Contest Entrance Rules and Submission Criteria:

• The contest application is open to designers and competitors of all levels!
• Teams are allowed. Note that if a team wins the grand prize, there is only 1 prize, and it is up to the team to determine how the items and winnings are distributed. 
• Vivarium contest contestants are encouraged to design a habitat that tells a story and is designed to meet the husbandry needs of an animal chosen by the contestant. Hardscape supplies provided by the contest will support arid and tropical environmental designs, including substrates, rocks, woods, etc.
• Contestants are required to use the materials provided by contest sponsors and the contest organizers for their designs. Supplemental items are allowed, if they are not more than 5% of the total product used in the contest entry.
• Applications will be evaluated by our internal teams, with 5 entries selected to compete
• Contestants are responsible for their own direct expenses for participation. Selected participants will submit a $50 entry fee to cover the costs of supplies provided by the contest.
• Aquashella Aquarium Festival and its assigns hold all rights to submission materials and copyrights transfer upon submission to allow for the festival to promote and evaluate all entries.

Aquashella Contestant Code of Conduct

Welcome, contestants, to Aquashella, where you have the exciting opportunity to share your passion and expertise with a vibrant audience. To maintain a welcoming environment and ensure everyone enjoys a positive experience – from attendees to vendors and staff – we've established this Code of Conduct specifically for contestants.

By abiding by these guidelines, you help uphold Aquashella's standards of professionalism and integrity.

Professionalism:

• Present yourself professionally in all interactions with attendees, vendors, and staff.
• Arrive on time and honor the allocated time slots.

Respect for Attendees:

• Treat all attendees with respect and courtesy, regardless of their level of expertise.
• Embrace questions and engage with the audience in a constructive manner.
• Avoid using language or content that could be offensive, discriminatory, or inappropriate.

Professional Conduct:

• Refrain from any behavior that could be considered unprofessional, offensive, or disruptive.
• Steer clear of controversial topics that may cause unnecessary conflict.

Compliance with Event Guidelines:

• Familiarize yourself with Aquashella's guidelines and follow any instructions from organizers.
• Coordinate with event staff for any technical or logistical needs related to your presentation.

Alcohol and Substance Use:

• If alcohol is served, consume it responsibly and be considerate of others.
• The use of illegal substances during the event is strictly prohibited.

Dress Code:

• Dress appropriately for the event and your presentation, avoiding unauthorized logos or branding.

Reporting Issues:

• Promptly report any technical or logistical issues to event staff.
• Report any violations of the Code of Conduct to designated staff members.

Thank you for agreeing to abide by the Aquashella Contestant Code of Conduct. Your commitment to professionalism, respect, and inclusivity helps make our event a success and a positive, enriching experience for everyone. We eagerly anticipate your engaging and inspiring participation at Aquashella.