Photo Courtesy of Jose Lozoya
Marley Mueller
Age: 17
Education: Senior at Plant City High School
What inspired you to compete in the Florida Strawberry Festival Queens pageant?
Being on the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Court has been a lifelong dream of mine. I remember walking around my house as a child, telling my mom, “This is how I’m going to walk when I’m Strawberry Queen.” She would play music, and I would practice. It has always been something I wanted to do.
The festival is part of my family, and I have grown up attending and serving at the festival. Last year, like Layla, I served all days of the festival and also competed in the pageant. I placed in the top 10 but did not advance to the court, which was disappointing because it was a dream I had thought about my entire life.
That experience taught me perseverance. When you have a dream, God places it in your heart for a reason, and it is important to pursue it and do everything you can to achieve it. That is the message I hope to share with younger girls in our community — to have drive, persevere, and work toward accomplishing their goals and dreams.
How did you prepare for the pageant- mentally, physically, emotionally?
I prepared mentally, physically and emotionally through a balanced approach. Having competed in the pageant last year, I already had experience with coaching, so I continued to build on that foundation while placing a strong focus on the interview portion. I was intentional with my answers to ensure the judges understood my true purpose for pursuing Strawberry Queen. The role is about much more than a crown and sash — it represents a year of service and dedication to the community and the festival.
Physically, my mom and I committed to a healthy routine over the past few months. We woke up at 6 a.m. each morning to go on runs, believing that when you feel your best, you perform your best. That routine transformed my days by increasing my energy and improving my overall mindset.
Mentally, I reminded myself to trust in God’s plan. I believe that what is meant for me will always find me, and that rejection is simply redirection. Holding onto that perspective allowed me to approach the pageant with peace and confidence.
What part of the pageant experience challenged you the most?
I would say interview was the most challenging part of the pageant. For me, the hardest aspect was not feeling like I had to tell the judges what I thought they wanted to hear and instead being truly myself. In an interview, it’s easy to overthink your answers or feel like you should respond in a certain way, rather than speaking from the heart. I’ve learned that a strong interview comes from being genuine, because it allows the judges to really get to know who you are.
What is your favorite Florida Strawberry Festival memory- past or present?
My favorite Florida Strawberry Festival memory is Special Smiles Day. I have volunteered at the event for two years, and one year I got to attend with my cousin. It was so rewarding to watch the children experience the festival on their own terms and have fun in a safe, welcoming environment. Seeing their faces light up and watching them enjoy time with their friends reminded me of the spirit and heart of this community. There’s something here for everyone.
What message do you want to share with young girls who look up to you?
I would tell young girls to embrace the power of perseverance and dedication. Whenever you set a goal, it’s important to work towards it consistently and stay committed. A “no” can often mean “not yet,” so continuing to pursue your dreams and striving to accomplish your goals is essential.
Do you have a good luck charm or tradition you brought with you?
Backstage, I brought notes written by family and friends. It felt so meaningful to have support from the people I love and to be reminded that they believed in me. Their encouragement helped me believe in myself as well.
What is your favorite Florida Strawberry Festival food?
My favorite Florida Strawberry Festival food is chocolate covered strawberries. I love them because they’re always so delicious. While I enjoy strawberry shortcake, chocolate-covered strawberries never get old- and the chocolate is an added bonus.
If you could describe this moment in a few words, what would they be?
If I could describe this moment in a few words, it would be gratitude. I am so thankful to have been selected, because, as others have said, it truly feels like a dream. I have thought about this day ever since I was little, and I know many other girls have too. Last night, there were 32 contestants, all equally deserving and talented, and I am grateful that God placed me in this position. I look forward to serving the community and making the most of this incredible opportunity.