Utah International Pageant 2018

All I can really say is WOW! I went into this pageant completely blindsided not really knowing what would happen. I prepared so hard for this, and it was all worth it. Not eating bread or sugar for 4 months, exercising a ton, reviewing interview questions, spending my weekends shopping for dresses, and figuring out my routines. IT WAS SO WORTH IT!!! Although I didn't take home the crown, I took home so much more than the crown could've given me. I learned the importance of friendship. Michaela, Nyla, and Elle really taught me that this weekend!

Michaela was the best pageant BFF I could've asked for! We laughed... A LOT.

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Nyla taught me that it wasn't just about winning. This pageant was about building friendships that last a lifetime. She constantly drilled my questions with me and always helped me when she knew I was struggling. Elle taught me how to "remain calm." She continually told me how beautiful I was and reassured me that I was going to "Kill it onstage". We also did some partner workouts right before our onstage fitness together. When Miss International said, "And your new Miss Teen Utah International is... Ellie Habibian!" I immediately started crying because of how proud I was of her. She has so much love and goodness in her heart and I knew at that moment that this was her chance to change the world for the better!

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Before Miss International said who the new Miss Utah was, I looked at Courtney and said "Good luck Miss Utah," and sure enough... "And your new Miss Utah International is... Courtney Collins!!!" I kinda screamed a little bit! This girl is like my older sister! We got ready together each day and would dance to The Greatest Showman in front of the mirror. Every time I saw her I would say "hey Miss Utah!" We became pretty close, and this is one of my favorite pictures!!!

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Thank you to my incredible sponsors for helping me look and be my best!

K&Bo (Cutest bags in the world and they just came out with a new clothing line)

Ever Eden (Online boutique and they have adorable clothes)

Glamour Gels (Never have I ever been so obsessed with a nail salon... I now have the hardest nails thanks to them)

Dress Collective (I am a rep for this incredible dress company who sponsored me with their dresses... I LOVE THEM!)

My Sisters Closet Boutique (Absolute cutest clothes! They just opened a new store in draper!)

Crystal Nails (Always get my acrylics and pedicures from them)

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I took away so much from this experience. Before the pageant I told myself "never again will I do another pageant. I am way too stressed and busy." As the weekend continued I realized how much I loved it. Being on the stage, sharing my platform which I am so extremely passionate about, making new friends... Everything! It was the most incredible experience that I truly wouldn't change for the world. Thank you to my pageant sisters for being so amazing! You all deserve a big sparkly crown!