Dream Come True
Let me tell you my story about how I got involved in pageants and see if it is similar to your story and passion.
Like most girl I would stare at the TV set in amazement at the glorious gallery of beautiful women walking down the glittering runway. My sisters, brothers and mother would boldly state their favorites. My heart would beat faster and faster as contestant after contestant took their turn to stop for the whole audience to see, while radiating the most incredible smile.
They seemed so glamorous, beautiful, and larger than life. No matter what contest it was, Miss America, Miss USA, Miss Universe, Miss What Ever, the effect it had on me was undeniable. I wanted to be on stage with them.
During the intermission between the Swimsuit and Evening Gown competition I would sneak into my older sisters closet and try on her swimsuit and high heels. Then I would practice walking in front of the mirror with as much grace and dignity as any of the contestants on TV.
Then the emcee’s booming voice filled the room, “Our next contestant is none other than Shelly Winters”. Strutting, twirling, and smiling to the huge audience of friends and well wishers. The audience cheered, hooped and hollered.
Then I was busted by my brother wondering where I was. He laughed but I knew right then and there what I wanted to do most of all. I was ten years old when my dreams became my passion.
My desire to pursue the crown really took flight in high school. I experienced a touch of the pageantry as I was elected Junior Maid on the Home Coming Court at John Ehret High School in Marrero Louisiana. Lightning struck again in my Senior Year as 1982 Class Sweet Heart Queen. WOW, the Crown, a bouquet of Roses, a shiny Sash draped from shoulder to waist. Oh the thrill of Victory. I recall feeling beautiful.
I think as individuals we all want to feel accepted. Even deeper is the need to feel LOVE.
From my first win, Mrs. Gretna, I felt the pull toward directorship. After winning several local pageants girls started asking me to coach them.
Then I began my career in Hair & Make-up.
I immersed myself into the world of pageants and I loved it.
I breathed it in and I sweated it out my pores as I worked diligently to learn every facet of the world of pageants.
This all lead up to the big day when I directed my first pageant.
Now that I told you about my start and how it lead to directing beauty pageants can you see how you can do it as well? Yes there is a lot of hard work but the payoff can be very fun, fullfilling, and profitable.
Consider directing beauty pageants if you love helping others follow their dreams in the world of glamor.
Yours in Pageantry
Shelly
