Virginia and Maryland International Pageant!

Pageants are always bittersweet for the outgoing queens.  There is the relief of knowing that you can take a break from grueling appearance schedules and cheat on your diet a bit.  There is a little sadness in handing over something that has become a big part of your life.  But, there is also the joy in seeing someone else’s dreams come true. This weekend I attended the Virginia and Maryland International Pageant in Glen Allen, Virginia and was blessed with the opportunity to see the dreams of four spectacular women come true.  
 

All of the contestants worked incredibly hard.  I could sense their passion for their platforms and desire to represent the International System.  At the end of the night, only one person gets to walk away with the crown, but everyone walks away with a life changing experience.  Congratulations to the incoming Maryland and Virginia International Queens!

Outgoing Virginia International Queens, Rebecca Crosen and Deshauna Barber, before Opening Number.

Mrs. Maryland International 2011, Sandra Bryan-Grier, and I backstage before Opening Number

Posing with the Glam Squad, Artistry by Hassana makeup artists!

Mrs. Maryland International 2012, Deanna Linz; Miss Maryland International 2012, Chardia Murry; and their proud Director, DeShawn Shepard

A quick picture with Chardia!  Special Thanks to the Competitive Image for my evening gown!

Mrs. Virginia International 2012, Jennifer Williams!

Miss Virginia International 2012, Kristyn Admire!

I couldn’t leave without getting a picture with Jurnee!  It was so much fun catching up with her!

Best,

Ciji Dodds

Miss International 2011