Sunday 31 July 2011

Real Wedding: Freya and Matt (Part 1 of 2)

We love it when our readers send us photos of their weddings to feature on our blog.  We love it even more when that reader is a friend of ours and we can make her feel extra special by showing off her gorgeous wedding to all of you! Freya, our friend and PDR enthusiast, met Matt over 10 years ago at a house party and she says it was truly love at first sight. In fact, she recalls announcing to her friends that she was certain he would be the one she married.  Although they didn't start dating right away, a mutual passion for music, travel, and food helped them to become fast friends and in 2007, six years later, they began dating.  Three years after that they got engaged and started planning their big day, which we are lucky to be able to share with you today! These two make a great couple and their June wedding had a lot of lovely details that helped their fun loving personalities shine through. Here's a look at some of our favorites from Freya and Matt's wedding (taken by the talented folks over at RHM Photography):


































There were just so many charming portrait shots and fun reception pics that we decided we couldn't squeeze it all into one post. So, we hope you enjoyed this little preview but be sure to check back Friday for Part 2 for more Freya and Matt and for some of the details like the dress, venue, etc. 


XOXO
Jen & Saira

Friday 29 July 2011

Vera Wang Bridesmaid Collection

 The old saying, "always a bridesmaid, never a bride" doesn't quite have the same meaning when the bridesmaids are decked out in Vera Wang.  Vera Wang's highlight anticipated Bridesmaid Collection with David's Bridal was revealed earlier this summer. Ranging from $150 - $250, these dresses are sleek, stylish, and incredibly affordable. The dresses come in a variety of colors to fit your palette, and range from elegant gowns to flirty frocks, perfect to fit every wedding style. Take a look!







XOXO,
Jen & Saira

Thursday 28 July 2011

My Platform

The pageantry and patriotism of NASCAR is second to none, but it is what’s behind the wheel that truly matters.  Founded in 2006, The NASCAR Foundation encompasses the compassion of the world’s second largest sport, NASCAR, and our commitment to serving communities, helping children lead happier healthier lives.  We work with hundreds of 501c3 charities who help children including the American Red Cross, Victory Junction and Speediatrics. 

In 2010, we reached a milestone being able to collect over a million dollars in donations from generous race fans which allowed for more than 1,000 children to attend Victory Junction Camp, provide over 500 NASCAR Dreams at-track and celebrating with over 12,000 fans who had joined The NASCAR Foundation Volunteer Network.

As Mrs. North Carolina, I traveled over 13,000 miles promoting The NASCAR Foundation as one of their spokesmen.  I made hundreds of new friends during my 108 wonderful hours volunteering with The NASCAR Foundation as part of our NASCAR Unites campaign.  And, I am thrilled I was able to help collecting over $100,000 from generous donors.  My initial goal was to help raise $25,000.  I believe once a goal is met, you aspire to set another…and so goes my quest!

Now, as Mrs. International, I will to continue to be a spokesperson for The NASCAR Foundation.  I plan to travel over 11,000 miles making appearances across the United States and Internationally.  I will be promoting volunteerism, as part of the NASCAR Unites campaign, with hopes to double our network of volunteers, raise more funds for children’s charities and most importantly, make sure every child feels like a champion.  To learn more, please visit WWW.NASCAR.COM/Unites.

Janet Bolin

Wednesday 27 July 2011

Color Day: Coral and Mint

Sorry for the delay, dolls! Sometimes technology doesn't always work as planned, but alas, here is today's color day post.  Warm, electrifying coral and cool, minty green create a palette that is both relaxing and energizing - giving off some beachy, tropical, summertime vibes. Perfectly suitable for the bride who likes to dance and the groom who fancies a little quality time with his hammock.



 Coral and Mint Inspiration Board



1. With this Favor | 2. papertalkshop | 3. Gwen Franco | 4. The Perfect Palette |

5. Elizabeth Anne Designs | 6. RachelleD | 7. Dessy | 8. Betsy White |


XOXO,
Jen & Saira

Tuesday 26 July 2011

Meet the New Mrs. International - Janet Bolin!


Born and raised in Heath, Ohio, I graduated from Heath High School proud of serving the school as Student Council President, Band President, Captain of the Majorettes, Varsity Cheerleader and Miss Heath 1992 which advanced to the Miss Sweet Corn Festival where I captured 2nd runner up.  My parents gave me endless opportunities to identify my strengths, weaknesses and passions.  I started dance lessons at age 3 and by age 7 my dance teacher, who celebrated her 60th year teaching this year, gave me the opportunity to compete in the Petite Miss Dance of Ohio Competition.  There was no looking back from that point, I was destined to continue competing in solo and group dance competitions all the way through high school.  I even came back during my summer breaks in college to be swing at nationals. (Swing is when you learn everyone’s position to fill-in for whomever may be sick or injured – anything can happen when the pressure is on.)

I chose Bowling Green State University for their outstanding Communications program.  While there I was part of the University Performing Dancers, a student director for the University Activities Organization (UAO) as well as a campus tour guide.  I graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Science for Journalism with a Minor in Marketing, but had no idea of how exciting and adventurous my career would be.

For the past 15 years, I’ve had the amazing opportunity to work in the automotive industry from every angle.  I started working for an ad agency in Toledo where 90% of our accounts were automotive in nature.  From there, I went to work for Clevite Engine Parts in Ann Arbor, then the Federal Mogul Corporation which is the second largest automotive aftermarket company in the world.  Branching off to work for a smaller corporation, I then went to Tremec Transmissions in Farmington Hills, Michigan before jumping over to work for a race team – to see how the other half lived is what I always say.  Each role with these automotive giants encompassed creating sales promotions with regional and/or national and international sales managers, distributors and key customers.  I also worked closely with each racing organization – NASCAR, NHRA, IRL as well as the grass roots racing organizations like ARCA managing driver appearance contract obligations and special awards/contingency contracts. 

I currently work for NASCAR in their Charlotte office which is in Uptown Charlotte adjacent to the new NASCAR Hall of Fame.  I am the marketing manager for the licensing and retail division.  No two days are the same and I cherish every new opportunity to create marketing promotions for our licensees and retailers. 

Janet Bolin

Monday 25 July 2011

Fundraising


For the last three years, I have organized fundraisers for various charities including Erick’s Hope (founded in memory of my 12 year old cousin who passed away three years ago of heart-related problems), the Alliance for a Healthier Generation and the American Heart Association.  In all, I have raised thousands of dollars for these good causes while providing volunteer leadership to their cause.
 Many have asked me what I did to fundraise for the various charities that I support.  So, in this blog, I will share with you a few of the ways I successfully raised money for these worthy causes.   

1.       Direct Appeals

In addition to writing letters to my family, friends and neighbors asking for their support, I also went door to door to local merchants enlisting them to donate to my charities. Don’t be afraid to tell people frankly what you are doing, why you are doing it, and what the cause means to you. Be specific when you ask for their support. The reason most people don’t support a worthy cause is because no one asks them to do so. 

2.       Special Events 

I have also coordinated and held dinners, silent auctions, raffles and even a tug-of-war competition on my college campus in order to benefit my charities. Be sure to keep things as close to zero overhead as possible. Use your family home or a friend’s home for the event. If you have friends who are musically talented, ask them to share that gift to make the event all the more special. Ask one restaurant to donate some entrees and other one to donate drinks and so on. Ask other businesses to donate items for the silent auction. Do you know someone with a beach condo? Ask them if they’ll donate a week to be auctioned off. If you have a title, wear your sash and crown, and use the opportunity to explain to them how the International Pageant System puts an emphasis on a platform of charitable service. Don’t forget to invite these supportive businesspeople to attend your event!  Remember, again, the reason most people don’t get involved in charitable good works like this is no one asks them – be the person who asks them! 

This year, as Miss Teen International, I was challenged with an aggressive fundraising goal from the American Heart Association and am proud to say that I not only met the goal, but exceeded it by twenty percent!!!   


In addition to money, I have volunteered over 250 hours for the American Heart Association and over 375 hours for all of my charities!  If you are going to ask other people to support your cause, you have to show you are going to get into the trenches and “work it” yourself. 

At this time I am working to raise funds for another American Heart Association campaign: The Heart Walk.  I will be walking in early November, and if you find it in your heart to donate to this worthy cause and help my team make its’ goal, please go to my donation page and make a gift: 



The American Heart Association is a truly wonderful organization.  Through my internship there this year I have seen firsthand that the money does get channeled to the cause and very little goes towards overhead. 

Thank you! 

Juliana McKee
Miss Teen International 2010

Sunday 24 July 2011

Real Couple: Jimmy and Tasha

Happy Christmas in July, dolls! With our recent temperatures reaching over 100 around here, we were thinking we'd celebrate Christmas in July with a little photo shoot that will help you think cool thoughts. Adam Taylor, friend and local photographer, is as wonderfully talented as he is tall (..he is really tall.).  When we saw these additions to his Flickr Photostream a few months back, we were really drawn to this couple and how totally crazy they are for each other.  Jimmy and Tasha look like such a fun loving couple with a great sense of adventure. So, take a break from this insane heat and humidity and enjoy this happy couple and their refreshing photo shoot.























Thanks, again, to Adam for giving us these great images and special thanks for Tasha and Jimmy for letting us share in a little of their happiness.  We wish you all the best.


XOXO
Jen & Saira

Thursday 21 July 2011

Trend Alert: Feather Locks

Fashion and fishing - two words that you probably never thought you would hear used in the same sentence.  That is, until wearing feathers in your hair became the hottest new trend.  We didn't really realize this was a huge deal until we read some articles last week and actually saw it for ourselves the other night when the 3 out of 5 girls showed up at the bar with "Feather Locks".  Companies are popping up online selling feather hair extensions and fly fishing lures have been flying off the shelves and into hair salons around the country at completely unreasonable prices.  Steven Tyler may have pioneered it, but other celebs have picked up on it and it's really taken off.  What do you think of fashion's latest craze?







 While they do look kind of cool, it's important to note the larger impacts of this trend the the farming and fishing industries. Is it worth it?  Read the article here and decide for yourself!


XOXO
Jen & Saira

Wednesday 20 July 2011

American Heart Association Community Teams

I was honored to be asked to be on the committee for the American Heart Association Community Team for the Washington DC Heart Walk. In addition to serving on the committee and attending planning meetings, I will also be helping to recruit teams of young adults through sororities and fraternities. To start the recruiting, I created Team Sigma Kappa Sorority, as I am a proud member of the Beta Zeta chapter of Sigma Kappa at the University of Maryland! I am also honored to get an opportunity to work with Mrs. North East International who serves as the Director of Community Teams for the American Heart Association Greater Washington Region.

Join me in my efforts to support American Heart Association - Washington, DC! Imagine the impact if we reduce death and disability from cardiovascular diseases and stroke by 20% by 2020! I’m joining the American Heart Association's Heart Walk to promote physical activity to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Please support me in helping to reach this lifesaving goal by giving a donation today! Thanks in advance for your support!

I invite you to join my team, Team Sigma Kappa Sorority, regardless of whether or not you are affiliated with Sigma Kappa, today! Even an action as simple as joining our team, joining a different existing team, or creating your own team and spreading the word via Facebook, Twitter, email, etc is a huge step in the right direction toward finding answers and ending heart disease, our nation’s #1 killer of both men and women. To join our team, copy and paste the link (below) into your browser and click “Join our team”. Donations of ANY size, big or small, are extremely appreciated- every penny counts in the fight against heart disease! However, it’s 100% free to join our team and we would love to have you join us in supporting the AHA!


My individual page is:


Our fundraising enables the American Heart Association to make extraordinary impact on your life and the lives of those around you.  Please click on the links below to learn more about how, because of you, the American Heart Association is fighting heart disease and stroke everyday.

     Start a new life resolution today with the My Life Check program.
     Want to do more?  Join Youre The Cure!
     Gain access to our suite of FREE tools to promote your healthy living.
     Check out our online HeartHub to better understand health risks and a library of information and resources.
American Heart Association - Washington, DC contact information:
Email Address: gwrheartwalk@heart.org
Phone: (703) 248-1715

Juliana McKee

Tuesday 19 July 2011

Color Day: Honeysuckle Pink and Pretty

Pantone fans fear not, there is still plenty of time to enjoy the Color of the Year - "Honeysuckle Pink".  Honeysuckle, a reddish pink hue (sometimes referred to as "hot pink", although we disagree with that classification), is a modern (and super feminine) choice for your upcoming event or for updating your wardrobe.  


Honeysuckle Pink Inspiration Board


6. The Lennoxx | 7. Fashion Recon | 8. The MOB Blog | 9.  Pantone | 10. Absent Minded Oracle |




Sunday 17 July 2011

Summer Reading

To our delight, guest bloggers Maggie and Lynette are back with their picks for great reads for summer!  Grab a blanket, your sun block, and your big floppy hat and get ready to hit the sand with one of these great books!  Take it away, ladies:




Summer and reading go hand in hand. Whether you're forced into it à la high school English class or simply love reading on your own, summer is a fantastic time to crack open a good book. So settle down in a beach chair on a sunny day or on your couch when those thunderstorms are raring and pick up one of these reads! Whether you choose a post-apocalyptic novel or a classic story you haven't had a chance to read, these books are guaranteed to take you far away from your every day life.






The Passage - Justin Cronin
If you're going to read one book this summer, or this year even, make it The Passage. While its intimidating size (approximately 800 pages) has frightened some readers away, those who have taken on the challenge have not regretted it. The author himself describes the novel as a story about a girl who saves the world, but The Passage is much more than that. While readers discover early on that the world has ended due to a scientific experiment gone horribly awry, the way that Justin Cronin tells the tale of the destruction of our society creates an unbelievably gripping story you will be unable to put down. Suffice it to say that after I'd started this novel, I spent two days with the book either in my hands or sitting next to me while I waited to pick it back up again. Once you start this engrossing book, you simply won't be able to stop reading it!





A Discovery of Witches - Deborah Harkness 

Harkness has created a beautifully diverse world where vampires, daemons, witches and humans coexist, despite humans remaining unaware of the existence of the other species. The novel's protagonist is an alchemical scholar writing an academic paper in Oxford before accidentally calling a book out of the stacks. Little does witch-born Diana know that this book has been missing for hundreds of years…or that all three of the supernatural species desire to possess it. A Discovery of Witches begins as a mystery revolving around a book and rapidly becomes a history of the magical world. Despite the obvious similarity between this book's main romantic story and the romance between Bella and Edward in the Twilight Saga, I enjoyed being a part of the world Harkness created.
One Day – David Nicholls
Are you a sucker for stories about friendship and love? What about tales that focus on friendship and love spanning the course of 20 years in what feels like the blink of an eye? David Nicholls’ One Day tells the story of Dexter and Em by touching base in their lives on July 15th each year, giving you a glimpse into events that have passed and the large and small moments that comprise their lives. Dex and Em are both lovable and exacerbating, and their experiences ring true to how life (at least for this writer, and at least thus far) takes you to places you never expected and changes the opinions you so firmly believed in during your youth. That said, a warning—Nicholls’ shows no mercy when it comes to exposing his characters and readers to painful, traumatic events. Prepare yourself for some heart-wrenching moments.





**Even if you don’t read One Day, you can still see Dex and Em’s story on the big screen! It comes out soon and stars Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess.**


Fated – S.G. Brown
The thing about Fated is that it’s awesome. (Read the book and you’ll get why this is funny.) In all seriousness, S.G. Brown’s Fated is a richly crafted tale about Fate’s role in modern society.  Known socially as Fabio, Fate is tired of his job and envious of Destiny’s, who guides humans on their paths to success whereas Fabio is tasked with helping the average Joe make it through the day. When Fabio falls for Sara, a human on Destiny’s path and strictly off limits, he finds himself breaking all the rules to be with her – and to improve the lives of his humans, who he stopped caring for hundreds of years ago – and consequently changes his own destiny. With excellent supporting characters and clever narration, this is definitely a fun summer read.


The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane – Katherine Howe
While I’m not a huge fan of novels that explore historical periods side by side with a more current narrative, I thought Howe did an exceptional job in Physick Book. Readers will meet Connie, a Harvard graduate student in the 1990s who is searching for the subject for her doctoral dissertation. While Connie looks for the subject that will guide her life for the next few years, she also begins the arduous task of cleaning and restoring her grandmother’s house near Salem. Yes, Connie’s search leads her to the life of seventeenth century witches in Salem. While that’s no surprise to anyone reading the novel, what I found surprising was how strongly I wanted to curl up in Connie’s grandmother’s library and sit in her favorite armchair. Definitely an enticing read, the Physick Book is a beautifully written historical mystery that also manages to force the reader into seeing the past in a new light.


Ender’s Game – Orson Scott Card
Time to change things up a bit and go with an oldie but a goodie. Written more than 25 years ago by Orson Scott Card, Ender’s Game is a science fiction masterpiece that still enthralls new fans each year. Andrew Wiggen, known as Ender because he is the embarrassing third child in a society where having two children is the acceptable norm, is an exceptionally bright and gifted young boy plucked from his home by an organization whose sole focus is protecting the human race from extinction. Why? Because Ender is Earth’s greatest hope against the Buggers, an alien race that has nearly destroyed humanity twice. Ender is sent to the Battle School, where he is tested beyond all others to prepare him for his destiny. The biggest question you must ask yourself when you read Ender’s Game is this: will they break Ender’s brilliancy and compassion for others… or will he save the world? Trust me when I say you want to find out the answer. 




XOXO,
Maggie & Lynette

Friday 15 July 2011

Texas Aggie Magazine

I graduated from Texas A&M University back in 2006, & I enjoyed every minute that I was there! The school is home to over 46,000 students, so there are a lot of amazing alumni that come out of our school and do amazing things in their communities.
That’s why I was so honored when I was contacted to be featured in the summer issue of Texas Aggie Magazine, our school’s alumni publication! The article focuses on my work done as Miss International and my work done while a student at Texas A&M University. I am so excited for it to come out later this month!



Ashley Smith

Thursday 14 July 2011

Erase Cyber-Bull​ying ... Take A Stand!



Cyber Bullying… "Delete it" …. Take a Stand …. Say "No!" to Cyber Bullying!!"

As we lead into Nationals, I want to speak out on the subject of cyber bullying.  I am asking each contestant, director, coach and parent to take a stand against cyber bullying.  If you see someone taking part in cyber bullying, confront them.  If you are being attacked by cyber bullies, tell your family.  I produced a public service announcement for an organization called “Say It to My Face.”   I have never engaged in cyber bullying although I have personally been victimized by it.

I believe those who participate in this behavior will never win, because they are so focused in tearing others down that they lose focus of doing their personal best. 

A Queen does not cyber bully.
A winner does not cyber bully.
Take the pledge to “Delete Cyber Bullying Now!”


Juliana McKee
Miss Teen International 2010

Tuesday 12 July 2011

A Year Full of Blessings Continues

I still find it incredibly hard to believe this year is coming to an end and Mrs. International 2011 will soon be crowned! I want to take this opportunity to thank YOU, the loyal readers/followers of the International Pageants blog and a HUGE thank you to Cristen Richardson Vehorn for making sure the entire year has been documented! Speaking of Cristen, CONGRATULATIONS to the Vehorns, Grandma & Grandpa Richardson and the entire International family on the birth of Mary-Catherine! I can’t wait to meet the bundle of joy! (You know Mary has to be the most gorgeous grandmother on earth)!

Being Mrs. International has been rewarding in so many ways. I have so many amazing memories, and have gained the most precious friendships that I will cherish forever!  I have accomplished the goals I set for myself.  I have gained more contacts, knowledge, and heightened awareness about adoption and I know that I have made a difference in the lives of others through my platform, “Building Families Through The Miracle Of Adoption”.

To the young woman who is crowned next week, I want you to know that you are so BLESSED! Mary and Mel are two of the most amazing souls on earth and make it possible for so many women to share their passions!  The state directors believe in the International system and pour their hearts into it year round, the team at the Competitive Image will spoil you rotten for sure…so get ready for the time of your LIFE!!! With that being said, please keep in mind that “Balance” is key, Time management is critical, and multi-tasking is a MUST!  Along with being Mrs. International, I am a full time as a sales manager for a leading biotech company, “mommy” to the most amazing, energetic, magical little girl in the world (who has 2 speeds…asleep and FULL steam ahead…you get the picture). I have been non-stop for a year but I wouldn’t trade it for anything! Some of the most rewarding moments, I have not been able to publicly post because of privacy issues surrounding adoption. Being the passionate person I am…it has been incredibly tough because there is nothing more rewarding than seeing a child placed in a permanent home! My heart smiles and it has made me even more passionate about my belief that EVERY child deserves a loving, permanent family! I am forever grateful for this job of service!


I will see you in Chicago (with a few boxes of tissues). I am not saying goodbye…I’m just becoming an alumni J When you truly “live” your platform, the service never ends…
God Bless you all!

Shannon Devine

Monday 11 July 2011

Preparing for Nationals...Get Organized!

Both years that I competed at for Miss Teen International, I prepared a spreadsheet of all my clothes, shoes and accessories for each event during the week.  Once I completed my spreadsheet, I carefully packed each outfit in its’ own garment bag which was labeled by outfit, day, and event. I also organized the accompanying jewelry and shoes and put them with the outfit.

The week is so busy with activities that being organized and ready for a quick change is essential. I also recommend bringing a garment rack for the hotel room as you will definitely need the extra closet/storage room.

Here is a sample of the spreadsheet that I would like to share with you. Feel free to use it as you prepare to compete!
Juliana McKee

Sunday 10 July 2011

Summer Vacation

PDR is taking a short break for summer, but there's plenty to look forward to when we get back!  We've got planning on a budget tips and examples from Jen's mom's wedding, a guest blog post on great reads for summer, and even some more real weddings and engagements that we're excited to share.


So, enjoy your week and take this time to whip up some butter beer cupcakes and prepare for the final installation of the Harry Potter movie franchise.  We'll be celebrating both HP and Saira's birthday, so it'll surely be a great weekend.  And, speaking of Harry Potter, check out Emma Watson's premiere style - she looks just gorgeous!


See you soon!


XOXO
Jen & Saira

Reflection...Who Packed Your Parachute?

In a week, 50+ contestants will arrive in Chicago for the Mrs. International Pageant. I hope through this blog entry that I will make you think deeply about the legacy you want to leave. Each contestant has been blessed with the opportunity to compete among the best of the best. One of you will leave with the crown and the title of Mrs. International 2011.  If it is not in God’s plan for you to wear the crown, what do you want others to remember about you? I love the story below and I challenge you to read and re-read before you arrive in Chicago. You already wear  a crown, represent a title, your  family, your  state, and country with grace and style. Please take the time to read below? What do you want your legacy to be? I will see you in a week!!!!  


Who packed your parachute?



Charles Plumb was a US Navy jet pilot in Vietnam. After 75 combat

missions, his plane was destroyed by a surface-to-air missile. Plumb ejected

and parachuted into enemy hands. He was captured and spent 6 years in a

communist Vietnamese prison. He survived the ordeal and now lectures on lessons learned from that experience!



One day, when Plumb and his wife were sitting in a restaurant, a man at

another table came up and said, "You're Plumb! You flew jet fighters in

Vietnam from the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk. You were shot down!"

"How in the world did you know that?" asked Plumb.

"I packed your parachute," the man replied. Plumb gasped in surprise and

Gratitude. The man pumped his hand and said, "I guess it worked!" Plumb

assured him, "It sure did. If your chute hadn't worked, I wouldn't be here

Today."



Plumb couldn't sleep that night, thinking about that man. Plumb says, I

kept wondering what he had looked like in a Navy uniform: a white hat; a

bib in the back; and bell-bottom trousers. I wonder how many times I might have

seen him and not even said 'Good morning, how are you?' or anything  because,

you see, I was a fighter pilot and he was just a "sailor." Plumb thought of

the many hours the sailor had spent at a long wooden table in the bowels  of

The ship, carefully weaving the shrouds and folding the silks of each chute,

holding in his hands each time the fate of someone he didn't know.



Now, Plumb asks his audience, "Who's packing your parachute?" Everyone

has someone who provides what they need to make it through the day. He  also

points out that he needed many kinds of parachutes when his plane was  shot

down over enemy territory -- he needed his physical parachute, his mental

parachute, his emotional parachute, and his spiritual parachute. He  called

on all these supports before reaching safety.



Sometimes in the daily challenges of life, we miss what is most important. We often fail to say hello, please, or thank you, congratulate someone on something wonderful that has happened to them,  give

a compliment, or just do something nice for no reason. As you go through

this week, competition week, the weeks after Nationals, and even for the remainder of your reign…don’t forget to recognize the people who pack your parachutes. 



Thank you to all who packed my parachute…I love you!






















 
Shannon Devine