06/23/2026
First Runner-Up. 🤍
What a week.
I’m incredibly honored to have finished as First Runner-Up at Miss Tennessee, but the title I’m taking home is one I’m even more proud of: MYSELF.
This year, I worked harder than I ever have before. Every decision I made, every hour of preparation, and every choice leading up to this week was intentional. For the first time, I truly felt like every phase of competition reflected my heart, my values, and who I am.
And that means everything.
For a long time, I struggled with the feeling of being misunderstood. This week, I felt seen for who I am at my core. I showed up as myself, trusted my preparation, and allowed myself to be vulnerable in ways I never had before.
The result? Supernatural peace.
From interview to the final moments on stage, I felt an overwhelming sense of calm. I was present. I was grateful. I was having fun.
Getting to share this life-changing moment with Makalyn was one of the greatest gifts of this entire experience. While many people saw two friends on stage together, very few know just how much she has encouraged and supported me since our friendship began last summer. She has championed me every step of the way, and watching her become Miss Tennessee was one of the sweetest moments I’ve ever experienced. Tennessee, we have an incredible new queen and we are so excited to rally around you as you represent the Volunteer State 👑
A few special thank-yous:
🤍 To my incredible family and friends: To have more than 20 people for my village in-house to support me from all over meant the absolute world to me. Thank you for being here for this special week!
🩺 To The Bone and Joint Institute Urgent Care of Brentwood: Thank you for helping me on Monday morning before competition week—most people had no idea I competed all week with a sprained ankle 😅 (TYJ for extra strength!)
👑 To my queen, icon, and lifelong role model, Erica Dunlap: Our conversation after finals gave me more encouragement than I could put into words. Thank you for sharing your heart with me.
🤍 To the Miss Tennessee Class of 2026: Thank you for being the most supportive, loving, and genuine group of women I’ve ever competed alongside. I mean that wholeheartedly!
📣 And to the people of Tennessee: Thank you for cheering me on, praying for me, and making me feel so loved this week.
My heart is SO full. This year has shifted my perspective on life for the better, and I’m leaving Nashville with so much gratitude for the journey, the friendships, and the reminder that being fully yourself is always enough.
What a beautiful week! 🥹🫶🏾✨
