I’ve had a week to reflect on my experience at Mrs. International and I would love to share my thoughts with you. Competing at an International level was an amazing honor and it has taken all of the last week to begin to process the memories, new friends and feelings.
I must start by saying I had an absolutely fabulous week. Mary and Mel Richardson and their entire team truly run the pageant with organization and efficacy at the forefront. I, along with all the other contestants was treated with respect and care. I loved meeting such accomplished women from all over the globe and I’m blessed to have forged real friendships with many. My roommate, Summer Drake, Mrs. Oklahoma International was simply the best. We connected through social media a few months ago and even texted the week before arriving in Jacksonville that we were slightly worried about the “roommate thing”—I know God had his hands all over that I couldn’t think of a more perfect lady to share my personal space, makeup and hair products and late night room service with.
One of the biggest challenges in any pageant is our own personal tendency to play the comparison game. Thankfully Team Texas has amazing sponsors that help with that aspect too! Our Texas International interview coach, Valerie Hayes, and I worked on specific tactics to talk myself off the comparison cliff. Our wardrobe sponsor Laine Berry of the Royal We helped design a look for the week that had me feeling so confident in what I was wearing I didn’t worry about what everyone else was dressed in.
I’m not ashamed to say I had a goal heading into Mrs. International, and that goal was to make the Top 15. Contestants in the Top 15 give their platform statement on stage and answer a follow-up question. I’d worked incredibly hard writing and memorizing my platform statement and I honestly felt that when I gave that speech I would be speaking for every woman who had or is currently suffering with perinatal mood disorder. I wasn’t one of the Top 15 and didn’t have the opportunity to share my platform. Was I disappointed? Heck yes! I’d worked extremely hard since being crowned Mrs. Texas to improve all areas of competition while making meaningful appearances that related directly to my platform. Did I cry? Yes. Was it the end of the world? No.
For me (and I would assume for many) the best part of competing in pageant is the personal development that takes place long before you enter the interview room or step into your evening gown. All that self-work actually prepares you and strengthens you to hear your named called—or not.
I continue to be grateful that I represented the great state of Texas on an international stage and just as thankful I will continue to represent the Lone Star State until we crown our next Mrs. Texas International next spring.
Still your Mrs. Texas,
Kori