And the winner is...

When you work so hard for only thirty seconds on stage and hear your name as the winner, it gives you a new sense of confidence and the ability to take on any challenge in the world. Pageants help you grow as a woman, a friend, an entrepreneur, and so much more. I've competed in pageants since I was eight years old. I'm already a girly girl. I love dressing up, walking down the grocery aisle as if it were a runway, and being amazingly myself.

Since then I've noticed that pageants have changed in good ways and bad. This is my opinion, on pageants in todays world. Remember, we listen, we don't judge. Having a pageant title now, does not feel as much of an achievement as it did in the 90's. Yes I said the 90's. Or as my dance students would say... the 1900s. Having the crown placed on your head, meant you were a queen. I see so many pageants today, that just want participants and nothing more. The glory, the spectacular feeling, the overall experience, I feel is slipping away.

Yes there are plenty of pageants today that hold true to the meaning of what pageantry is, grace, humbling experiences, and role models. However what I feel is really missing... is YOU. Participants that want those attributes of what pageants offer. But you have to see yourself in that light. In todays society, it's all about image and getting the most followers... pageants have adapted to that change, and it's up to YOU to want to register and compete. You can't complain about the winner if you didn't try yourself.

I won my first title at the age of 10. I was queen of the world! Well queen of New Jersey, but I felt like the queen of the world. Pageants make your life feel like a million bucks. Or they used to... things change, however your year as a queen is what you make it. If you're afraid to try ask yourself why. Many factors come into play about pageants and trust me there is always a solution to every problem.

I don't have the money - ask family, friends, small businesses you support.

I don't have anything to wear - take another look in your closet, go to your friends house, or go thrifting!

I don't know how to put on makeup - my favorite... Youtube university! Or ask a friend or your mom! Their skills are awesome.

How do I walk in heels? - I can help with that!

What if the other contestants aren't nice? - At pageants we are all family! Never be afraid to introduce yourself to someone. You are too cool.

See what I mean? There is an answer for everything. I suggest going to a pageant first before you compete, get your feet wet with the experience of being an audience member first, then go for it.

The pageant community is small, and always willing to help a fellow pageant girl.

To conclude, try it... choose the right pageant for you... and never say never.

You can achieve anything you set your mind on. You just have to believe in yourself.