Attending the Adoption Council Gala

My sister queen Shannon Devine, Mrs. International 2010, invited me and a guest (my mom) as well as our other sister queen, Ashley, and her boyfriend Sebastian, to the 30th anniversary gala for the National Council for Adoption. It was themed “Bow Tie and Pearls”. Hosted at the one of the finest hotels in DC, the Willard, the event was absolutely first class.

My Mother accompanied me to the Adoption Council Gala. We had a great time!

Miss International Ashley Smith's fiance Sebastian accompanied her to the event.

The room was elegantly decorated, and featured a string quartet playing in the background. At each of the seats were beautifully wrapped favors consisting of either 14kt gold and cultured pearl earrings or a white bow tie set (depending if you were a male or female guest). Gorgeous fresh hydrangea and white rose bouquets adorned the tables.

Mrs. Internationl Shannon Devine and Miss Teen International Juliana McKee

There were some wonderful patrons that spoke. Mrs. International, a spokesperson for the organization, was one of the first speakers in the program. While listening to Shannon give her speech, it became apparent to both my mother and I why she won the title of Mrs. International – she is a true inspiration!!

Shannon also modeled the beautiful Tiffany and Company cultured pearl necklace and picked the winners of the raffle items including the fabulous necklace. She looked awesome in her custom Sherri Hill black gown, supplied by none other than Joey Rutherford of The Competitive Image.

A high light was the excitement generated when Shannon’s husband came back to the table after disappearing, announcing that they had won the “African Safari” auction item- wow!! Shannon was speechless!!! How exciting – Mrs. International is traveling to Africa!

Next, we met with and took photos with Mary Landrieu, the US Senator from Louisiana. She is a tireless advocate for adoption. We met some really great people that all had their own stories about adoption – some were adopted and some had adopted children of their own.

Miss Teen International, Juliana McKee, with U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu

There was only one thing missing that evening – little Halle Grace, or “Miss Magic” as she is better known in pageant circles. She is a real life adoption fairy tale come true- Happy 3rd birthday, Halle Grace!!!

Juliana McKee