Shear Elegance Beauty Pageant at Lake Umuzi
On the 29 June 2013 Shear elegance beauty pageant was held, were models would take part in being crowned the face of shear elegance.
The event started at 18:30, as one walked in you were offered a welcoming drink which if I may say so myself, was quite a welcoming drink – warm red wine blended with herbs and spices. It left a warm aromatic taste in my mouth and got me geared to enjoy a great evening!
Walking in to the seating area, I was blown away by the beautifully decorated hall. Round tables set like what appeared to be a wedding stood out with large candle centerpieces surrounded by food platters and gift bags for the guests.
In front was the table set for the judges but looked more like a table set for kings.
The judges included:
- Rudy Baker who was Mr South Africa and also the designer for PHD men’s swimwear.
- Loui Fish, model, TV presenter and has opened her own linen line called “In bed with Loui Fish”.
Taking the ramp by surprise was Rudy Bakers brand PHD men’s swimwear, modelled by some of his house-named male models.
Then what the crowed had been waiting for all night, the contestants of Shear Elegance made their way onto the stage, looking breathtaking in beautiful evening gowns.
The judges must have been overwhelmed as they requested all 8 contestants to take the ramp again as they decided who would go through to the next round. Only 5 of the lovely ladies made it through to the next round and all receiving sashes, crowns and a gift bag.
The ladies were then asked to choose a number from 1 to 10 in which was followed by a question. Some of the questions that were asked to the contestants were, “what is the one thing that symbolises happiness for you?” the question was answered by contestant one “family and friends”,” Which famous person best suits your personality?” contestant two answered the question by saying:
” There isn’t anyone who best suits my personality, as I haven’t personally met any of them.”
“What is the one feature you would change about yourself?” “I wouldn’t change anything as I am perfect the way God made me”
Judges then requested a break to make the final decision to who will be crowned face of Shear Elegance. Mis Loui Fish was requested to crown the winner, you could feel the suspense as the mothers, fathers and the whole crowd waited patiently to see who will be crowned face of Shear Elegance.
Miss Loui Fish announced the new Face of Shear Elegance AS Chelain Van der Merve.
Interview with Chelain Van der Merve – The New Face of Shear Elegance:
How are you feeling now that you have won?
Actually cold. I am happy that I have won, I always feel happy after I win a pageant.
What preparation did you do in order to prepare for this pageant?
I practiced my walk, I did my hair and makeup so the night of the show I would know what to do. I practiced like it was the actual show.
Did you research potential questions that might be asked?
No, I’ve being doing pageants for a while now. I am getting used to it. I normally say the first thing that pops into my head.
How long have you been taking part in beauty pageants?
I’ve been doing beauty pageants since 2007, it’s been six years now. My first pageant was Miss Rainbow Nation, I didn’t win it but I had a lot of fun and was crowned 2nd Princess.
Do you see yourself as the next Miss South Africa?
I did enter Miss South Africa when I was 18 years old; it was tough. I want to enter again when I’m 25 years old; that way I feel I will be more prepared.
Did you know you were going to win Face of Shear Elegance?
In my heart I knew I would win. I trusted myself in knowing I would win, but I must say every completion is a surprise.
How were your nerves?
I’m scared every time. You never know how the crowd will respond to you or how tough the judges are going to be. I knew I had competition.
What are your goals in life?
To get my degree in BEd (Education). I want to teach Grade 11 and 12. To have a family – to be a successful wife and Mom and to be successful in my career.
Words and photographs by Elizabeth Oakes of ShowMe Secunda