Mrs. Colorado at the Highlands Festival!

This weekend was so much fun!  The Muirhead clan went to the Scottish/Irish Festival in Estes Park.  Starting on Friday night, my family and I were invited to be apart of Tattoo Estes.  This is where several marching, bag pipe and other assorted bands from around the world showed off their talents.  Being a past band girl myself, I was in love!  

That night is when I also learned about a "walking taco."  When we arrived we were to be brought into the stadium on a horse and carriage.   I hadn't eaten and therefore went to the concession stand to grab a quick bite. When I saw "walking taco" I thought something quick and easy to eat.  Nope!  Fritos, chili and cheese is what consists of this clever name.  So imagine


me - crown, banner, nice outfit - trying to quickly eat a Frito pie without making a spectacle of myself.  Not easily accomplished!

The next day began with a parade.  I so enjoyed meeting a lot of the participants beforehand.  Bands traveled from all over the country and even the world to be there.  Later that day we had a VIP dinner, followed by a concert.  My daughter and I enjoyed dancing to the bag pipe rendition of "Don't Stop Believing," by Journey.  Yep!  Sounds crazy, but it was fantastic! 

I had the opportunity to be interviewed, on camera, about Mrs. Colorado and why I decided to compete.  We are so lucky to have such a wonderful organization in our home state.  I felt nothing but pride as I talked about who we are and what we represent!  If you are currently considering entering the pageant for 2014, congratulations!  You are about to start an amazing journey!

Have a blessed week!!

Mrs. America

Happy Labor Day!!

Well, I've returned from Mrs. America grateful for such a wonderful experience.  Mrs. Texas, Austen Williams, took the title of Mrs. America.  She is a true gem and will serve the title well.  Getting to know all of the titleholders is something that I will always treasure.  If you haven't checked out the videos on mrsamerica.com please be sure that you do!

The competition was a full 9 days!  Most days I was up at the 5 o'clock hour, either getting ready for the day or trying my best to get some exercise.  Our days ended at 10:00 pm with either a formal or a rehearsal.  Crazy!! 

 The women were fantastic!  I had some amazing conversations and not just about everyday stuff. We talked about about the challenges and problems facing our nation and our youth.  We discussed how we as wives, mothers and leaders in our communities can bring about change.  This was the good stuff of my time spent in Arizona.  Even though I didn't bring home a crown, I brought home something much better ~ friendships that will last a lifetime.

I am so very thankful for all of the amazing people that came into my life and made it so easy for me go to Mrs. America.  You are truly a blessing!  Kari Kisch, DJ and Tiffany Yee for helping me look my best; Dr. Kirk Maxey of Maxey Cosmetics; Dr. Rocci Trumper of Orthopedic Center of the Rockies and Dr. Rebecca de la Torre and Yvonne Hampson at Allura Skin and Laser Clinic.

 Special thanks to Tiffany Phillips, Ed Stoner, Ryan Martorano, Victoria Grissom, Cathy Robinson, Tina Sono, Patrician Brennen, Mike and Danette Haag, Tom and Erin Wick, Michael and Regina Warne, Joe Jelnick, Erin Rogers, Pam Gabarron, Carol Shima, Shayna Leone, Tracy Nash and Katie Markley for their individual contributions.  Chris Monfort, Christine Perich and Tricia Dampier for their donations of state gifts.

My amazing director, Emily Stark, won Director of the Year!  I can contest that she is the BEST!  I am so blessed to have her in my corner.

All of my queen sisters for their expertise and friendship, especially Shalon Polson for her continued coaching and willingness to sew coins in my dress (that's a story for another time!)  and Sharon Nuanes for help with my state costume.  My family has been so supportive of this journey; mom, Walt, dad, Judy, Mary Adair, Nancy and my sweet kids Christian and Ashley thank you so very much!

Finally, my dear sweet amazing husband, Walter. You never wavered in your commitment to me or this dream.  I could not have done it without your love and support.  Thank you, my love.

with Austen Williams, the new Mrs. America 2013

Fun night with dancing and BBQ!

Presenting my state gift

Fabulous ladies!

My family - prelim night

Finals!

State Costumes - An Indian between 2 diamonds!

Tucson here we come!!

Sorry I haven't written in a while!  It's been a crazy few weeks getting ready for Mrs. America.  I'm currently driving (well my husband is actually driving) to the airport.  Nothing like multitasking!!

This past weekend was my send off party for Mrs. America.  What a special event!  It was so nice to have the sisterhood come together for encouragement and advice.  It's a memory that I will always treasure!

I want to thank Tiffany Yee, DJ McDermott and Abby Richardson for nutritional advice, hair and nails before my trip.  You guys are awesome!  I appreciate all of your time and attention.  I also want to thank  Maxey Cosmetics for their sponsorship to Mrs. America.  I've been using their products and they are fantastic!  I can't add photos to the blog from my iPad, but I will add them to my Facebook page.

Blessings to you!  Don't forget to watch Mrs. America on August 28th.  It will be live streamed on the web site, mrsamerica.com.

xo
Mina

Mrs. America here we come!!

Well ladies and gentleman, the time is quickly approaching for this gal to leave for Tucson, Arizona! As a full time working mother of two it's been quite a whirlwind preparing for Mrs. America.  My family has been amazing!!  All summer long I've been steadily working towards being well prepared for the next level of competition.  This past week I had a little moment of "Oh, I have A LOT to do!" My family rallied and I gave them all a separate list, from picking up dry cleaning to going to the post office.  My step-dad even took Ashley to get her new outfit for ballet!  (I'm sure she was pleased with that one, he surely bought her more than I would.)

I huge shout out to my friends, family, co-workers, and queen sisters!  You are amazing!  Your excitement, encouragement and most of all love has made this journey even more special.  I appreciate you more than you know.

xo
Mina

Saddle Up!

This past weekend I had the opportunity to make an appearance at the Saddle Up! Suitcase Party in Denver.  Saddle up! provides horse therapy for mentally, emotionally and physically challenged children.  It is an amazing organization! I was so honored to be apart of the program.  If you want to learn more about Saddle Up! go to www.saddleupfoundation.org.

with Natalie Tysdal from CW Channel 2 news

I love how we color coordinated!

Me with my husband's dream car.

Having Fun!

One of the most wonderful things about being Mrs. Colorado is getting out into the community and helping to raise awareness and money to some great causes.  It is such important work and I am so proud to be apart of this organization.

Other times it's just about having fun.  Yesterday was my 38th birthday.  A group of friends invited my husband and I to see Bret Michaels in concert.  Sounded like a fun invitation so we went for it.  We also heard there might be a chance for a meet and greet, so of course I brought my crown!!

I'm a lucky lady to be surrounded by amazing people that I can call my friends.  Thank you for cheering me on before and after I won the crown.  I am so grateful for each of you.

I love having the opportunity to meet new people everyday.  This is a cool "gift of the crown."  Here's to a great year!

GRATEFUL

As the celebration of our country's independence day passes I am reminded of the heroes, from past and present, that fought to give us these precious freedoms.  I am very grateful.  We are a great country and we can all thank a veteran for their role in keeping us great.
Today I had the honor of doing a Veteran's motorcycle ride.  Veteran's in a local rehab facility were given the opportunity to take a police escorted ride around City Park in Denver.  One of my first jobs as a nurse was working in a rehab facility.  I have often found when a person is recovering from surgery or extended illness one of the most healing things is getting outside.  It lifts the spirits and reminds you that there is something outside of the same four walls.  A lot of the residents were able to take a ride in a side care, while others simply enjoyed watching all the action.  I thoroughly enjoyed talking with many of the Veteran's and getting to know a little about their personal journey. There were so many wonderful men and women that came together today to make this happen; to all the driver's, the "cheerleader's," the staff and the Denver Police Dept thanks for making this an event to remember!

The start of a journey

It's quite early in the morning, but I think I am too excited for the upcoming day to sleep!  Today I get to share in the excitement of my journey with my kids.  In a few short hours I will be on my way to the Parker Day's Parade.  Christian and Ashley (better known in our house as C and Cha Cha)  have already purchased candy to pass out and my daughter's favorite outfit is in the dryer.  After the parade I will be on my way to my first photo shot as Mrs. Colorado!  Anytime that I get to spend with the amazing photographer, Megan Anderson, is a great time!   

Finally, we will be off to the mountains to meet up with my husband, Walter.  Walter will be running the Tough Mudder today, along with my brother.  This is something Walter and I really enjoyed doing last year.  5 years ago the thought of running a 12 mile obstacle course up and down a mountain was not in my realm of thinking.  During my 4 years of the Mrs. Colorado competition I learned so much about myself.  I gained not only physical strength, but mental and spiritual strength as well.  I encourage you to find a goal that steps out of your comfort zone.  I truly believe that when we scare ourselves, even just a little bit, it's a great opportunity of growth.  This is where the "juiciness" of life happens-the events we remember forever.

Me, Walter and my mom at a mudder race

Mrs Colorado 2013

Hello!  I'm Mina Muirhead.  Last Saturday my dream came true when I was crowned Mrs. Colorado 2013.

When I was a little girl growing up in Oklahoma one of my good friends, mother was Mrs. Oklahoma.  I remember thinking how amazing she was and how I wanted to do that too.  But I never entered pageantry as a kid or teenager.  Growing up in a small town, my summers were filled with helping my granddad on the ranch, swimming pools and softball.  But when I came into my 30's and my kids were in school full time I remembered that long ago dream.  I googled "Mrs. Colorado" and found this web site. Instant excitement filled me!  I told my husband that I wanted to enter the pageant.  I'm grateful that he was immediately on board.  Little did we both know at that time it would be a 4 year journey of growth and discovery of not only who I am, but who we are as a couple.

Last week I immediately jumped into my role by visiting my daughter's 3rd grade classroom.  We talked about how fun it is competing in something that you enjoy, whether that's a sport, dance, or art.  The kids were great! Even the boys enjoyed trying on my crown.

I am thrilled about the possibilities of what this year will bring.  I'm starting to prepare for Mrs. America which will be at the beautiful Loews Ventana Canyon Resort and Spa in Tucson, Arizona on August 28th.    Stayed tuned for more information!

Welcome Mrs. Colorado 2013, Mina Muirhead

 

Mrs. Colorado 2013 is Mina Muirhead

of Fort Collins, Colorado.

Welcome Mrs. Colorado 2013, Mina Muirhead.  Her first appearance was yesterday at Range View Elementary.  Watch the Mrs. Colorado Blog for her formal introduction soon.

 

Signing Off- Mrs. Colorado 2012

As I approach my last hours of being Mrs. Colorado, I am overwhelmed with gratitude.  Holding the title of Mrs. Colorado 2012 has been more than an honor, it has been a true blessing. I would like to thank my family, friends, sponsors, queen sisters and director Emily Stark for all of their support, words of encouragement and generosity. I am humbled and privileged to have represented the married women of Colorado.  I will be forever grateful for the experiences and opportunities that I was given this past year.   Below are some photos from a few of my favorite events. 

I look forward to my last day of rehearsals at the beautiful Ellie Caulkins Opera house and can’t wait for this evening when I have the privilege of crowning my successor.  To all the contestants, stand bright tonight for you are a diamond!  For the last time, I’m signing off- Courtney Graham, Mrs. Colorado 2012.   

Mrs. Colorado Pageant

2013 Mrs. Colorado Pageant

Preliminary Pageant May 16, 2013
Tickets onsale 6:00 pm
Doors Open at 6:30 pm
Show Starts at 7:00 pm
Tickets $15.00  General Seating
Marriott Denver South at Park Meadows

 

 

Mrs. Colorado Pageant at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House at the Denver Performing Arts Complex

May 18, 2013

Tickets on sale the night of the show

Box office opens at 5:30 PM

Show Starts at 7:00 PM

Tickets $25.00

  

Limited tickets available

 

 

A Bronze Bod- Rockstar Spray Tans

A Bronze Bod- Rockstar Spray Tans

Growing up in Hawaii, I spent years basking in the sun.  Although those were fun memories, oh how I regret it.  Intense sun exposure is so dangerous and not worth the long term damage that it creates. I am so proud to say “good-bye sun damage and hello fabulous spray tans!”   

One of the sponsors of the Mrs. Colorado Pageant is Rockstar Spray Tans.  Athena LeBon is the owner and is just such a wonderful person to work with.  I have been a client of Athena’s prior to winning the title of Mrs. Colorado and was thrilled to learn that part of my sponsorship package as the current Mrs. Colorado is free spray tans for a year!  Wow, talk about hitting the jack pot!



At the Mrs.America Pageant Rockin my Spray Tan

Athena and staff are not only some of the most kind and fun people you’ll ever encounter but they are amazing at what they do.  I know some of you may be skeptical about spray tans and I have experienced streaky, orange, spray tans in the past so I can relate to the feelings you may be having.  However, I guarantee you will not experience the orange tan if you visit Rockstar Spray Tans.

Prior to winning the title of Mrs. Colorado, I was a client of Rockstar Spray Tans.  During my reign as Mrs. Colorado, I have continued to tan with them and was a frequent vistor as I prepared for the Mrs. America Pageant.

What I love most about Rockstar tans is that you leave looking natural and glowing.  There is nothing fake looking about it.  As a fair skinned, blonde, I have to be so careful not to overdo it.  I always feel confident getting my tans at Rockstar because I trust them to make my skin look terrific.  Athena and staff are great at assessing your skin, helping you select the right shade of tan and offer a very reasonable price.

If you are preparing for the Mrs. Colorado Pageant or just want a nice tan, I highly recommend visiting Rockstar Spray Tans. You will not be disappointed!
Note: If you are a contestant competing on May 18^th, I recommend you call very soon to get on the books! Tell Athena that I sent you.

http://www.rockstarspraytans.com/

303-587-6173
Rockstar Spray Tans
5231 South Santa Fe Blvd. # 202, Littleton CO 80120

Letting Your Inner Sparkle and Core Values Shine

Letting Your Inner Sparkle and Core Values Shine Through in an Interview

I was so lucky to be invited to be a judge at the 2013 Canon City Blossom Pageant a few weeks ago. I was so excited to go to a town I had never been to before and experience my Queen Sister, Megan McCarter’s very own pageant.  Megan is the director of the Blossom Pageant and let me tell you, it was no simple high school pageant.  It was so much more than I would have ever expected.  It was simply fabulous!

My mom was gracious enough to take the excursion with me and we had the time of our life.  From staying at an adorable bed and breakfast to eating at Canon City’s five star French restaurant, we were treated like royalty. Beyond the incredible production of the pageant and the royal treatment, I was most impressed with the caliber of young ladies who competed for the crown.  Being a judge for this pageant was one of the hardest things I have had to do because I wanted everyone to win.  Those ladies were that special.
As we made the drive back to Denver, I reflected on the interview portion of the pageant. This was the time when we (the judges) got to know the contestants.  These few minutes are so important because it’s an opportunity to let your inner sparkle and core values shine through. From a one young woman telling us about her pink sparkly car to another sharing the story of how she and her mom made her evening gown, I feel in love with so many of those contestants.

As you prepare for the Mrs. Colorado pageant, remember to be your authentic self. Don’t look to the right or left, look forward and be proud of all that you are.

Me and my Queen Sister Megan McCarter, Director of the Blossom Pageant

 With fellow judge, Jennifer Hart, Mrs. Nebraska 2009

Danika VanGorder, Ms. Blossom Queen 2013

Information about the Blossom Festival
The Canon City Music & Blossom Festival Pageant is celebrating it 67th year. Our Pageant is in existence solely to promote the Music & Blossom Festival. Our mission is to teach young women the values of pageantry, and to give our time honored festival royalty to reign over our festivities. We believe that pageantry teaches women of all ages many things that are not taught in most schools. The Blossom Pageant offers much more than a rhinestone tiara, sash, and a title. It allows them to practice hands on interview skills necessary for their future, gives them the opportunity to work on their public speaking abilities, teaches them to be comfortable in their own skin by boosting self-confidence, and makes memories to last a lifetime.

Eating Clean for a Healthy You

Eating Clean for a Healthy You

When I was preparing for Mrs. Colorado and Mrs. America, I always loved finding new recipes to spice up my “clean” diet. One tip that my favorite trainer Tiffany Yee from Body Statement gym gave me is to request a mini refrigerator in your hotel room when traveling.  By having a refrigerator in your room, you can prepare and bring your own snacks.  I always find that the times I struggle with food choice are the times I am not prepared.  

I know this picture is upside down and I just can't seem to turn it. I still had to share it because these muffins got me through Mrs. America with ease. They are Tiffany Yee's Magic Muffins and you can get them at the Total Bodystatement Gym.  I made a batch before I left and froze them for easy travel. They are not only super healthy but they taste great!

In addition to the muffins, you've gor to try another favorite meal.  I have found that kale is so hearty, it holds up well in the refrigerator.

Kale with Onions and Pine Nuts

Ingredients

• ⅓ cup pine nuts
• 1½ Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 yellow onions (about ¾ pound total), cut into thin wedges
• 2 bunches Tuscan kale (about 1½ pounds total), stems removed, leaves chopped
• 1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
• ¾ tsp. kosher salt

Directions
Total time: 30 minutes

Heat a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add pine nuts and cook, stirring often, until golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes; set aside.

In same skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown and tender, 12 to 14 minutes. Add kale, lemon juice, and ¼ cup water and toss gently. Cover and cook until just wilted, 3 to 4 minutes.

Remove from heat, add reserved pine nuts, red pepper flakes, and salt. Toss well and serve.

Giving Back to Our Beautiful Community

Giving Back to Our Beautiful Community

One of the gifts of competing in the Mrs. Colorado pageant is that it promotes getting involved in our community and supporting organizations that you are passionate about. While competing for the title of Mrs. Colorado, I have been blessed with the opportunity to meet and become friends with wonderful women in our state. These women contribute to our community in amazing ways and inspire me to be a better person. 

A few years ago, I competed with Valentina Anderson and instantly feel in love with her zest for life. As I have gotten to know her over the years, she continues to impress me with gratitude for life, particularly her drive for giving back to something she is passionate about, orphan children.

Recently, Valentina invited to attend an event to raise funds for orphan children. This fundraiser was sponsored by her non-profit organization, Give 2 Orphans. At this event, I was humbly lifted as Valentina shared her own experience as an orphan and her mission to help create a better life for children.

As Mrs. Colorado, it is an honor and privilege to attend events like Give 2 Orphans and challenges me to strive to be a strong contributor in our community. I believe that when we give, we receive tenfold. In many cases what I have received from giving back to my community is gratitude and happiness that fills my soul. Being exposed to new experiences and the feeling from helping others is a gift that stays with you for a lifetime.  A gift that is truly priceless. Below is some information about Give 2 Orphans. To learn more, please visit Valentina’s website: http://www.give2orphankids.org/

About Give 2 Orphan Kids
Give 2 Orphan Kids was recently established to become a non-profit organization that will help supplement the day to day needs of orphan kids, wherever the need arises in this world.

Valentina Anderson, the founder of Give 2 Orphan Kids, is passionate about helping kids who are orphans. As an orphan herself, Valentina knows firsthand what it means to be left alone, without parents, often fending for herself. And, while Valentina has many memories of her childhood, one memory sticks out among all the rest, her 5th grade teacher who made a real difference in her life, and inspired her to always think positive, be happy and have faith that her life would be worthwhile.

Today, Valentina is blessed to have the support of a loving husband and four wonderful children. Over the past 14 years, Valentina has been helping to provide for the needs of orphan kids in the orphanage where she was raised in the Ukraine. Now, with G2OK, she is lengthening her stride, doubling her efforts and reaching out to orphan kids everywhere.

PHILOSOPHY

Give 2 Orphan Kids does not believe orphan kids should be taken way from their community and it is not our intent to help facilitate the adoption process. Our mission is to help supplement the daily needs of each orphan child, work with those in charge of their day to day care and give each orphan a hope for a brighter future.

THE FUTURE

Valentina’s commitment to her own children and family is the guiding force behind her goal to improve the lives of orphan kids wherever they may be, and Give 2 Orphan Kids has already begun the work to fulfill this objective. In Valentina’s mind, the future is bright and everything is possible, and she welcomes your generous support.

 

Beautiful Skin

Beautiful Skin

One of the many fortunate gifts that come along with being Mrs. Colorado is the amazing sponsorships.  Since I was crowned in February of 2012, I have been making monthly trips to visit Dr. TerKonda’s office.  Traveling for over an hour each way is well worth it as my skin has never looked this good.  Growing up, I was the kid who constantly battled acne and as an adult never really had great skin.  At the age of 36, I can honestly say, my skin has never looked this good.

My latest discovery is Clear and Brilliant.  Clear and Brilliant is a gentle laser that refreshes your skin from the inside out.  The laser energy creates millions of microscopic treatment zones in your skin, replacing damaged skin with healthy, younger looking tissue.  I have had three treatments so far (I’ll need a total of 4 to 6) and the improvement is subtle, natural and overall impressive.

Dr. TerKonda performs many of the services himself and has an assistant Heather who is fabulous.  Heather and has been performing the Clear and Brilliant treatments on my face for a few months now and the experience has been fabulous.   Heather is the kind of person who is your instant friend.  She makes me feel so comfortable talking about my areas of concern and is so educated on all the products and services that they provide.  I am always excited to see the team that works with Dr. TerKonda because they really treat you like family.

As you prepare for Mrs. Colorado, I encourage you to visit Dr. TerKonda and team because they are amazing.  They will work with your budget and help you create a plan to enhance your beautiful skin.

To learn more about Dr. TerKonda and his team, visit the link below.

http://www.cosmeticsurgery.com/find/cosmetic-surgeons/Colorado/r~135/dr~mission

At the Morning Show with Dr. TerKonda and Team

Making Time for Relaxation

Making Time for Relaxation

This week my family and I vacationed at the beautiful Pagosa Springs Resort and Spa and it was amazing!!! After a year of appearances, volunteer work, and a new full time job this R&R was well needed.  In fact, my husband jokingly stated that this was a prize for him and the boys, a reward for putting up with me these past four years when I was competing! (Smile) He was very happy to have his wife’s undivided attention for an extended amount of time and I have to say, it was fun giving it.

My family and I were greeted upon check-in with our photo framed in the lobby saying “Welcome Mrs. Colorado to the Pagosa Springs Resort and Spa.”  I was so overwhelmed with gratitude. That welcome frame was just a taste of the hospitality that we received throughout our stay.  The grounds were beautiful, the 23 mineral pools were amazing, and the service was phenomenal. 

We were lucky enough to have stayed in the “O Suite” named after Oprah Winfrey when she visited the resort and claimed it as one of her favorite places to stay in Colorado. My kids squealed with delight as we entered the 600 square foot room that contained a master bedroom, fireplace, living room, kitchen, and sauna.  My oldest son said, “Mom, I bet we are never going to stay in a place this nice ever again!” 

Thank you Pagosa Springs for a fabulous time.  Your sponsorship is something that I will remember and cherish for a life time!!! 

To learn more about the Pagosa Springs Resort and Spa, please visit:

http://www.pagosahotsprings.com/

Note:  As soon as I download the photos from our vacation, I will be sure to update this post!  

Creating Time for the People You Love

Creating Time for the People You Love

 We all need a reminder to take care of your mind, body and soul.   During my year as Mrs. Colorado, I realized the importance of taking time out to spend with the people you love.  These “people” for me are my family.  This past week I turned off the electronics, stepped away from work, and spent much needed time with my husband of 13 years and two fantastic little boys.  With that said, I hope you understand and appreciate the lateness of my blog entries. 

This past week, over a road trip, I rediscovered the little joys in life.  From silly car games to talent shows performed by my family, I was reminded of the importance of carving out time to spend with the people I love.

This past week, I forgot about the daily chaos of things like baseball practice, homework and rush hour traffic.  I forgot about managing schedules and preparing for business meetings.  This past week felt amazing and invigorating because I removed all the stressful things in life and surrounded myself with the people who need me most.  These are the same people that I need most too!  I know vacations can’t always be frequent but they are so important.  Even if it’s a “stay-cation” for a single day, I urge you create time for the people and things you love.  It really will fill your spirit with joy.

Feeling Beautiful

Mrs. Colorado’s 90 Day Challenge- Day 17

Topic: Feeling Beautiful

Beauty starts from within, shines through your heart, and pours out for the world to see.  No matter what beautiful garment I wear, new purse I carry, or perfume I spray on me, I only feel as beautiful as my mind allows me to.  During this process, please take care of your mind, body, and soul first and everything else will follow.  With that said, I am absolutely the first one to admit that I LOVE beautiful things especially fancy evening gowns.  There is just something amazing about beads, jewels, and lace.

I have been thinking a lot about evening gowns lately because that is one of the components of the competition where you get to share your creativity, fashion, and personal style.  Many of the contestants at shopping day asked for advice on what dress to wear for evening gown.    I firmly believe that “the dress” is not what is going to make you win or lose but I do think that it can make the difference in how you feel on stage. 

When you select your evening gown, pick something that makes you feel like a million dollars!  I wore the same dress twice and won in it the second time.  I would have never thought that I would wear the same dress twice but as I tried on many other gowns, my heart kept going back to “my” dress.  Pick something that when you put it on, you feel unquestionably beautiful.  This will be your moment, be fabulous, and be you.

This photo was taken after the 2011 Mrs. Colorado Pageant.  In 2012, I wore the same dress, just took off the sleeve and added more crystals.  Wear what makes you feel beautiful.