I’m honored to be a part of Miss Vietnam Texas 2012 as one of the judges. This is always a fabulous event hosted by the local magazine Vietnamese Kien Thuc. I love being a part of my community. I am always in awe of how important and comforting a community can be and I always come to this event with an open mind because I discover and learn something new about my culture each time.
This is my first time being a judge at a beauty pageant. When they first asked me I didn’t think that I would be qualified for this position because I had no experience being a judge. But they were so warm and encouraging that I took the role. I have to say I love it. I believe in volunteering my time and giving back to my community and this is a completely new way to do it. I’m just thrilled that I can help out. They did such a wonderful job putting the show together. Everything was well organized, from the frontstage to backstage. The event brought out about 1,000 people.  I’m very proud!
I wore a black velvet Vietnamese traditional Aodai. Not many young women would wear a black velvet Aodai as they would normally go for brighter shades and more flowing material. Back in our country, velvet Aodai are mostly reserved for older women. In my opinion, they just seem more sophisticated and classic. I decided to break the mold a bit and wear it because I love velvet in general and because I love how elegant it makes me feel when I’m wearing it.

With my friend Oanh of Devine Salon who is also my hair stylist. She’s an expert when it comes to hair. The only person in this world that I would trust to cut my hair. She’s amazing!! Her aodai is made out of a Hermes scarf and she designed it herself. Very clever!!!

With Miss Vietnam Texas 2012 Hac Nguyen. She’s just stunning!!