My Miss Teen USA Send-Off Party!!

Before the party

          Thank you so much to everyone who attended my Send-Off Party at the Belvidere Mansion on Wednesday!  I was absolutely blown away at the amount of support I received from friends and family.  A huge special thank you to those who drove from Dallas, Texas and Oklahoma City, your support means so much to me!  When I began this journey six years ago I never imagined having this much support.

          If you're wondering why I had my Send-Off at the Belvidere Mansion, here's the story...

          The Belvidere Mansion was built in 1907 by John Melville Bayless.  I grew up hearing stories about this incredible place as my mother did before me.  My great-grandmother, Fannie Hause, remembered being inside the mansion in approximately 1911 when she was just 13 years old.  She spoke in detail of the mansion about how it looked and how magnificent the decor was.  She loved the mansion as it was one place in Claremore that was there as long as she was.  Because of that, my family decided to celebrate her 100th birthday at the mansion!!  My great-great-grandfather, on the Collins side on my mother's side of the family did some thrashing work for Mr. Bayless (owner of the mansion).  Mr. Bayless once told my great-great-grandfather that if he named his child after him, he would buy him a new suit.  My great-grandfather was born and named Hansel Bayless Collins.  His name lives on through my uncle, Matthew Bayless Collins.  I loved hearing these stories growing up!  I often wonder who must have stepped inside this incredible place when it was first built.  

          My send-off party was held in the 3,200 square foot ballroom located on the top floor.  I am so thankful for those that could share in the fun we had that night.  As I watched my friends celebrate with me I couldn't help but think of the events that must have taken place there, and I am honored we are a small part of the mansion's history. 

To learn more about the Belvidere Mansion. click on this link!

Melissa from The Beautiful Dream Society

One of my favorite English teachers :)

OHS Principal, Mr. Roberts

Goofing off before it started (hehe)...