How to Become a Contestant on Top Design

Basic-cable network Bravo is home to some of the most popular reality television series in the United States, including "Project Runway" and "Top Chef." People with a flare for interior design and a desire to have their work publicly scrutinized by television audiences can become contestants on one the network's newer reality series called "Top Design."

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Interior Design Experience
• Internet
• PDF Reader, such as Adobe Reader
• Video Camera

1. Visit the casting page on the Bravo website and download the complete application materials in PDF format for the currently casting season of "Top Design." The page also gives the option of sending a brief email with contact information, but a full application will still be required at a later time. You can also obtain application instructions and materials at the Magical Elves website.

2. Prepare a video that is no longer than five minutes in length. Since the video is a major component of the application process, devote the needed time and effort to distinguishing yourself from other potential candidates by emphasizing your individuality and creativity. Review the tips in the "Top Design" PDF application and on the Magical Elves casting web page for inspiration and guidance.

3. Label the completed videotape in legible writing with your full name, telephone number, mailing address, and email address. If you don't have an email address already, apply for one at a free online service such as Yahoo!.

4. Fill out the required forms with the necessary information, making sure that every field is complete and easy to read. If something does not apply to you, write "Not Applicable" or "N/A" in the appropriate area. Insufficient information could lead to your application getting passed over by the selection committee.

5. Provide all of the requested supporting paperwork, such as a resume and photograph. Again, make sure that you gather together every single item on the application list to avoid getting passed over due to an incomplete package.

6. Mail your completed "Top Design" application with the video and supporting materials to the address indicated in the application instructions.

7. Keep your fingers crossed as you wait to hear back about a potential interview, which might lead to additional interviews and then hopefully an audition and selection to appear on "Top Design."

Tips & Warnings

• Plan to submit your application as far ahead of the deadline as possible for a maximum advantage over the competition.
• All contestants must be at least 18 years old by the time production starts. This means that you can apply when you are 17, as long as your 18th birthday occurs before you begin filming on the series if selected.
• Non-U.S. citizens are also allowed to apply, provided that they have a valid passport and their own means of getting to the United States before production starts.
• Always make sure to adhere to strict deadlines. Failing to do so could mean the difference between the chance of a lifetime and substantial time wasted completing an extensive application package.
• Never use Hotmail, now called Windows Live Hotmail, as a free email account for professional contact purposes. The service is notorious for unreliable, slow delivery, as well as deleting all of the messages in accounts without warning and for no legitimate reason.