There is a funny moment that happens in every pageant journey: you realize this is equal parts preparation, prayer, protein shakes, and panic-checking your packing list at midnight.

Preparing for Mrs. New York and Mrs. American stretched me physically, emotionally, spiritually—and honestly, organizationally (I now own more garment bags than a Broadway wardrobe department). But it was also one of the most joyful, growth-filled seasons of my life.
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If you’re preparing for a pageant—or any big, scary, beautiful goal—these are the habits that helped me show up as my strongest, healthiest, most peaceful self. I hope they bless you too.

Build Your Beauty Foundation
1. Find a skincare routine that works for youI started a new skincare routine months before competing, targeting my specific concerns. The key lesson? Don’t copy someone else’s routine—get recommendations for your skin. Talk to professionals, do research, and give your skin time to respond. Healthy, glowing skin is built slowly and gently.

2. Drink more water than you think you need: Water is the cheapest beauty secret on earth. When I started drinking several large cups a day (with lemon because I’m dramatic and need flavor), my skin looked brighter and my energy improved.
Hydration is glamorous. Who knew? 💁‍♀️

📅 Book Early, Sleep Better
One of the greatest gifts you can give your future self is a full calendar with confirmed appointments.
Book early:

• Hair & makeup (or lessons if you’re doing your own!)
• Hotel and travel
• Facials, spray tan, hair color, etc.

Knowing everything was scheduled gave me incredible peace. Less chaos = more confidence.

💪 Train Your Body With Kindness
Mrs. New York includes a swimwear competition, and I wanted to feel strong, not just look strong.
I worked out several times a week, choosing workouts that fit my body and my schedule. I also focused on eating nourishing foods that fueled my energy. This wasn’t about punishment—it was about stewardship. Your body is your teammate. Treat her well.

👗 Pageant Prep Starts Early (Wardrobe Included!)
Do NOT wait until the last minute to find outfits. Trust me. Midnight gown panic is not a cute look.
For Mrs. New York, I needed:

• Interview outfit
• Registration look
• Swimwear
• Evening gown
• Rehearsal outfit
• Post-pageant outfit
• Shoes + accessories for everything

Give yourself time to try options, tailor pieces, and feel confident.

🎤 Coaching Is Worth It
Every pageant system is different. Coaching helped me refine my walk, polish my interview skills, and build a strategy.
More importantly, it helped me believe in myself. Coaching isn’t about becoming someone else—it’s about becoming the best version of you.

Self-Care Is Not Selfish: Stress loves to live in my shoulders (and apparently my jaw, my neck, and my entire personality), so a massage before competition week is a must.
Other essentials for me:

• Hydrafacial/dermaplaning
• Hair color + trim
• Quiet time to pray and reset

Your peace matters more than perfection.

🧳 Start Packing Early
I begin pulling items a month out and fully pack about 7–10 days before leaving. I make detailed checklists and pack backups. Because if one earring goes missing… it will absolutely be the one that matches your gown.

💅 The Day Before: Fresh Nails & Final Calm
Fresh nails. Spray tan. Loose-fitting clothes. Snacks. Water. And deep breaths.

Make a hype playlist: Mine included songs about being a champion, Broadway-level drama, and past pageant opening numbers. You need music that reminds you: You belong here.
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Limit social media: Comparison steals joy faster than a crooked crown. I only posted what I needed and stayed offline.

Remember why you’re there: This was huge for me. Pageants are judged on opinions—but my worth does not come from a panel that meets me for two minutes. I reminded myself: What is meant for you will not pass you by.

I worked so hard to get there. I didn’t want to miss the joy by obsessing over outcomes. Smile at the other contestants. Laugh in rehearsal. Take photos. Pray. Be present. Win or not, you are becoming someone braver, stronger, and more compassionate along the way. And that crown? It’s lovely. But the growth you gain? That lasts forever.

💛 Final Encouragement:

• ​If you’re preparing for a pageant—or a promotion, marathon, interview, or big life change—remember:
• Prepare with discipline.
• Care for yourself with tenderness.
• Show up with confidence.
• Trust God with the outcome.
• And pack extra bobby pins. Always extra bobby pins.
• You’ve got this, friend. 👑✨

There’s something undeniably electric about Las Vegas—but this trip wasn’t about the lights, the shows, or the sparkle (okay, maybe a little sparkle). I headed to Vegas for one reason that matters most to me: showing up for a friend as she took the Mrs. World stage.
Pageantry has a beautiful way of turning competitors into sisters. Watching someone you admire step into her purpose on a global stage is humbling, emotional, and deeply inspiring. Being in the audience—cheering loudly, tearing up proudly, and soaking in every moment—was a reminder that crowns are powerful, but community is everything.
Mrs. World isn’t just a competition; it’s a celebration of women who lead with heart, resilience, and grace. I’m so grateful I could be there, not as a titleholder, but as a friend—because sometimes the most meaningful role we play is simply being present. And trust me, Vegas has never felt more full of heart. 💫