the organization. It establishes clear lines of authority and fosters order, discipline, and a sense of tradition, making it easier to manage and honor the various ranks and positions.

HEIR PRESUMPTIVE:  The 1st Runner-Up to the Sovereign (2nd highest overall score), who assumes the title of Sovereign only if the reigning Sovereign is unable to fulfill her duties. The reign as Sovereign ends when the next Sovereign is crowned.
INVESTITURE:  A formal ceremony or official process in which someone is given a position of authority, honor, or a special role. It involves the conferring of titles, ranks, badges, or other symbols of prestige.
LORD CHAMBERLAIN:  Master of Her Majesty's household who oversees royal ceremonies and events.
MONARCH:  A sovereign head of state, especially a king, queen or Emperor.
MONARCHY:  The Monarch and royal family of a realm.  (The Grand Sovereign and Aristocracy)
NOBILITY:  Contestants who have achieved prestigious titles or appointments bestowed upon them by the Regent or Grand Sovereign, such as awards that accompany an elevated rank from Courtier to "Dame" or "Marchioness", etc.
ORB OF RENOWN:  An emblematic artifact bestowed upon the Sovereign of the realm, signifying her rightful authority and divine mandate to govern the kingdom.  It is entrusted to the Sovereign as a sacred duty to uphold the kingdom's values, protect its people and ensure a prosperous future for Sovereign Miss.
RANK OF AUTHORITY: 

• HM, The Imperial Grand Sovereign:  Overall High-point score.  The highest-ranking female royal title, a Queen is either the reigning monarch. She holds supreme authority over a kingdom or realm.

• HRH, The Crown Princess:  Awarded to the 2nd highest over-all score.  First runner-up to the Sovereign and holds a position of great honor and importance within the realm. As the second highest-ranking individual, the Crown Princess is next in line to ascend the throne should the Sovereign step down or be unable to fulfill her duties. This title signifies her role as the Heir Presumptive, preparing her to take on leadership responsibilities and represent the values and traditions of the Sovereign Miss pageant. 

• HH, Princess:  This title is bestowed upon the esteemed division winners within the Sovereign Miss pageant, representing excellence and distinction in their respective categories. As holders of this noble title, the Princesses embody the highest standards of poise, beauty, and achievement. They are celebrated for their outstanding performances and dedication, setting them apart as leaders among their peers. 

• The Grand Duchess: A prestigious title awarded to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional excellence, leadership, and contribution within the Sovereign Miss pageant. This honor is typically reserved for the recipient of the Meritorious Order of Sovereign Excellence, often referred to as the Founder’s Award, recognizing those who have made a profound impact on the pageant and its community throughout the year. 

• Marquess:  This rank is given to the Lady with exceptional academic achievement, highlighting the recipient's role as a champion of knowledge and intellect within the Sovereign Miss organization.

• Marchioness:  This rank signifies a distinguished level of achievement, highlighting the recipient's role in shaping the direction and spirit of the Sovereign Miss organization. 

• Countess:  This title signifies a high level of respect and acknowledgment, highlighting the recipient's role as a leader and role model. 

• Viscountess:  A rank in the Sovereign Miss pageant is awarded to those who exhibit a strong sense of duty, leadership, and positive influence within their community. Viscountesses are recognized for their commitment to fostering growth, unity, and collaboration among their peers. 

• Baroness:  This rank honors individuals who have shown exceptional dedication to their roles and a commitment to service within the community. Baronesses are appreciated for their supportive nature, organizational skills, and the positive atmosphere they help cultivate. This title reflects their contribution to the overall success and harmony of the pageant, highlighting their ability to encourage and uplift others. 

• Dame:  This honorary title signifies respect and admiration, highlighting the recipient’s role as a beacon of inspiration. As Dames, they uphold the values of the pageant with dignity, demonstrating a strong sense of purpose and honor. 

• Lady:  The title of Lady is granted to each courtier within the Sovereign Miss pageant, signifying their noble status and their role as key members of the court. As Ladies, they uphold the values of grace, elegance, and loyalty. They play important roles in supporting the hierarchy and contributing to the overall harmony and success of the pageant. The title of Lady embodies a sense of dignity and respect, marking each courtier as a valued and integral part of the Sovereign Miss community, dedicated to upholding its traditions and fostering a sense of unity and belonging. 

REALM:  A kingdom. 
REGENT: In a monarchy, a Regent is a person appointed to govern a state for the time being because the throne is vacant and the new monarch has not yet been determined.
REGINA:  Pronounced Reh-gee-nah, it is the Latin word for queen.

REGINA REPOSITORY:  A chest designed to hold the official documents of the reigning Sovereign. Named after the Latin word for "queen," it serves as a regal and secure archive for preserving the legacy of her reign.  This is fashioned after the 'Queen's Box' used by the Monarch in England.

ROBE OF STATE:   A ceremonial garment more aligned with duty and governance than personal sovereignty.  (The Sovereign will wear Scarlet Red. The Crown Princess will wear Royal Blue.)
ROYAL COFFER:  A chest which, traditionally, held valuables.
ROYAL COURT:  Extended royal household in a monarchy.  (Sovereign, Aristocracy, Nobility and Courtiers)
ROYAL CREST/COAT OF ARMS:  An identifying symbol of the sovereign. (Each Sovereign will have a unique coat of arms)
ROYAL MANTLE:  A Luxurious purple robe worn only by a sovereign as a symbol of authority. (Worn only at the Coronation.)
ROYAL STANDARD:  A flag which represents the reign of the sovereign. (Each Sovereign will have a unique standard)
SCEPTER OF AUTHORITY:  A distinguished symbol of governance and leadership wielded by the Sovereign, embodying her rightful command and authority over the kingdom.

SEAL OF SOVEREIGNTY:  A custom mark, unique to each reigning Sovereign, featuring her initials and year of reign. Only she can use it to officially endorse pageant contracts and documents.  It is a seal embosser.
SOVEREIGN:  A supreme ruler, especially a monarch. (Overall high-point score winner)

Steward of the Crown:  The Steward of the Crown is the visionary custodian of the Sovereign Miss Pageant.  As the creator and CEO, this role ensures the integrity, traditions, and mission of the pageant are upheld, guiding its legacy with wisdom, care, and excellence.  Melissa Stamper is the Steward of the Crown.