Mrs. America is a pageant that honors married women and their families. At its birth nearly 50 years ago, women participated in ironing and cooking competitions. Here's an introduction to Mrs. America: the pageant that once created homemakers to now an organization that empowers women in their marriage, community and career.
David and Elaine Marmel revived Mrs. America in 1977 after a short hiatus. Although David unfortunately passed away in 2020, they are the heart of Mrs. America and Mrs. World. In 2019, David's vision of creating a modern pageant but still upholding tradition was born again with the addition of a pageant for Miss contestants. This dream continued by adding Mrs. American; a competition for the first runner up at each state pageant.
Are you a married woman that wants to join the sisterhood? Here's everything you need to know to join the (we are) family!
Who can compete?
Anyone 18+ years old
You must be a United States citizen
Most importantly, you must be a married woman
How do I become a titleholder?
In order to become a state titleholder, you must participate in a few different areas of competition at your state pageant. These include...
Private Interview: A four minute conversation with an esteemed panel of judges. No political questions here! The judges will ask you questions off your resume to get to know you better and they might even ask you about your husband! I love the interview competition because this italian loves to talk! 50% of your overall score
Evening Gown: Grace the stage in a gown that makes you feel beautiful. This is a great way to display your poise and confidence. 25% of your overall score
Swimsuit: Show off your athletic side in a one or two piece bathing suit (swimsuit specifications vary by state) of your choice. As a former competitive gymnast who runs a daily 5k, swimsuit is one of my favorite areas of competition. 25% of your overall score
Onstage Question: Judges will ask you a question on stage to get to know you better. This is typically an extension of your private interview.
FAQ:
1. Am I too young to compete?
No! Did you know that Mrs. America tends to crown younger married women? If you're capable of doing the job of Mrs. America and you meet the eligibility requirements, don't let your age hold you back!
2. I just got married. Am I at a disadvantage?
You are not at a disadvantage. It's a beautiful thing when women, at any stage in their marriage, invest in themselves, their family and community. Mrs. America provides this opportunity to every married woman!
3. Do I need to have kids to compete?
Although Mrs. America values family, it is not a requirement to have kids. Becoming a mother is a beautiful stage in life and the pageant welcomes women with children. As a recent COVID bride, my husband and I enjoy the newly-wed bliss and I often think this stage in our marriage without children will allow me to focus more time on my year of service.
4. Do I need to prepare a talent?
Mrs. America does not have a talent portion of competition.
5. Why should I compete in a pageant at this stage in my life?
It is never too late to start your pageant journey. If you're established in your career, family or community, Mrs. America can help further your efforts. As a representative, you will proudly promote a pageant that is established on family values and woman empowerment. I guarantee that you will meet new friends, make a larger community impact, network and even receive opportunities that you wouldn't have had otherwise.
Do you want to get involved as a contestant, sponsor or volunteer? Contact me and I can connect you with the appropriate individual.
Please join us on Sunday, July 18th at 1:30 p.m. at the RIT Inn and Conference Center for the Mrs. NY America Pageant. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for teens and children 16 and under and active military.