“First and foremost, Coach Aly has become far more than just a coach to me. She has become a friend, a confidant, an inspiration and a sister. I was a state finalist in the Miss New Jersey USA 2019 pageant competition and was looking to work with a coach who would see me through the entire process. After plowing through many “companies” and “groups” I came across Aly’s page and knew instantly she would be the coach for me. She was extremely punctual in getting back to me and expressed much excitement to work with me. My heart decided Aly would be the coach for me and we worked out a plan that fit my needs best. I started working with Aly about 3 months before the pageant and with a busy student and work schedule Aly was always accommodating and we always found time to meet or speak with me.
Following our first meeting, Aly made me feel absolutely unstoppable. I was extremely nervous as I had modelled professionally for many years yet never entered the pageant world. Aly walked me through every step of the competition, from my absolutely stunning headshot courtesy of her endless list of references and network, my dress that made me feel like a Queen and my walk that, according to the other girls, looked like I had competed for years. She went over the layout of “pageant weekend” with me and when that weekend came, in what felt like a blink of an eye, I was extremely comfortable and ready to take it on head first.
What made me fall in love with Aly, was her attention to my needs and wanting the best for me through the entire process. We set weekly goals, our meetings were focused, and I truly feel like a changed woman after working with her. My confidence in myself has grown, I have taken on a different view of the world and others and I genuinely could not have asked for a better experience. Aly’s compassion often brought me to tears as she always believed in me even when I was unsure and did not believe in myself.
About a month before the pageant, Aly took the time out of her schedule to arrange an evening for us to get together and just relax and get to know each other. We saw the movie, A Star Is Born featuring Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper, and besides it being an outstanding movie that brought both of us to tears, it was a nice reminder from Aly to keep me focused on my dreams and who I see myself to be in the future.
Although I did not win Miss New Jersey USA 2019, I did win Best Interview and out of so many hundreds of women I am proud to have that accomplishment. Thank you again Coach Aly for your love, support, words of advice and warm heart. I forever appreciate you and our time working together.”
