Behind the Scenes

The pageant interviews began bright and early Saturday morning. Dressed in my red dress and black glittered heels, I was ready to take on my competition. What I wasn't expecting was becoming friends with my competition in a matter of five minutes. There were seven of us in the Miss division, each girl was truly one of a kind. Even though we came from different cities within Michigan, we bonded over McDonald french fries and the bargain deals from GoodWill. These girls were all beautiful but more than that, they were poised, confident, and good-hearted people. 

Ready for Interviews!

They taught me that pageants aren't just about the crown at the end of the night. It was about being confident enough in yourself to walk on a stage while others judged you. It was about improving interview skills that are a valuable asset to any human being. It was about the people that you would have the honor of meeting and never would've met otherwise. It was about the fun memories that would be made with your newest friends. It was about standing behind the mission statement of the pageant that you longed to represent. 

Somerset Outing

This weekend would not have been the same without the six incredible women that I had the honor of meeting and sharing a stage with. They made every moment a fun one - from our "fake" laughter on the Somerset moving walkway to the grapevine in our opening number. By Sunday, you would've never guessed that we were competing for the crown. Girls were backstage rehearsing the opening number together, complimenting each other on their amazing gowns (and yes, everyone's dress was incredibly beautiful), and keeping each other entertained backstage. It felt like we were a group of friends putting on a fashion show for our friends and family. I am honored to call these girls my friends and I am blessed to have met them through this experience.

#Vogue