Miss Georgia USA 2011

April and May!

2011-05-27T17:34:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone! April and May have literally been a total whirlwind. I leave for VEGAS in FIVE days!!!!!!! I honestly felt like this day would never come, and now I wouldn't mind if time slowed down a bit! I can't wait to fill you in on everything I've been up to.

First of all, The Atlanta Hawks made it into the SECOND round of playoffs! Miss Georgia USA duties were taking 1st priority at this point, but I managed to work my last few games with my teammates. I will miss them SO much but I am pretty sure I will not miss the hectic playoff practices and games! I've truly enjoyed working as an ambassador for the Atlanta Spirit, and I am walking away with incredible experience, a network of contacts, and many friends.

These past few weeks I've I dedicated my time to appearances, first at the Sip for Sjogrens Silent Auction and Fine Water Tasting, Guest speaking at the Miss Suwanee Pageant rehearsal, Princess Night at Chic Fil A, an Interview on Good Day Atlanta, Judging the Taste of Beauty Talent Showcase, attending the Taste of Beauty VIP documentary viewing, as well as welcoming soldiers home from Afghanistan at Ft. Campbell. Each one of these appearances absolutely fantastic but if I went into too much depth you would be reading for hours!!

Preparation wise, things are running very smoothly! I won't lie- when I first realized everything that had to get done I was a little intimidated! Wardrobe, fitness, hair, you name it... has fallen into place because of organization, a lot of drive (and driving!), amazing sponsors, and an incredible support system helping me the whole way through. I've had makeup lessons with Kristen White, Joel Green and Meredith Boyd, whom are all fabulous. I've taken invaluable tips and tricks from each one of them! I've visited Nashville twice, working with Kim Greenwood, Josh Roberts, Stephen Fields, and Gordon Robinson. My director, Kim Greenwood made a trip to Atlanta with my Miss sisters, and we had a blast shopping all over Atlanta picking only the most perfect items for our wardrobe. I also had a photo shoot with Matt Boyd, which was fantastic! I saw some of the proofs, and they made me smile so big! We can't forget my Atlanta team AKA "Team Diva" as one called it, is keeping me on my toes at all times!

At this moment, all I can think is how so incredibly blessed I am. Sometimes I really I feel like Cinderella being transformed into the best version of myself by all these fairy godmothers (and fathers ;) !).

Love,

Kaylin

March Madness

2011-04-02T13:54:00.000-07:00

OK… Seriously… didn’t I just write a blog for February? Time is flying! This month was jam-packed with a lot of meetings and preparations for Miss USA. I have such a great team of people behind me that I’ve been working with I feel so lucky!
Kristen and I made another trip to Nashville this time visiting with Kent Parham and Josh Rogers (Energy Fitness by Josh). I love spending time with Kristen because she is so funny and smart, we always have great conversations on our trips. Our first stop was our workout with Josh. He worked our little booties off! Who knew things called “Sissy Squats” and “Curtseys and Curls” could be so painful?!? Keeley was able to join us at our second stop, with Kent. It may sound funny to someone who isn’t accustomed to the preparations that come along with competing that we have a walking class, but Kent is really great at helping us present ourselves in the best way possible. It is so important to be mentally prepared and confident onstage when you’re competing live in front of millions!

In Atlanta, I’ve been working out with Stephen Paul Smith. He is no joke! Every time we meet I get my butt kicked, and I can’t wait to see the final product of all this time I am investing in the gym (and myself!).

-Clearly excited for quality treadmill time-

I’ve also been keeping up with my dental sponsor, Dr. Patel. I finally got my cavity filled! No more sugar for Miss Kaylin! He has my teeth looking so great, I am so happy with his work. If you are looking for a comfortable way to make your smile brighter and more beautiful, I highly recommend him!

Interview is obviously a huge part of the competition and an even bigger part of being Miss USA, and I have been doing my part to make sure I am prepared. I make it a point to keep myself informed and participating in mock interviews with family, coaches, friends and even by myself in the car! Earlier in the month, I met with Don Baker and we discussed interview, but also the overall mental process and mind-set I must have for over two weeks in Las Vegas.

Towards the end of the month I made a TV appearance on WXIA Atlanta interviewing with Sam Crenshaw on his show “Sports Extra.” I was picked with a teammate of mine to speak about our experiences as Hawks Cheerleaders, our featured episode of NBC’s “Minute To Win It”, and our individual successes. I spoke about my time as Miss Georgia USA and my preparation for Miss USA. I gave Mr. Crenshaw a little bit of a hard time, telling him the real reason I had come was to take his job! Well, at least for a little while ;). Stephanie and I were styled by the fabulous Olori Swank. She found the perfect garments for us, edgy and sassy but kept it super sophisticated. And of course they had the perfect fit. She was able to pull 2 great pieces from winner of Project Runway, Mychael Knight. I felt like such a celebrity! Lastly, at the station, I ran into one of my favorite people involved with the Miss Georgia USA production, Paul Ossman! He kept us cracking up in the greenroom while we waited to tape our segment.

-Sam Crenshaw and I -

-Dresses by Mychael Knight, Styled by Olori Swank-

-On set shooting the teaser-

This past week, I received a last minute appearance I just could not turn down at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Egelston Campus. They were hosting a princess party for the patients and families of patients. Upon entering, attendees received their choice of Barbies, tutus, tiaras, and lip gloss kits, among other things. We spent our time chatting, coloring in magic kingdoms and making banners that ranged from “Miss Sassy” to “Miss Cheer” and “Miss Dance.” I had such a great time meeting with all of the girls, I am so happy I could be a part of something that allowed them to get away from their hospital rooms for a little bit and just be girly girls for a while.

-"Miss Cheer" Miss Georgia USA and "Miss Dance"-

Wardrobe preparations are coming right along and I am so ecstatic! Mrs. Greenwood, Randall Smith, Galen Kovash and I had a great meeting recently and I can not wait to see the final product. Also, I will be spending some time at the apparel mart with my wonderful director as well as one of my sponsors, Steven Fields (J.S. Fields) scoping out some good finds. Lets just say I’m gearing up to visit a very generous sponsor of mine, Sassy South and get my hands on some bling!

-At Mart, shopping 'til I dropped!-

This busy month has really been a blessing, because it is teaching me how to be a better Miss Georgia USA and ultimately a fantastic Miss USA. I have also come to realize that to whom much is given, much is expected. I am not always a perfect Miss Georgia USA but I am working so hard to be the very best that I can. Miss USA is not a destination, it is a journey! Every move made builds your character, your brand, and ultimately the legacy you leave behind!

New New New!!!

2011-03-14T20:49:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone! Check out the updated Miss USA website. You can register for free to be a member of Club Universe! When you do, PLEASE vote for me! http://www.missuniverse.com/missusa/members/profile/585148/year:2011/

Also, the Miss Georgia USA website has been updated as well. Take a minute to check it out, look at pictures & watch some videos! http://www.missgeorgiausa.com/gausa.html

Enjoy!

Kaylin

A Lot of Love for February!

2011-03-01T17:08:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone, Long time no see! I have been keeping very busy as Miss Georgia USA! I have so much to share but the first matter of business is That Miss USA has finally been announced as June 19th live from Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas. I can not begin to describe how excited I am. Now that we have a solid date, everything has become so real!

Over the past month I have had some hard hitting days! After the Chic Fil A Bowl, I had the opportunity to visit the Atlanta Apparel Mart and start getting the foundational ideas for my evening gown going. Luckily I was under the guidance of my Director, Kim Greenwood and one of my sponsors, Steven Fields. We did a lot of brainstorming and came up with some ideas that I just ADORE! I can't wait to see it all come together. I wish I could share... but I promise it will be worth the wait ;)

I have been keeping up with my dental sponsor, Dr. Patel with Dentistry East Piedmont. Good news is my teeth are looking more white & beautiful every time I visit... Bad news is- we found a CAVITY!!! I have to get it filled at my next visit in a few weeks. WAA! I would be scared but Dr. Patel & his staff are so careful I know I will not be in pain... I hope! haha.

I spent the weekend before Valentines day in Nashville with all of my Greenwood Productions sisters for a "Titleholder Weekend." Kristen (Miss GA Teen USA) and I decided pack into my car bright and early and make the 5 hour drive up! I started off with a fantastic photo shoot with Kristy Belcher and Joel Green (Makeup Artist) and finished the day with a walking class with Kent Parham...I never knew walking was so complicated! Saturday started with a 6 mile run with our fitness trainer, Josh Rogers. Shortly after we participated in mock interviews at J.S. Fields. One of our judges was none other than Beth Hood, Miss TN 2003! We concluded the evening with an awesome dinner and Miss USA videos at the beautiful home of Kaitlin White (Miss TN Teen USA). Sunday consisted of another walking class with Kent Parham and wrapped with me sitting in on Kristen's photo shoot with Kristy Belcher and Joel Green. I had a blast, and I also left with a renewed sense of focus and gratitude.

A week later I found myself in Dothan, Alabama shooting with another one of my sponsors, Clay Spann. His hair, makeup, and wardrobe really made me feel like Miss USA. His studio space is amazing, and it is connected to The Competitive Image, a dress boutique full of some of the most beautiful gowns!

Last but not least, I have a big announcement! I am an Aunt!!! My very first Niece, Haven, was born Friday, Feb 11 2011. 4lbs 6oz!

Everything is really starting to pick up, and I know it is only going to get more and more busy, but I am SO ready for the challenge. I know Miss USA is going to be one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life, but I am making sure to cherish every single day in preparation for it too!

http://www.missusa.com/

Not Bragging or anything.... but....

2011-01-14T11:56:00.000-08:00

I met Justin Bieber!!!!!! I filmed a Thrashers commercial with him, and my three other teammates and I were suprised with VIP tickets to his concert!

Chick-Fil-A Bowl Week!

2010-12-30T17:27:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! I spent my last days of 2010 at celebrating the Chick Fil A Bowl. The game this year was Florida State University vs. The University of South Carolina (ACC vs. SEC). My first events
on Wednesday were team hospital visits with Children‘s Healthcare of Atlanta. My first stop was with the University of South Carolina at the Egelston location and the second was at Scottish Rite with Florida State. We met so many families and children, it was really touching to see them light up when we walked into their rooms. We handed all sorts of goodies like tee shirts, silly bands (a HUGE hit!), Chick Fil A stuffed cows and more. I was so impressed with the football players from both teams. They were absolutely fantastic with all of the kids, spending time with each one. I spoke with a few individually and we pretty much agreed these visits probably had more of an effect on us than the children we were visiting. Seeing the strength they show on an everyday basis was inspiring. We have been given such great opportunities to reach out and touch people and we will not take our health or blessings for granted.
Thursday was the Georgia Power Chalk Talk & Football Feud at the Marriott Marquis. When I arrived I was surprised to learn I would be enjoying lunch at the front table with Mr. & Mrs. Steve Spurrier and other representatives from The University Of South Carolina! We spoke about Suwanee, Miss USA and of course, the game. Before the luncheon concluded the players competed in Family Feud which was quite entertaining! I was laughing out loud at one of the question/answer segments “What would you typically forget to do in the morning when running late for class?” answers consisted of “Don’t go at all,” “Don’t Shower,” “Forget my deodorant,” and “Don’t change, wear my pajamas to class.” Lovely!

Friday was the Chick Fil A Bowl Parade and game. The parade was a lot of fun, it is always so sweet to see little girls get so excited to see Miss Georgia USA! I rode in a metallic blue Corvette that I really just wanted to get in the driver’s seat and drive off with! The news had predicted cold rainy weather so I was shocked at the weather and how beautiful it was! My coat and turtle neck were quite toasty haha.
Finally, the game itself was incredible! The Georgia Dome was buzzing with the energy of all the fans and smelled a little bit like Chicken Sandwiches :) . Fourth Quarter I was escorted down to walk around. I took lots of pictures with fans, the cheerleaders, mascots, and even held a LIVE gamecock (I was scared to DEATH!). After the game concluded, it was an honor to be on stage with Florida State University while they were presented with their individual trophies and Bowl trophy.

The following week I made a road trip up to Nashville to meet my hair sponsor, Gordon at Gordon & Company Salon! We tweaked my color and the shape of my cut and the blowout made me feel like a Victoria’s Secret Model! We had so much fun and my hair looked fabulous! I also had the chance to meet one of my Greenwood sisters, Amy Colley, Miss Tennessee USA 2005. She is such a sweetheart and gave me a lot of insight into the coming year and what to expect at Miss USA.

Later on that week I met with my dental sponsor, Dr. Patel and his staff from Dentistry at East Piedmont. They were so nice and accommodating, I am very excited to get my best, whitest and brightest smile with them!

Photos from my two hospital visits with the teams.

http://www.chick-fil-abowl.com/PressBox/Multimedia/2010BowlWeekPhotos/tabid/185/LGaid/78829/Default.aspx

-Kaylin

Cover of Bravura Magazine

2010-12-30T17:20:00.000-08:00

Fabulous, Fun, Fashion!

Miss GA USA's MUGSHOT!

2010-12-30T17:14:00.000-08:00

Scoutmob.com Feature Interview called "Local Mug" This introduction is quite entertaining!!!

"Meet Georgia's walking, talking made-to-scale Barbie doll who believes in a bit more than helping people without maps."

http://www.scoutmob.com/atlanta/scoutfinds/964

Suwanee Magazine!

2010-12-30T17:08:00.000-08:00

http://www.suwaneemagazine.com/pages/KaylinReque

Check out this article! I am SO proud to represent my hometown.

-Kaylin

Happy Holidays !

2010-12-24T21:38:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone!!! I hope this holiday season has been fantastic for you all so far. I have been keeping really busy, and I can't wait for my appearance next week at the Chick Fil A Bowl. I just wanted to post a few fun pictures so you can get a look into what my day to day life has been consisting of recently... I have the coolest jobs, if I do say so myself ;) . Happy New Year- be legendary!

The Pleasantly Plump "Kitri"

Atlanta Hawks Cheerleaders

Atlanta Thrashers Blue Crew

I babysit the Cutest Shar Pei EVER! Champ :)

Happy Holidays!

Kaylin

Starting December Off Right!

2010-12-09T23:14:00.000-08:00

I had the best weekend! Friday, I made an appearance on 11Alive to promote their annual Holiday Can-A-Thon! We broadcast live with Paul Ossman in Atlantic Station. I was with Kristen, Miss Georgia Teen USA and although we were a little cold, it was incredible to watch Atlanta come out and donate thousands (literally!) of canned goods. The Can-A-Thon benefits the Salvation Army, which is active in our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Families that seek assistance from the Salvation Army do not pay a cent for their help. With a live band playing Christmas music, it seemed like everyone was in the holiday spirit! I had a flashback meeting with a couple ballet students performing in Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker, they were freezing in their little tutus! Right before I left, I saw something red flash past me and go behind the Christmas tree… instinctively I turned and walked towards it. As I turned the corner and squinted my eyes I realized it was Santa! I immediately asked to speak with him about something very serious. He obliged and I said “ Santa… all I want for Christmas is to win Miss USA!” He responded with “I’ll see what I can do” and a wink… I think that’s a good sign!
Saturday I woke up at 7:30 in the morning to prepare for the long day ahead of me! I had a photo shoot for Bravura’s 2011 Prom Catalog with MOYE Photography in Canton. As soon as I arrived I started hair and makeup. We decided on a glamorous look with big hair, which is my favorite:). I experienced something new, airbrush makeup! It was really nice and smooth looking without looking like cake frosting ha! We shot in an old cotton mill that was turned into a museum. I did three separate looks- a silver cocktail dress, a nude and black gown, and a gunmetal cocktail dress. I think the end result was really cute and fun! I could have kept shooting all night if they would have let me, but I had another appearance sneaking up on me and had to leave.
Next was the Woodstock Parade of Lights. In true Kaylin fashion, I couldn’t just get there like regularly planned… I had to get lost and drive 30 minutes in the wrong direction! Somehow my Mom and I found our way to the meeting spot and drove in on two wheels at 5:32 exactly (the parade started at 5:30!). Luckily they were a little behind schedule- So I was able to run through the parking lot and hop on the convertible without anyone the wiser (Can anyone say: "Miss NY USA moment?" ha ha ha). Kristen and I rode together- we were driven by none other than Miss Kimberly Harlan, former Miss Georgia Teen USA. Rain was sprinkling and none of us could feel our faces but we had so much fun we wouldn’t have it any other way. The people of Woodstock really came out. I passed so many faces of little girls so excited to see a “princess” in real life. Once again I felt so blessed and proud to be Miss Georgia USA.

I’m looking forward to the rest of this week! I am attending a holiday party at Bravera Prom on Wednesday, interviewing with Suwanee Magazine on Thursday, and meeting with Interview/Media coach Don Baker on Sunday. Also, look out for my interview with http://www.scoutmob.com/ coming soon! I hope you all have a fantastic week!

My First Appearance!

2010-12-01T11:01:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving night I made my first appearance as Miss Georgia USA! I was invited to be a part of the Ryan Cameron Celebrity Bowling Challenge, where proceeds from the event benefited the Ryan Cameron Foundation Leadership Academy. The RCF is dedicated to uplifitng the youth of Atlanta through mentoring, coaching, tutoring, teen safe driving, and volunteering among other things. This event has been a part of Atlanta for 19 consecutive years and I was very honored to be a part... Bowling skills or not!
Let me just get this out there now... I bowled an 89. No typo there... 89. But considering the circumstances I think it's a pretty honorable score, right? I had no bumpers and I was bowling in 4 inch heels! Maybe the crown knocked off my equlibrium or something :) I did bowl a strike so I was able to walk away satisfied. I had so much fun with my team which consisted of myself, CJ Simpson (Murph Dawg & CJ in the Morning 95.5thebeat.com ), Elle Duncan (V103.3), and Jair Jurrjens from the Atlanta Braves. We were up against some heavy hitters like Atlanta Hawks players Josh Smith & Zaza Pachulia, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reid, Chris Brown, Young Jeezy, Producer Polow Da Don, Rashan Ali (V103.3), Big Boi (Outkast), DJ Unk, and Kyle Massey (Dancing with the Stars). One special moment that stood out for me was when I met Ryan's wife and 9 year old daughter, Kai. I could tell she was a little shy to meet me but I let her try on the crown and banner and her face instantly lit up! It was a beautiful moment because it reminded me of the dream I had at her age of becoming Miss Georgia USA and how far away it felt sometimes. I hope I impacted her in some way even if I just made her smile for a little bit! Overall it was a great night, I met some great contacts for the future. I have to give a special thank you to my dear friend Crystal (CJ) for helping me get my year off to a great start with this event (and taking so many pictures!!). I haven't even been Miss GA USA for a week and I've already had a great apearance for a great cause! You rock girl! Next week is going to be very fun & busy, I have three appearances in a row! I will be sure to take mental notes & lots of pictures to share with you on this blog! God bless you, I hope you have an awesome week!

Kaylin

Mayor of Atlanta, Kasim Reed

Rashan Ali (V103.3), Myself, and CJ Simpson (95.5thebeat.com) ready to bowl some strikes!

The man himself, Ryan Cameron

Atlanta Hawks Player, Zaza Pachulia (who came up to me and asked "You're engaged?!? When is the wedding??" I then explained the crown and banner was NOT for a bachelorette party!!!)

And The Winner Is...

2010-11-24T16:56:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! I can't believe I am saying this... one of the biggest moments of my entire life came to pass as I was crowned Miss Georgia USA 2011 on the night of November 20th 2010! I am still in shock but it is slowly sinking in as the days pass. I wanted to start a blog of my journey as Miss Georgia USA to share with you all to follow along with my appearances, preparation for Miss USA, updates/latest announcements, awesome sponsor experiences, and time spent with my "sister" Kristen Robinson, Miss Georgia Teen USA. I mean, what fun is it if I keep it all to myself? :) Plus, I want this to be an outlet for young women, and encourage them to keep following their dreams in the Miss Georgia USA system, because if it can happen to me - It can happen to you too!
So first off, let’s talk about the pageant! Saturday night as I was standing in the wings before the opening number, I was full of excitement and nervousness and I didn't really know what to expect. The only thing I knew for sure, was that I was surrounded by over 75 of the most intelligent, beautiful & fun ladies in the state of Georgia! As my name was called out into the top 15, I was overjoyed and ready to compete. Swimsuit was SO much fun; walking to Rhianna's "Shut Up & Drive" was a RUSH! Evening gown felt so elegant. My gown is very classic looking, and with my hair pulled to one side I felt like an Old Hollywood movie star. As my name was called second out of the top five, I was totally humbled and just kept repeating to myself "Just stay calm, BREATHE." After on stage question this very strange calm sensation came over my body - it almost felt like my heart stopped beating. As it came down to just myself and Miss Eastern Georgia I knew
it could go either way. I didn't know what to think at that moment because I always thought if I was ever in a top 2 situation, I would be beyond nervous & shaking, but I was very much at peace. I think I didn't believe what was happening! As my name was called as the winner I was in SHOCK! I remember saying "what?!??! WHAT???!!" over and over again haha!! The contestants were so sweet with many kind words and hugs. As I began taking pictures on stage I must have poked my hand a hundred times with my crown
because I kept reaching up there to see if it was really on! I was then presented with a GORGEOUS custom designed crown ring by jewelry artisan Bob Staley, which I don't think I will ever take off. It is truly beautiful. My sister queen Kristen has one as well! I met Kimberly Harlan, former Miss GA Teen USA and I was thrilled to hear her store La Chiq Boutique is now one of my sponsors! I also got to meet my Greenwood Productions sisters Keeley Patterson, Miss Mississippi USA and Ashley Durham, Miss Tennessee USA. They were both so sweet and genuine, I am looking forward to the time we get to spend together because of our special bond. As things slowed down I was able to see two longtime friends of mine, Kimberly Gittings and Erin Haney (both former Miss GA USAs) who shared words of wisdom. On my way back to the Holiday Inn Cartersville, I stopped at McDonald's & ordered a #2 with a Coke and three Chocolate Chip Cookies- it was WONDERFUL to indulge after eating on such a healthy regimen these past few months :)
Kristen and I spent the night in our own hotel room and got to know each other a little better. We were both so tired but giddy at the same time, we tried to sleep but really couldn't!! I woke up bright and early at 7:30am to prepare for my meeting with Mrs. Kim Greenwood. I don't think I've ever hopped out of bed so happy as I was that morning! (Here is a funny side story- I walked out of my room to get a water bottle from the vending machines and another hotel guest walked into the area and asked me if it was the Miss Georgia USA Pageant that was here this weekend. After I told him yes he asked how I fared in the competition... I started CRYING in the middle of the vending machines and told him I won! I'm not talking misty eyed people, I'm talking full on Boo-Hoo tears. He must have thought I was crazy!) Kristen and I along with our Parents then met with Mrs. Kim. We received our contracts, handbooks, crown boxes, and TONS of gifts from the city of Cartersville. We spoke more about Miss USA, appearances, sponsors and everything in between. One of my first appearances will be the Chick-Fil-A Bowl in December. I can NOT wait! I am SO excited to be working with Mrs. Kim, this woman knows what she is doing and wants the BEST for us at our national competitions and for our year. On my way home I was thinking how surreal this still all feels but know I want to make the most out of this year and do everything I possibly can. I was overwhelmed with tons of kind messages from friends and family and I can say I am truly blessed. As Thanksgiving comes this Thursday I know what I will be thankful for.

I wish you all a very happy and safe Thanksgiving with your families! Dreams DO come true!!!

Kaylin
Miss Georgia USA 2011

Crowns a little crooked huh? Thanks a lot, Cassady!! ;)

"Daddy... I have some disappointing news. You're going to miss a lot of work coming up because I just WON MISS GEORGIA USA-WE'RE GOING TO VEGAS!!!"

My new Bob Staley Crown ring!

Opening Number