To become a member of the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen and Court is to enter a special Plant City sisterhood. Five new young women were inducted into that elite group Jan. 25, at the 2014 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Scholarship Program.
Queen Jessi Rae Varnum, First Maid Lindsey English and court members Macaley Barrow, Kallee Cook and Caitlyn Kent will become the faces of the festival during their yearlong reign.
The Queen | Jessi Rae Varnum
Tell us about your experience at the pageant?
It was so crazy for me, because I’ve watched it since I was like 8 years old. So, I knew everything that was required, but you never know what it really feels like until you’re on that stage.
At the final two, what were you thinking?
‘Oh my goodness I can actually win.’ I was like, ‘I’m still up here. This is crazy. This could actually happen.’
Any advice or tips for future competitors?
As long as you feel confident and beautiful and poised, you’ll come across that way on stage. … If you are loving yourself, then everyone else will love you.
How does it feel to follow in your mother’s footsteps?
Yes, she won in 1985. I’m actually wearing this rhinestone crown pin that was hers. I look forward to passing it down one day as a nice heirloom.
First Maid | Lindsey English
What are you most looking forward to as first maid?
I am most looking forward to learning more about the strawberry industry and what all the farmers … go through.
What was it like standing up there just the two of you?
I was awestruck. It was great knowing that I had the opportunity to become the queen, but it’s also great knowing that she’s going to be one of the people who is going to lead.
Court Member | Caitlyn Kent
What was your favorite part about the pageant?
I really enjoyed casual wear. It was the most upbeat portion of the pageant.
What was it like being in the top five?
I was just so blessed and so thankful, because I knew no matter what position I got on the court, I would be able to be part of all the activities.
Court Member | Macaley Barrow
Tell us about your experience at the pageant.
It was really exciting, because when I was 8 years old, that was the very first time I went. … So, getting to experience it was something I really enjoyed.
What was the easiest thing about the pageant?
Going out there and doing your walk and doing your best.
Court Member | Kallee Cook
As a child, did you attend the pageant?
Every year, I always looked forward to going to the pageant and looking forward to see who the new queen and court (would be).
Who came to support you?
My whole family did. … My dad, he usually doesn’t come to these events, but he came. Having him come out was amazing.