A Chatham-Kent native is getting ready to compete in this year's Miss Canada Petite International.
Kerilyn Holmes is no stranger to being on stage. The 25-year-old from McKay's Corners was crowned Miss Kent County and also placed as Miss Petite Second Princess.
"I've competed in four different [pageants] and each time that I'm on stage I gain just a little bit more confidence," she says. "I learn a lot about myself and what I'm capable of doing"
Holmes is now getting ready to fly to the Dominican in April, along with three other competitors from across the country.
She says there's a lot of work involved in getting ready for the competition.
"We're judged on bikini so it's getting your body into shape and being comfortable in your own skin," says Holmes. "We're also judged in evening gown, which is all about grace and poise on stage."
In addition, Holmes has to stay up-to-date on current events for the interview portion.
"A lot of work goes into getting your costumes ready, getting all of your gowns, and swimsuits [ready]," she says. "[You also have to] learn how to do you hair, and your make-up."
Taking those outfits into account, competing in pageants can be quite hefty. Holmes says last year's entrance fee alone was about $3,000.
In order to make it to the stage this year Holmes says she's holding a one-two quarter auction in Ridgetown to raise money -- hopefully enough to cover her flight.
The quarter auction will be held on February 25 at the Ridgetown Legion. Tickets are $5 and the auction starts at 2:30pm.
